This is a series of tips given by DPP affiliates, professors, staff and students for what not to miss while living in Budapest. The first tip comes from Professor Marie-Pierre Granger.
Marie-Pierre recommends that you explore the 'ruin bars' of Budapest. These 'kerts' are what makes Budapest's night-, but also day-, life so special and delightful. Each has its own style, theme and atmosphere, but most have a surreal taste and irresistible charm.
For sure, these 'ruin bars' are now on Budapest tourist trail but they are no tourist traps! The best time to visit these kerts is obviously spring, summer and early autumn, as many close their doors in the winter, but some are opened all year!
It is difficult to pick one, although I have my personal favorite (Kertem). If you are in the mood for a 'Black Cat White Cat' setting, make sure also to visit Fellini, on the Danube bank at Romai part, on the way to Szentendre (you can get there by bike using the cycle path in less than an hour). Still at Romai part, a new cool bar, made up of two old buses, opened this season.
You can find a list of the best bars and kerts of Budapest on this page: http://ruinpubs.com/
Professor Marie-Pierre Granger's professional profile is available here.