Relax in the Baths of Budapest Hungary

Relaxing at one of the thermal baths in Budapest, Hungary.

Budapest, Hungary, also known as “The City of Spas” takes bathing to a whole new level! The city of Budapest sits upon thermal springs which bring mineral-rich water springing up from the ground. For centuries people have sought out the springs to not only refresh the body and soul but also to treat arthritis, skin conditions, poor circulation, as well as muscle aches and pains. These waters have been harnessed all over Budapest into beautiful baths for everyone to enjoy. Let’s learn more about the Baths in Budapest, Hungary!

When are the baths open?

The spas are open year-round. So, you can enjoy rejuvenating waters in the middle of summer or in the cold winter with snow sticking to your hair. Both feel absolutely wonderful!

Are they all the same?

You have quite a few different baths to choose from depending on what you are looking for. You might be looking for fun whirlpools, outdoor pools, luxurious pools, a muscle message, or a hangover cure. Different pools have different characteristics to set them apart. Do you want to party at the spa, relax in a wine tub, or a rooftop hot tub?

The baths do have similar layouts. There is almost always a series of indoor thermal pools with temperatures ranging from warm to hot. You can also enjoy steam rooms, saunas, ice-cold plunge pools, and rooms to get a massage. Then some have outdoor pools with fountains, sprays whirlpools, and lap swimming.

Six baths of Budapest Hungary

Gellért Baths

Gellert bath is the most opulent of the baths in Budapest, Hungary.

Those wanting to relax in a beautiful art nouveau environment should head to Gellért Baths which is attached to the Gellért hotel. The baths are open to both men and women in mixed pools. They have six thermal pools including one that’s outdoors. The indoor swimming pool feels like you are in a cathedral with a glass roof providing tons of natural light. This bath is definitely the most opulent spa in the city.

Rudas Baths

Rudas Baths claim to fame is their Turkish octagonal bath chamber built in the 16th century. This bath is unique as they only allow only men bathing in the Turkish steam bath during the week (wearing a little apron that covers very little) except the few times only for women. Both men and women can bathe together on weekends. There is three sections to visit–the Ottoman-era steam bath, the swimming pool and the wellness center. The wellness center and the swimming pool are mixed gender all week long.

The best part of the Rudas Baths is their rooftop hot tub. This pool has gorgeous views of the city and of the Danube. Make sure your ticket allows you to use both the indoor and outdoor pools.

Lukács Thermal Bath

Lukács Thermal Bath, near Margaret Bridge, is a bit simpler and more low-key than some of the other baths but it definitely has its own charms. Healing is a focus at this spa. In fact, in the courtyard, there are stone tablets throughout with messages of gratitude from healed visitors. You will find hot and cold pool therapy and a Himalayan salt room said to help skin and respiratory issues.

After soaking in the healing waters you can go over to the drinking hall to try the same water as the baths–rich in calcium, hydrogen-carbonate, sulphate, chloride, and sodium and fluoride ions. So chock full of minerals!

Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Széchenyi Thermal Baths are the biggest spa and actually the largest medicinal bath in Europe. This stunning Neo-Renaissance complex is massive with 21 different pools inside and out. They feature whirlpool corridors. steam rooms, hydrotherapy massagers, and Jacuzzis. The plethora of options makes this one of Budapest’s most popular baths. It is so easy to spend a whole day here.

Széchenyi’s claim to fame is their Saturday night “sparties”. These parties are not for the faint of heart with electronic dance music, fire shows, laser lights, and pop-up bars. Make sure you get party tickets in advance and get to know the rules, expectations, and procedures.

Beer Spa

The Beer Spa at Széchenyi is truly unique! A session at the Beer spa lasts 45 minutes. During this time you will soak in a tub of malt- and hop-infused water as well as drink all the beer you can drink. This may seem pointless except to drink beer but there are some true health benefits. The hops, yeast, and malt are high in vitamins and minerals that help skin conditions, blood circulation, and muscle tension.

Király Baths

Király Baths is the smallest and one of the oldest baths reminiscent of the Ottoman empire. The building can definitely do with an update but there is a certain interest to the communist vibes complete with the German and Russian signs mixed with the Turkish. It is a bit of a blast from the past. As a small bath, you will find just a few saunas and steam rooms. Due to it’s smaller, a bit less picturesque atmosphere it is the most economical bath.

Palatinus Baths

Palatinus Baths are the perfect bath for families. This mix of an open-air thermal bath and water park is out on Margaret Island on the Danube River. In addition to the wave pool, waterslides, fountains, whirlpools, and jacuzzis you will also find a playground and sports ground (exercise equipment). So much fun for the whole family!

Where do the locals go?

The locals tend to stay away from Széchenyi, Gellért, and Rudas baths, especially on the weekends. These spas tend to attract more tourists. So if you want to hang out with the local people either go early in the morning or visit one of the other spas.

What to know before you go

Bring a swimsuit, sandals and a towel.
Visit on a weekday as the weekends get VERY crowded.
Early morning is the best time to visit. That’s when the locals go.
Be prepared to feel a little lost navigating all the corridors in the bath.

How to visit Budapest on a river Cruise

Budapest, Hungary is either the beginning or ending point for some itineraries on the Danube River. As a part of your cruise you will have an included overview tour of the city. This tour will hit the major highlights. If you want to spend more time exploring Budapest then a pre- or post-cruise extension is perfect for you. An extention gives you a few more days to explore and a few other benefits that are talked about in this article.

Have you ever visited a Budapest bath? Is it an activity you will want to try while in Budapest?

If you are interested in learning more about river cruises that include Budapest, Hungary, please contact me. I would love to help you explore the city of Budapest and the Danube River.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!