Nourishing the mind, body, and soul at Budapest’s thermal baths
The origins of thermal bathing can be traced back as early as 33BC, when Roman soldiers found that their wounds healed faster when immersed in the mineral-rich, therapeutic waters.
Budapest, often referred to as the City of Baths, boasts 123 hot springs – and they have been the lifeblood of the city’s wellness culture for generations.
Today, as visitors from across the globe descend on Hungary’s capital, they are welcomed by a diverse array of bathhouses that echo the history of the city. From the Ottoman-style structures that have stood since the 16th century, to the neo-baroque marvels of the 20th century, contemporary wellness culture in the City of Baths has something unique for all to enjoy.
The Gellért Baths
Arguably the most famous bathing house in the world, Gellért Thermal Baths dates back to the early 20th century and has charmed generations of visitors with its Neo-Baroque design, picturesque tiles, turquoise walls, and stained-glass windows.
But what makes Gellért truly unique is its waters. Sourced from the same underground springs discovered in the 12th century, the water contains calcium, hydrogen-carbonate, magnesium, sulphate-chloride, and sodium, all noted for their therapeutic properties.
Location: Buda side, near Gellért Hill
Opening Times: Open year-round
Design: Neo-Baroque
Rudas Thermal Bath
The Rudas Thermal Bath has welcomed bathers for over four centuries. Seamlessly blending the opulence of a Turkish bathhouse with modern comforts, the breath-taking central dome is a testament to Budapest’s enduring connection with Turkish bathing traditions.
Visitors to Rudas Thermal Bath can take advantage of a wide variety of services, including a trip to the spa’s sky terrace pool, where couples can enjoy private bathing alongside massage and local food and drink pairing.
Location: Buda side, near Gellért Hill and Erzsébet Bridge
Opening Times: Open year-round, specific days for single sex bathing
Design: Turkish architectural influence with panoramic views of Pest
Széchenyi Baths
The most visited attraction in Budapest, Széchenyi Thermal Baths is Europe’s largest wellness playground, which has stood proud since the early 20th century.
Boasting multiple indoor and outdoor pools, 11 medicinal baths, saunas, and steam cabins, its iconic yellow neo-Renaissance exterior wraps bathers as they luxuriate in thermal waters and play a game of chess as they soak.
The highlight of Széchenyi Baths is the diversity in its water temperature. Ranging from soothingly warm to invigoratingly hot, visitors can tailor their experiences to their ideal conditions.
Location: Pest side, in the City Park (Városliget)
Opening Times: Open year-round until 22:00
Design: Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance
Veli Bej
For travelers seeking a more intimate bathing experience, Veli Bej – the oldest bathhouse in Budapest – has served as a place of relaxation since the Ottoman era. Throughout the years, Veli Bej has gone through a myriad of transformations, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that it took on its current classicist style.
Today, visitors to Veli Bej can enjoy everything from a Finnish sauna to a steam chamber and a variety of decadent massages.
Location: Buda side, houseds within Hotel Császár
Opening Times: Open year-round until 21:00
Design: A carefully renovated traditional Turkish bathhouse
Szent Lukács Bath
Visitors can round off their wellness trip with a visit to Szent Lukács Bath, which carries with it a fascinating history. Dating back to the 12th century—when the Orders of St John tended to the sick in the local area— this bathhouse is filled with nods to its storied past.
In 1884, Szent Lukács began a decades-long transformation, welcoming the addition of a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy department, swimming pool, and unique drinking hall – all offering new ways to experience the bath’s therapeutic offerings.
Location: Buda side, near Margaret Bridge
Opening Times: Open year-round until 19:00
Design: A 19th-century Neo-Classical building with historic marble plaques
Wellness for all
Budapest’s thermal baths are a treasure trove of wellness experiences, with each one offering a unique visit rich with history. Whether you seek opulence, tranquility, or rejuvenation, Budapest’s baths cater to anyone looking for a healthy dose of wellness.
