Even after all these years in Budapest, one of my greatest pleasures is spending an afternoon soaking and sauna-ing at the baths. It’s just so relaxing! If you’re visiting Budapest, the baths are a calm way for you to experience Hungarian culture. The natural hot springs and historic bathhouses of Budapest are famous the world-over, and visiting one of the baths is a great way to spend the day, especially if it’s chilly out. If you’re ready to relax, grab your swimsuit and dive into this Budapest thermal bath guide!
Why Do They Call Budapest the City of Baths?
With over 120 hot springs in the city area alone, Budapest is an absolute goldmine of thermal springs. Locals and visitors have been taking advantage of these mineral-rich waters for centuries, indulging in their healing properties. Today, the thermal bath experience is a “must” while visiting Budapest: it gives you the chance to appreciate architectural marvels, socialize, and steam stress away in the city’s medicinal water.
Budapest Thermal Baths FAQ
Do you need to book the thermal baths in Budapest?
No! You can simply walk in and buy a ticket. However, the popular baths can get crowded during peak times (weekends and late afternoons/evenings), to the point where there’s a line out the door. So I would suggest booking your ticket ahead to cut down on wait times. If you want to get a massage or other spa services, definitely book ahead.
What Should I Bring to the Baths?
Definitely bring the basics (swimwear, towel, pair of flip-flops, robe)! Most of these things are available in the bath’s gift shops, although the prices are much higher. Also note that if you intend to swim laps, the swimming pools require a swimming cap.
How Much Is Entry to Budapest Baths?
Budapest thermal bath tickets vary, but basic entry for the popular bathhouses typically starts around 10500 HUF (~$30). Additional services such as massages or private cabins are extra. Prices have certainly skyrocketed in recent years. If you’re a Budapest local, it may be worth it to buy an annual pass.
When Are the Thermal Baths Open in Budapest?
All year round! I actually love visiting any Budapest thermal bath in winter because it feels extra cozy.
What is Proper Bath Etiquette?
If you want to be polite at the baths but you’re not sure what’s expected, no worries! Here’s a primer on Budapest thermal bath etiquette!
- Shower before entering: Give yourself a good rinse before entering the pools.
- Swimwear is a must: You’d think it would go without saying, but proper swimwear is required–yes, even in the sauna.
- No glass or food: Don’t bring glass containers or food into the baths. All of the baths have one or more cafe areas where you can enjoy a coffee, meal, or drinks (alcoholic and otherwise)!
What other ways can I visit the Budapest thermal baths?
- Night bathing: Some of the baths offer evening hours, check their websites. Seeing the Budapest thermal baths at night adds a unique twist to your trip.
- Sparty: This famous party at Széchenyi Baths has light shows, live performances, and DJs all night long.
- Beer spa: If you want to experience a Budapest thermal bath with beer, this experience submerges you in a tub of beer with beer to drink on the side!
Budapest Thermal Baths Guide
Széchenyi Baths
Located in the City Park, Széchenyi Baths may be the most iconic thermal baths of Budapest–you’ll likely see the bright yellow arcade of columns on many postcards. Opened in 1913, the stunning Neo-Baroque architecture and 18 pools offer a diverse range of spa experiences, including outdoor baths and saunas. If you’re in the mood for a raging party, Széchenyi hosts the wild Sparty parties on Saturday nights (I’ve heard from friends it’s quite expensive, but if you want a night of laser shows, DJs, and live performances, it’s worth a shot).
Gellért Baths
Take it from me–Gellért Baths are jaw-droppingly gorgeous. If you want to spend an afternoon soaking in old-world splendor, this is the place to do it. Everywhere you look you’ll see opulent Art Nouveau design and architecture. You can spend your day flitting between a mix of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms. One of my favorite things to do is to come here during the winter and stay nice and warm in the outdoor pools while I watch the steam rise off of the water.
Rudas Baths
Rudas Baths blend old and new together. I love taking visitors here so that they can see the present and past Budapest collide! You can enjoy a modern, updated wellness section as well as a glimpse of history under the Turkish dome and octagonal pool, which dates back to the 16th century. A huge draw of Rudas is its rooftop hot tub where you can relax while taking in panoramic Budapest views!
Mandala Day Spa
Mandala switches up your Budapest bath experience by providing a day spa. This is more of a secluded, quiet day out, where you can spend your time splashing and steaming betweent 4 pools, a jacuzzi, and sauna. They put an emphasis on creating a place of harmony and relaxation, so this is a great option if you want to avoid any rowdy tourists and treat yourself to a day of luxury in an ambient atmosphere.
Lukács Baths
Tucked in a quiet courtyard on the peaceful Buda side, Lukács Baths is one of my favorite baths! The baths themselves don’t have as many architectural frills as some of the others, but a big draw is the outdoor whirlpool that turns on every hour. Lukács has a beer spa option as well!
Veli Bej Baths
I jokingly call these the “secret baths” because every time I go, it’s quite full of locals. Also, it can be tricky to find the entrance if you’ve never been there before. They’re actually right next to the incredibly popular Lukács Baths, although Veli Bej is tucked inside of a hospital/medicinal complex. Recently renovated, the Ottoman-style architecture is striking. Even though the baths don’t have an outdoor pool, you can still have a beautiful soak under the Turkish dome.
Dagály Baths
I’m so glad that my friend introduced me to these baths–since they’re a bit north of the city center, not many tourists go here. What sets Dagály apart from many of Budapest’s more famous baths is the fact that they’re so modern. You may not see Ottoman architetecture, but the large complex has generously-sized outdoor pools, squeaky clean saunas, and updated facilities. With 10 pools (including a lazy river type setup) and plenty of jets to give you just the right pressure, these adventure pools are just right for splashing around in!
Palatinus Baths
If you’re looking for a family fun day or want to focus more on swimming rather than sauna-ing, Palatinus Baths on Margaret Island is a popular choice! Incredibly popular in the summer, Palatinus has large outdoor pools, wave pools, and even waterslides. There’s plenty of lawn space to lay out in the sun (or you can rent a sunbed), and you’re surrounded by büfé options if you want to snack on any classic Hungarian bites like lángos. It’s quite open and busy, so make sure to keep an eye on your valuables!
Visiting the City of Baths
Don’t miss out on this refreshing activity if you’re vising Budapest. Whether you’re looking for a rooftop pool, steam baths, or simply a chance to relax while enjoying jaw-dropping architecture, the Budapest thermal baths have something for you. Happy soaking!
Xx Denae
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