Many things define Budapest—its thermal spas, great architecture and rich cultural life. One of the best aspects unique to Hungary is the experience of visiting ruin pubs at night. The city’s famous alternative and atmospheric bars have helped shape Budapest’s social scene by allowing people to experience its post-communist history, creativity and nightlife all in the same place.

What Is the Meaning of the Term “Pub Nelle Rovine”?

Italian for “pub in the ruins” is “Pub nelle rovine.” That is exactly what ruin pubs are: bars found inside old, deserted buildings, mainly in the Jewish Quarter of Budapest’s District VII. Since World War II or the communist era, these old factories, apartment complexes or courtyards were just left to deteriorate. Entrepreneurs decided to keep the buildings and make them fun places for artists and young adults with art, odd furniture pieces and walls covered in graffiti.

The Beginning of the Ruin Pub Movement

At the start of the 2000s, some brave Hungarian youth came up with the idea to create a bar out of a decaying building instead of restoring it to brand new. In 2002, Szimpla Kert was opened as Budapest’s first official ruin pub. Because of its unusual interior design, fair prices and friendly environment, Szimpla Kert quickly became popular. What first started as a test ended up changing the city’s nightlife, leading to the opening of dozens of comparable pubs.

Mood and Environment

A major reason why so many like these pubs is their interesting design. Most of these pubs are not glossy or well-groomed. In fact, artists welcome imperfection. You should find walls with cracks, bricks left open to view, vintage bathtub sofas, bikes hanging on the ceilings and signs with words in other languages.

The atmosphere is creative, full of energy and uncomplicated. You could end up sitting in a courtyard full of lights and listening to music played live. Some ruin pubs host different events like art exhibitions, community events and films during the day which are followed by lively nights when they become bustling bars.

Guide to Finding Ruin Pubs in Budapest

District VII (Erzsébetváros), mainly around Kazinczy Street, is the main focus of ruin pub culture. The site which was once in the Jewish ghetto, is now known for its lively atmosphere.

Some of the best pubs in the historic city are the pubs nelle rovine in Budapest.

Szimpla Kert

The first and most widely known of the ruin pubs. There are many levels and rooms at Szimpla Kert which are filled with vintage objects, colorful surreal artwork and many types of drinks. It welcomes tourists but does not lose its local character. You may find a farmers’ market at Szimpla each Sunday during the day.

Instant-Fogas Complex

A huge complex with multiple rooms made up of Instant and Fogas, two well-loved venues in the city. Several buildings house this ruin pub and it offers themed rooms, places to dance, live DJs and unique designs.

Mazel Tov

Because of its elegant design, this place is sometimes called the “refined ruin pub” instead of a ruin bar. It has dishes from the Mediterranean, creative cocktails and a beautiful garden area. Ideal for people who want to enjoy the atmosphere of ruin pubs in a more refined way.

Csendes

The place known as Csendes lies inside an old coffee house and acts as a cafe during the day. The bar is decorated with artworks and antiques and visitors describe it as calm and creative.

Ruin Pubs are Unique in the Following Ways

• Most ruin pubs have Hungarian beer, wine and cocktails for customers on a budget.
• Culture: The mixed group of locals, expats and tourists gives the place an open and broadly international feel.
• Common events at ruin pubs and often only in the bigger ones, are open mic nights, DJ sets, pub quizzes and art exhibitions.
• Most ruin pubs keep serving drinks until the very late hours which makes them perfect for all-nighters.

Why Is Visiting a Pub Nelle Rovine Worthwhile?

Visiting a pub in the ruins makes you feel part of Budapest’s cultural and historical transformation, as well as having a drink. You can see the toughness and imagination of the city in these pubs, since they breathe life into what was destroyed.

Besides, every ruin pub belongs to its own unique culture. If dancing all night is your thing, sitting and chatting is what you want or you want to appreciate local art and music, you can find a ruin pub to match your tastes.

Helpful Guidelines

• Visit Ruin pubs early on the weekends, since they’re very busy at night.
• Keep Hungarian Forints just in case the place you choose doesn’t take cards.
• Be polite: Remember, these spots are important for the local people too. Be mindful of both the space you work with and the customers while on duty.
• Sample Local Drinks: Taste Hungarian brands such as pálinka (fruit brandy) or fröccs (a wine spritzer).

Conclusion

The phrase “Pub Nelle Rovine Budapest” is not only catchy but also a call to see one of Budapest’s best and most distinctive attractions. History, creativity and community meetings are beautifully shown at the ruin pubs across Budapest. Drinking your beverage beneath some twinkling fairy lights or dancing around in a converted factory will be memorable. A trip to Budapest could include an evening or two spent visiting their best pubs. It will be a decision you are happy with.