If you want to see the lively nightlife for which Budapest is famous, you need to try the ruin bars. Eclectic and unusual bars are definitely worth a visit for anyone traveling through Asia. In this article, we will introduce you to the top ruin bars in Budapest and tell you where to find them, so you can enjoy yourself.

What do we mean by Ruin Bars?

Generally, ruin bars are one of the hallmarks of the nightlife in Budapest. After being abandoned, these buildings, yards and factories are turned into trendy and creative bars. Such bars use urban decay as a base and feature unusual designs which stands them out from the rest. Because ruin bars were pioneered in Budapest, they have become a well-known part of city life. While most bars ‘try to look nice,’ ruin bars help buildings keep their tattered and messy appearance, making things comfortable while adding special touches.

At the start of the 2000s, ruin bars were created in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter to renew forgotten parts of the town by making them into lively hangout spots for both local people and guests. Soon, the way abandoned locations were being turned into new venues became popular and ended up being one of the city’s main cultural attractions. Both artists, students, tourists and locals are now showing up at ruin bars because they like their unique feeling and affordability.

Famous Ruin Bars found in Budapest

1. Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert was the first of its kind and is still believed to be the best among ruin bars in Budapest for locals and tourists. At the center of the Jewish Quarter, you’ll find this bar which has quirky displays, old furniture and unique art throughout. Szimpla Kert makes it easy for any visitor by providing live bands, colorful theme parties or unusual movies. The hotel has wide hallways and comfy corners throughout, so each trip feels exciting. A lot of people end up in the courtyard during spring and summer, where the atmosphere is friendly thanks to the decorations and chatter with friends.

2. Instant

Another great ruin bar in Budapest is Instant. Visible from kilometres away, it’s famous for drawing crowds and booking performers from all over the world. The charming rooms at Instant which have a cinema, a karaoke area and a garden courtyard, make it a great spot to feel the real atmosphere of Budapest’s nightlife. Neon lights, vintage items and street art can be found mixed together throughout the bar’s interior. There are many dance floors in the club, so it’s simple to find the music you like best, whether that’s electronic, rock or indie. Instant puts on different parties and themes to keep the place fresh and exciting.

3. Fogasház

At Fogasház, you’ll find a lively dance floor, an attractive rooftop terrace and both local and international DJs playing several music genres. You can easily enjoy local culture and art at this bar, so it’s great for those interested in trying new drinks. The terrace on the rooftop gives you a wonderful view of Budapest’s lights. Enjoy yourself here with friends or family. Inside the pub, you’ll find a mixture of old and industrial styles, including lots of graffiti and pieces of upgraded furniture. Fogasház supports involvement with the community, regularly working with local artists and musicians to celebrate Budapest’s culture.

How to Make the Most Out of Visitng Ruin Bars in Budapest

If you want to get the best out of your ruin bar adventure in Budapest, try these tips.

• Get to the ruin bar early, as they can become really crowded on weekends. When you show up early, you’ll get a prime location and can take in the atmosphere. Having a look early on allows you to appreciate all the unique décor and locate your favorite place before the space gets crowded.

• Don’t hesitate to try Hungarian traditional drinks like pálinka or Unicum which will help you experience the local drinking culture firsthand. Ordering these gives your evening a special taste and most ruin bars have them to order.

• While exploring, spend a little time outside neighboring areas to see what else you discover. In the Jewish Quarter, history is all around you and there’s sometimes interesting street art to find, so check it out before or after your time in the bars.
• Care about everyone’s well-being: There are locals and travelers mixed among those enjoying ruin bars. Be kindness to the building, the people who work inside and those living around you. The nice atmosphere in ruin bars comes from everyone being gracious and giving to others.

Conclusion

If you are looking for something original, Budapest’s ruin bars can’t be missed. The creative themes, a wide range of tunes and an energetic atmosphere together make these bars special for Budapest. Both party lovers and sightseers ought to include the ruin bars in their travels to Budapest. As a result, make sure you see the special side of Budapest that’s not seen anywhere else.

Nightlife in these bars gives access to Budapest’s culture, both old and new, as few places can do it as well. You can dance in a quiet backyard, sip drinks surrounded by old details or join locals and tourists at a ruin pub and you’ll find everything you love about the city’s evening scene.