baths

Here is how Hungarian spas will combat rising energy prices

A lot of people are feeling the effects of energy prices, and spas are certainly no exception. For this reason, several thermal spas in Hungary are trying to improve their energy efficiency, as they could not survive for long without any cost-saving decisions.

Zoltán Balogh, the Secretary of the Hungarian Spa Association, said that spas are trying to fight the spiralling energy prices according to their own abilities and resources. According to him, given Hungary’s resources, several spas could make efficient use of thermal energy of the thermal water for energy management purposes.

The implementation of energy efficiency

Balogh told InfoRadio in a brief interview that since the heat pumps used to utilise heat energy are quite energy-intensive, the additional energy costs have to be met somehow.

The installation of solar panels is a perfect solution for this problem,

he added.

These investments can be achieved by the operators of the spas from their own resources and partly from grant resources. He also pointed out that some grants were already available in 2022. Furthermore, as he said, the association also advocated these grant opportunities, so that as many spas as possible could have access to them, since plenty of them would not be able to operate without any support.

siofok spa
Read alsoCould the Siófok Spa reopen?

Some energy efficiency grants already received

One of the spas that has the opportunity to improve its energy efficiency with grant funding, is the Harkány Thermal Spa in Harkány. According to bama.hu, the spa will use HUF 306 million (EUR 764,000) to build a solar power plant, which will enable it to cover almost 20 percent of its electricity consumption from it own renewable energy.

Harkany-thermal-spa-adventure-pool
Photo: www.facebook.com/harkanygyogyfurdo

At current prices, this could result in annual savings of HUF 120 million (EUR 300,000) on electricity bills,

the news site says.

According to termalonline.hu, the Bocskai Thermal Spa in Hajdúböszörmény has received a HUF 300 million (EUR 748,000) grant.

hajduboszormeny thermal spa
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/bocskaifurdoeskemping

Thanks to this grant, they will utilise the heat from the thermal water. As the mayor of the town said, the spa would be able to heat the building and the swimming pools with the renewable energy. They expect that the thermal energy could cover the entire energy costs of the spa.

széchenyi thermal bath
Read alsoBrutal price rise in the Budapest baths from January – we show a trick to bypass it

Could the Siófok Spa reopen?

siofok spa

The municipality of Siófok has some good news to share with the public. The Siófok Spa has received a grant of almost HUF one billion, so there is a chance to reopen.

According to siofok.hu, in June 2021, the Galerius Spa in Siófok closed indefinitely after a negative expert opinion on the state of the facility. The report found that the ceiling in the bathing area was collapsing due to inadequate ventilation, making it unusable.

They then assessed the condition of the facility and concluded that it would cost around HUF 1.2 billion to completely renovate it. The municipality of Siófok explored the possibilities of tenders and subsidies for the renovation, and in 2022, it was announced that the Galerius Baths would receive HUF 900 million (EUR 2,25 million) in subsidies for the renovation as part of the tourism development.

According to Róbert Lengyel, mayor of the town, this money could be used to improve the pool area technologies and to increase the service quality, and they are also waiting for another tender to be announced for the technical renovation. If all goes well, the spa, which was opened in 2006, could reopen this year.

Cave Bath of Miskolctapolca
Read alsoThe most popular cave bath in Hungary could close down?

Brutal price rise in the Budapest baths from January – we show a trick to bypass it

széchenyi thermal bath

Budapest Hévizei és Gyógyfürdői (Budapest Spas cPlc.) announced its new ticket prices in effect from January. Spabook.net, a Hungarian bath and spa-focused website, analysed the prices and concluded that the rise would be significant, ranging from 10 to 33 percent. However, there is a way to avoid the consequences. Unfortunately, it will not work for tourists coming to Budapest.

Gellért, Széchenyi, Rudas baths getting more expensive

Budapest’s most popular and historic baths will increase their prices the most in 2023, an analysis of spabook.net concluded. The entrance fee to the world-famous Gellért and Széchenyi baths will increase by 32.9 percent next year. The prices will be the following:

  • Monday – Thursday: from HUF 7,100 (EUR 17,64) to HUF 9,400 (EUR 23.35),
  • Friday – Sunday: from HUF 8,200 (EUR 20.37) to HUF 10,900 (EUR 27.08).

Meanwhile, in the Rudas bath, another famous spa in Budapest near the Danube River, you will have to pay HUF 8,600 (EUR 21.36) instead of 6,500. Over the weekend, the entrance fee will increase from HUF 9,200 (EUR 23) to HUF 12,200 (EUR 31). If you want a night bathing in the 450-year-old, one-time Turkish bath, you will have to pay even more: the fee will rise from HUF 9,500 (EUR 23.6) to HUF 12,600 (EUR 31.30).

In the case of the Lukács bath, prices will increase only by 15 percent, which is lower than the average inflation in Hungary. Other baths focusing on locals will not increase their entrance fees that much. Dandár will be 9 percent more expensive, and Paskál will be 15-17 percent more expensive. On weekdays, entrance fees will not increase in the Csillaghegyi bath. But at the weekend, you will have to pay 20 percent more. Pesterzsébet will increase its prices by 15-17 percent.

Interestingly, there is one bath in Budapest that will not increase its prices: the Palatinus on Margaret island. The ticket remains HUF 2,900 (EUR 7.2) on the weekdays and HUF 3,400 (EUR 8.45) between Friday and Sunday.

Here is a trick

Those who buy a Zsigmondy card can buy tickets for the 2022 price, even in 2023. However, most foreign tourists will not be able to utilise that opportunity because the card has to be made in Budapest, at the customer service centre of the Budapest Gyógyfürdői Zrt. (1146 Budapest, Állatkerti körút 9-11.). Furthermore, the application form is in Hungarian (though it does not require too much data), and a photo is also taken of you on the spot. Moreover, you will need a Hungarian address, and the administration requires two weeks.

Thus, the opportunity is not for tourists spending a couple of days or weeks in Hungary. However, those working or studying here may utilise it and receive considerable discounts in 2023. You only have to find somebody who at least reads in Hungarian and helps you fill out the application form. The Zsigmondy card costs only HUF 5,000 (EUR 12.42).

And why did the significant price rise took place in the famous Budapest baths? Because of the soaring energy prices. BGYH needs to pay 18 times more for gas in 2022 than in 2021. Meanwhile, electricity prices increased 3.5 times for the company.

Velence Resort & spa
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The most popular cave bath in Hungary could close down?

Cave Bath of Miskolctapolca

The Cave bath of Miskolctapolca is closing due to being unprofitable. The bath will remain open until 8 January and will close for two weeks. During the closure, the renovation works that began in the fall will be completed according to plans, but it is doubtful whether it will reopen after that.

The Cave bath of Miskolctapolca had to close in October, too

Although the closing of Hungary’s most popular cave bath is unfortunate, it does not come as a surprise. From 10 to 28 October this year, the cave bath had to close due to the energy crisis. As a result of the cooperation of local entrepreneurs, the county chamber of industry and the municipality, the cave bath, one of the city’s leading tourist attractions, reopened on that day. The agreement was that Miskolc would finance the costs of the operation from the city protection fund. In addition, he contractors would contribute financially to the opening hours of the Cave Bath through individual agreements with Miskolc Fürdők Kft.

The bath is unprofitable

Although the Cave bath of Miskolctapolca could reopen, it did not make enough profit. At the meeting of the general assembly in Miskolc, they announced that only HUF 4.5 million (EUR 11,082.32) of the amount promised by the businesses had been received so far, which is far less than they promised. In fact, the bath generated a loss of about HUF 65 million (EUR 160,082.31) during the fall, reports boon.hu. For the time being, the operator Miskolc Fürdők Kft. and the city protection fund must endure this situation.

The spa is sure to be closed, but will it reopen?

According to the current decision, the facility will remain open until 8 January, writes Index. During the closure, the renovation works that began in the fall will be completed according to plans. However, it is still uncertain, whether the Cave bath of Miskolctapolca can welcome visitors again or not. Money is a key factor in keeping the popular bath open. The cave bath is not only important to tourists but also to the city, as the Cave bath of Miskolctapolca is the main attraction of Miskolc. However, nothing is certain just yet, therefore, no conclusions can be made about the future of the Cave bath of Miskolctapolca.

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This December, you can enter famous spas in Budapest for 65 percent cheaper!

Rudas Thermal Bath Budapest

If you are planning to escape the cold weather and take a warm bath in one of Budapest’s famous spas, now is the time! This December, you can enter some historical baths for 65 percent cheaper. 

Budapest spa tickets at a discounted price

You can buy spa tickets for only HUF 3,200 (EUR 7,67) in December 2022, writes spabook.net. This means that you can enjoy the hot tubs for 65 percent cheaper compared to the price of a normal ticket. Discounted spa tickets are available in a limited number and are only valid until 31 December 2022. Ticket prices vary for each spa, depending on the day of visit (weekdays or weekends) and the chosen service (cabin or locker). By purchasing a spa ticket, you can get a 30-65 percent discount.

These are the spas in Budapest where the cheaper tickets are valid

The good news is that any spa operated by the Budapest Spas (Budapest Gyógyfürdői És Hévizei Zrt., BGYH) participates in the programme. However, it might be worth trying out the stunning historical spas in Budapest where you can save the most money. Among others, you can visit the three most famous baths, Széchenyi, Gellért and Rudas thermal baths. In the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Thermal Bath, the discounted tickets cost HUF 3,200 (EUR 7,67) instead of HUF 7100 (EUR 17,02) on weekdays or HUF 8200 (EUR 19,65) on Fridays and weekends. In Rudas Spa, a normal ticket on weekdays would cost HUF 6500 (EUR 15,58), on Fridays and weekends HUF 9200 (EUR 22,05). Now, you can get a ticket for HUF 3,200 (EUR 7,67).

Where to get tickets for the spas

Bath tickets are available in limited quantities and can only be used until 31 December 2022. You can buy tickets only at the BudapestInfo office located in the Városháza Park Hütte (Károly Boulevard, Budapest 1052) between 9 AM and 7 PM. The discounted ticket usually includes all the services that normal tickets offer. Therefore, you may use swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, rest rooms and lockers. The cheaper ticket, however, is not valid for special occasions, such as night bathing, massages, other spa treatments, slippers rental fee. In addition, you will not be able to get free access to the buffet offer, either.

Update! – Unfortunately, due to the high demand, no more tickets are avaliable at a discounted price.

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Hungarian spas in danger: many may not be able to operate next year

Velence Resort & spa

At the two-day general assembly of the Hungarian Bathing Association (Magyar Fürdőszövetség), the government’s interventions needed to ensure the survival of the baths in 2023 were outlined. According to the president of the Bathing Association, most of the baths will become insolvent next year. Again, the issue of reducing bathing services to 5 percent VAT rate was raised.

Hungarian baths’ survival is uncertain

The study on the survival of the Hungarian Bathing Association has been completed. The professional body made specific proposals on the second day of its general assembly on 15 November, turizmus.com reports. At the general assembly in Esztergom, Zoltán Kántás, president of the Hungarian Bathing Association, outlined the most pressing problems of Hungarian spas.

Problems and tasks

The most pressing problems, tasks and achievements of Hungarian spas are the following:

  • To tackle the unpredictable energy prices caused by the energy crisis;
  • Labour shortages plague the sector;
  • The need to include spas in the new certification system agreed with the Hungarian Tourism Agency (Magyar Turisztikai Ügynökség, MTÜ);
  • The study, which has been prepared with the financial support of the MTÜ following a questionnaire analysis of the spas, will be presented to the membership within days and will contain a package of proposals for the sustainable operation of the sector;
  • Under the current regulation, the bathing establishments must be included in the National Tourist Information Centre (Nemzeti Turisztikai Adatszolgáltató Központ, NTAK) scheme within a short timeframe.

Threats

The President also spoke bluntly about the threats to spas, napi.hu writes. He said:

  • By the beginning of 2023, a significant number of spas could be insolvent.
  • Even those that are operational will be forced to cut back on services, which could lead to a drop in demand.
  • As consumers’ incomes fall, the number of solvent consumers will also fall.

What should the government do to help?

The Bathing Association wants the government to set up a targeted support scheme for baths to finance energy costs. It would be important to regulate the terms of energy contracts for spas. Launch subsidy tenders for the energy upgrading of spas. Move spa services to the reduced VAT rate of 5 percent.

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Hungary has one of the largest thermal water reserves in the world

thermal bath

Hungary is well-known for its thermal baths. There are springs and underground reserves basically every second corner of the country. In some towns, you can even find taps that perpetually pour out artesian water for free. Therefore, it is an undeniable fact that Hungary has an abundance of thermal water reserves and other kinds of underground water.

From Magyarnemzet.hu we know that Hungary has the fifth-largest thermal water reserve in the world. This information was shared during the opening ceremony of the annual assembly of the Hungarian Balneology Association. Thermal water is also referred to as medicinal water, due to its beneficiary effects on people’s health. Thermal water is a treasure, a unique and unparalleled Hungaricum, which has immeasurable value — said Sándor Lezsák, the deputy speaker of the National Assembly.

National treasure

Lakitelek recently caught up with other renowned bathing cities such as Hajdúszoboszló, Mórahalom, Szolnok, Hévíz etc. The politician also mentioned a few specific complaints that the water of Lakitelek can be good for. However, the baths of the country are important for another reason too: tradition.

The politician went on to explain the importance of thermal water and how it is an important part of Hungarian culture. Of course, there is no speech without mentioning national tragedies like Trianon. He said that during the treaty not only two-thirds of the country was taken away, but just as many thermal baths. After the second world war, the rush for oil led to the exploration of many thermal water reserves and springs.

According to the deputy speaker, it is not just the water that heals, but also the environment. Referring to the traditionalist identity the town aims to create. Lakitelek was a significant meeting ground during the system change in Hungary, hence why it is such an important place.

Why is there so much?

In the year 2000, 150 thermal baths had operated in the country. The secret lies in the geology of the Carpathian Basin. Earth’s crust is about 10 kilometres thinner under the basin than the world average. This proximity to the magma of the Earth’s mantle helps to heat underground water in lesser depths.

According to National Geographic, there are more than 1,300 thermal springs in the country. There is not just one type of thermal water in the country either. In different locations, the water has varying mineral content. Some are salty and some are sulphurous, but every spring is different in some way. Thus, it is no surprise that wellness and spa culture had been part of the lifestyle for hundreds of years.

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Two new medical baths are enriching Lake Balaton’s surroundings!

Marcali Municipal Spa and Recreation Centre

Hungary has no shortage of spas, thermal baths and medical baths, and this will be even more true from now on. The last time the list of domestic medical baths was expanded was two years ago. This year, two of our existing domestic spas have been awarded the medical bath qualification, both at Lake Balaton.

The last time the number of domestic medical baths was expanded was two years ago, and this year two of our already operating spas have been awarded the medical bath certification, both of them are located at Lake Balaton, Termál Online reports. In 2020, the thermal spa in Tamási, Tolna County, was awarded the title of a medical bath, and now the list has been extended to include a spa in Veszprém County and a spa in Somogy County, Travelo writes.

Marcali Municipal Spa and Recreation Centre, Marcali

Marcali Municipal Spa and Recreation Centre
Source: Facebook/Marcali Városi Gyógyfürdő és Szabadidőközpont

One of them is the thermal bath in Marcali, 14 kilometres southwest of Lake Balaton. The bath already offers certified thermal water. However, for those who would like to visit the spa during the end-of-year festive season, it is worth noting that it will be closed between 19 December and 7 January.

Annagora Aquapark, Balatonfüred

annagora aquapark balatonfüred
Source: Facebook/Annagora Aquapark

The other spa that has been awarded this rating is the Annagora Aquapark in Balatonfüred. The spa has so far been seasonal, operating only during the summer beach season, but thanks to the medical bath title, it is now likely to expand its profile.

The title of medical bath

Medical bath is often used as a synonym for thermal bath. However, in fact, it is a legal category that can only be obtained through a formal procedure. A medical bath can be a place where medicinal water, medicinal mud or other natural therapeutic agents are present and where spa treatments are provided through thermal, mineral or even heated public water.

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Loss-making leisure spa stays open, several facilities close

hungarospa hajdúszoboszló

The loss-making Esztergom Adventure Spa will remain open. The Szent István Baths, used by schoolchildren and athletes, will close due to high overheads. The local opposition believes that the closure of the Adventure Spa would be bad for the surrounding hotels.

Another spa closes due to high overheads

The Szent István Baths in Esztergom welcomed its last visitors on Monday, szeretlekmagyarorszag.hu writes. The municipality is closing the baths due to high overheads.

This is where schoolchildren learn to swim and athletes train. They do not yet know where they can continue their training for the competition. However, this is not the only area where the municipality is making cuts. From November, the House of Culture will be closed down, theatre performances will be postponed, the reading circle will be suspended, the community centre and the library will be closed and the kindergartens will be merged.

But not everything is covered by austerity. Surprisingly, the municipality-owned Aquasziget Experience Spa is not affected by all the energy-saving measures. The spa closed last year with a loss of HUF 44 million (EUR 102,000), and this year it is running an average deficit of HUF 4.7 million (EUR 11,000).

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Controversy surrounding the Aquasziget Adventure Spa

According to the local opposition, the decision is explained by the neighbouring hotels owned by the CEO of MOL. “The hotels are owned by Zsolt Hernádi – in one way or another, through various companies – while the mayor is called Ádám Hernádi. They are nephews and cousins. Obviously, this makes it difficult to decide on whether to close this place for economic reasons,” said Gábor Bádi, Esztergom Municipal Councillor to RTL.

Ádám Hernádi did not give an interview to RTL. In a statement, the Fidesz mayor wrote: “The rising energy prices due to Brussels’ ‘misguided sanctions’ also take a toll on Esztergom, but the city aims to find the best solution for everyone.” He added that sports clubs can “use the facilities provided by the beach baths” without extra costs.

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Here is how you can save 65% at the historical thermal baths of Budapest

Budapest is the world capital of historical thermal spas! Explore the thermal bath with a special discount. Buy a Bath Ticket and save up to 65% off the regular ticket price, says Budapest Info.

ABOUT THE THERMAL BATHS OF BUDAPEST

No other capital city has as many thermal baths as Budapest. They are refreshing, rejuvenating, healing and inspiring. The thermal water comes from hot springs deep below the ground and were used already by the Romans and Ottomans many centuries ago. As the hot water travels under the ground, it mixes with rich minerals that are beneficial both for the body and the mind. The spas are located in grand historical buildings with unique tile decoration and inspiring atmosphere. They are visited by both locals and visitors. No visit to the Pearl of Danube can be complete without relaxing at the thermal baths, Budapest Info says.

WHAT IS THE SPECIAL DISCOUNT?

Buy any Budapest Card, the official city pass in our webshop or at the Budapestinfo Tourist Information Offices, and you will be able to add a Bath Ticket to your purchase for 8 euros only (3200 HUF).

This is up to 65% discount from regular bath ticket prices at the door. The discounted Bath Ticket can only be bought with the purchase of any Budapest Card.

WHICH BATH ARE INCLUDED WITH THE BATH TICKET?

All thermal baths operated by Budapest Spas (BGYH) are included in the promotion. To save more, we recommend using the Bath Ticket at one of the three historical bath houses: Széchenyi, Gellért and Rudas. The other, smaller bath houses have less expensive tickets and you will not save that much with the Bath Ticket.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE BATH HOUSES?

Széchenyi Bath:

It is one of the largest bath complexes in Europe with 21 pools. Housed in a historical setting inside City Park, it has indoor and outdoor areas, saunas and steam rooms. Locals enjoy playing chess in the thermal pool outside. Outside area is open during winter also.

Gellért Bath:

Housed in a grand hotel on the Buda side adjacent to Gellert Hill. It’s indoor thermal areas with blue Zsolnay tiles and decorations will transport you to a wonderful era. The outdoor pools are usually open during summer only.

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Rudas Bath:

The thermal bath was built almost 500 years ago. It has a hammam-style mesmerizing thermal pool, which has men/women-only days. At weekends, both men and women can enjoy the Turkish thermal area. There are several steam rooms, saunas, aromatherapy areas and pools. Enjoy the view over the Danube from the rooftop thermal pool.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME TO THE BATHS?

To enter the baths, bring your Bath Ticket that you bought at the Budapestinfo Tourist Information Centers. Bring your towels and flipflops. If you prefer swimming at the swimming pools, a bathing cap is needed. You cannot rent towels or a swimsuit, but you can purchase them at the baths’ shop.

HOW MUCH DISCOUNT CAN I GET WHEN BUYING THE BATH TICKET?

You can get up to 65% from the regular ticket price. For example, Rudas Bath on the weekend cost 9200 HUF / person (23 eur). If you buy any of the Budapest Cards, you can buy a Bath Ticket for only 3200 HUF (8 eur). 

HOW MUCH DO THE BATHS COST WITHOUT THE PROMOTION DISCOUNT?

Ticket prices vary at all bath houses depending on the days you visit (weekday or weekend) and the service you choose (cabin or locker). By purchasing the Bath Ticket you may get a discount between 30-65% off from regular ticket prices.

WHERE CAN I BUY THE DISCOUNTED BATH TICKET?

First, you need to buy a Budapest Card. You can buy them in our official webshop. You will receive an electronic voucher that you have to show at the official Budapestinfo Tourist Information Offices to receive your Budapest Card. 

You will then be able to buy the Bath Ticket for 3200 HUF at the Budapestinfo Tourist Information Centers at these three locations only: 

Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Terminal 2A
Opening hours: 8.00 a.m. – 10.00 p.m.

Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Terminal 2B
Opening hours: 9.00 a.m. – 9.00 p.m.

Városháza Park Hütte (1052 Budapest, Károly körút)
Opening hours: 9.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m.

You will not be able to get the discounted Bath Ticket at any other office or from any reseller partners (including the public transportation BKK offices).

WHAT IS THE VALIDITY OF THE BUDAPEST CARD BATH TICKET?

This is a special promotion. Limited supplies. The Bath Ticket has to be used by 31 December 2022. You will not be able to enter the baths with the Bath Ticket after this date.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE BUDAPEST CARD BATH TICKET AT THE BATHS?

Everything that the regular bath ticket includes. This varies at every bath but generally speaking, you can use the pools, saunas, steam rooms, relaxation rooms and lockers.

WHAT IS EXCLUDED FROM THE BUDAPEST CARD BATH TICKET?

Special events including Sparty, night entrance, massages, spa treatments, healing sessions, food and drink, towel rental, flipflops rental. etc.

IS THE BATH TICKET VALID ON WEEKENDS?

Yes. The Bath Ticket is valid on weekdays and weekends also. It is not valid for night bath, SPArty or special events.

WHAT DOES THE BUDAPEST CARD INCLUDE?

The Budapest Card includes free public transport, 40+ museums and attractions, free sightseeing walking tours, free entry to Lukacs Bath, free chairlift, free castle bus, free cave entrance and many discounts from experiences and restaurants. 

Find out all the places where you can use your Budapest Card.

WHAT DOES THE BUDAPEST CARD 72H PLUS INCLUDE?

Everything that the Budapest Card includes plus return airport shuttle transfer, free Danube river cruise, free kürtöskalács, free Buda Castle funicular. 

Find out all the places where you can use your Budapest Card.

DOESN’T THE BUDAPEST CARD ALREADY INCLUDE A FREE THERMAL BATH?

Yes, all Budapest Cards include free entrance to one bath only: Lukacs Bath. If you buy the Bath Ticket, you will be able to visit two baths, including Szechenyi, Gellert and Rudas. The Budapest Card only gives you access to Lukacs Bath and not the historical baths.

WHICH BUDAPEST CARDS ARE INCLUDED IN THE PROMOTION?

These Budapest Cards will allow you to get a discounted Bath Ticket:
24h, 48h, 72h, 72h Plus, 96h, 120h

I ALREADY BOUGHT A BUDAPEST CARD SOMEWHERE ELSE, CAN I STILL BUY A BATH TICKET?

If you exchange your online voucher or buy a Budapest Card at the three Budapestinfo Tourist Information Offices locations, you can buy a discounted Bath Ticket between 15 of October and 31 of December. If you had bought your Budapest Card somewhere else or exchanged your electronic voucher somewhere else, you will not be able to buy a discounted Bath Ticket.

I EXCHANGED MY VOUCHER AT A DIFFERENT OFFICE. WHAT CAN I DO?

This promotion is only valid at the three Budapestinfo Tourist Information Offices (Budapest Airport 2A, Budapest Airport 2B, Városháza Park Hütte). If you bought your Budapest Card or exchanged your voucher at any other office, you will not be able to buy a discounted Bath Ticket.

HOW MANY BATH TICKETS CAN I BUY?

You can buy one Bath Ticket with the purchase of one Budapest Card only. You are not allowed to buy one Budapest Card and several Bath Tickets. All Bath Tickets are linked to a Budapest Card purchase.

PHOTOS: world-famous Hungarian cave bath reopened for horror prices

Cave bath of Miskolctapolca

As we wrote in September, the world-famous Hungarian cave bath of Miskolctapolca closed because of the skyrocketing energy prices on 10 October. Later, the Hungarian press learned that the local government and some businesses would like to save the facility and might be successful in doing that. As a result, the cave might remain open until the end of this year. Today, the bath reopened, but entrance fees rose extremely high.

According to termalonline.hu, Hungary’s world-famous cave bath in Miskolctapolca reopened after being closed for exactly three weeks today thanks to the cooperation of the municipal council and local entrepreneurs. However, that came with a price.

The entrance fees changed significantly from today. Before the closure, an adult ticket cost HUF 3,550 (EUR 8.61), while children, pensioners, and students had to pay HUF 2,850 (EUR 6.91) to enter the facility. Now, these fees increased consequently to HUF 6,850 (EUR 16.62) and HUF 5,050 (EUR 12.25). That means an almost 100 percent price increase is considered horrific in only a 3-week-long interval.

Cave bath of Miskolctapolca
Photo: facebook.com/barlangfurdo.hu
Cave bath of Miskolctapolca
Photo: facebook.com/barlangfurdo.hu

Széchenyi Gyógyfürdő
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A family ticket’s cost (2 adults and 1 child) grew from HUF 8,750 (EUR 21.23) to HUF 14,400 (EUR 34.94), which is also more than 80 percent.

If somebody lives in Miskolc, they have to pay only HUF 4,800 for the adult and HUF 4,100 for the children, student or pensioner ticket.

For tomorrow, the bath organised a thematic party on the occasion of Halloween, a festivity increasingly popular in Hungary. There will be night baths, thematic sauna programs, Halloween decorations and handicraft sessions.

According to infostart.hu, Miskolc’s non-aligned mayor said the local government would transfer an additional 22 million HUF (EUR 53,500) for the bath to help it remain open. An agreement with local tourist businesses says that they will do the same. Thus, the Miskolctapolca cave bath will receive more than 100,000 EUR to tackle the soaring energy prices apart from the increased entrance fees.

Meanwhile, the Aquarius bath in Nyíregyháza remains closed, like several hotels in the city’s famous Sóstó tourist district.

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Will Budapest’s spas stay open? The final decision has been taken

Széchenyi Gyógyfürdő

Budapest spa company BGYH plans no closures in spite of high energy prices, tourism portal Turizmus.com said on Tuesday.

BGYH’s CEO, Ildikó Szűts, told the portal there could be “reductions in service portfolios” as baths coordinate energy use with demand, but no closures are planned.

BGYH expects energy-saving measures to cut gas consumption by at least 30 percent and district heating and electricity by 20-25 percent.

The company had budgeted 1.6 billion forints (EUR 3.9m) for energy costs this year, but that is likely to reach 4.8 billion forints now, Szűts said. Without steps to manage the crisis, energy costs would reach 6 billion forints, she added.

BGYH’s visitor numbers are at 80-85 percent of pre-pandemic levels, but revenue is up 10 percent thanks to a pair of price rises targeting foreign visitors.

Hungarian thermal baths - Miskolctapolca 2
Read alsoCollaboration saves Hungary’s famous cave bath

Collaboration saves Hungary’s famous cave bath

Hungarian thermal baths - Miskolctapolca 2

The economic crisis in Hungary keeps taking its victims. The newest one is the cave bath in Miskolctapolca, one of the most famous baths in the country. Because of the rising energy prices, it was decided to close the facility after 10 October. However, with a collaborative effort by the municipality and local businesses, the cave bath might be saved from closing and can remain open at least until the beginning of next year.

Trendfm.hu reported that in the regional capital of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén county, the cave bath is in danger. With a collaborative effort of the municipality and local businesses, who have a stake in tourism, could provide enough funds to keep the bath running, said Eszter Orosz manager of the MIDMAR Kft. It is in everybody’s interest to keep the bath open for the winter. It is a very important tourist attraction. Without it, Miskolc’s tourism could suffer a major decline.

The goal is to provide enough funds with collaborative effort for the bath so it can reopen as soon as possible.

Hope

The added cost due to the rising energy prices is around HUF 66 million (EUR 160,000). This amount of money is required to keep the bath running during the winter. As the closing of the bath also has its own costs, the municipality already has to pay HUF 166 million (EUR 401,800). The indefinite closing of the bath is a huge blow to the city. Because of this, it would be more beneficial to keep it running despite the higher costs.

The upkeep costs of the bath are paid by the municipality. Despite the closure, there are still upkeep costs to be paid. As interest is common for every actor in the situation it seems like everybody is willing to cooperate. Compared to the city’s approximately HUF 20 billion (EUR 5 million) in added costs, the funds needed for the bath are minimal. Still, cooperation is needed for the restart of the operations. Of course, the bath would not be running at full capacity. Rather, it would only be partially open, while the services would be running at a decreased capacity.

Although the closure of the bath is not an isolated case, such a collaborative effort to save it is quite rare. Hopefully, the negotiations will be successful and the cave bath can keep running.

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Will Budapest’s spas need to close down?

Despite the worrying news from all around the country, Budapest will not close any of its spas. The lack of Russian tourists means an approximately 15 percent deficit and energy prices are sky high, yet closures are not necessary. And this is just the start as the next year will be even harder.

The 3-fold energy cost increase

The capital city’s spa and bath operator company has immense costs to pay. Previously they paid 38 HUF (0.09 EUR)/MWh, while this year it is 83 HUF (0.21 EUR)/MWh. Next year everything will be much worse as current offers mention that prices might increase by 3.5 times. In the case of natural gas, the situation is even more extreme as the price of one cubic metre of natural gas has risen from 74 HUF (0.18 EUR) to 205,6 HUF (0.51 EUR). But this is not the worst part because from October the price of natural gas will be 1,300 HUF (3.23 EUR) for every cubic metre. But the Budapest Gyógyfürdői és Hévízei (BGYH) Zrt. says they had received offers, which would allow them to conclude a successful year.

Despite the tremendous price increase, no baths will be closed — reports Ildikó Szűts, the CEO of BGYH to Népszava. Although, shortened opening hours are possible and access to some services might be limited. BGYH prepares a detailed energy crisis plan to allow data-based decisions searching for saving opportunities. For example, they will only heat 3 saunas instead of 10 and the decision will be based on a cost-benefit analysis. Fortunately, no downsizing is required as of now, unlike during the COVID pandemic.

The price increase is inevitable

However, ticket prices must be increased to keep the equilibrium. The previous price increase, due to inflation was around 20% for foreigners, while for Hungarians it was only 8%. Still, historical baths and spas can be visited for a much cheaper price compared to Western Europe. In the Széchenyi Bath, the pass for one day costs only 17 EUR while in the west a 2-3 hour long ticket can be around 27 EUR. The planned increase will be around 10-15%.

BGYH calculates that profits will still be around 12.1 billion HUF (30,092,765 EUR). To meet their goals, they plan on selling some properties too which the capital’s municipality would buy. Also, they are planning on opening a new hotel next to the Rác Bath, but that is still in the process. Profits in the first half of the year had far exceeded expectations by 2 billion HUF (4,974,010 EUR) and According to the CEO, it can even reach 3.2 billion HUF (7,958,417 EUR) by the end of the year.

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Another Hungarian thermal spa closes due to high energy prices

jászapáti thermal baths

The overhead costs are much higher than expected, so the Jászapáti Strandfürdő, which is normally open in winter due to its thermal water, will probably close from October until at least next May.

Kálmán Karkus, the managing director of the Jászapáti Városüzemeltetési Nonprofit Kft. said that “due to the increasing energy prices and overhead costs, the city operation Ltd. has booked much higher costs than planned”, so the owner, in consultation with the Jászapáti City Municipality, in connection with the increased energy prices, decided to “suspend winter operation in order to reduce costs”. He added that “confident in the economic situation and the improvement of the liquidity situation of the Ltd.”, they plan to reopen in May 2023.

The warm thermal spa is usually open with three pools in winter, and last year a new slide system was built with a €200 million investment.

Up to half of Hungary’s spas may close from autumn until the first half of next year, including Hévíz, Harkány and Gyula, said the president of the Hungarian Bathing Association, Zoltán Kántás – details here.

Hungarospa in Hajdúszoboszló immediately announced on its website that, contrary to the press reports, Hungarospa Hajdúszoboszló Zrt. is not planning to close down.

On 2 September, the Hévíz Tourinform Office simply refuted the earlier news on its social media page: “The autumn season has started at the Hévíz Lake Baths, which is open 365 days a year! This year, the autumn season at the Hévíz Lake Baths will start on 5 September, when the opening hours of the baths will change in line with the evening darkness. As in previous years, the Lake Baths will continue to offer the same services for relaxing and recuperating guests. In addition, we will be offering special programmes on several occasions” – read their statement.

In August, it was revealed that the Balatonboglár swimming pool would close due to soaring energy prices, and in September the mayor of Csokonyavisonta announced the closure of the Csokonyavisonta Spa and Beach Baths because the village could not maintain the baths from its revenues.

Read alsoEighteenfold gas price rise: will Budapest’s baths close?

Eighteenfold gas price rise: will Budapest’s baths close?

Budapest’s deputy mayor, Anett Bősz, said that they saw an eighteenfold price rise in the case of gas and a sevenfold increase considering electricity compared to the 2021 sums in the most recent public procurements the capital’s leadership conducted. In 2022, they plan to spend HUF 1.4 billion (EUR 3.5 million) on energy. But that will rise to HUF 4 billion (EUR 9.9 million) in 2023. However, they would not like to close any baths in Budapest to save money and would do everything to keep their workforce.

According to Hirklikk, Budapest baths and spas are out of the Hungarian government’s utility price cap scheme from 1 September. That means they have to pay the market price for their electricity and gas consumption, which is a brutal increase. Therefore, the Hungarian media outlet argues that bath culture, one of Hungary’s most attractive tourist attractions, might be in danger. The rising prices cause considerable problems in Budapest and country spas alike.

To see clear, the opposition-close media outlet asked Anett Bősz, one of the deputy mayors of Budapest, responsible for the sector in the capital. Bősz was elected after the 2022 general elections after she could not win her constituency as a united opposition candidate. Before, she worked as an MP of the Democratic Coalition.

Zoltán Kántás, the president of the Hungarian Bath Association, told Infórádió before that most Hungarian baths and spas were forced to implement drastic service restrictions from September because of the rising prices. Furthermore, the association conducted a survey. The results show that 33-50 percent of the Hungarian baths and spas will remain closed in the first half of 2023.

To make matters worse, the number of guests fell because fewer people came from Ukraine and Russia. G7.hu says that Russian tourists almost completely disappeared from Hungary after the outbreak of the war and the first Western sanctions. In January, there were 54 thousand nights Russian guest spent in Hungary. Meanwhile, that number fell to 5-6 thousand by this May. In spring 2019, before the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the number of guest nights Russians spent in Hungary reached almost 80 thousand.

The catastrophic results are palpable not only in Budapest, but also in Hévíz and other popular Hungarian baths and spas. Based on the estimate of the Budapest Spas cPlc., the revenue loss in the case of the Historic baths of the capital (Gellért, Széchenyi, Rudas, Lukács) reaches HUF 311 million (EUR 773,753).

Bősz said they calculate with an eighteenfold gas price rise and a sevenfold electricity price increase for 2023 compared to the 2021 level. At least, those are the figures their latest public procurements show. 

She added that the popular spas of Hévíz, Bük, Sárvár, Debrecen, Hajdúszoboszló, Nyíregyháza, Harkány, Gyula are all in danger. However, everybody works to survive, jut like Budapest does.

What do Hungarian expats miss the most about home? Szechenyi Bath
Source: canva.com

Ildikó Szűts, CEO of the Budapest Spas cPlc., said that the first half year was outstandingly successful for Budapest’s baths and spas despite the lack of Russian and Ukrainian guests. Bősz added that the spas and baths of the capital preceded the average tourism numbers of Budapest. That surprised even the leadership of the institutions. They realized 80 percent of their 2019 numbers in the first six months of 2022. The baths and spas of Budapest remained extremely popular among foreign tourists.

The rising utility prices cause serious problems. But they will not be forced to close any baths or spas in Budapest, Bősz highlighted. However, it might happen that they would limit some services or optimise the opening times. Moreover, she said that the Budapest Spas cPlc. would like to keep the workforce. Bősz cleared that the baths and spas managed the crisis well.

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Half of the Hungarian spas might close because of the high prices

Some swimming pools already had to close because of the rising electricity and gas prices. According to the Hungarian Spa Association, it can affect half of the facilities in the country.

As the end of summer was approaching, many spas offered cheaper tickets than their usual seasonal passes. But the price of energy is increasing and the number of guests is falling. This can force about half of the Hungarian baths to close from autumn until the first half of the next year.

hungary sárvár thermal bath
Read alsoTickets to these Hungarian thermal spas are cheaper from this week!

The last two years were hard on everyone in tourism, including the spa industry. After the close-downs and restrictions caused by the pandemic, these businesses were just about to recover when the war broke out in Ukraine, resulting in skyrocketing energy prices.

People from countries east of Hungary are frequent visitors of our spas, and in the last months, the number of guests has decreased by 20-50 percent compared to expectations, said Zoltán Kántás, president of the Hungarian Spa Association. He said every facility that continued to operate in the same way as before took a huge risk because the prices were only going to get higher.

According to surveys conducted by the association, many baths find it necessary to restrict their services (for example saunas). This will lead to a further decrease in visitors and profits.

One-third or half of the spas will be forced to close until the first half of the next year

– said Kántás. Some places are in an easier situation while others have it harder: it helps to maintain operation if they have a fixed contract for their gas and electricity for the next year or are mostly independent of gas. However, it is high time to modernise most of the buildings’ energy efficiency.

The most affected facilities are Hévíz, Bük, Sárvár, Debrecen, Hajdúszoboszló, Nyíregyháza, Harkány and Gyula, but almost all spas face difficulties to remain open and maintain the quality of their services. Part of Hungary’s visitors are coming for the spas, so these events can negatively affect the already struggling tourism sector.

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Tickets to these Hungarian thermal spas are cheaper from this week!

hungary sárvár thermal bath

The end of summer is approaching, and as the season draws to a close, more and more thermal spas are reducing the number of pools visitors can use. In return, they are cutting ticket prices. Continue reading our article to learn which thermal baths will have cheaper tickets!

Ways of pricing tickets

Thermal spas usually have two ways of pricing their tickets. Some have a fixed price, others have seasonal prices. The latter means that they charge more for tickets during certain times of the year (the high season), but tickets are significantly cheaper in the off-season. Seasonal pricing is most often chosen by establishments where there is a significant difference between summer and winter pool choice, Index writes.

But there is no agreement on how long the season lasts. In some places, it goes on until mid to late September, while in others, you can bathe for off-season prices starting from the last days of August. However, with energy costs constantly changing, it is possible that some spas will change their prices later on.

Bogácsi Spa

bogács thermal spa
Bogács Thermal Spa. Source: spabogacs.eu

The Bogácsi Spa, known for its sulphurous thermal waters, has high season prices until 28 August, so from Monday onwards, the low season prices are in effect, Termál Online writes. This means a significant difference, as the price of the ticket for the outdoor pools will be reduced from HUF 3,200 to HUF 2,700 (EUR 6.56), while the price of the ticket valid for the indoor adventure pools as well will be reduced from HUF 4,600 to HUF 4,100 (EUR 9.96).

The other types of tickets will also be cheaper, for example, the pensioner’s outdoor pool ticket will cost HUF 2,300 (EUR 5.59) instead of HUF 2,600, and the price of the pensioner’s ticket valid for the indoor adventure pool will be reduced from HUF 4,000 to HUF 3,700 (EUR 8.99).

In Bogács, ticket prices will also change from 1 October, when the off-season prices will come into effect.

Bükfürdő Thermal & Spa

bükfürdő thermal & spa
Bükfürdő Thermal & Spa. Source: Facebook/Bükfürdő Thermal & Spa

The Bükfürdő Thermal & Spa offers discounted ticket prices from Monday to Thursday, with the exception of the period until 31 August and the autumn and winter school holidays. In other words, from 1 September, tickets are cheaper on the first four days of the week. For adults, this means a daily ticket price of HUF 5,200 (EUR 12,63) instead of HUF 5,600, and for pensioners HUF 3,950 (EUR 9.6) instead of HUF 4,300. Other ticket types, such as afternoon, family and student tickets are also cheaper from Monday to Thursday.

Hungarospa, Hajdúszoboszló

hungarospa hajdúszoboszló
Hungarospa, Hajdúszoboszló. Source: Facebook/Hungarospa Hajdúszoboszlói Zrt.

The Hungarospa beach in Hajdúszoboszló is offering cheaper tickets from 1 September. For adult tickets, this means a price of HUF 3,400 (EUR 8.26) instead of HUF 3,600, and for pensioner tickets, the price is HUF 2,900 (EUR 7.04) instead of HUF 3,100.

It will be worth making the most of the coming weekend, as almost all the beach pools will be open, including the Mediterranean beach, the swimming pool, the wave pool, the Omega pool, the Dolphin pool and the children’s pool number 1. The aqua park, which can be visited with an additional ticket, is also open until 4 September.

Aqua Palace, Hajdúszoboszló

aqua palace hajdúszoboszló
Aqua Palace. Source: https://hajduszoboszlo.hu/aqua-palace

The ticket prices for the Aqua-Palace indoor adventure pool in Hajdúszoboszló will also change from 1 September. On weekdays, you can buy cheaper tickets, for example, the adult adventure pool ticket costs HUF 4,000 (EUR 9.72) instead of HUF 4,700, and the student ticket costs HUF 2,900 (EUR 7.04) instead of HUF 3,600.

Várkertfürdő, Pápa

várkertfürdő pápa
Várkertfürdő. Source: varkertfurdo.hu

Seasonal ticket prices are valid for the three summer months at the Várkertfürdő in Pápa. This means that from 1 September, tickets will be cheaper. For a full-price, all-day ticket, this means a HUF 200 decrease: instead of HUF 3900, the ticket will cost HUF 3700 (EUR 8.99). For pensioners and students, the summer day ticket price of HUF 2750 will be reduced by HUF 100, i.e. it will cost HUF 2650 (EUR 6.44).

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