Budapest has a reputation for its nightlife and is best known for ruin pubs, a uniquely Hungarian bar culture enjoyed by travelers everywhere. Joining a ruin pub crawl in Budapest is the best method to explore its interesting scene, thanks to colorful crowds and unusual venues. The tours we provide walk you through the city’s Jewish Quarter, highlighting the top ruin bars which each have their own unique vibe. Ruin pub crawls should be on the list for anybody interested in Budapest’s bohemian side.
In the early 2000s, Ruin pubs brought new life to run-down buildings in District VII of Budapest. Starting with only artists and entrepreneurs giving old spaces a new purpose, the movement is now worldwide. The unmatched furniture, graffiti all over the walls and unique decor make such bars a symbol of Budapest’s creativity. Usually, a ruin pub crawl takes you to at least four pubs for shots, drinking competitions and the opportunity to mix with both locals and tourists in Budapest. Since 2007, firms such as Pub Crawl Budapest have taken the lead, sharing new and exciting experiences about the city’s changing nightlife.
Usually, the crawl begins when everyone assembles at Fogas Ház in Nagymező Street for drinks to get to know each other. Charming local guides make sure everyone feels connected, whether you’re by yourself, with friends or as a stag group. A typical start is at a relaxed ruin bar, for instance, Füge Udvar, since tickets are inexpensive and many find that the atmosphere is unassuming. In a traditional pub, you’ll likely see a fairy-lit yard, table soccer and many people enjoying a pálinka, the country’s famous brandy.
With time, the bar crawl brings people to Szimpla Kert, the first ruin pub, one of the main icons in the capital. Since 2004, Szimpla has become a maze of different rooms, full of unusual art—for example, seats are made out of bathtubs, cars from the Trabant era are displayed and carrying handles have become walls for street art. You’ll see a mix of locals and tourists in the lively courtyard, thanks to the great live music or DJ performances. People at these parties receive free spirits, typically pálinka or another local liqueur and enjoy games like beer pong or the group ritual of the “Jäger Train.”
Visiting Ellátókert will give you a different experience, since it’s an open-air ruin bar serving a variety of craft beers. With a mix of old, mismatched tables and colorful artwork all over, this spot attracts people who love genuine diners. Here, guides arrange icebreaker activities to improve relationships among members of the group. The next place to visit could be Udvarrom, a little spot with a comfy courtyard where you can unwind, chat and drink delicious Hungarian wines with new people you’ve met.
As the night wraps up, most people converge at Instant, Budapest’s biggest combination of a ruin pub and club. Measuring in at several floors, Instant brings together flashing lights, exciting music and themed spaces. The “Power Hour” during the crawl, where all drinks are free for an hour, make many people feel they can cut loose. At this stage, the group has grown tighter, leading to the dance floor being filled with people from Australia, Europe and the area.
What makes ruin pub crawls special is how they mix elements of the past with today’s Budapest life. Born during the fall of communism, these bars display the spirit and ideas of people moving on. Visitors often hear interesting stories about the city’s traditions, both Jewish and Soviet which enhance the trip. Enjoying a pint of Borsodi beer for just €2 helps keep the crawl budget-friendly and the many venues mean you’ll find places to fit your needs.
But the process isn’t always smooth. Many crawls can get quite full during summer or winter breaks and loud groups of visitors can change the atmosphere. Even though women might be a little apprehensive about traveling solo, reviews praise the group’s inclusive atmosphere and attentive guides who guarantee safety. Because free shots are available, it’s easy to drink too much, so learn to drink slowly. Even with these hurdles, exploring trusted venues on the crawl means you are less likely to end up in the common tourist traps in Budapest’s party area.
Going on a ruin pub crawl is more than drinking; it gives you a true feel for Budapest’s heart. Often, you’ll find special alcoves, dance under sparkling lights and develop friendships with people from many places. Everyone can enjoy something, be it looking for a buzzing night out or simply appreciating the party atmosphere; this feeling makes up the charm of Budapest’s night scene. Schedule a pub crawl, arrive willing to have fun and get ready for a night you won’t soon forget.
