Budapest’s baths raise prices but will offer even more in 2025!
Budapest’s baths have played an important role in the city’s economy and tourist appeal in recent years. They welcome more than 3.8 million visitors a year, making them one of Budapest’s most important sources of income. The year 2025 promises to be another milestone year, with several developments and renovations on the agenda, while keeping ticket prices affordable.
According to Világgazdaság, by 2024, admission prices to spas had risen by 10–12%, while next year’s planned increase will be only 5%, in line with inflation. Despite the rise in ticket prices, the season ticket (pass) system, which is popular with domestic visitors, is showing significant growth. The Zsigmondy Card, for example, has been a great success, with more than 22,000 units sold, offering significant discounts to visitors to the historic baths. This discount scheme has helped the baths to attract a wider audience while maintaining their affordability.
Record revenue and cost management
Budapest’s spas achieved outstanding financial results in 2024. In the first ten months of the year, they generated net revenues of HUF 24 billion (EUR 58.4 million), of which they made a profit of around HUF 5 billion (EUR 12.2 million). At the same time, rising costs—in particular a six-fold increase in water and sewerage charges—posed a significant challenge. The company managed to implement a 13.5% wage increase, which was aimed at retaining highly skilled employees.
2025: The year of bath renovations
The preservation and modernisation of the historic baths is a priority. A number of improvements are planned for the coming years, including the complete renovation of the Gellért Bath, which is scheduled for completion in 2025. The thermal section of the Széchenyi Baths will also undergo extensive technical maintenance, including the reconstruction of the ceiling.
Discussions have also begun on the operation of the Király Spa, which is state-owned but managed by the Municipality of Budapest. The values and traditions of the past will be preserved in the future, while modernisation will also meet today’s needs.
Budapest’s spas offer more than just a thermal experience. One of the most successful initiatives in recent years is Lumina Park on Palatinus Beach on Margaret Island, which offers a special experience in the form of a light park. In 2024, it opened with a ‘Fairytale Film Festival’ theme, where characters from well-known stories appear in unique lighting. The event is not only popular but also generates significant revenue during the winter season.
Special activities are also planned for the festive period. The historic baths had a shortened opening on the 24th of December, but all facilities are open from the 25th of December. The Rudas Spa, for example, will host New Year’s Eve parties and dinner programmes, and a ‘hangover day’ on the 1st of January will help guests relax.
Budapest’s baths are not only an integral part of the city’s cultural and tourist life, but also an important economic factor. The stability of ticket prices, the success of the season ticket system and continuous improvements ensure that these facilities will remain attractive destinations for domestic and international visitors in the future. The year 2025 will be a year of renovation, while the special attractions will further enrich Budapest’s spa culture.
Read also: