Did you know in Hungary’s capital the run-down warehouses, old factories, and even abandoned buildings are being transformed into the hippest places to go out? Nestled right in the heart of the Jewish Quarter is Szimpla Kert, the original ruin bar in Budapest. Come learn about what makes Szimpla Kert so special, the unique history of ruin bars in Budapest, and 5 fun tips for your visit.
History of Ruin Bars in Budapest Hungary
Ruin bars first jumped on the scene in the early 2000’s and quickly captivated their patrons. Yet before other nightlife establishments could take shape it all started with one building in the Jewish Quarter. Yes, it was Szimpla Kert that began the whole movement!
To make a long story short, a group of people in Budapest basically saved a warehouse from getting demolished and turned it into the first bar of its kind. Then instead of remodeling the old building completely, they built around the rubbish and added quirky decor and furniture.
These days the ruin bars in Budapest have become a fun way to view local art, take in live music, and have some drinks with friends. They’re truly one of the best things to do in Budapest, with more popping up each year.
Keep in mind a portion of the ruin bars in Budapest close down for winter as they’re set outdoors. Be sure to check which ones stay open through the colder months before you go. If you’re visiting in the winter, you also won’t want to miss out on the Budapest Christmas Market!
Szimpla Kert: The First Ruin Bar in Budapest
You can’t talk about the best nightlife in the city without bringing up Szimpla Kert! It’s the original ruin bar in Budapest and features incredible artistry in each room.
There are soooo many to explore at Szimpla Kert Budapest, but our favorite rooms were the gardens upstairs, the open-air back area, and of course the bathtub room on the first level.
That’s right! You can have your beer in a bathtub at Szimpla Kert! Located in the heart of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, you won’t find a more lively and fun atmosphere anywhere in the city.
No matter where we were in Budapest, we always found ourselves wandering over here for a quick beer at some point in the day.
5 Tips for Visiting Szimpla Kert Budapest
1. Go to Szimpla Kert Early
Szimpla Kert is in a popular area that you will be most likely pass serval times as you walk around Budapest. Don’t wait for the late-night party hour to make your first visit! It’s open daily from 3pm to 4am except for Saturday and Sunday when they open earlier.
If you wait until the night to go it will be so crowded that you won’t be able to easily see all the rooms. That’s why we recommended stopping into Szimpla Kert for the first time during the afternoon so you can experience it without the crowds.
2. Wander Around the Unique Rooms
Szimpla Kert is not only famous for being the first ruin bar in Budapest Hungary, but also for how large and unique it is. It honestly feels like you’re wandering around some sort of strange house out of a dream!
When first strolling in you will go down a dark hallway which eventually opens up to the middle of the courtyard. Make sure to go through all the different rooms on the ground floor before heading the the upper level to see more. Just when we thought there were no more rooms at Szimpla Kert in Budapest we would find another around the corner.
From hot pink lights to full plants and jungle rooms, there is so much interesting art and design going on at Szimpla Kert. There is even a famous room with bathtubs in it!
3. Try Cherry Beer & Other Local Specialties
The menu at Szimpla Kert Budapest has something for everyone and every budget. We were actually surprised by how decent the prices were for it being the most popular ruin bar in Budapest.
We tried a bunch of beers at Szimpla Kert and our favorite was definitely the Meggy Sour Cherry Ale! Neither of us is usually a fan of fruity beers but this one really hits the spot. This is a staple at the ruin bars in Budapest, so we highly recommend you try it.
Don’t like sour cherry? Don’t worry! There are plenty of other good drinks and beers on tap. Also, if you’re in the mood you can order a fruit-flavored Palinka. This is a traditional Hungarian fruit spirit that will really get you in the mood to party.
We have never tried the food at Szimpla Kert in Budapest, but it looks like they have some decent pubs snacks and meals to enjoy. Check out our guide to the best food in Budapest if you haven’t yet.
4. Party the Night Away at Szimpla Kert
A place like Szimpla Kert doesn’t stay open till 4am without having a wild and unique party scene. We found that each room has a great vibe with its own feel and music playing. Some nights they even have bands and DJs performing here.
There is a large main bar as soon as you walk into Szimpla Kert. However, what makes it one of the coolest places to visit are other bars scattered throughout the rooms to discover.
The bars all have a different style and serve completely separate drinks from one other. This Budapest ruin bar has everything from cocktails to wine, and of course beer. It really seems like you’re in a dozen different ruin bars and not just one.
As you can imagine, It can get a little crazy here on a Saturday night if you’re staying out until 4am. This sign below sums up late nights at Szimpla Kert Budapest… Just remember to take your shoes off before you get in the bathtub!
5. Sunday Farmers Market at Szimpla Kert
In addition to the great music and drinks, Szimpla Kert has a weekly farmer’s market every Sunday morning. This is the one day they open at 9am, and it’s a completely unique experience compared to the late nights we just mentioned.
Local vendors come from all over the city to sell their own crafts at this popular ruin bar in Budapest. With items ranging from handmade jewelry to colorful clothing and souvenirs, this is a fun time to go to Szimpla Kert if you’re not into the party scene.
Is Szimpla Kert Worth Visiting?
Yes! The Szimpla Kert ruin bar is such a great place to visit on your trip to Budapest. It’s a great atmosphere where you can find cheap beer, live bands, and fun ambience in the city.
While there are so many other great spots to check out in the capital of Hungary, we haven’t found one we love as much as Szimpla Kert! If you’re on the pest side of Budapest definitely be sure to stop into the original ruin bar.
Also, don’t miss out on the famous spas like Szechenyi Thermal Bath, Rudas, and Gellert Baths. When visiting the Buda side of the city, you’ll also want to visit the castle and get an incredible view from Fisherman’s Bastion.
Have any questions about Szimpla Kert or want to share more of the best bars in Budapest? Leave us a comment below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Pin For Later ↓
We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
