The Best Ruin Bars in Budapest
Explore a distinctly Hungarian phenomenon: the ruin bar.
The ruin bar phenomenon started in Budapest in the early 2000s, when abandoned buildings in the Jewish Quarter were repurposed as affordable and creative nightlife spots. These spaces were transformed with second-hand furniture, graffiti, and art installations. The words rustic and hipster spring to mind.
Today, ruin bars are a hallmark of Budapest’s nightlife, attracting visitors from around the world who come for the bohemian atmosphere.
Szimpla Kert
The original and most famous ruin bar, Szimpla Kert set the standard for all ruin bars that followed. It’s an enormous space filled with graffiti-covered walls, vintage furniture, and quirky decorations like old bathtubs and mismatched lampshades. Each room has a unique vibe, with live music, open-air spaces, and a Sunday farmer’s market. It’s open until the early hours so you can party all night amidst the elegant chaos.
Instant-Fogas Complex
One of the largest ruin bars in Budapest, Instant-Fogas is a warren of connected bars and clubs under one roof. This sprawling venue has multiple dance floors, bars, and a garden. The quirky decor includes hanging bicycles, fairy lights, and animal sculptures. A hipster's paradise if there ever was one.
Mazel Tov
Mazel Tov is a more refined take on the traditional ruin bar, blending Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It features an open-air courtyard with hanging plants and string lights. This is one of our favorite places to eat in Budapest. The menu includes a wide range of Israeli-fusion dishes.
Csendes Vintage Bar & Café
Once a coffeehouse in the days of the Austro-Hungarian empire, this bar’s air of faded grandeur is very appealing. Csendes is filled with odd knick-knacks, antique furniture, and mismatched decor. Unlike the larger ruin bars, Csendes is more relaxed and ideal for those seeking a quieter experience with good wine or cocktails. A good spot for a date with your significant other or latest hookup.
Dürer Kert
Located outside the usual ruin bar district, Dürer Kert has an expansive garden space that attracts a mix of concert-goers, locals, and students. Known for its live music events, this bar offers a more alternative scene with plenty of outdoor seating. The spacious layout and natural surroundings give it a festival-like feel.
Kőleves Kert
Kőleves Kert is a seasonal ruin bar open during the warmer months, featuring a garden with colorful decorations and hammocks. Originally a soup kitchen, Kőleves now serves drinks and light bites in a friendly, open-air environment. It’s perfect for a laid-back afternoon. A popular spot for digital nomads. This bar is outdoor only.
