Szimpla Kert, Budapest - a room that has a bunch of pictures on the wall
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Szimpla Kert Budapest

4.6
·69k reviews·Budapest, Hungary

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weeknights before 8 PM

Fewer crowds, easier to explore

CrowdLow
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Szimpla Kert, Budapest - a room that has a bunch of pictures on the wall

Szimpla Kert Budapest

Best Time

Weeknights before 8 PM

Fewer crowds, easier to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(69k reviews)

"The coolest bar I’ve ever seen! A must-visit for its unique vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Trabant Car

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

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

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

Szimpla Kert gets packed, especially on weekends. Arrive before 8 PM to avoid long queues and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed. Going earlier also offers a chance to explore the unique decor in a more relaxed setting. Reddit

Embrace the Chaos: It's Part of the Charm

This isn't your typical bar. Szimpla Kert is a labyrinth of quirky rooms, vintage finds, and eclectic art. Don't expect a quiet night; embrace the lively, sometimes chaotic, energy that makes it a must-visit Budapest ruin bar. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weeknights before 8 PM
Why
Fewer crowds, easier to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings (early)
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, still manageable
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Farmers market, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The coolest bar I’ve ever seen! 📍Szimpla Kert, Budapest 🇭🇺🥂🪩 #szimplakert #travelbudapest #travelitinerary #citybreak #eurosummer #nightout #budapestnightlife #coolbar #parisnightlife #budapestitinerary #hotspot #travelvlogger
@ecebesen
72.9K likes • 816.8K views

🎯 Arrive Early to Beat Queues

Aim for before 8 PM on weekends to skip long lines and enjoy the space more comfortably. Reddit

📸 Explore Every Nook & Cranny

This place is huge! Wander through all the themed rooms for unique photo ops and hidden gems. TikTok

📍Szimpla Kert was 10/10 #budapest #travelguide #coolbar #hotspot #budapestguide #budapestbar #CapCut
@andie_dev
38.7K likes • 278.6K views
Budapest is also famous for its vivid nightlife. 🎉 There are many pubs, clubs, and really cool so-called ruin bars. The most famous one is definitely ⭐️Szimpla⭐️. During the day, it has a calm atmosphere—they even organize farmers’ markets there. The walls are covered with street art and stickers, and the rooms are filled with vintage furniture. 🎨🪑 Even though it may seem a bit chaotic at first, ...
major.tom.on.the.road
106 likes • 0 views

💰 Cash is King (Mostly)

While cards are accepted, having some cash can speed up drink orders at busy bars. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Be Prepared to Wander

The layout is intentionally chaotic; embrace getting a little lost to discover its charm. TikTok

Inaugurado em 2004, Szimpla Kert o primeiro “ pub em ruínas “ húngaro, aproveitando os espaços interiores de um prédio de apartamentos no 7º distrito de Budapeste
kfgpt
61 likes • 0 views

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. Reddit

📸 Explore Every Nook & Cranny

This place is huge! Wander through all the themed rooms for unique photo ops and hidden gems. TikTok

💰 Cash is King (Mostly)

While cards are accepted, having some cash can speed up drink orders at busy bars. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Be Prepared to Wander

The layout is intentionally chaotic; embrace getting a little lost to discover its charm. TikTok

📅 Check for Daytime Events

Szimpla often hosts markets or other events during the day, offering a different vibe. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(69k reviews)

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

Incredible, unique atmosphere
Eclectic decor and art
Vibrant nightlife experience

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Difficult to find seating

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Depending on your accommodation, it's often a pleasant walk from many central Budapest locations, especially if you're exploring the Pest side. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Szimpla Kert is a ruin bar and does not require an entrance ticket. You pay for your drinks and food inside. Reddit

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. Instagram

On weekend nights, especially after 8 PM, queues can be 20-30 minutes or longer. Arriving earlier, around 7 PM, usually means no wait. Reddit

No, there is no dress code. Szimpla Kert is very casual and embraces a bohemian, eclectic style. Come as you are! TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokInstagram

They offer a wide range of drinks, including local Hungarian beers, wines, spirits, and cocktails. You can also find non-alcoholic options. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

Yes, Szimpla Kert often has food vendors or a kitchen serving snacks and meals, ranging from Hungarian specialties to more international options. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! Szimpla Kert is a photographer's dream. The unique decor and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for capturing memorable shots. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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! TikTok

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. TikTok

While tripods might be cumbersome in crowded areas, they are generally allowed. Be mindful of other patrons and avoid blocking pathways. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Szimpla Kert can be a surprisingly fun experience for families, especially during the daytime. While it's a bar, its unique decor and the sheer novelty of the place can captivate children. Visiting before the evening crowds descend allows for a more relaxed exploration of the quirky rooms and art installations. Instagram Look out for their Sunday farmers' market, which is a great daytime activity that offers a different, more family-friendly vibe. Just be mindful that as the evening progresses, the atmosphere becomes more adult-oriented.

💰 Budget Travelers

Szimpla Kert is excellent for budget-conscious travelers as there's no entrance fee. Drinks are reasonably priced for a popular tourist spot in Budapest, especially if you stick to local beers and wines. Reddit While you can spend a lot on cocktails, opting for Hungarian specialties will keep costs down. The sheer visual spectacle of the place provides entertainment value far beyond what you pay for your drinks, making it a fantastic value experience. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Szimpla Kert is a goldmine. The eclectic decor, street art, and vintage finds offer endless creative opportunities. Visit during off-peak hours for fewer people in your shots, or embrace the challenge of capturing the vibrant, energetic nightlife. TikTokInstagram Don't miss the iconic Trabant car, the themed rooms, and the detailed textures on the walls. Be prepared for atmospheric lighting, which can add to the mood of your photos.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Birth of the Ruin Bar: Szimpla Kert's Legacy

Szimpla Kert, established in 2004, is widely recognized as the first ruin bar in Budapest, pioneering a trend that has transformed the city's nightlife. It's located in the heart of the historic Jewish Quarter, within the shell of a former apartment building and stove factory. Instagram+1 The concept was born out of a desire to revitalize abandoned urban spaces, turning them into unique, accessible social hubs. This innovative approach not only saved decaying buildings but also created a distinct cultural identity for Budapest's nightlife scene.

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

Navigating the Labyrinth: What to Expect Inside

Stepping into Szimpla Kert is like entering a surreal art installation. The sheer scale and variety of its decor can be overwhelming at first. Don't expect a traditional bar layout; instead, prepare to wander through a series of interconnected rooms, each with its own distinct theme and vibe. TikTok You might find yourself sipping a drink next to a vintage bathtub, inside a repurposed Trabant car, or surrounded by walls plastered with graffiti and memorabilia. TikTok The atmosphere is always buzzing, with a diverse crowd enjoying the eclectic music and lively chatter.

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. Reddit 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. Instagram 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.

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