Budapest becomes a leading nightlife spot after dusk and much of that change happens through the Budapest Party District. You can find ruin bars, an exciting vibe and lively energy here, so many locals, students and tourists flock to this area to have nights they won’t soon forget.

What makes up the Budapest Party District?

Erzsébetváros or the historic Jewish Quarter in District VII, makes up the Budapest Party District. Back in the past, it was a quite area filled with rundown neighborhoods, but now it has transformed into a place filled with bars, party venues, late-night hot spots for food and is very popular after dark. You can hear the music, feel the excitement and enjoy the city’s look wherever you go, making Szimpla Kert a great choice for anyone spending the evening out in Budapest.

How ruin bars are changing the nightlife scene.

A major attraction in the Budapest Party District are ruin bars — unique bars built in old warehouses, abandoned spaces and courtyards. The first of these places appeared in the early part of the 2000s, with locals restoring run-down buildings to make them into cultural hotspots. Instead of making changes, people decided to keep the old surfaces, simple furniture and rough decor, giving the venue a genuine feel.

Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is the most famous ruin bar and is generally seen as the place that began the trend. You’ll find Szimpla on Kazinczy Street, where mismatched furniture, graffiti-ready walls, bikes overhead and converted bathtubs exist. There’s more to it than drinks; L’Appartiment is an experience. Szimpla allows artists to display their art, hosts outdoor film festivals, brings musicians to perform and provides a market for local organic produce on Sundays! Szimpla has a party atmosphere, whether you’re enjoying a nightclub or sitting in the spacious courtyard bar.

There are other important ruin bars as well.

As well as Szimpla, there are many other impressive ruin bars in this area.

• The biggest of all the ruin clubs, Instant-Fogas Complex, unites different rage floors and genres for those who like to dance. You won’t miss the endless array of dance rooms, lounges and bars.

• Inspired by the Mediterranean, Mazel Tov is an unusual garden bar with decorative lights, delightful Israeli meals and a chic vibe.
• Ellátó Kert: A place for drinks with friends in the fresh air, visited by students and local people, before heading out.

Going to parties in the Party District

Although ruin bars are popular, you’ll also find many full-fledged clubs in the Party District where the music plays late into the night. Even though techno and electronic music are popular here, the clubs also offer hip-hop, pop, house and occasional Hungarian oldies.

Akvárium Klub

Though it’s just on the threshold of the Party District, Akvárium Klub attracts crowds for its shows and club nights around Deák Ferenc Square. People from all over enjoy this spot because it has a big dance floor, a lovely terrace and lots of upcoming events.

Doboz

The nightlife at Doboz takes place in a beautiful old mansion. After entering, you’ll find several places to dance, thematic areas and a giant courtyard with a lighted sculpture of a tree. For groups who can’t decide on what to listen to, this venue has both pop hits and underground house songs.

Late-Night Bites

While dancing and partying can build up your appetite, you’ll find the Budapest Party District has plenty of places to eat. Apart from those places that stay open all night in the area.

These are some of the crowd’s favorites:

• Karaván Street Food Court: Next door to Szimpla, it’s where you can go for a great burger, lángos or something vegetarian after you’ve had a long night.
• Bors GasztroBar: A casual bite in a tight space that’s famous for its great drinking soups and sandwiches.
• When you need a quick pizza between bar stops, locals know head to Pizza Me, thanks to their many outlets in town.

Advice for Visiting the City’s Party District

Want to get the best out of the Budapest Party District? Consider these useful tips.

• No Outdated: Despite the rise of cards, you should still have cash (Hungarian currency) on you since some small bars and street vendors will want it.
• You won’t have to worry about what to wear, because most venue’s dress code is casual, so stay comfortable.
• While the city is generally safe, you should pay attention to your valuables, especially when you’re in crowded clubs.
• Choose to visit early on weekends when you’re going to Szimpla or Mazel Tov, because there can be many people lined up.
• Remember that many neighborhood residents are still living nearby. Don’t create noise in residential areas or break the rules at bars.

Final Thoughts

Budapest’s Party District is well known for mixing culture, frenzy and originality. Thanks to its famous ruin bars, vibrant nightlife and friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for anyone who likes party spaces, from relaxed groups to people looking for the biggest clubs. If your stay is going to be short and loud or long and chill, you won’t forget your nights here.

Order a drink, head to Erzsébetváros and let the city prove its status among Europe’s top party spots.