With Prague cracking down on pub crawls, it’s time to explore other cities that are ready to take the crown for unforgettable nights out.
Prague may be tightening up on its famous pub crawls, but that doesn’t mean the bar crawl scene is over! There are plenty of other cities around the world that offer amazing nightlife experiences. Whether you’re into rooftop views, themed bars, or classic pubs, each of these cities has its own unique vibe and tons of places to check out. Here are my top picks for bar crawls that deliver unforgettable nights out.
1. Budapest, Hungary
If you haven’t been to Budapest’s ruin bars, you’re missing out on one of the most unique nightlife scenes out there. These bars are in abandoned buildings and are packed with random furniture, fairy lights, and quirky decor that somehow all works together. Szimpla Kert is a must, but I’d suggest popping into Fogas Ház and Instant as well. The best part? All of this is happening in the Jewish Quarter, so you can hop from one spot to the next without ever needing a cab. Go on a Friday or Saturday night when the energy’s at its peak.
2. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a city that knows how to keep the night going. I love starting a bar crawl in Kreuzberg, where beer gardens and cozy bars give you that laid-back, come-as-you-are vibe. Then, Friedrichshain turns things up a notch with grungy spots and basement bars where techno plays until dawn. You could bar-hop on your own or join a guided crawl if you want to meet other travelers. Each place has a different feel, so the night keeps surprising you.
3. New Orleans, USA
New Orleans is just as much about the experience as it is about the drinks. Bourbon Street is an obvious choice—grab a Hurricane, listen to some jazz, and join the party that’s happening right on the street. But for something a bit more local, Frenchmen Street has live music and smaller bars with character. I’d recommend trying a Sazerac (one of the city’s classics) and just letting the night take you wherever the music is. In New Orleans, you really can’t go wrong.
4. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s bar scene is full of surprises, and the Gothic Quarter is my go-to for a night of bar hopping. Picture cobblestone streets, tiny tapas bars, and hidden cocktail lounges that feel like secrets waiting to be discovered. Boadas, an old-school cocktail bar, is one of my favorites. For a change of scene, I usually end the night at one of the beachside bars where you can sit outside and enjoy the sea breeze as the sun comes up.
5. Dublin, Ireland
There’s something about Dublin’s pub culture that feels warm and welcoming, even if you’re a first-timer. Temple Bar is the most famous spot, but I’d suggest venturing out to quieter pubs if you want a more local feel. A perfect Dublin pub crawl is about enjoying a pint of Guinness, listening to live Irish folk music, and talking to the locals who make you feel like you’ve known them forever. It’s the kind of place where a “quick pint” can turn into hours of good conversation.
Image Credit: Pexels / Artem Kulinych
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam has a mix of everything, and Leidseplein is where you’ll find most of the action. Start there for lively bars and clubs, then head over to the Jordaan district for something more relaxed and local. The pubs here are small and welcoming, perfect for sampling Dutch gin and local beers. I’d recommend joining a bar crawl to get the full experience—you’ll hit all the must-visit spots while meeting other travelers along the way.
7. Krakow, Poland
Krakow is perfect for a low-key, budget-friendly night out, and the Old Town has some of the best spots for a casual pub crawl. Vodka tasting is huge here, so don’t skip out on sampling a few Polish flavors, from cherry to honey-infused. Organized bar crawls make it easy to meet fellow travelers, and you’ll often end up in local clubs where the dance floor stays packed. Krakow keeps things simple and affordable, which is part of what makes it so fun.
8. Mexico City, Mexico
If you’re up for something different, Mexico City’s Roma and Condesa neighborhoods are nightlife gold. Mezcalerías, cocktail lounges, and pulque bars make it easy to dive into Mexican culture while hopping from one place to the next. Pulque (an ancient drink made from agave) is a must-try, and each bar has its own spin on it. The scene doesn’t really get started until late, so expect to be out past midnight. It’s all about enjoying the laid-back vibe and welcoming locals.
9. Tokyo, Japan
Image Credit: Pexels / Marek Piwnicki
Tokyo’s Golden Gai district is a hidden gem for bar crawls. This small area in Shinjuku is packed with hundreds of tiny, themed bars, each seating only a handful of people. Every bar has a story and a personality, so it’s the perfect place to strike up a conversation with bartenders and fellow patrons. If you’re up for a change of scene, Roppongi and Shibuya both offer more high-energy options, but Golden Gai is where you’ll get that one-of-a-kind Tokyo experience.
10. Austin, USA
Austin’s 6th Street is packed with bars of every kind, from rooftop spots to honky-tonk saloons. The live music scene is unbeatable, so you’ll often find yourself wandering from one bar to another, enjoying everything from country to rock. The atmosphere is friendly, and there’s no shortage of street performers adding to the buzz. The best part? Many of the shows are free, so you can enjoy Austin’s music culture without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Prague may have taken a step back from the bar crawl scene, but these cities are more than ready to take up the torch. Whether it’s sipping craft cocktails in Budapest’s ruin bars, exploring Tokyo’s micro-bars, or grabbing a pint in Dublin, each city has its own way of making the night unforgettable. So gather some friends, pick a city (or two), and get ready for an adventure that’s equal parts local flavor, great drinks, and unexpected connections. Every one of these places has its own story, and there’s no better way to discover it than one bar at a time.
Each of these spots brings something special to the table, and I can promise that no matter which one you choose, you’ll have stories worth sharing. Cheers to discovering the world, one drink at a time!
Read More
18 Countries That Don’t Want American Visitors
It’s time for a reality check, American travelers. As you pack your bags and head overseas, ready to stamp your passport, it’s becoming glaringly obvious that not every destination is thrilled to see you. 18 Countries That Don’t Want American Visitors
18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
American cities promise rich culture and unforgettable experiences, but rising crime rates can catch travelers off guard. This guide helps you stay safe while fully enjoying your adventures. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
What Cruise Lines Don’t Want You to Know: 20 Candid Insights
Thinking about booking a cruise for your next getaway? Let’s have a real talk first. While cruising might seem like a breezy way to see the world, there are a few not-so-sunny truths that might make you reconsider. What Cruise Lines Don’t Want You to Know: 20 Candid Insights
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Marek Piwnicki.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
Tips for Trip Success
Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.
Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.
You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip
PassingThru is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
To view PassingThru’s privacy policy, click here.
