Budapest is often called the "City of Spas" for good reason. Sitting atop more than 120 natural hot springs, the Hungarian capital has cultivated a bathing culture spanning two millennia. Today, visitors can choose from over a dozen public thermal baths, each offering a unique blend of architecture, atmosphere, and therapeutic waters.
The city's thermal heritage reached its peak during two distinct eras: the Ottoman occupation in the 16th and 17th centuries, which left behind authentic Turkish hammams, and the late 19th to early 20th century Belle Epoque period, which produced the grand bath palaces that define Budapest's spa landscape today.
Szechenyi Thermal Bath
Szechenyi is the largest medicinal bath in Europe and arguably Budapest's most famous. Located in the City Park (Varosliget), its striking yellow Neo-Baroque buildings house 18 pools, including three large outdoor pools that remain open year-round, even in winter when steam rises dramatically from the warm water.
The thermal water here reaches the surface from a depth of 1,246 meters at 76 degrees Celsius, rich in calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen carbonate. It's particularly recommended for joint diseases, chronic and sub-acute arthritis, and orthopedic post-treatment rehabilitation.
Visitor Tips for Szechenyi
Weekday mornings are quietest. Bring your own towel and flip-flops to save on rental fees. The outdoor pools are the most photogenic, especially during winter visits when the contrast between steam and cold air creates a magical atmosphere.
Gellert Thermal Bath
Gellert Bath represents the pinnacle of Art Nouveau thermal architecture. Opened in 1918 as part of the Gellert Hotel, its interiors feature stunning mosaics, sculptured columns, and decorative tiles that transport visitors to the glamour of early 20th century Budapest.
The thermal spring here was known even in the Middle Ages. King Andrew II built a hospital on this site in the 13th century, and Ottoman travelers documented its healing waters. Today's complex includes thermal pools, a wave pool, effervescent pools, and an outdoor pool with artificial waves.
The water temperature varies between 26 and 38 degrees Celsius, containing calcium, magnesium, chloride, and fluoride. It's recommended for degenerative joint illnesses, chronic and sub-acute arthritis, and certain respiratory conditions.
Rudas Thermal Bath
Rudas is the most atmospheric of Budapest's Ottoman-era baths. Built in the 1550s during Turkish rule, its centerpiece remains the original octagonal pool beneath a hemispherical dome, where light filters through star-shaped openings just as it did five centuries ago.
The bath has been carefully renovated to preserve its historic character while adding modern amenities, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views over the Danube and the city. The contrast between the ancient Turkish core and contemporary additions creates a unique bathing experience.
Six thermal pools of varying temperatures feed from three different springs, each with distinct mineral compositions. The waters are recommended for chronic arthritis, disc problems, and neuralgia.
Kiraly Thermal Bath
Kiraly is another authentic Ottoman-era bath, built between 1565 and 1570 during the Turkish occupation. Unlike Rudas, Kiraly was built within the city walls, allowing citizens access to thermal waters even during sieges.
The bath retains its original Turkish dome and octagonal pool, surrounded by smaller thermal pools at different temperatures. After renovation, it reopened with restored historic elements and modern facilities. The intimate scale makes it feel less touristy than the larger baths, popular with locals who appreciate its authentic atmosphere.
Lukacs Thermal Bath
Lukacs is the locals' favorite, known for its medicinal focus rather than architectural grandeur. The bath has operated since 1894, though the springs here were used for healing since the 12th century.
What distinguishes Lukacs is its medical heritage and the numerous plaques left by grateful patients who found relief here. The waters are especially rich in calcium, magnesium, and fluoride, recommended for degenerative spinal and joint diseases.
Bathing Etiquette in Budapest
Swimwear is required in all mixed-gender areas. Some baths have specific days or sections for single-gender bathing. Shower before entering pools. Flip-flops are essential for hygiene. Most baths rent towels and provide lockers, but bringing your own equipment is more economical.
Planning Your Bath Visits
When to Visit
Thermal baths operate year-round, but the experience varies by season. Winter visits offer the magical sight of steam rising from outdoor pools against cold air. Summer allows full enjoyment of outdoor facilities, though expect larger crowds. Weekday mornings are consistently the quietest times.
What to Bring
- Swimwear (required in all public areas)
- Flip-flops or waterproof sandals
- Towel (rentals available but bring your own to save money)
- Waterproof bag for valuables
- Reading material for relaxation areas
- Water bottle (staying hydrated is important)
Health Considerations
Thermal waters offer genuine therapeutic benefits, but they're not suitable for everyone. Consult your doctor before bathing if you have cardiovascular conditions, are pregnant, or have acute inflammatory diseases. Most baths have medical staff available for consultations.
Limit your time in hot pools to 15-20 minutes, alternating with cooler pools or rest breaks. Stay well hydrated. The minerals in thermal water can be drying, so moisturize after bathing.
