Exploring Budapest ruins and bars – an ultimate guide

For tourists, Budapest is one of the most exciting cities in Europe, with its mix of cultures, sights, and attractions all rounded off with a great nightlife, restaurants, and bars. But arguably the best way to experience the true essence of Budapest is to wander around the ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter and then cool down in one of its many stylish Budapest rooftop bars. In this guide, we’ll show you how to explore the must-visit ruin bars, take a peek into the secret world of courtyards and cobbled streets, and cool off with some epic views of Budapest.

What are Budapest Ruin Bars?

Ruin bars are one of the most popular activities among tourists looking for an alternative nightlife experience and they are one of the main reasons people visit Budapest. Founded back in 2002, the ruin bars developed in the old Jewish Quarter of Pest, namely in an area called the former Jewish Ghetto. These distinctive ruin bars are all conveniently located within walking distance of one another, making it easy to explore them in one night. The ruin bars have been created in an industrial, war-torn style interior – decorated with art, brightly coloured walls and old mismatched furniture.

Which Ruin Bars should you Visit in Budapest?

The most famous and most visited ruin bars in Budapest include Szimpla Kert, Fogas Ház, Ellátó Kert, Instant and Kunsthalle.

Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is not only the most visited ruin bar in Budapest but also known as its Original Ruin Bar. Opened in 2002 by two aspiring entrepreneurs, it has become a fantastic live setting for music and art presentations. As soon as you step foot inside the venue you’ll see why it became so popular – you cannot help but to be wowed by its vivid display of colorful street art and bright decor made up of recycled and salvaged visual artifacts – making it the perfect place to hang out and meet fellow travellers.

Fogas Ház

Fogas Ház is well known as “The Castle on Akácfa Street”, because it was built in an old 19th-century building. This trendy place has a unique atmosphere, attracting both locals and visitors on a night out. The two-storey venue includes two separate areas were you can spend your night drinking and having fun. The venue also hosts numerous events throughout the year such as film screenings and alternative music concerts.

Ellátó Kert

No doubt one of the top clubs in Budapest, Ellátó Kert is a valuable part of ruin bar history. Decorated with yellow terracotta roof tiles, this great venue can be easily identified by its large truck parked at its entrance – which is actually used as an extra seating area. Inside you’ll find mismatched furniture, carefully chosen vintage arts items, and a large selection of drinks.

Instant

Instant is a big complex of six different types of venues: four pubs, one club, and a summer terrace. This popular place has many different types of spaces for different events – from stand-up comedy shows to concerts – all spread out across the five independent rooms. During its days as part of Jewish Ghetto Art District, this unique venue brought together many Hungarian last names – though it has recently become one of the most favorite ruin bars amongst locals and foreigners alike.

Kunsthalle

Kunsthalle is situated in the old Jewish Ghetto and has been running since 2004. Set up along the banks of Danube River, this lively art complex has something for everyone. Offering live music some nights, it’s also possible to browse through their permanent art exhibition while taking part in any other special events they have scheduled – such as poetry readings or literature evenings.

More Hidden Ruins and Bars to Explore in Budapest

Budapest is a city full of hidden gems and there’s no better way to discover some of them than escaping from crowded bars and pubs. Old ruins and enclosed courtyards also provide excellent spots for discovering more unique first-hand experiences in this beautiful capital city of Hungary.

Kandalló Bar

Kandalló Bar is located on Radnóti Miklós utca, just off the main synagogue street. It is quite small – only 8 m2! – but that’s what makes it so special: its small size allows it to offer a truly more intimate atmosphere. Located in a former backyard kitchen, this bar has been transformed into a truly charming place. Boasting 10 different international beers on tap, Kandalló Bar offers you an unforgettable experience amidst cozy walls lined with vintage furniture and travel posters.

Ellato See Through Bar

Located right next to Ellátó Kert – the only bar you can go through – Ellato See Through Bar stands out due to its unique transparency system which allows you to access 12 different rooms! On the left side you’ll find 3 outdoor terraces while on the right side there are 9 rooms full of various objects from around the world. This surreal experience is a must when visiting Budapest!

Dieszperanto Koncertter

Dieszperanto Koncertter is definitely one of the city’s best kept secrets – until now! Built around an old abandoned factory courtyard and an urban garden, Dieszperanto is definitely the ideal spot for discovering Budapest’s hidden gems! With a wide range of options ranging from concerts to theatre plays or open air discos, you won’t be sorry for making this place part of your nighttime routing when visiting Budapest!

Relaxing at Rooftop Bars in Budapest

One activity that everyone must have on their list when visiting Budapest is checking out at least one rooftop bar with stunning views of the city! Soaring high above the ground with plenty of sun sets over some iconic locations such as Margaret Island or Buda Castle should definitely top your list while in Budapest!

360 Bar

360 Bar is probably the best known rooftop bar in all of Budapest! Offering amazing views over Margaret Island, this bar features an open air terrace that overlooks both sides of the Danube River – which at night, truly looks like something out of a fairytale! As for drinks, 360 Bar serves some really delicious beer on tap every day from noon until late night but also offers some unique cocktails and furthermore awesome live music every night from Thursday to Saturday!

Mazel Tov

Mazel Tov is definitely on top of Budapest’s rooftop trends! With its wonderful setting atop the Dohany Street Synagogue – which is listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO – this Moorish-style courtyard serves some really great drinks along with an exquisite selection of dishes inspired by international cuisines – if budget allows it. During summertime, it’s open every day from midday until late night – making it an ideal spot after partying at one of many ruin bars around town or even just for casual drinks with friends or family while admiring great views over old Jewish Grettle and other nearby attractions such as Heroe’s Square or Margaret Island!

Bar360 Rooftop Bar & Events

This amazing venue located near Liberty Bridge offers fantastic views over both sides of the Danube River and Buda Castle! As for what makes this place so special – besides its great views – Bar360 also offers nightly presentations including live music shows and DJs shows that get people dancing all through till dawn! When it comes to drinks though – guests can find an extensive selection of cocktails on offer along with fine selection of Hungarian wines accompanied by carefully selected snacks – making it one truly unique rooftop experience when visiting Budapest!

Conclusion

With this guide we have come to an end on our exploration of the best ruin bars and rooftop bars in Budapest! Visiting these venues will truly add a new perspective to your time spent there -allowing you to go off the beaten path to find some truly unique experiences such as hidden gardens, backyard kitchens or old abandoned factory courtyards! Make sure to include these places on your next trip to Budapest, so you can treat yourself to a night out that you won’t ever forget! And why not make your exploration more outstanding with an unforgettable tour? Book your tour today and let Viator show you all that you need to explore during your time in Budapest!