Prices may skyrocket soon in baths in Hungary – Here’s why

While baths in Hungary already cost an arm and a leg, another price rise is approaching. Insider sources suggest that increased water and sewerage charges are driving forthcoming price hikes. Here is what to expect in May and June when it comes to bath ticket prices.

Inflation hits soaring prices

Back in January, we reported HERE how entrance fees to spas and baths in Hungary had soared to unprecedented heights. The average uptick was a hefty 5-6%, with tourist hotspots bearing the brunt of the surge. Thus, it has become virtually impossible to be able to enjoy a bath experience under HUF 10,000 (EUR 25.7), even though fares remain more favourable for children and pensioners. Alternatively, escaping the urban bustle for a soak in the picturesque countryside remains a more pocket-friendly option.

Looking for some inspiration? Check out our compilation of the most spectacular Hungarian thermal baths outside of the capital – PHOTOS

Baths in Hungary to see further increase

As RTL reported, the impending surge in water and sewerage charges is set to be a prime catalyst for further price hikes. Following January’s fee revisions, baths could face tens of millions of forints in additional costs, necessitating a proportionate  rise in ticket prices. Zoltán Balogh, secretary general of the Hungarian Bathing Association, warned:

Throughout May and June, most spas will be compelled to raise their prices by 10-15 percent compared to current rates.

Balogh explained that while many spas boast their own water sources, they rely on the public network for sanitation facilities, restaurants and pools. Some spas have witnessed water prices surge two and a half-fold, with sewerage charges and basic fees tripling.

Mitigating extra costs

The Hungarian Water Utility Association defended the fee adjustments as necessary to maintain service quality. Viktor Kurdi, president of the Hungarian Water Utility Association, said:

These charges have remained stagnant for 12 years, representing a mere 2.5-tenths of a percent. Service providers have, for over a decade, shouldered these costs without factoring in inflation.

While hopeful that the rate of price escalation won’t dent turnover, the Hungarian Bathing Association remains prepared to terminate contracts during off-peak periods to trim expenses and safeguard finances.

Read also:

• PHOTOS: Region’s largest slide park to be built in popular Hungarian spa town
• PHOTOS: Hungary’s popular Hagymatikum bath complex extended and will open this spring