If you’re visiting Budapest, you must include Szimpla Ruin Pub on your list of places to visit. Most people consider Szimpla Kert the best of the ruin pubs and it’s worth visiting for its bold culture, beautiful scene and exciting spirit. In the Jewish Quarter, Szimpla mixes enjoyable evenings with history and artistic displays that will interest travelers. Before you go on your trip, this guide provides all the important information about what to anticipate, how to arrive and top tips to help you enjoy your stay.

What do people mean by Szimpla Ruin Pub?

Szimpla Kert which is often known as Szimpla Ruin Pub, was where the idea of ruin bars in Budapest began. The bar opened in 2002, using an old building in District VII and very quickly became a favorite among the local community. The goal was to develop a unique bar concept in a rundown building, without paying for big polished renovations to keep the gritty atmosphere.

Over time, Szimpla turned into something beyond a place to drink. You’ll find local art, live music, movies, farmers’ markets and much more there. You’ll notice that every hostel has mismatched furniture, colorful graffiti on the walls, bikes hanging above, bathtubs as sofas and rooms that look like unique art displays.

Instructions on Reaching Colombia

Szimpla can be found in Downtown Budapest at Kazinczy Street 14 in the Jewish Quarter.

Get on either Metro Line 2 (red) and exit at Astoria or take Metro Line 1 and stop at Deák Ferenc tér. The walk from either station takes only 10 minutes.

The Erzsébet vagy Király utca areas are not far from the stations where several trams and buses stop.

If you’re in the city center or close to the Danube, you can get to Szimpla just by walking.

The best time to see Szimpla

Szimpla operates every day starting at noon and goes on until about 4 AM during the weekend. Going at any time can be fun, but the experience you get depends on your timing.

Between 12 PM and 6 PM is the best time for sightseeing, taking pictures and enjoying the decor while most crowds are away. Sundays are also Sunday Farmer’s Market days at Szimpla, where you can sample local foods, artisan cheeses and Hungarian wines.

Try an evening cocktail at around six to unwind before the night gets going. You don’t have to worry about loud music because the rooms are themed.

In the evening (from 9 PM), Szimpla becomes a very lively place for nightlife. The nightclub is full with people as local and international artists provide the music live, either with a band or as a DJ. If you’d like a seat, try to come before everyone else.

Activities and Things to See at Szimpla

1. Browse the Decor to see what is available.

 The messy and colorful space at Szimpla is a big attraction. You’ll notice different vibes in all the rooms such as vintage movie posters and typewriters set into the walls. Take your time to move through the space and see all the hidden areas, including courtyards, lounges and rooms with lots of old TVs.

2. You should also try Hungarian Drinks

 New to pálinka? Sip a traditional Hungarian brandy or have a local craft beer. Visitors also have the option to choose Hungarian wines and cocktails at the bar.

3. Listen to Live Music

 Every week, live music events take place offering fans a mixture of jazz, acoustic and electronic performances. The venues’ special music lineup gives it an alternative feel.

4. Go to the Farmers’ Market (every Sunday).

 People of all backgrounds come to the local market to buy local jams, organic produce and local honey. Have breakfast at a gyro while you wander the markets.

5. Take part in Cultural Events

 Szimpla organizes film screenings, displays art and conducts charity events almost every month. Go to their website or social media to discover what’s on during your vacation.

Travel Tips You Should Know

1. Show up Early when You’re Visiting on the Weekend

 You will find a line of people outside by 10 PM on weekend evenings. Get there between 8:30 and 9 PM so you can skip waiting and sit down comfortably.

2. Take money in both cash and card form.

 Many places in Szimpla can be paid by card, but it’s better to have a small amount of HUF on hand, especially when buying things from the market vendors.

3. Protect and take care of what’s yours.

 Take special care of your belongings since many tourists are at the sight. Choose a crossbody bag or money belt whenever possible.

4. Dress Casual

 No dress rules are required. Feel free to visit just as you are! What you wear on your feet makes no difference; just about everyone wears them.

5. Show kindness to everyone’s personal space.

 Szimpla is more than just a popular site for tourists; it’s also part of a real neighborhood. Try to keep the noise at a manageable rate as you come and go and always behave politely towards everyone.

Nearby Attractions

• Schedule your Jewish Quarter visit to last the entire day.
• Dohány Street Synagogue: Also called the Great Synagogue, Europe’s biggest synagogue and an amazing place for history aficionados.
• Gozsdu Courtyard: A recent addition including restaurants, bars and shops for artisans just less than a 5-minute walk from the monument.
• The district has lots of colorful murals near Szimpla and many more only a few minutes away.

Final Thoughts

Szimpla Ruin Pub Budapest brings together customer appreciation and a unique blend of creativity, the neighborhood and Hungarian roots. If you like sipping wine in the tub, window shopping at a farmer’s market or partying late at night, Szimpla should be the first place you see in Budapest. There’s always energy here, whether it’s morning, afternoon or night, so hang around and let Szimpla entertain you!