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Hungary’s hidden spa gems: The 10 cheapest thermal baths you can visit in 2026
Hungary’s spa culture is world-renowned, yet as urban wellness centres see prices soar to HUF 6,000–8,000 (EUR 16–21) per entry, there are still quiet, affordable thermal baths scattered across the countryside. According to recent data from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH), nearly 90 baths have disappeared from the national system over the past decade, while wellness-focused and entertainment baths have multiplied. Despite this, smaller, lesser-known baths offer entry fees as low as HUF 2,500–3,500 (EUR 6.5–9.2), often using the same healing waters as their more expensive urban rivals, but in a calmer, family-friendly setting.
Here’s a guide to the ten cheapest thermal baths in Hungary, where you can unwind without breaking the bank.
Here’s what you can read about below:
The changing face of Hungarian spas
Historically, Hungary’s baths have been about healing water, socialising, and physical and mental rejuvenation. Over the past 15 years, however, the market has shifted. The number of medicinal baths has stagnated, while wellness and leisure-focused facilities have grown rapidly.
Between 2010 and 2024, the number of adventure baths rose from 102 to 190, and public beaches increased from 148 to 219. In contrast, the number of medicinal baths has remained nearly flat, from 98 to 103. Even thermal baths peaked in 2012 at 156 and have slightly declined since, now numbering 137. Public swimming pools and training pools have also seen fluctuations, while “other baths” have almost vanished, dropping from 76 in 2011 to just 9 in 2024.
The trend is clear: Hungarian spa culture is moving away from purely therapeutic services towards wellness, entertainment, and family experiences.
10 cheapest thermal baths in Hungary
Pénzcentrum has rounded up ten affordable baths where visitors can enjoy healing waters at a fraction of big-city prices (EUR 1 = HUF 382):
1. Bükkszék – Salvus Spa
Famed for its Salvus water, ideal for musculoskeletal and rheumatic conditions, this spa offers medicinal pools, adventure pools, and children’s pools. Open year-round.
Entry: Adults HUF 5,000, Children HUF 4,400, Seniors HUF 4,400
2. Borgátafürdő
Nestled at the foot of Kis-Somlyó Hill, this bath’s calcium- and magnesium-rich thermal waters attract wellness seekers. Seasonal operation from spring to autumn.
Entry: Adults HUF 2,800, Children HUF 1,500, Seniors HUF 2,500
3. Igal Spa
Popular with those suffering from rheumatic or joint issues, Igal combines medicinal pools with saunas and wellness services in a family-friendly environment.
Entry: Adults HUF 4,500, Children HUF 3,500, Seniors HUF 3,900
4. Sikonda
Located at the Mecsek Hills, Sikonda offers a scenic setting with healing pools, adventure pools, and wellness facilities.
Entry: Adults HUF 3,500, Children HUF 1,800, Seniors HUF 3,000
5. Algyő – Borbála Spa
Situated between Szeged and Hódmezővásárhely, Algyő Spa provides a peaceful, family-oriented atmosphere with medicinal pools, saunas, and massage services.
Entry: Adults HUF 3,400, Children HUF 2,300, Seniors HUF 2,300
6. Püspökladány – Sárrét Kincse Spa and Beach
Open year-round, offering medicinal and swimming pools along with wellness services, popular with locals and tourists alike. (Make sure to check their Facebook page, as the beach section is currently closed due to renovation.)
Entry: Adults HUF 2,250, Children HUF 1,250, Seniors HUF 1,850
7. Leányfalu Thermal Bath
Nestled by the Danube, the bath features healing pools, adventure pools, and children’s pools, open year-round with regular events.
Entry: Adults HUF 4,500, Children HUF 3,200, Seniors HUF 3,200
8. Göd Thermal Bath
Just 24 km from Budapest, Göd offers year-round access to pools of varying temperatures, saunas, and wellness services. (Also make sure to check their Facebook page, as the thermal pool is currently closed due to maintenance.)
Entry: Adults HUF 4,000, Children HUF 1,300, Seniors HUF 2,200
9. Sárospatak – Végardó Bath
Equipped with pools of different temperatures, slides, and saunas, this family-friendly bath hosts a variety of events.
Entry: Adults HUF 3,000, Children HUF 2,500, Seniors HUF 2,500
10. Berettyóújfalu – Bihar Thermal Park
Open year-round with medicinal and adventure pools, wellness services, and regular events.
Entry: Adults HUF 3,000, Children HUF 2,400, Seniors HUF 2,400
Affordable relaxation in Hungary
While major city baths continue to climb in price, these hidden countryside gems offer visitors the chance to experience traditional Hungarian thermal waters without the crowds or cost. From the Danube’s banks to the Mecsek Hills, Hungary’s affordable spas prove that wellness doesn’t need to break the bank!
Frequently asked questions about cheaper thermal baths
Are these thermal baths suitable for tourists and foreigners?
Yes. All of the listed baths are open to the public and welcome foreign visitors. While staff may not always speak fluent English in smaller rural baths, signage is usually clear, and the overall experience is straightforward for tourists.
Do these cheaper baths offer real medicinal thermal water?
Yes. Many of these facilities use officially recognised medicinal thermal water, often with the same mineral composition found in much more expensive baths. The lower prices are mainly due to their rural location and simpler infrastructure.
Are these baths open all year round?
Most of them are open year-round, especially those with indoor pools. Some, such as Borgátafürdő, operate seasonally from spring to autumn, so it’s always worth checking opening hours in advance.
Are these baths child-friendly?
Absolutely. Several of the baths listed have children’s pools, adventure pools, and shallow areas, making them suitable for families. However, the atmosphere is generally calmer and less crowded than in major city spas.
How crowded are these thermal baths?
These baths are typically much quieter than popular Budapest spas. Even during weekends, visitor numbers tend to be low, which is one of their biggest advantages for those seeking relaxation.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
In most cases, no advance booking is required. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site. Booking ahead may be useful during holidays or special events, but it is not standard practice.
Are saunas and wellness services included in the ticket price?
This varies by location. Basic pools are usually included in the standard ticket, while saunas, massages, or special wellness treatments may require an additional fee.
How do I reach these baths without a car?
Some baths are accessible by train or bus, but public transport connections in rural areas can be limited. For visitors without a car, it’s recommended to check local transport options in advance or combine the visit with a nearby town or city stay.
Are prices likely to change during the year?
Yes. Entry fees can vary by season, day of the week, or due to inflation. The prices listed reflect standard adult tickets at the time of writing and may be subject to change.
Why are these baths so much cheaper than Budapest spas?
Lower operating costs, fewer tourists, and a focus on local visitors allow these baths to keep prices affordable. You’re often paying less for fewer extras, not for lower-quality water.