A new ranking from the European Bar Guide has revealed the 100 best bars in Europe, featuring a diverse range of establishments from historic pubs to contemporary drinking dens. The list includes 11 venues from the United Kingdom.
Szimpla Kert in Budapest, Hungary, earned the top position. Described as the original 'ruin bar,' it is a significant tourist attraction known for its vast atrium, unique interiors, and graffiti-covered surroundings. The venue also hosts a Sunday farmer's market, art displays, and film screenings.
Following Szimpla Kert in the rankings are Retsins Lucifernum in Bruges, Belgium, and La Fleur en Papier Doré in Brussels, Belgium, which secured second and third place, respectively. Retsins Lucifernum is noted for its eccentric and eerie atmosphere within a mansion setting, while La Fleur en Papier Doré is recognized as a time capsule that was once frequented by surrealist artists.
Other notable mentions within the top rankings include Goupil Le Fol in Brussels, which offers a candle-lit ambiance with old records and portraiture, and Zlatna Ribica in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, an antique-filled establishment translating to 'Gold Fish.' Cologne, Germany, is represented by Papa Joe's Jazzlokal, a venue known for live jazz and blues performances.
The list highlights a variety of bar types, from the intimate and beer-focused t'Brugse Beertje in Bruges to the historic Bar Marsella in Barcelona, known for its 200-year history and absinthe offerings. Prague, a popular destination for city breaks, features U Hrocha, a traditional Czech establishment described as a more authentic experience than typical tourist spots.
Belgian bars have a strong presence on the list, with several venues from Bruges and Brussels making the cut. Other countries with multiple entries include the UK, with 11 bars in the top 100, and Germany, with several highly-ranked establishments. The guide also features bars in Romania, Dublin, Paris, and Lisbon, among others, showcasing the breadth of Europe's bar culture.