Budapest is a city famous for its exciting nightlife and interesting ruin bars and I am glad you are here. If you want the true party feeling, you should visit the biggest ruin bar in the city. This article will examine what ruin bars entail and walk you through experiencing the largest one in the city.

Heading to a Ruin Bar is a must when you’re in Budapest.

Budapest’s famous ruin bars grew from the new directions the city took after the fall of communism. You’ll only find these clubs in super-run-down venues in District VII, where they turn shabbiness into unique art and keep drinks cheap (prices start at 700 HUF, around £1.46 for a pint). Warm evenings in May (15–25°C) make people enjoy the courtyards and r/budapest suggests they are a cultural can’t-miss. Their independent spirit helps local musicians, so they’re not only bars but also important gathering spots, according to The Guardian.

What do Ruin Bars refer to?

Bars made from ruined structures are a special part of Budapest’s nightlife. Abandonded buildings in the historic Jewish Quarter have been turned into these unusual bars. They use the unavoidable urban demise and transform buildings that otherwise would not be used.

At first, the reason for ruin bars was that many buildings suffered from neglect after World War II. Popularity spread fast among local people and tourists, thanks to the area’s unique bohemian style and diverse ambiance.

Szimpla Kert has the biggest ruin bar in Budapest.

Of all ruin bars, Szimpla Kert has earned the reputation as the granddaddy. Ruin Bar Szimpla Kert, the largest and best-known of its kind in Budapest, is found central to the Jewish Quarter. Because it is such a popular nighttime spot, both residents and travelers go there looking for an incredible night out.

What is It That Makes Szimpla Kert Different?

Not only is Szimpla Kert large, but its unique decor and wide assortment of activities make it special as well. Upon entering, you’ll notice that every room is designed to reflect its own thematic atmosphere.

You’ll find vintage chairs, murals and unusual displays inside this bar. There are all sorts of unique items on the walls which create an artsy and unique feeling in the place. There are so many little spots to find which can make for a long and enjoyable experience.

Apart from being interesting, Szimpla Kert arranges cultural events, gives space to performers, presents art and hosts film screenings. Because the events calendar is full and colorful, there is never a dull moment at this remarkable venue. Be prepared to see both live music and indie films in the festival space!

You can explore over 20 named zones in Kazinczy u. 14, with spots for shisha, a yard and a wine bar. You’ll pay 800 HUF (£1.67) for a Dreher pint and 800 HUF (£1.67) for a pálinka shot. There are free jazz performances along with free Sunday markets. It remains open until midnight, so it’s close to the M1 metro stop (Oktogon). According to TripAdvisor (4.5/5), Szimpla is known for being lively and you can check weekly events online at szimpla.hu.

Why Does Szimpla Attract AttentionSample

The fact that Szimpla has so many areas, more than tiny places like Anker’t, is what makes it stand out. It changed culture by starting the ruin bar movement in 2002, so UNESCO highlighted District VII’s preservation of its heritage. Sights like the Trabant car and bathtub chairs are fun to share on Instagram and everyone, travelers or locals, feels welcome at Flea Market. Instead of spending £10 at Berlin’s clubs, Szimpla offers a great experience for nothing and very little money on drinks.

Things to Know Before Visiting Szimpla Kert

If Szimpla Kert is your next stop, here are some tips to help you Enjoy yourself better.

• Get to the area in advance to reserve a great place for yourself. When night falls, the bar gets very crowded.
• Try to sample some of the traditional beers and drinks found in Budapest to fully experience the city’s taste.
• You should carry cash, because a few bars in Szimpla Kert might not take cards as payment.
• Check out each part of the museum and take pleasure in its unique artwork and atmosphere.
• There’s no need to feel shy when talking to other moviegoers. Many different groups spend time at Szimpla Kert and having conversations with others is a big part of the place.
• Treat the establishment and its policies with respect. Ruin bars are valued places and deserve to be looked after.

Some More Tips for May 2025

• Book seats at film screenings using the website szimpla.hu.
• When you dress casually, jeans and sneakers are fine, not sportswear.
• Travel by Metro: M1 from Oktogon to Adam Clark Ter is a short walk.
• Have a Bite: Find sandwich stalls at Szimpla and they’re priced at 1,800 HUF which is £3.75.
• Secure your belongings if you are going through a crowd.
• Check Beer Week: May sees the addition of craft beers during Budapest’s festival by budapestinfo.hu.

Exploring Nearby

If you walk 3 minutes from Szimpla to Gozsdu Udvar, you’ll see several stalls that serve cheap lángos (800 HUF, £1.67). Take in the exhibits before heading to the Dohány Synagogue (5,000 HUF, £10.42) or stopping by at Karaván food court (mains 1,500 HUF, £3.13). The design of District VII allows you to hop straight from your accommodation to nearby Instant or Fogas Ház (just a 5-minute walk away).

What Is There to Experience in Szimpla?

The vast size, diversity of events and low drinks prices (£1.46 pints versus £6 in London) turn Szimpla into a legendary pub. Reddit’s r/travel says the rich combi-nation of history and art in its culture is a big plus over regular bars. During May, the warmth of the evenings makes the courtyard helpful for spending time together.

Conclusion

If you are in Budapest, don’t forget to take a trip to Szimpla Kert, the biggest ruin bar in the city. Thanks to its size, unique feel and many exciting events, the city is worth visiting for anyone interested in great nightlife in Budapest. Invite some friends to Szimpla Kert and enjoy the fun, trendy feel of Budapest’s bohemian ruin bars.