It’s been a long time coming but summer’s finally here, when friends get together over drinks on balmy evenings. Leaving behind the big concert venues and major festivals, we’ve collated eight places around Budapest where you can take in a little live music beside your bar table.

1/8

A38 SHIP

The unique A38 Ship often brings the best international clubbing and live music to Budapest, for which admission is charged below decks – while on the roof and the bow, there are regular events with no entry fee, and the fresh air is always an attractive option on a summer’s eve. More details

2/8

AKVÁRIUM TERRACE

In the heart of town by the large water feature around which everyone gathers, party organisers Random Trip are staging a show every Tuesday. In the hot city bustle, relax with free music and a drink or two. More details

3/8

HADIK TERRACE

The emblematic café and cultural meeting point on Buda’s busy Bartók Béla út is not only strong on literary events, but hosts live music on the terrace every Tuesday at 7pm. More details 

4/8

MAZEL TOV

Part ruin bar, part purveyor of top-quality Levantine cuisine, this attractive space in the Jewish Quarter lays on live music every evening at 8pm in the spacious garden. More details

5/8

PONTOON

At the foot of Chain Bridge, the city’s most popular outdoor venue in summer offers guests a spectacular panorama. Late-night parties fill the multi-level bar but besides electronic beats, you can also hear live music alfresco. More details

6/8

SZIMPLA KERT

Something is always happening at Budapest’s most venerable ruin bar, particularly in summer. Monday means folk music and dancing, Tuesdays the world music of Babel Sound, Fridays is Open Stage, and you’ll find the Szimpla Jam here on Sunday evenings. More details

7/8

TRIP BOAT

A relatively new player on the cultural scene in Budapest, the TRIP Boat by Batthyány tér is worth perusing for its concert agenda. On the terrace with panoramic views of Parliament, free parties and live acts are scheduled all summer. More details

8/8

ZSIRÁF

Next to Nyugati station, this beer garden is an oasis of calm – acoustic concerts run all through summer. More details