Szimpla Kert Budapest
Budapest's iconic ruin bar, a sprawling labyrinth of eclectic decor, vintage finds, and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier to explore
Szimpla Kert Budapest
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Budapest's iconic ruin bar, a sprawling labyrinth of eclectic decor, vintage finds, and vibrant nightlife.
"The coolest bar I’ve ever seen! A must-visit for its unique vibe."
🎯 Arrive Early to Beat Queues
Aim for before 8 PM on weekends to skip long lines and enjoy the space more comfortably.
📸 Explore Every Nook & Cranny
This place is huge! Wander through all the themed rooms for unique photo ops and hidden gems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Trabant Car
Main room
An iconic, retro Trabant car serves as a unique seating area and photo op. A true symbol of Szimpla's quirky charm.

Eclectic Decor & Art
Throughout the venue
Walls adorned with street art, stickers, and a treasure trove of vintage furniture create a visually stunning, ever-changing landscape.

The Garden & Courtyard
Outdoor area
A surprisingly spacious and lively outdoor area, perfect for enjoying drinks and soaking in the atmosphere, especially in warmer months.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Embrace the Chaos: It's Part of the Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early to Beat Queues
Aim for before 8 PM on weekends to skip long lines and enjoy the space more comfortably.
📸 Explore Every Nook & Cranny
This place is huge! Wander through all the themed rooms for unique photo ops and hidden gems.
💰 Cash is King (Mostly)
While cards are accepted, having some cash can speed up drink orders at busy bars.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Wander
The layout is intentionally chaotic; embrace getting a little lost to discover its charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early to Beat Queues
Aim for before 8 PM on weekends to skip long lines and enjoy the space more comfortably.
📸 Explore Every Nook & Cranny
This place is huge! Wander through all the themed rooms for unique photo ops and hidden gems.
💰 Cash is King (Mostly)
While cards are accepted, having some cash can speed up drink orders at busy bars.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Wander
The layout is intentionally chaotic; embrace getting a little lost to discover its charm.
📅 Check for Daytime Events
Szimpla often hosts markets or other events during the day, offering a different vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Szimpla Kert is overwhelmingly praised for its unique, chaotic, and visually stunning atmosphere, making it a must-visit Budapest ruin bar. Visitors love the eclectic decor, the vibrant energy, and the sheer novelty of the experience. Some find the crowds overwhelming during peak hours, and the sheer size can make it hard to navigate.
"Amazing open-air experience!
This place is absolutely fantastic – an open patio with multiple bars, each offering something unique. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, perfect for any occasion. The cocktails are simply outstanding – creative, perfectly balanced, and beautifully presented. A must-visit spot if you love great drinks and an amazing vibe!"
Roni Sarfati
"Unique quirky one of its kind bar.
It’s definitely worth a visit when in Budapest.
We went early evening on Friday before sundown.
It was not very crowded.
The drinks are not overpriced.
Didn’t try any food"
Varsha Degwekar
"Lively and bustling ruin bar in the heart of Budapest, with exceptional cocktails and drinks suitable for groups of all sizes. Very cool and grungy environment, with plenty of nature in your surrounding area. So much to look at in every corner of this amazing bar."
Joseph Corbett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Szimpla Kert is located at Kazinczy Street 14 in Budapest's Jewish Quarter. It's easily accessible by public transport. Tram 4 or 6 to Wesselenyi utca, or Metro line M2 to Astoria and then a short walk. Many visitors find it a central and convenient spot to reach.
Yes, the Jewish Quarter is generally considered safe for tourists. Like any busy city area, be aware of your surroundings, but most visitors report feeling secure.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available. Public transport runs late, but check schedules. Walking is also an option if you're staying nearby and feel comfortable.
While the entrance might seem unassuming, follow the signs and the buzz! It's a well-known landmark, so asking locals for directions to 'Szimpla' will usually get you there.
Depending on your accommodation, it's often a pleasant walk from many central Budapest locations, especially if you're exploring the Pest side.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Szimpla Kert is a ruin bar and does not require an entrance ticket. You pay for your drinks and food inside.
Szimpla Kert is typically open daily from late morning or early afternoon until the early hours of the morning. Hours can vary slightly, so it's best to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date information.
On weekend nights, especially after 8 PM, queues can be 20-30 minutes or longer. Arriving earlier, around 7 PM, usually means no wait.
No, there is no dress code. Szimpla Kert is very casual and embraces a bohemian, eclectic style. Come as you are!
Due to its nature as a popular ruin bar, reservations are generally not taken. It's first-come, first-served, so arriving early is your best bet for finding a good spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Szimpla Kert is known for its incredibly unique, vibrant, and eclectic atmosphere. It's a maze of themed rooms filled with vintage furniture, art, and quirky installations. Expect lively music and a buzzing crowd.
They offer a wide range of drinks, including local Hungarian beers, wines, spirits, and cocktails. You can also find non-alcoholic options.
While it's primarily a bar, Szimpla Kert can be visited during the day when it's less crowded and more family-friendly. They sometimes host markets or events that are suitable for all ages.
Each room has its own character! Popular spots include the Trabant car seating, the 'bathroom' area, and the lively garden. It's worth exploring to find your favorite.
Yes, Szimpla Kert often has food vendors or a kitchen serving snacks and meals, ranging from Hungarian specialties to more international options.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Szimpla Kert is a photographer's dream. The unique decor and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for capturing memorable shots.
For fewer people in your shots, try visiting during off-peak hours or earlier in the evening. However, the lively nighttime atmosphere also offers unique photographic opportunities.
The Trabant car, the vintage bathtub, the walls covered in stickers and art, and the eclectic furniture pieces are all highly photogenic. Don't forget the garden!
Lighting can be dim and atmospheric, with a mix of colored lights and ambient glow. Consider bringing a small portable light or using your phone's flash strategically.
While tripods might be cumbersome in crowded areas, they are generally allowed. Be mindful of other patrons and avoid blocking pathways.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birth of the Ruin Bar: Szimpla Kert's Legacy
The bar's design is a deliberate embrace of chaos and creativity. Instead of a uniform aesthetic, Szimpla Kert is a sprawling, multi-level labyrinth filled with an eclectic mix of salvaged furniture, vintage items, street art, and bizarre installations. Each room offers a different experience, from the iconic Trabant car seating to bathtubs and mismatched chairs. This visual feast is a major draw for visitors, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Beyond its visual appeal, Szimpla Kert has evolved into a community space. It hosts regular events like Sunday farmers' markets, film screenings, and live music, demonstrating its commitment to being more than just a bar. This multifaceted approach has cemented its status as a must-visit destination, attracting locals and tourists alike who are drawn to its authentic, bohemian spirit and its significant contribution to Budapest's cultural landscape.
Navigating the Labyrinth: What to Expect Inside
Finding a seat can be part of the adventure. Popular spots, like the Trabant, fill up quickly. Be prepared to stand or perch on unconventional seating. The bar itself is extensive, with multiple service points, but queues can form, especially during peak hours. It’s advisable to have your order ready and perhaps split up to grab drinks from different bars if you’re in a group. The staff are accustomed to the bustling environment and are generally efficient.
Beyond the main bar areas, explore the upper levels and the outdoor garden. The garden offers a more relaxed setting, especially during warmer months, and often features additional seating and sometimes even food stalls. Szimpla Kert is an experience designed to be savored, so take your time, soak in the details, and embrace the wonderfully weird world it offers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit