Every bottle of Unicum tells a story—one that began over 220 years ago, winding through Hungarian history and intertwining with the fate of the Zwack family. Today, Unicum remains Hungary’s most beloved spirit, and there’s no better place to explore its essence (and oak-aged aroma) than the Unicum House (Unicum Ház) in Budapest. This multi-sensory museum tour draws you into the heart of a true Hungarian icon, from immersive storytelling to unforgettable barrel tastings.
A Hungarikum Experience—But Not as You Know It
Forget about dusty museum tours. Unicum House welcomes you with a complete sensory journey, starting with a spectacular 270-degree film. In just twenty minutes, you’re immersed in the Zwack family legend—royal doctors, secret recipes, wartime drama, and globe-trotting escapes, all poured into one bitter-sweet liquor. Ever wondered where Hungary’s first neon advertisement lit up, or how a humble digestif became a worldwide phenomenon? The answers—full of intrigue and eccentric characters—unfold on the screen.
Next, you follow a guide into history itself: the old distillery, dating back to 1892. Nicknamed the “Heart of Unicum,” this ivy-covered building feels like a turn-of-the-century film set. You’ll see original distilling equipment, stone beakers more than a century old, and the secret herbs—kept under almost absurd lock and key—that give Unicum its notorious kick.
Deep Down the Barrel: The Labyrinth and the Tasting
The tour winds through the barrel maze beneath Budapest—500 twisting, oak-filled corridors where Unicum ages for months, undisturbed. These are not just cellars; they’re the lifeblood of every spicy, bittersweet sip. You even get to tap Unicum and Unicum Plum (Unicum Szilva) straight from the barrel. Drink up: nothing compares to the riot of aromas and flavors released when a liquor has been aging in thousand-liter casks, and you’re breathing the very same underground air.
Choose the premium tour, and things get even more exclusive. You’re invited into the legendary Unicum Vault (Unicum Trezor XO) chamber—think Bond-villain lair, lined with rare bottles. Here, the new generation Unicum Reserve (Unicum Riserva) ages for a decade in oak, then matures in French brandy casks. Of the 2013 vintage, only 3,200 bottles exist, with the first 200 locked in display cases like museum treasures. Premium tasters sample this rarity alongside Unicum Barista and the newly unveiled Unicum Orange Bitter (Unicum Narancs Bitter).
The Treasure Room: Relics, Stories, and QR Code Surprises
You’re not finished yet. Back in the exhibition space, wander at your own pace—audio guide in hand, or scan QR codes for hidden stories and expanded digital galleries. Glass cases hold Unicum’s most unusual bottles, World War-era postcards, surreal posters, and poetry handwritten by Endre Ady to his muse Mylitta, aunt of Péter Zwack (Zwack Péter). There’s even a Swedish passport issued by Raoul Wallenberg to save Péter Zwack himself.
Recently, the museum has introduced more high-tech features. You can snap a selfie in front of delightfully kitschy Unicum backdrops, ready to share instantly on social media.
Tickets, Tours, and the Practical Details
Tours run exclusively at pre-scheduled times listed on the ticket website—no drop-ins, and no same-day online bookings. Tour sizes are limited, so book ahead to secure your spot. Prices (all converted to USD for convenience): adults pay $11; children under 18 enter for $5.50; seniors for $10; and the full premium tasting experience is $15. For groups of 15 or more, standard adult tickets are just $10; email ahead to reserve, as group tours must be arranged in advance.
Each ticket includes the film, a full guided tour of the distillery and cellars, and access to the exhibition (with audio guides). Standard tickets also include a tasting of Unicum and Unicum Plum (Unicum Szilva); the premium lets you try the full range, from Reserve (Riserva) to Orange Bitter (Narancs Bitter).
Open Hours and Essentials
Unicum House is open Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The shop—perfect for souvenirs to take home—opens an hour earlier on weekdays and stays open until 6:00 PM (on Saturdays from 10:00 AM). From June 30 to July 5, both standard and premium tours will be available—so mark your calendar for a unique adventure into Budapest’s most spirited history.
