Best thermal baths in Budapest
In addition to its impressive historical and cultural heritage, Budapest is famous for being the European capital of thermal baths.
Across the city, you’ll find historic spas, outdoor thermal pools and even bathhouses with spectacular views. A peaceful escape from the bustle of the city, loved by both visitors and locals, and a must if you’re exploring the Hungarian capital.
In this article, we’ll share the best thermal baths in Budapest. Discover the most iconic spots or hidden gems where you can enjoy healing waters and unwind after a long day exploring the city.
Discover these thermal baths in Budapest
Széchenyi Baths
The Széchenyi Baths are the largest and arguably the most popular in Budapest. They feature 18 indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms. Built in Neo-Baroque style in 1913, they’re especially lively in winter, when the warm waters contrast with the crisp outdoor air.
Location: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Hungary
Opening hours: 7 am – 8 pm
Price: from €31.80 (€25 before 9 am)
Gellért Spa
This famous Budapest spa is renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and colourful mosaics, making it the most beautiful in the city. It offers indoor thermal pools, a large wave pool, saunas, and private baths—perfect for those seeking a charming historic spa experience.
Location: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary
Opening hours: 9 am – 7 pm
Price: from €29
Rudas Baths
With over 500 years of history, Rudas Baths date back to the 16th century and preserve their Ottoman atmosphere, complete with a spectacular domed ceiling. They also feature a panoramic rooftop pool overlooking the Danube, as well as Turkish baths and therapeutic pool circuits.
Location: Budapest, Döbrentei tér 9, 1013 Hungary
Opening hours: 6 am – 8 pm (open until 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays)
Price: from €24
Veli Bej Baths
Quieter and lesser-known, Veli Bej is one of Budapest’s oldest Turkish baths, originally built in the 16th century. Its modern facilities retain historic charm, complemented by a Finnish sauna, Kneipp pool, jacuzzis, and other relaxing features.
Location: Budapest, Árpád fejedelem útja 7, 1023 Hungary
Opening hours: 6 am – 9 pm (closed 12 pm – 3 pm)
Price: from €12
Lukács Baths
Lukács Spa is one of Budapest’s best-known thermal baths among locals, offering medicinal thermal pools, a variety of baths, and a distinctive historic character. It’s also a more budget-friendly choice, ideal for experiencing therapeutic waters in a peaceful setting.
Location: Budapest, Frankel Leó út 25-29, 1023 Hungary
Opening hours: 7 am – 7 pm
Price: from €15
Tips for enjoying Budapest’s thermal baths
To make the most of your visit to Budapest’s bathhouses, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds and get the best prices.
- Bring your own towel, flip-flops, and swim cap to avoid rental fees.
- Buy your thermal bath tickets online to save time and skip queues.
- Any season is a good time, but we especially recommend bathing outdoors in winter.
Budapest is a unique destination for culture lovers and wellness enthusiasts. Each thermal bath and spa in the city offers a different experience, whether through its architecture, variety of healing waters, or unique atmosphere.
If you’re visiting the Hungarian capital, don’t miss its iconic bathhouses—they’re an essential part of the city’s identity, and you’re bound to love them!
