Budapest Original Ruin Pub Crawl Including 5 Shots

If you’re heading to Budapest and want to get a real taste of its famous ruin pubs, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. It’s the city’s longest-running pub crawl, taking you through five of its most unique bars housed in abandoned buildings—places that are as quirky and atmospheric as you’ve heard. Whether you’re solo, traveling with friends, or just curious about Budapest’s nightlife scene, this crawl offers a lively, social experience with some pretty decent perks.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines the chance to explore some iconic venues with the ease of guided visits—plus, the complimentary shots at each stop really add to the fun. And ending the night with skip-the-line access to Budapest’s biggest ruin club? That’s a nice touch, especially if you’re into dancing and music. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the first bar didn’t wow everyone, and the experience can vary depending on the guide and the day. Still, for its price, it delivers a solid night out and a good intro to Budapest’s nightlife.

If you’re someone eager to meet fellow travelers, love vibrant atmospheres, and are okay with a tour that’s more about fun than in-depth history, this pub crawl could be a good fit. It’s particularly suited for those in their 20s and 30s, but as reviews show, age isn’t a big obstacle—people in their 40s or even solo travelers find plenty to enjoy here. Just be prepared for a lively, sometimes unpredictable night, and you’ll likely have a memorable time.

Key Points

• Unique Bars: Explore Budapest’s famed ruin pubs in abandoned buildings with distinctive atmospheres.
• Includes Shots: Enjoy a complimentary shot at each of the five venues—adds a fun, social element.
• Skip-the-Line Access: End the night with fast entry into the largest ruin club, saving you time and hassle.
• Learn from Guides: Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the night more engaging.
• Good Value: At around $32, this tour offers a lot of entertainment, especially considering the cover charges and shots included.
• Mixed Experiences: Some reviews mention variability in venue quality and guide engagement, so be prepared for some surprises.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $32.32, you’re getting a 5-hour guided crawl with a local guide and five shots—one at each bar. The tour starts at Oktogon and ends at Instant-Fogas, Budapest’s biggest ruin club. The only extra costs to keep in mind are food and drinks beyond the included shots—so if you want a meal or more drinks, you’ll want to budget accordingly.

The tour is fairly accessible, with most travelers able to participate, and it’s near public transportation. It’s a mobile-ticket experience, so no need to worry about printing anything; just show your ticket on your phone.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Budapest

The crawl kicks off at Oktogon, a central spot that’s easy to find. From here, you’ll visit several ruin bars, each with its own vibe—some more artsy, others more gritty. The first stop, however, has gotten mixed reviews, with some describing it as a sports bar that doesn’t quite fit the ruin pub theme. A few reviewers felt it was a bit dull or unremarkable, so if your expectations are high for the first venue, be aware it might not be the highlight.

The main attraction of this first stop is the social vibe—people tend to mingle and get into the spirit of the night. Expect to enjoy a shot in each bar, which helps loosen everyone up and sets a lively tone for the rest of the crawl.

Stop 2-4: The Hidden Gems

The middle stops are often praised for their uniqueness. Reviewers have described the bars as “really cool,” “each one was unique,” and “having its own quirky charm.” Guides tend to share stories and tidbits about Budapest’s nightlife scene, making the experience more than just a bar hop. You’ll find yourself in bars that are housed in derelict buildings, full of character and often decorated with eclectic art or vintage furniture.

Final Stop: Instant-Fogas Club

The tour concludes with skip-the-line entry into Budapest’s largest ruin club. This is where the night can really pick up, especially if you’re into dancing or just want to extend the party. Many reviews mention the size and energy of the club, along with how the guide helps skip the hassle of waiting in line. It’s a solid finale for those looking to keep the night going and soak up Budapest’s vibrant nightlife in style.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many reviewers rave about the guides, especially those who are “knowledgeable and fun,” making the night feel personal and relaxed. For example, one person said, “Anett was such a knowledgeable and fun host it really made the night,” which highlights how a good guide can elevate the experience.

Others appreciated the chance to meet travelers from around the world. One review mentioned, “Great way to socialise with other travelers,” and even though some found the shots “a scam,” overall, most agree that the tour is good value for money.

However, not all feedback is glowing. A few travelers felt the first bar was underwhelming or that the overall experience felt rushed or superficial. One person remarked, “the first bar was rubbish, just a sports bar,” and some felt the guide didn’t provide enough background about the ruin bars or their history. Still, these are minor compared to the overall positive sentiment.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $32, this tour provides a balanced mix of entertainment, socializing, and access to Budapest’s iconic ruin pubs. The included shots are fun, and the skip-the-line entry at the end is a definite plus. You get to visit multiple venues without worrying about the logistics—perfect if you want a hassle-free night out.

Given the reviews and the price point, it’s a pretty good deal, especially if you’re looking to kick off your Budapest nightlife experience with some energy and new friends. Keep in mind that some venues might not be your cup of tea, but overall, the tour is a nice way to get a feel for the city’s famous ruin pubs.

The Bottom Line — Who Should Consider This Tour?

This pub crawl is ideal for travelers who want to dive into Budapest’s nightlife without the stress of figuring everything out on their own. It’s great for social butterflies, solo travelers looking to meet others, and those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. If you’re curious about ruin pubs but don’t want to spend ages searching for them, this guided experience offers convenience and fun in one package.

People who value good guides and a structured night out will find this a worthwhile choice, especially considering the positive reviews about knowledgeable hosts and the variety of venues. That said, if you’re a nightlife veteran or prefer more curated, in-depth bar experiences, this might feel a bit straightforward.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 18?
No, the minimum age for this tour is 18, as it involves alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
The pub crawl runs for approximately 5 hours, ending at the biggest ruin club in Budapest.

Are food and drinks included?
No, only the 5 complimentary shots are included. Additional drinks and food are at your expense.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Oktogon 1 and ends at Akácfa Street, specifically in Instant-Fogas club.

Can I cancel the tour for a refund?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours won’t be refunded.

What if I get lost or can’t find the meeting point?
Most travelers find the start point near public transportation and easy to locate, but if you have trouble, contact the tour provider directly. Some reviews mention issues with locating the meeting spot, so arriving early is a good idea.

Will I learn about Budapest’s nightlife or just visit bars?
Guides generally share some insights about the bars and the scene, but the main goal is socializing and enjoying the experience, not a historical tour.

In summary, this Budapest ruin pub crawl offers a lively, social way to explore the city’s iconic ruin bars. With friendly guides, good value, and the chance to meet travelers from around the world, it’s a solid pick for those wanting to kick off their Budapest nights with fun and new friends. Just be ready for some variability—some venues might surprise you, and the experience can depend on the guide and group vibe. If you’re after a relaxed, friendly, and energetic introduction to Budapest’s nightlife, this tour is worth considering.