Budapest’s ‘happiest quarter’ ranks among the world’s coolest neighbourhoods
In its latest ranking, Time Out once again listed the world’s coolest neighbourhoods – and this year, a Budapest neighbourhood also made the cut.
The vibrant face of Budapest’s Margit Quarter
On the 2025 list, Time Out gave a place to Budapest’s Margit Quarter, which landed in 34th position. Located on the Buda side, centred around Margit Boulevard and its surroundings, the quarter has in recent years become one of the city’s liveliest cultural hubs. The area has undergone a striking transformation: alongside old shops and services, more and more cafés, restaurants and small boutiques have opened their doors.
Supported by the district, temporary cultural programmes and new initiatives add colour to everyday life, while traces of the past are still visible – from old cobblers’ workshops to socialist-era buildings that remain standing.
For each neighbourhood selected, Time Out compiled a short guide to what a “perfect day” might look like there. In the Margit Quarter, the day begins at a riverside boat hotel on the Danube, followed by coffee and pastries at Montage. The morning can be spent browsing unique shops:
- second-hand finds at Maggie’s London
- handmade accessories at Rongybaba
- pop art prints at Kolibri Art Studio
- or rare books and vinyls at Láng Téka Antiquarian Bookshop.
Lunch is recommended at Bookta, a café with a literary vibe, while the afternoon belongs to the legendary Bem cinema. The day ends at ruin bar Manyi, with concerts and an underground party atmosphere.
The quarter manages to preserve its past while opening up to modern trends, where contemporary galleries, literary cafés and ruin pubs coexist. This duality – the meeting of old and new – is what Time Out says makes Margit Quarter truly remarkable.
5 more European neighbourhoods from the Time Out list
Alongside Budapest, several European neighbourhoods also made it into Time Out’s 2025 selection. The ranking shows the diversity of urban life across the continent – from Mediterranean fishing harbours to Nordic industrial quarters, each brings something unique.
Ménilmontant, Paris
Once a working-class district in northern Paris, Ménilmontant has become a favourite among locals. Today, alternative cafés, bars and art spaces define the area. Its bohemian, slightly gritty atmosphere offers a very different Paris compared to the tourist-heavy city centre.
Príncipe Real, Lisbon
One of Lisbon’s most elegant and colourful districts, Príncipe Real is filled with parks, exotic gardens, design shops and stylish restaurants. In recent years it has also become one of the city’s nightlife hubs, while still keeping its calmer, local side.
Vallila, Helsinki
A hidden gem of the Finnish capital, Vallila was once home to tram drivers and factory workers. Today, its former industrial halls and workshops host restaurants, bars and clubs while retaining their gritty charm. The wooden houses of Puu-Vallila, painted in soft colours, give the area a special, almost timeless feel. Many say it’s even cooler than neighbouring Kallio.
Endoume, Marseille
This former fishing neighbourhood has small harbours and rocky coves that make it one of Marseille’s most popular districts. With its steep streets, picnic spots by the sea and Provençal townhouses, it attracts both locals and visitors looking for authentic coastal charm.
Digbeth, Birmingham
Once an industrial warehouse quarter, Digbeth has transformed into a creative hub. Galleries, clubs and striking street art bring new life to the area. It’s now seen as one of Britain’s key centres of alternative culture.
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