Gozsdu Courtyard (Gozsdu Udvar)

The basics

Mixing entertainment with gastronomy and local culture, Gozsdu Courtyard is something of a microcosm of District VII, the rejuvenated cultural hub of Budapest. Partiers come here, foodies dine at the standout eateries, and shoppers visit to find deals. Gozsdu Courtyard has something for everyone.

The courtyard is free to visit, and it's an ideal place to find refreshments while exploring the Jewish Quarter. Budapest highlights tours and sightseeing excursions typically pass through the neighborhood, while Jewish cultural tours help to uncover the area's history and beautiful synagogues. Most tours pass nearby, so you can easily visit before or after your tour.

Things to know before you go

• Shoppers shouldn't miss the weekly flea market at Gozsdu Courtyard.
• Foodies find diverse cuisine, from Chinese and Italian eateries to coffee shops and cocktail bars.
• Check the calendar—so much happens weekly that it's best to plan a visit around your favorite event.

How to get there

The easiest way to reach the Gozsdu Courtyard is on the metro, You can take the M1, M2, or M3 lines to the Deák Ferenc tér stop, and stroll along Madách Imre Way until you reach the courtyard. Most Jewish history and culture tours will pass by while walking Király Utca. Food and wine tours may also visit the courtyard, since it's known for its eateries.

When to get there

Gozsdu Courtyard frequently hosts events, from game nights and salsa dance parties to a weekend market that's packed with vendors. Visit on Saturdays to browse the vintage market or Sundays to shop for arts and crafts. Late spring, summer, and early fall typically bring the best weather, and annual events are a top draw. Jewish cultural festivals are typically held in summer, while holiday markets are common over the winter months.

Exploring the Neighborhood's Ruin Bars

Ruin bars are a famous part of Budapest nightlife, and no two are alike. Something like a hybrid between a beer garden and a post-apocalyptic dance party, these labyrinthine nightclubs often include indoor and outdoor spaces, and are packed with bric-a-brac decor. If you only visit one, it should be Szimpla Kert, though you can find many of these divey haunts while wandering this district.