Introduction

Should you visit Budapest, experiencing the famous shocker bars is an experience you won’t regret. These places are now a favorite with tourists and are considered major attractions in New York City. This blog post will tell you about ruin bars and what sets them apart.

What Exactly Are Ruin Bars?

Budapest, Hungary is where the first ruin bars or ruin pubs, opened. Usually, these bars are found in old buildings, factories or warehouses, giving them a unique and unlike-anywhere-else setting. It began in the early 2000s, when those spaces were made new through the actions of enterprising people.

Ruin bars started in Budapest’s District VII, thanks to the large number of empty buildings created by the shift away from communism. The founders of Szimpla Kert began the trend in 2002 by turning an old courtyard into a bohemian spot. Using recycled items, local artwork and only a bit of updating, this attitude improved the district and encouraged global clubs and restaurants to develop here. These ruin bars are a sign of Budapest’s strength and mix the city’s damaged buildings with new creative thought, attracting people of all kinds (pints start at 700 HUF or £1.46). Their successful style has helped create similar spaces in Berlin and Lisbon.

Unique Atmosphere

Ruin bars are most known for their special and creative atmosphere. You find all sorts of vintage pieces, funny-looking ornaments and colorful artwork, giving these places a one-of-a-kind, attractive look. Having both vintage and modern pieces, ruin bars are special and different from traditional clubs or bars.

In many ruin bars, you can enjoy drinks outside under the sky in open-air courtyards or on rooftops. Many people, locals and tourists, are drawn to these places because they are so relaxing and friendly.

In Szimpla Kert, you’ll find relaxing in the seats made from bathtubs and sitting in a Trabant car, while Instant’s lighting and eye-catching mirrors lead to some wild-looking rooms. Warm May days, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, make adorned courtyards the ideal place to escape, using fairy lights or hammocks. Rooftops are great for enjoying views of the city during social visits which Fogas Ház offers. Having such an interesting style and relaxed atmosphere, ruin bars draw attention from all over and earn positive reviews from people all over, with Szimpla being a 4.5-star favorite on TripAdvisor.

Check out the Entertainment and Activities list to learn about everything happening in the city.

Ruin bars are more than places to drink; they have many fun things to do and activities for visitors. A variety of shows from DJs, live music, art exhibitions and film screenings take place in these lively establishments all the time. Since ruin bars are constantly evolving, you’ll always have a good time there.

Some ruin bars arrange events such as quizzes, karaoke and cultural activities, so you have a special chance to mix with the locals and other tourists.

DJ music at Instant begins around 8 PM, with the focus being on techno and hip-hop, while Szimpla hosts nightly jazz, gypsy folk or indie music starting at the same time (it’s still free entry). Art markets take place at Fogas Ház, as well as theatrical shows and at Mazel Tov you can find acoustic evenings (prices are from 1,000–2,000 HUF, about £2.08–£4.17). Pub quizzes at Anker’t bring people together and workshops at Szimpla Pub include Hungarian folk dance for 2,500 HUF (£5.21). These occasions—posted both online and at bars—turn ruin bars into sites for both cultural and social life.

Affordability

Ruin bars are very popular because they’re affordable. Ruin bars are known for serving drinks and food that cost much less than most other high-end hangouts. For this reason, financial travelers prefer them because they offer an economical way to experience Budapest’s nightlife.

Additionally, some of these places act as social ventures, giving back to the creative and civic life of the community. Visiting ruin bars often allows you to play a part in forming the local art scene and preserving what draws people to ruin bars.

At Szimpla or Fogas, a Dreher pint will cost you 700 to 1,200 HUF (£1.46 to £2.50), a shot of pálinka is 800 HUF (£1.67) and café mojitos go for 1,800 to 2,500 HUF (£3.75 to £5.21). Dishes like hummus meals and sandwiches (both 1,500 and 1,800 HUF, £3.13 and £3.75) bring extra enjoyment to what you drink. Not only are ruin bars great places, but they are significantly cheaper than District V’s trendy watering holes where a pint can be £4.17. Funding local musicians and supporting cultural happenings, Szimpla and Mazel Tov add a bit more creativity to the city.

Best Ruin Bars to Visit in Budapest

Ruin bars are common in Budapest and every one has its own unique feel and style. Some favorite examples for you to look at:

1. Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert has long been one of Budapest’s favorite and oldest ruin bars. In the Jewish Quarter, you’ll find this place with a number of rooms and an extensive courtyard. The place is famous for its unique look, live music and lively mood.

At number 14 Kazinczy u., Szimpla bar offers guests a choice of 20+ rooms, as well as wine and shisha combined. Having an organic Sunday farmers’ market (opening at 9 AM and closing at 2 PM, free) is another way American Canyon attracts visitors during the day.

2. Instant

Instant, known for its iconic aspects, offers an exciting experience at night. The club is over several levels, offering different spaces and stages for music of many types. Due to its exciting ambiance and bright decorations, party fans enjoy spending time at Instant.

Instant’s seven rooms at Akácfa u. 49–51 remain open until early morning for those who want to continue the party. For entry, you pay 2,500 HUF (£5.21) and beers are 900 HUF (£1.88).

3. Fogas Ház

Located at Fogas Ház, you’ll find many wrecked bars, art spaces and a well-liked concert hall. You can find many different events here, from concerts to theatrical acts.

Fogas offers visitors a different experience with its rooftop and ping-pong tables at Akácfa u. 51. Many creatives join the crowds for free art exhibits and concerts (£4.17).

4. Mazel Tov

You can find a buzzing bar and a smart restaurant under the same roof at Mazel Tov. Because it is set in a renovated courtyard, Mazel Tov specializes in Middle Eastern and Jewish dishes, while giving their guests many drink options.

At Akácfa u. 47, Mazel Tov offers foodies a glass-topped courtyard and tasty hummus bowls (2,500 HUF, £5.21). Cocktails cost 

Exploring the Ruin Bar Scene

When visiting Budapest, exploring the ruin bar scene is an absolute must. Here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

• Start your evening with a visit to one of the more famous ruin bars, such as Szimpla Kert or Instant, to get a taste of the vibrant atmosphere.
• Consider joining a guided ruin bar tour to discover hidden gems and learn more about the history and culture behind these establishments.
• Be open to trying out different ruin bars, as each offers a unique ambiance and entertainment options.
• Engage with locals and fellow travelers to enhance your experience and make new connections.
• Take the time to appreciate the art and creativity that goes into the decor and design of these unconventional spaces.

Additional tips include arriving before 9 PM to avoid crowds, dressing casually (jeans and sneakers are fine), and carrying cash for smaller bars, though cards are widely accepted. Use the M1 metro (Oktogon stop) or tram 47 (Astoria) to reach District VII, just a 5-minute walk from most ruin bars. Guided tours, like Pub Crawl Budapest (7,000 HUF, £14.58), include shots and history lessons, ideal for solo travelers. Check bar Instagram pages for events like open-mic nights or craft beer tastings, especially during May’s Budapest Beer Week.

Cultural Impact of Ruin Bars

Ruin bars have transformed District VII from a neglected area into Budapest’s nightlife epicenter, boosting local economies by employing artists, musicians, and bar staff. Their DIY aesthetic and affordability (drinks half the price of Paris or London bars) make Budapest a nightlife haven, as noted in Reddit’s r/travel. Szimpla’s model has sparked global imitators, but Budapest’s originals remain unmatched for authenticity. Visiting ruin bars is a cultural immersion, connecting you to the city’s post-communist creativity and community spirit.

Practical Tips for May 2025

May’s warm evenings enhance courtyard visits, perfect for sipping fröccs (1,000 HUF, £2.08) under fairy lights. Pair ruin bar trips with daytime visits to nearby Dohány Street Synagogue (5,000 HUF, £10.42) or Karaván food court for lángos (800 HUF, £1.67). Use Bolt taxis (2,000 HUF, £4.17 from District V) for late-night travel, and stay safe by keeping valuables in secure bags. District VII’s 10 PM noise curfew requires indoor partying, so follow bar staff guidance.

Conclusion

Ruin bars in Budapest offer a one-of-a-kind nightlife experience that combines creativity, affordability, and a lively atmosphere. From their unique decor to the diverse entertainment options, these establishments have captured the imagination of visitors from around the world. So, when you’re in Budapest, don’t miss the chance to explore the enchanting world of ruin bars and immerse yourself in their vibrant charm.