Jul 26, 2024 | Pub Crawl Budapest

Budapest Pubs in Ruins: A Unique Drinking Experience

by

One of the main things that draws tourists to Budapest at night are the city’s famous ruin pubs. People around the world recognize these bars for their fun atmosphere, unique decor and unusual ambiance. This article will look at the history of Budapest’s ruins bars and advise you on where to go so you can enjoy a memorable night out.

What are Budapest Pubs in Ruins?

Ruin pubs in Budapest began to appear in the early 2000s. You will find them inside decaying buildings, abandoned courtyards or factories that haven’t been used since the end of World War II. Because of their mix of vintage, retro and bohemian looks, guests have a great time drinking in these bars.

The interior designs of pubs are truly impressive. You can notice furniture that doesn’t match, old-looking posters, painted walls and sometimes vintage machines such as typewriters or record players. What makes Budapest’s ruin pubs special is the mix of old architecture with modern pieces of art.

Visiting a ruin pub is similar to entering a museum that tells many stories with every detail. You’ll notice the unique charm in these bars, thanks to peeling paint, exposed bricks and the unusual way they’re decorated. Every ruin pub is different, showing how much time and love the owners and supporters put into it.

Besides their drinks, these bars are also centers for culture. Many ruin pubs have live music, show art exhibitions, organize film showings and even hold theatrical events. Having socializing and culture combined on your night out makes it more memorable and really exciting.

A History of Pubs in Budapest Condition

The first ruin pub in the city was Szimpla Kert and it opened in 2002. The group gave an old apartment building a new life by reopening it as a bar that attracts locals as well as those from out of town. Szimpla Kert helped bring about the ruin pub movement, encouraging businesspeople to use old and neglected places for bar-going.

To start, these pubs were a community effort to help lively up areas in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter that had become run-down. With lots of buildings left empty and deteriorating, ruin pubs brought them back to life. Something that started as small experiment soon turned into a big cultural event.

Artists, students and young professionals made these pubs their favorite places to hang out. They were a more cost-effective way to meet people, apart from standard bars and nightclubs. The boom in ruin pubs gave life to old, abandoned venues and added to Budapest’s cultural and social activities.

With each passing year, the concept appeared at different ruin pubs that started using various themes and styles. A number of changes can be seen in Budapest’s nightlife thanks to the movement which provides an alternative to established nightclubs.

My Top Recommended Budapest Pubs in Ruins

If you’re visiting Budapest and want to visit ruin pubs, here are some of the best you can try:

1. Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is the original ruin pub and should be on every pub lover’s list. In the Jewish Quarter is this market which has various rooms, a large yard and a Sunday farmer’s market. Choose from different drinks, enjoy lively music and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere.

The many winding rooms in the pub lead you to discover different types of art and furniture. Not only is Szimpla Kert a bar, but also a farmers’ market on Sundays helps it become a focal point for locals in Budapest.

2. Instant

You’ll also find Instant, a loved ruin pub, in what used to be an apartment building. You’ll find a path of rooms decorated with colorful art, vintage furniture and strange art pieces. Pick a spot to dance and let talented DJs introduce you to many types of music.

Instant is famous for how lively and energetic their customers can be. Being one of the biggest, with lots of dance floors and bars, it’s a very popular place for visitors eager to join Budapest’s exciting nightlife.

3. Fogas Ház

Fogas Ház contains several linked rooms and a courtyard in its collection of ruin pubs. The complex includes a summer garden and holds occasions such as musical gatherings, exhibition openings and flea markets.

Because they have so many areas, it’s easy for everyone to find somewhere they enjoy—whether it’s a calm chat or dancing the night away. The garden in summer gives guests a wonderful place to enjoy the night air and a drink, making Fogas Ház available throughout every season.

4. Mazel Tov

If you’d like a finer ruin pub feel, try Mazel Tov. In a former glass factory, you’ll find Middle Eastern dishes paired with interesting cocktails. Because of its big courtyard and cozy inside, it’s a great spot for a peaceful evening out.

Mazel Tov gives you an upscale feeling but still keeps the attractive and unique qualities you find in ruin pubs. People from all over come for the fine dishes, great drinks and attractive place.

Guides for Visiting Budapest Pubs in Ruins

  • If you want to get the best of Budapest’s ruin pubs, follow these tips:
  • Make sure to turn up ahead of everyone so you can select a nice spot for yourself, especially if visiting on the weekend.
  • Have a round of palinka (fruit brandy) or try some fröccs (spritzer) as a real Hungarian drink.
  • Take your time to walk around and check every corner in the pub, because you might find something interesting.
  • Befriend some of the locals and have a chat to learn about the city’s active nightlife.
  • Don’t forget to bring some cash, because there’s a chance the pubs you visit won’t take cards.

No matter if you like to party or enjoy art, ruin pubs in Budapest are unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else. Experience what they offer, appreciate their unique environment and enjoy a truly different kind of nightlife.

Migliori Pub Budapest

Migliori Pub Budapest

Budapest, la capitale dell'Ungheria, è nota non solo per i bellissimi edifici d'epoca e le famose terme, ma anche per la sua movimentata esistenza notturna. La città offrono numerosi locali caratteristici, il momento che ogni intimo, scellita, birra mano debito piace...

read more
Pub Szimpla Budapest

Pub Szimpla Budapest

If nightlife in Budapest is mentioned, Pub Szimpla probably pops up in your research. In Budapest’s downtown, Pub Szimpla Budapest, better known as Szimpla Kert, is actually much more than a bar. It is an important part of Budapest’s culture, a symbol of...

read more

Group Booking Request

Planning a group visit to the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial from Berlin? Fill out the form below to request a private or group tour. Our team will get back to you with availability and pricing options. Experience a guided tour tailored to your group’s needs.