3+1 of the very best thermal baths in Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is famously known as the “City of Spas” for its rich thermal bath culture that dates back to Roman times. Nestled along the banks of the Danube, the city boasts a unique geology with over 120 natural hot springs. Here we have compiled 3+1 of the best thermal baths in Budapest that you must visit!

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

One of the largest and most iconic spa complexes in Europe, Széchenyi Thermal Bath is renowned for its grand architecture and extensive facilities. Built in 1913, this Neo-Baroque marvel features 18 pools, including three large outdoor pools where bathers can enjoy thermal waters year-round, regardless of the weather. The medicinal waters are rich in calcium, magnesium and hydrogen carbonate, making them beneficial for joint and muscle therapy. The bath is also famous for its chess-playing elderly gentlemen who spend hours in the outdoor pools.

Source: Unsplash

Photo: Wikimedia Commons by Alex Proimos

Gellért Thermal Bath

Situated in the luxurious Gellért Hotel, the Gellért Thermal Bath is celebrated for its Art Nouveau design, featuring intricate mosaics, stained glass windows and sculptures. This spa holds a special place in our hearts when it comes to baths in Budapest. Opened in 1918, the bath offers a stunning environment with 10 pools of various temperatures. The thermal waters are rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium and sulphate, believed to aid in treating circulation problems.

Gellért thermal bath, Budapest. Photo: Facebook, Szt. Gellért Gyógyfürdő

Rudas Thermal Bath

With a history stretching back to the 16th-century Ottoman occupation, Rudas Thermal Bath retains many elements of traditional Turkish baths. The centrepiece is the octagonal pool under a 10-metre diameter dome supported by eight pillars, offering an authentic and atmospheric experience. Recent renovations have added modern wellness facilities, including a rooftop hot tub with panoramic views of the Danube and Budapest’s skyline. The thermal waters here are particularly recommended for people with joint issues and are said to have detoxifying effects. However, children under the age of 14 are not allowed to enter, similar to many other baths in Budapest.

Photo: facebook.com/rudas.gyogyfurdo

Lukács Thermal Bath

Lukács Thermal Bath, one of the outstanding baths in Budapest, is known not only for its therapeutic waters but also for its role in the intellectual and artistic life of the city. Since its inception in the 12th century, it has been a gathering place for writers, artists and thinkers. This bath in Budapest offers a variety of pools, saunas and wellness treatments, and is particularly famous for its healing thermal waters, rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium.