Whether you're celebrating romance, friendship, or just a good night out, there is a fun way to spend Valentine's Day. And forget about being stuck in a cliché-filled, heart-covered restaurant; this year, there are plenty of cool events that embrace the occasion without overloading on the lovey-dovey fluff. And even singles might find something worth checking out.

Valentine's Collection Launch and Cocktail Party

Love fashion and local designers? Then Anna Amélie’s exclusive Valentine’s Day event is for you! The Hungarian lifestyle brand is unveiling a special mini-collection, and you can be among the first to discover it. Expect gorgeous bags, a mini collection of sweaters and t-shirts inspired by Spicy Margaritas and Dirty Martinis (yes, the cocktails!), and an exciting new ceramic set. While browsing, sip on cocktails and soak in the creative vibes. To join, simply sign up by emailing PR@ANNAAMELIE.COM.

Details here.

Romeo meets Giulia

Budapest doesn't just have a brilliant Giulia – a hip Italian restaurant – but for Valentine's Day, Romeo is joining her too. From 14-15 February, celebrations will be in full swing with a special menu and cocktails. Think indulgent bites like smoked duck liver with raspberry and hazelnut bruschetta on a calacatta, rabbit cacciatore with potatoes and olive bread, shrimp and spinach ravioli in cream with chilli ricotta, and raspberry pistachio tiramisu. Pair them with themed cocktails: Giulietta (gin-cranberry-rose) and Romeo (rum-chocolate-caramel). And there's more – both nights, from 7-9:30 pm, a fortune teller will be there to uncover the myths of the future, whether you're flying solo or coming as a couple.

Details here.

Valentine's Day Dip at a Thermal Bath

If a restaurant date feels a little too predictable, why not switch things up with a romantic soak? Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and when you add a touch of Valentine's Day extravaganza, you'll be in for a real treat. Head up to Csillaghegy, where you can take a dip in the rooftop panorama pool – just the two of you– while indulging in chocolate and champagne. Or immerse yourselves in Széchenyi Baths' rejuvenating sauna ritual, featuring a rose petal body scrub in a swimsuit-free area. You can also opt for the 'Love Letter' package, which includes a private spa treatment, heart-shaped bonbons, and rose petals. Or go for the Valentine Chill & Cocktail package, which treats you to a special cocktail, tea, and sparkling water, along with full access to pools, saunas, and steam cabins. And here’s a little-known secret: couples can also book the beautifully decorated private bath at Gellért Baths for an intimate experience.

General details here, Valentine's specials here (Hungarian-only).

FCKN LOVE Exhibition

Love is the ultimate muse for art, and if you're up for exploring its extremes this V-Day, head to TOBE Gallery! Back for its third edition, the FCKN LOVE group exhibition runs until 1 March, diving deep into the dualities of love – passion and pain, intimacy and distance, longing and letting go – through thought-provoking artworks. What does love mean on a personal, collective, and societal level? How does it evolve within contemporary culture? How does visual art shape our perception of love, and how does love influence artistic discourse? Find out at FCKN LOVE.

Details here.

Dreamwave Valentine

At Susuka, Valentine's weekend takes an electrifying turn with a post-holiday dance party, where heartfelt beats meet divine cocktails. On Saturday, hit the dancefloor as DJs spin an eclectic mix of Italo, synth-pop, and '90s emotional soft trance, alongside sentimental breaks and romantic nightcore. Dress code? Think pink, blush, or even a bold red – because love deserves a statement.

Details here.

Anti-Valentine's Day at Vietnámigulyás

At Vietnámigulyás, a hip spot where Hungarian and Vietnamese flavours collide, you won't find free champagne, everlasting roses, or fluffy heart-shaped plushies this Valentine's Day. Instead, the Frankel Leó Street eatery is ditching the clichés and keeping things refreshingly real – because why not skip the fuss and just enjoy good food? On Friday, 14 February, they're shaking things up with a special menu featuring smaller portions but bold, unexpected flavour pairings. Cabbage meets udon noodles and passion fruit gets cosy with sesame – a culinary adventure made for sharing (or not).

Details here and book a table here.

(Cover photo: Márton Koncz - We Love Budapest)

Tags