Occupying abandoned buildings, derelict sites, and parking lots, Budapest’s ruin bars are a remarkable feature of the city. Many of the buildings in the Jewish Quarter (VII district) were left unoccupied after World War II; however, these empty spaces have been creatively transformed into vibrant bars and open-air clubs. This trend began in 2004 with the opening of Szimpla Kert, a bar located in a repurposed factory on Kazinczy utca. The ruin pubs in Budapest offer an eclectic mix of quirky interiors, contemporary artwork, and open-air gardens. Many feature live music, exhibitions, and unique events, all while remaining open throughout the day and late into the night. Explore our guide to Budapest’s most distinctive ruin bars and discover the city’s coolest drinking spots.
Szimpla Kert (Simple Garden)
When Szimpla Kert first opened in 2004, it revolutionized Budapest’s bar scene and sparked a trend for ruin bars throughout the city. It stands as one of the most popular bars today, attracting not only tourists but also a dedicated local clientele. The sprawling venue features mismatched chairs and tables, retro street signs, captivating artwork, and twinkling fairy lights. Notable seating includes a repurposed old Trabant car situated in the garden. The hub also hosts a regular farmers’ market, art exhibitions, open-air film nights, and live music events.
Instant
With eight bars, four dance floors, and a restaurant, Instant is the largest ruin bar in Budapest. Located in two converted buildings on Akácfa utca, its interiors and open-air courtyard are a beautiful cacophony of giant disco balls, whimsical animal sculptures hanging from the ceiling, and retro pinball machines. The expansive space is divided into various rooms, each featuring different styles of music, and it remains open until 6 a.m. every day of the week.
Corvin Club
This trendy spot functions more like a club than a traditional pub. Situated within a converted Communist-era department store, access is via an elevator or a creatively adorned graffiti staircase. DJs spin electronic tracks on the lower level while patrons can enjoy a local beer from the rooftop terrace, where they can take in the stunning skyline or watch open-air films on a giant projection screen.
Dürer Kert
Located on the edge of Budapest’s City Park, Dürer Kert is among the premier locations for live music in the city. The atmospheric open-air garden is adorned with lanterns and features brightly colored tables, chairs, and hammocks, with drinks served from a bar decorated with vinyl records. Originally a boarding school managed by French nuns in the 19th century, the site later became a college during the Soviet era. Today, it is a sought-after venue for music events across various genres, including rock, hip-hop, and electronica, and regularly hosts flea markets, vinyl fairs, and community picnics.
Anker’t
Situated just off Andrássy Út, Budapest’s elegant boulevard, Anker’t offers an inviting atmosphere in a spacious open-air courtyard. The minimalist design harmoniously combines contemporary artwork with bare brick walls, while light boxes and stencils adorn the interiors. Guests can choose to sit at one of the lengthy wooden tables or lose themselves on the dance floor under a canopy of lanterns. Equipped with a large projector, the venue screens films and hosts regular events, including poetry slams and audio-video discos.
Ellátó Kert
This hidden gem on bustling Kazinczy utca is the perfect spot to enjoy refreshing cold beers and deliciously spicy Mexican food. The open-air garden is adorned with vibrant chairs and tables, artistic wall murals, and fun patterned bunting, while a rooftop offers shelter when the weather is inclement. The Mexican taqueria serves a variety of tasty dishes, including tacos and burritos. Moreover, the venue frequently features live music from local bands and DJs, as well as theatrical performances and an annual chili-eating competition, adding to its vibrant community atmosphere.
