If you’re looking for great nightlife and unusual bar scenes, Budapest will impress you. Charismatic ruin bars make the city stand out and give both tourists and residents something to remember. If you’re new to ruin bars or are preparing for a visit to Budapest, this guide will introduce you to top ruin bars and map them out for you!

What are these places known as Ruin Bars?

Over the last several decades, ruin bars have appeared in Budapest. Often, these events take place in old, deserted buildings, factories or outdoor courtyards, making each event special. Because ruin bars combine unique and fun decorations, interesting musical songs and repurposed buildings, anyone visiting Budapest should consider them a must-see.

In the early 2000s, entrepreneurs working in arts and design saw a chance to use the city’s empty spaces. They didn’t change every bit of the buildings; instead, they kept their original look by adding different furniture, graffiti and recycled materials. What emerged was a bar that brings together the city’s past and present in a uniquely Budapest manner.

Ruin bars aren’t limited to drinks — they also serve as cultural centers, galleries and music halls. They host many live music events, art exhibits and workshops which are great for travelers who hope for something extra from their night out.

1. Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is very popular and is a good place to begin your time in Budapest. People recognize this bar because of its complicated interior, beautiful garden area and exciting events. Featuring both themed nights and live shows, Szimpla Kert is a favorite spot for party lovers, who can find it in the Jewish Quarter.

Tips:

• Be there ahead of the crowds to land a good spot.
• Experience their original cocktails and locally brewed beers.
• Don’t forget to go to the Sunday Farmers’ Market which takes place in the yard.

Inside this bar you’ll encounter tables made from former bathtubs, a used Trabant for friends to lounge in and many interesting messages and stickers on the walls. It is this surprising chaos that led to Szimpla Kert being remembered as a key ruin bar.

2. Instant

Another great place for a huge range of parties is Instant, a famous ruin bar in Budapest. Instant spans numerous levels and provides a variety of rooms, every one with its own music and atmosphere. If you like electronic tunes or DJ sets, Instant has you covered whatever the genre.

Tips:

• Visit their website to find the list of upcoming promotional nights.
• Roam around the gallery’s different floors and rooms to see something different.
• Sit at the bar, grab a drink and get caught up in the liveliness around you.

Since its merger with Fogasház (described below), Instant is now one of Budapest’s biggest ruibars. There are several dance floors and areas for relaxing, so you’ll find something to match your mood.

3. Fogasház

Fogasház is a ruin bar situated among the lively streets of the 7th district and is usually called The Dentist. Because of its unusual decor and lively dance area, Fogasház attracts both local people and visitors for a fun night.

Tips:

• Experience a Sabrina Carpenter show for a moment you won’t forget
• Don’t miss a chance to enjoy their unusual ‘Toothache’ cocktail.
• Do not feel shy about meeting and talking to local people.

Because its name means “Tooth Building” in Hungarian, Fogasház stays true to its funny name. Because the crowd is mostly young and offbeat, it often gets called the underground cousin to Szimpla Kert.

4. Mazel Tov

Mazel Tov offers a chilled and classy setting, so it’s ideal if you want something less lively. Just in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, the bar stands out for its pretty courtyard, modern design and Middle Eastern dishes.

Tips:

• Taste their hummus platter and enjoy some of their recommended signature cocktails.
• If you can, stop by during the summer to take advantage of the outdoor tables.
• Check what performances are taking place each day or night.

It differs from other, more disorganized ruin bars because it is carefully and stylishly planned. The modern design matches the open feel of typical ruin bars, so it’s great for dates or evenings spent with friends.

5. Anker’t

Inside an old courtyard is the massive ruin bar known as Anker’t. Many artists, musicians and DJs perform at the bar, so it is beloved by Budapest’s art crowd. At Anker’, guests can also find a food truck park to feed their appetites while the music and fun continue.

Tips:

• Look on the gallery’s Facebook page for information about upcoming events and shows.
• Have a look at the food truck park and try something new to eat.
• Pay a nice visit to the artworks placed throughout the museum.

Anker’t is known for bringing together all kinds of people and promoting events that highlight sustainability, LGBTQ+ issues and modern art. Many people come to clubs to chat, dance and have fun expressing creativity.

Best Ruin Bars in Budapest – A Map

We’ve made a map that shows where the best ruin bars in Budapest can be found. Study the map to decide your route and enjoy an excellent night of activities and fun.

Ruin Bar

Address

Szimpla Kert

Kazinczy Street 14, 1075 Budapest

Instant

Building at 49-51 Akácfa utca, 1073 Budapest

Fogasház

1073 Budapest, Akácfa u. 51

Mazel Tov

47 Akácfa Street, Budapest 1072

Anker’t

33 Paulay Ede u. 1061 Budapest

Because people love ruin bars in Budapest, you should check before you go to avoid disappointment from crowded places. Come ready to join the special spirit, drink and enjoy the flavorful drinks and shake your body on the dance floor at these exceptional venues. To a wonderful night in Budapest!