Long-neglected Budapest bath could finally reopen after renewal tender

After more than two decades of closure, Budapest’s Rác Bath may be a step closer to welcoming visitors again.

Long-neglected Budapest bath may be reborn in the near future

A conditional public procurement tender has now been launched for the full reconstruction of the long-shuttered spa complex in the Hungarian capital’s 1st district, raising hopes that one of the city’s most historically significant baths could reopen within the next few years.

Budapest baths got more expensive in 2026: here’s what to know about the new prices. According to information published in the EU public procurement bulletin and reported by Magyar Építők, the planned investment aims not only to restore the deteriorating building but also to carry out comprehensive technical modernisation. The goal is to ensure that the listed monument can reopen with up-to-date infrastructure while preserving its historic character.

Closed more than 23 years ago, saw legal battles, and decline as well

Hungary’s cheapest thermal bath reopens: Borostyán welcomes visitors again, but the Rác Bath has been closed since 2002 and has suffered years of decline amid ownership disputes and legal battles. In 2021, the City of Budapest, through Budapest Spas and Hot Springs Ltd. (BGYH Zrt.), repurchased the property, which had stood empty and in poor condition for over a decade. In December 2025, BGYH indicated that the bath could reopen as early as 2027, provided that government approval is granted for the loan required to finance the renovation.

The current tender covers the complete renewal of the 8,236-square-metre building, which includes basement, ground-floor and two upper levels. The works would go far beyond cosmetic improvements. Plans include full structural, architectural, mechanical, water engineering and electrical upgrades, as well as necessary demolition works.

The machinery will be completely new

One of the most critical elements of the project is the overhaul of the bath’s water engineering systems. Under the plans, 11 fill-and-drain pools and two circulation pools would be fully refurbished. The hot water production system, water supply network, circulation pumps and motorised valves would also be replaced, alongside the renewal of flood protection and wastewater pumping equipment. Regular flushing and disinfection systems would likewise be modernised.

Electrical upgrades form another major part of the reconstruction. These would include the renovation of main and sub-distribution units, as well as the replacement of all low-voltage systems. Security, fire detection, CCTV and IT infrastructure would all be brought up to modern standards.

The project goes beyond the building itself

The project also extends to the building’s roof and surrounding areas. Around 1,550 square metres of roof structure would be dismantled and rebuilt, while an extensive green roof would be installed across approximately 1,100 square metres. In the external areas, more than 5,000 square metres of paving and stone surfaces would be renewed.

The history of the Rác Bath dates back to the Ottoman era, and it takes its name from the Serbian, or “Rác”, community that once settled in the area. Its 19th-century appearance was shaped with the involvement of renowned Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl, adding further cultural value to the site.