Best Ruin Bars in Budapest

Budapest is famous for its ruin bars, and they’re one of the most unique parts of the city’s nightlife. So in this guide, I will share with you the best ruin bars in Budapest.

There are different ruin bars in Budapest for different vibes; some offer a party atmosphere, and some are more relaxed, but all of them offer an authentic local experience. So let's dive into the best ones!

What are ruin bars and how did they start?

Ruin bars appeared in the early 2000s, mainly in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter. At the time, many old buildings were abandoned and waiting to be renovated or torn down. Instead of letting them sit empty, locals turned them into bars using whatever was already there. The idea was simple: don’t fix the ruins, use them. Old and mismatched furniture, broken tiles, street art, and open courtyards became part of the style. Over time, ruin bars grew into a cultural movement and helped revive vibrant energy in entire neighborhoods.

Szimpla Kert – the original ruin bar

Szimpla Kert is the most famous ruin bar in Budapest and the one that started it all. Opened in 2002, it set the tone for everything that came after. Szimpla feels like a maze, with multiple themed rooms, courtyards, and bars. The decor is completely mismatched, and that’s exactly the point. It’s lively, popular with both locals and visitors, and busy most nights. You can also experience live music from local artists. It can stay open until 4AM.

On Sundays, the place turns into a farmers market with local producers offering local wine, craft beer, and other Hungarian specialities. And in general, on weekends, you have a fantastic brunch there!

Despite being one of the most popular ruin pubs in Budapest, it has kept the prices at normal rates.

Find out the 'Best Areas to Stay in Budapest'!

Instant–Fogas – the biggest party ruin bar

Instant–Fogas is more of a ruin bar complex than a single bar. It has multiple rooms, dance floors, and music styles under one roof. This is where ruin bars meet nightlife and clubbing. It’s loud, energetic, and stays open late. If you want to dance and party, this is the place. If you are planning a visit, check their page for what events are going on! Although entry is free, the drink prices are mid-range.

Mazel Tov – the stylish ruin bar

Mazel Tov is a modern take on a ruin bar. It keeps the open courtyard style but feels more polished. Mazel Tov is part ruin bar, part restaurant. It offers Mediterranean flavors in a modern guise and signature cocktails. It’s more popular for relaxed dinner evenings. It’s less chaotic than traditional ruin bars and a good option if you want a calmer vibe. With a more stylish design also comes higher prices.

Currently, every Tuesday, there is a live jazz set.

Csendes Létterem – the quiet and artsy one

Csendes Létterem is very different from the loud ruin bars. As the name suggests, it’s calmer and more relaxed. But that doesn't mean they don't know how to throw a good event. DJs on the weekend play soul, funk, and jazz music, and the place serves amazing signature and classic cocktails.

It’s a great place for a drink and conversation, with quirky decor and an artsy crowd. This is what ruin bars felt like before they became famous.

This place is also popular during the day. Being one of the ruin bars that opens the earliest (10AM), Csendes Létterem offers a breakfast and lunch menu. And the best part - not too expensive.

If you are planning your visit to Budapest, make sure to check out my '1 Day Budapest Itinerary'!

Ruin bars are more than just bars, they’re part of Budapest’s identity. Whether you want a wild night out, a stylish dinner, or a quiet drink in a quirky setting, there’s a ruin bar for every mood. If you only have time for one, Szimpla Kert is the classic choice for your first visit. But if you have more time, try a mix. That’s when you really feel the spirit of Budapest nightlife. A great way to experience a few of them in one night is by joining a pub crawl.