At nightfall in Budapest, the historic Jewish Quarter takes on a special glow behind its crumbling gates and yards. These ancient buildings used to be ignored, but now some of Europe’s most exciting new drinking places have taken over—ruin bars. Bar crawls in Budapest’s ruin pubs mean more than good drinks; they give you a glimpse into the creative, cultural and social aspects of each city.

What Are the Ruin Bars?

It’s in Budapest where you’ll find the one-of-a-kind ruin bars. At the beginning of the 2000s, local business people and artists renovated old apartments, factories and shops, transforming them into lively meeting places. Rather than updating the place traditionally, the founders let much of the old damage be and added unusual furniture, flea market treasures, wall art and various forms of lighting to invent a one-of-a-kind style.

The result? These locations are surreal, always offer a great ambiance and are next level for posting on Instagram. Even though ruin bars vary, they have a distinct trait: they all reflect the nature of Budapest which is resourceful, always rebelling and never quiet.

How to Set Up Your Ruin Bar Crawl

Having a good ruin bar crawl means more than hopping from bar to bar; it’s a crafted experience. The bulk of ruin bars can be found in District VII, formerly known as Erzsébetváros, where the Jewish Quarter once stood. With all these spots in one location, it’s simple to explore a range of places in just one evening.

You can spend your first few hours between 7 and 8, so you avoid the noise of groups and experience each spot to its fullest. Choosing comfortable shoes beforehand is important, given most areas have uneven streets and several staircases. But above all, come with an open mind. They aren’t fancy clubs or elite-only spaces; they’re amazingly creative and disorganized.

Szimpla Kert – The First Is the First

Every ruin bar tour should include at least one stop at Szimpla Kert which led the way for all the others. When it opened in 2002, it was unique and it continues to enjoy the most fame as a ruin bar in Budapest.

This huge, multi-story bar includes fun rooms worn with everything from bathtub seats and TV sets that act as art, to bikes hanging up above your head. You can choose from craft brews, pálinka, classic cocktails and wine here. You’ll also find a garden, a shisha lounge and on Sundays, an active farmer’s market. You’ll have a great start if you begin your journey with a sense of amazement and a well-made drink.

Stop #2: Instant-Fogas Complex – A Place Where the Party Always Continues

After that, visit the Instant-Fogas Complex, only a short walk away from Szimpla. What began as two separate ruin bars (Instant and Fogas Ház) is now one big nightclub with seven bars, plenty of dance floors and a variety of music styles in different rooms.

Regardless of whether you like techno, hip hop, indie or retro pop, you’ll find a room with its fans. Because of the psychedelic artwork and surreal lighting, the club feels like it’s right out of a dream. Now’s when the party gets lively, so you’ll want to let loose and have a good time.

Stop #3: Udvarrom – A Calm Spot with Local Fans

If you’re looking for something different, UdvarRom can give you a break and cost less. On Klauzál Street, the crowd is from the area and the space has graffiti, lights and worn couches in a courtyard.

You can get a beer or fröccs here and have a conversation with others. If you are looking for a break from the nightlife, UdvarRom is the perfect place to stop.

Stop #4: Mazel Tov – With a Touch of Fashion

If you’re looking for an upscale option, Mazel Tov gives a pleasant change from the mayhem found in most ruin bars. At this Middle Eastern restaurant and bar, you’ll notice industrial décor, lots of greenery, string lights and a glass-roofed courtyard.

Mazel Tov may be the most neatly presented stop on your crawl, but it still demonstrates the creative and inclusive nature you find at most breweries. Eat a delicious mezze platter or enjoy a cocktail after hours. It’s pleasant to stop here, take some pictures and get to know an alternative night scene in Budapest.

At Stop #5, you’ll find yourself at Anker’t – The Courtyard Club.

Complete your visit to ruin bars at Anker’t, a huge and open ruin bar. The reduced modern design and central courtyard create functionality for parties and nightlife alike.

The club is known for showing films, hosting LGBTQ+ nights, organizing art shows and throwing theme parties. Arriving for the weekend means lots of electronic music, dancing crowds and DJs playing until morning. Ruin bars are a great place to spend your final hours, taking in the unusual energy you can only find here.

Ideas for a Wonderful Ruin Drink Around

Ruin bars prefer card payments, though you’ll want to have some Hungarian currency when you buy snacks or eat street food.

• ID and Entry: Most ruin bars welcome all adults, but a few places might check your ID and charge a little to enter at night.
• Take a drink of water in between your visits and don’t forget to try some local dishes, lángos being a delicious choice.
• Be Respectful: Local culture is reflected in these places. Be polite to everyone as you enjoy the venue so it’s pleasant for everyone present.

Final Thoughts

On a ruin bar crawl in Budapest, you are not just out for a regular night—you’re enjoying the city’s perseverance, creativity and gatherings between friends. Transformed out of the city’s past and decay, these bars capture the essence of Budapest. No matter if you party all night, find a tasty drink or just look around at the art, a Budapest event will leave you with memories.

Get your map, tie your shoes and begin the tour—the city wants to see you.