Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar in Budapest

Colorful, chaotic, and downright iconic: Szimpla Kert, located in Budapest’s historic Jewish Quarter, is far more than just a bar – it’s a work of art. Opened in 2002 as the city’s first ruin pub, this one-of-a-kind venue at Kazinczy utca 14 has become a symbol of Budapest’s vibrant underground culture – even recognized by Lonely Planet as one of the best bars in the world.

If you’re visiting Budapest and want to experience its nightlife, Szimpla is unmissable. From the outside, it looks like a crumbling old building – but step inside and you’ll discover a kaleidoscopic world of bars, quirky decor, secondhand furniture, neon signs, and offbeat charm.

Spread over multiple levels, nine bars serve more than 400 drinks – from fruity Hungarian pálinka to craft beers brewed just around the corner. Between hanging plants, disco balls, vintage lampshades, and even a repurposed Trabant car turned into a bench, it’s easy to lose track of time.

Each room has its own character, and every corner offers a new vibe – nostalgic, psychedelic, or just plain weird. While there’s no traditional dance floor, around 11 PM, the central courtyard turns into a lively dance zone. For food, Szimpla offers a solid menu of burgers, soups, and tapas, plus a shisha bar for those looking to unwind.

A true insider tip is the Sunday farmers' market, where local vendors sell cheese, sausage, pastries, honey, and handmade crafts. Head upstairs afterwards for brunch with chilled beats and a creative atmosphere. And if you love vinyl, don’t miss the monthly record fair on the first Saturday – a paradise for crate diggers and collectors.

Szimpla was founded in 2002 by a group of students, who set up a makeshift bar in a rundown backyard – raw, alternative, and full of charm. Word spread quickly, and two years later, the bar moved to its current home in Kazinczy Street. Over time, Szimpla expanded to fill the entire abandoned apartment building, transforming it into the living, breathing cultural space it is today.

Szimpla Kert is located in the heart of Budapest’s 7th district – also known as the Jewish Quarter and one of the city’s liveliest nightlife areas. It’s just a 10-minute walk from Deák Ferenc Square, a major public transport hub served by metro lines M1, M2, and M3.

Alternatively, take metro line M2 to Astoria and enjoy a 7-minute stroll to Kazinczy utca. Coming from the Danube or Margaret Island? Tram lines 4 and 6 stop at Blaha Lujza tér, just a few minutes away on foot.