Top-10 Ruin Bars in Budapest

Budapest is a city of history, culture and nightlife. And one of the most unique features of its social scene are the ruin bars, a true Budapest phenomenon. These crazy, quirky bars are located in abandoned buildings, courtyards and even old factories and are filled with mismatched furniture, street art and hidden treasures.

Table of Contents

• What Are Ruin Bars?
• Where to Stay in Budapest for Easy Access to Ruin Bars
• Top 10 Ruin Bars to Visit in Budapest

What Are Ruin Bars?

Ruin bars are one of the most exciting cultural phenomena in Budapest, a blend of history, art and nightlife. These bars are located in abandoned, dilapidated buildings – old warehouses or apartments – in the historic Jewish Quarter. What started as a grassroots movement in the early 2000s has since become a symbol of the city’s ever changing nightlife.

The charm of ruin bars lies in their weird decor and atmosphere. Each bar is a mix of mismatched furniture, street art, vintage items and unexpected decor. You’ll find neon signs, old TVs, vintage furniture and even outdoor gardens with fairy lights. The use of space and the preservation of the original features of the buildings gives these bars a rustic and bohemian feel where art, music and community come together in the most unexpected ways.

Ruin bars are a meeting point for locals and tourists alike. They offer a laid back environment to relax, meet people or enjoy live music. Some venues even host art exhibitions, film screenings and alternative events making them an integral part of Budapest’s cultural and social life. Whether you want to have a casual drink or an unforgettable night out, visiting a ruin bar is an experience you won’t want to miss in this crazy city.

If you want to balance the nightlife of Budapest with some relaxation during the day, a visit to the Szechenyi Thermal Bath is a must. This iconic spot combines history, architecture and relaxation and has been a favourite of locals and visitors for over a century.

• Location: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Price: From €20
• Features: One of Europe’s largest thermal bath complexes, indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and spa treatments; located in City Park.

Where to Stay in Budapest for Ruin Bars

If you want to dive into Budapest’s ruin bar scene, staying in the centre of the city near the ruin bars will make your experience even more convenient. The heart of the ruin bar district is the Jewish Quarter (Erzsébetváros) where you’ll find some of the city’s most famous and popular nightlife spots. Staying here means you’re just a stone’s throw away from legendary ruin bars like Szimpla Kert, Instant and Fogas Ház.

Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a district full of culture, energy and artistic vibe. As you wander through its streets you’ll pass street art murals, traditional eateries, cozy cafes and hidden bars. Staying nearby gives you the flexibility to explore the area’s rich history during the day and indulge in the nightlife in the evening – all without having to travel far.

Hotel Rum Budapest

Hotel Rum Budapest is modern and stylish. Located just steps away from the ruin bars it’s a popular choice for those who want comfort and convenience. Its contemporary design reflects the youthful energy of the district and you can walk to Szimpla Kert or the nearby bars in just a few minutes. The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere and chic interior makes it the perfect retreat after a night of partying, a peaceful haven in the heart of the action.

The Hive Party Hostel

The Hive Party Hostel is a lively social spot for budget travelers who want to explore Budapest’s nightlife. Located in the Jewish Quarter this hostel captures the energy of the area. As soon as you step out you’re surrounded by street scenes, buzzing cafes and of course ruin pubs. Its playful and friendly atmosphere makes it a top choice for young travelers who want to meet fellow adventurers and dive straight into Budapest’s party scene.

Both accommodations put you in the heart of Budapest’s cultural and nightlife so you can explore the city’s famous ruin bars at your own pace. Whether you want a chic boutique stay or a lively party hostel these options mean you’re never far from the ruin pub experience.

Top 10 Ruin Bars in Budapest

Budapest is famous for its ruin bars, where art, history and nightlife come together in abandoned buildings. These bars bring together locals and tourists in a creative atmosphere with quirky decor and laid back vibe. Here are the top 10 ruin bars in Budapest that you should visit.

Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of the most popular spots in Budapest. Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the city’s nightlife. The bar is situated in a former factory and has a stunning array of mismatched furniture, funky murals and outdoor spaces where you can relax. Szimpla is famous for its lively atmosphere which includes live music, DJs and regular events like film screenings and farmers’ markets. It’s where creativity and history meet and you can experience the real Budapest.

• Location: Kazinczy utca 14, 1075 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM to 4:00 AM
• Price: Drinks from €2
• Features: The first ruin bar in Budapest, Szimpla Kert is an eclectic venue with mismatched furniture, funky art and lively music. It hosts farmers’ markets, film screenings and live performances, a cultural hub for locals and tourists.

If you want to see more of the city’s charm after visiting Szimpla Kert consider a night cruise on the Danube. The illuminated views of the Buda Castle and the House of Parliament are a magical addition to any trip.

Instant-Fogas Complex

Instant-Fogas Complex is a massive ruin bar that combines two legendary spots—Instant and Fogas Ház—into one. This complex has multiple rooms each with its own theme and offers dance floors, bars and lounges. The space is decorated with vintage furniture, neon lights and graffiti making it a great place to dance and socialize. Expect a mixed crowd and various music genres from electronic to indie, Instant-Fogas is one of the city’s most lively ruin bars.

Instant-Fogas is a maze of surprises, but did you know Budapest itself has a natural maze beneath its surface? Hidden under Gellért Hill lies a series of caves, and above ground the Liberty Statue watches over the city. A hike up this hill after visiting Instant-Fogas gives you a chance to see the city’s different layers of nightlife, nature and history.

Csendes Létterem

Csendes Létterem, also known as the “Quiet Room,” is more laid back than some of the other ruin bars in Budapest. It’s located in a former apartment building and its cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for a night out with friends or a quiet drink. The bar has vintage furniture, warm ambiance and a great selection of cocktails and local drinks. Besides the main bar area Csendes often hosts art exhibitions and small performances so it has a more cultural and artistic vibe.

• Location: Ferenczy István utca 5, 1053 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Price: Drinks from €3
• Features: Known for its quieter, vintage atmosphere this ruin bar is a café during the day and a cozy nightlife spot in the evening. It has retro furniture, quirky decor and soft lighting, perfect for relaxed conversations or a low-key drink.

Kőleves Kert

Kőleves Kert, or “Stone Soup Garden,” is a charming ruin bar with a big outdoor garden perfect for enjoying Budapest’s summer evenings. The bar is named after the famous Hungarian folk tale, “Stone Soup,” and the atmosphere is warm and inviting with retro furniture and greenery. Kőleves is known for its cozy vibe, Hungarian food and its unique blend of rustic and urban. It’s a great spot for a casual drink and a bite to eat while soaking up the surroundings.

Kőleves Kert’s rustic charm and greenery might remind you of a smaller, more intimate version of Margaret Island. Nestled in the Danube, this green oasis is perfect for a quiet morning walk or a relaxed bike ride before you dive back into the buzz of Budapest’s ruin bars.

• Location: Budapest, Hungary, between Margaret Bridge and Árpád Bridge
• Hours: Open year-round; best visited during daylight hours
• Price: Free
• Features: A peaceful urban park surrounded by the Danube River, with gardens, medieval ruins and recreational facilities. Highlights include the Musical Fountain, a small zoo and rentable bikes or electric carts. Perfect for strolls, picnics or a break from the city.

Élesztő Ház

Élesztő Ház is a haven for beer enthusiasts with an extensive selection of local beers in a relaxed and unpretentious environment. This ruin bar is located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter and is a great place to try Hungary’s craft beer scene. The industrial design features large wooden tables, brick walls and a cool atmosphere. Besides beers Élesztő Ház also serves cocktails and snacks so it’s popular among locals and tourists.

Mazel Tov

Mazel Tov is a unique ruin bar blending Mediterranean cuisine with the cool atmosphere of a ruin bar. Located in a beautifully renovated space Mazel Tov is known for its lively atmosphere and great food, Middle Eastern inspired dishes. The bar has a big outdoor terrace and is often full of people enjoying cocktails, hummus and grilled meats. The combination of food, drinks and music makes Mazel Tov one of the more upscale ruin bar experiences in Budapest.

• Location: Akácfa utca 47, 1072 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
• Price: Drinks from €4
• Features: A sophisticated ruin bar with Middle Eastern cuisine and modern decor. The venue is spacious, green and offers food, cocktails and live music. Perfect for those looking for a more polished ruin bar experience.

Dürer Kert

Dürer Kert is one of the oldest ruin bars in Budapest and a favorite among music lovers. Located in a big park this venue has indoor and outdoor areas where you can enjoy live music. Dürer Kert is known for hosting various events from rock concerts to electronic music nights. The relaxed atmosphere and space makes it perfect for a laid back evening with great music and drinks. The big outdoor garden is perfect for summer evenings and the venue often attracts a young crowd.

Dürer Kert’s garden space feels like a connection to nature, just like Lake Balaton. Often called the 'Hungarian Sea' this peaceful getaway offers stunning landscapes and wine tastings. It’s a nice day trip for those who want to swap city life for lake life.

Doboz

Doboz is a stylish ruin bar with an artistic twist. The venue is located in a former theater and the space has been transformed into a mix of contemporary art and vintage decor. The bar has a dance floor, cozy nooks for conversation and plenty of open space. Doboz stands out for its design with unique artwork on the walls and sculptures all over the place. The lively atmosphere and great cocktails make Doboz a favorite among locals and tourists.

Púder Bárszínház

Púder Bárszínház is a true fusion of bar and theater. Located in a former art gallery this ruin bar is also a performance venue, offering a cultural experience along with its nightlife. The bar serves cocktails, wine and local beers while guests enjoy theater performances, art exhibitions and live music. The intimate and artistic atmosphere at Púder Bárszínház makes it perfect for those looking for a more cultural and creative ruin bar experience.

• Location: Ráday utca 8, 1092 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Price: Drinks from €3
• Features: A fusion of bar and theater, Púder Bárszínház is an artistic space for drinks and cultural events. The interior features bold, colorful murals and the bar often hosts live performances, blending art with nightlife in a beautiful way.

Szatyor Galéria és Bár

Szatyor Galéria és Bár is a secret among Budapest’s ruin bars, a perfect mix of art and nightlife. Located in a quiet courtyard this bar is known for its creative events, live music, art exhibitions and pop-up performances. The venue has a cozy and laid back atmosphere with comfortable seating and eclectic decor with vintage and modern art. Szatyor is a great place to have a quiet drink or attend one of the many cultural events that take place here.

Budapest’s ruin bars show the city’s urban creativity but that’s only half the story. If you want to see Hungary’s countryside charm – a day trip to Godollo Palace is a must. The peaceful gardens and baroque architecture is a royal escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.