The best thermal baths in Budapest are the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. The many natural spas of the Hungarian capital have been part of local culture since the days of the Romans, who were attracted to the location that’s now Budapest by the healing properties of the water. As such, bathing has been a central part of life in Budapest for centuries.
From historic Ottoman-era architecture to modern spa facilities, Budapest’s thermal baths offer something for every type of traveler. Here are 12 of the best thermal baths to visit in Budapest, and a few housekeeping rules to follow.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Budapest is known for its thermal baths, and for a truly iconic experience, Széchenyi is the place to start. Opened in 1913, it’s now one of the largest spa complexes in Europe. The outdoor area features three pools set in a spacious courtyard. The center pool is reserved for lap swimming and requires a swim cap, while the two pools on either side—the thermal sitting pool and the activity pool—are heated to different temperatures and have a more laid-back vibe. The thermal sitting pool becomes especially popular in the colder months, with water heated to around 100°F.
Inside Széchenyi’s striking Neo-Baroque building, you’ll find 15 smaller pools with different temperatures, saunas, and steam rooms. The indoor layout winds through a network of rooms and corridors, which can initially feel overwhelming, but part of the charm is simply taking your time and exploring. Some rooms are functional and straightforward, while others are decorated with old mosaics and columns, making it easy to imagine life there many years ago.
Gellért Thermal Bath
Gellért Thermal Bath
Gellért Thermal Bath opened its doors in 1918 as part of the Gellért Hotel complex and has been a local favorite ever since. Its biggest draw is the elaborate Art Nouveau design, featuring vibrant mosaics, stained glass windows, and striking columns.
Much like Széchenyi, Gellért Thermal Bath is divided into indoor and outdoor areas. The outdoor section includes a large wave pool, which is open during the warm summer months, and a smaller thermal soaking pool, which is open year-round.
Compared to Széchenyi, Gellért feels more relaxed and less crowded, making it one of the best baths in Budapest for travelers looking for a calmer experience.
The indoor area features the impressive main hall, several saunas and steam rooms, and a handful of smaller pools heated or cooled to different temperatures. If you want to mix things up, you can create your hydrotherapy circuit by alternating between the hot thermal baths and the cold plunge pools.
As with most of the thermal baths in Budapest, you’ll need a swim cap to use the large pool here.
Rudas Thermal Bath
Rudas Thermal Bath
Like Király, Rudas Thermal Bath was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century and features an octagonal pool and domed ceiling typical of Turkish architecture from that era. In addition to the historic pools, Rudas has expanded with newer wellness areas and a rooftop pool offering panoramic views of Budapest.
The indoor historic area feels atmospheric, with the focal point being the original octagonal thermal pool set beneath the Ottoman dome. Even on cloudy days, sunlight filters through the small windows in the ceiling, creating a soft, natural light. Four smaller pools surround the main pool, each with different water temperatures.
Low lighting throughout the space helps create a calm, old-world feel. While most thermal baths in Budapest do not permit public nudity, Rudas Baths offers a unique experience with designated single-sex days where nudity is allowed.
The newer wellness wing includes a swimming pool, additional thermal baths, a sauna, a steam room, and a cold plunge. This area feels bright, clean, and modern compared to the historic side. A perfect way to end your visit is with a dip in the rooftop hot tub, where you can take in sweeping views of the city below.
Lukács Thermal Bath
Lukács Thermal Bath
Lukács Thermal Bath was built in the 19th century and offers visitors a calm, laid-back thermal bath experience that’s particularly popular with locals. While there is an outdoor thermal pool, the main attraction is the large indoor thermal pool filled with warm mineral water. Smaller pools surround the main pool at different temperatures, creating a whole hydrotherapy experience.
You can also add to the experience by alternating between the saunas and steam rooms, followed by a cold plunge. While there’s no single “right” way to enjoy the baths, most visitors start by soaking in the large thermal pool before moving on to the smaller pools and sauna rooms.
Veli Bej Thermal Bath
Located within the same building as the Hotel Csaszar Budapest, Veli Bej Thermal Bath was built in the 16th century during the Ottoman occupation and is one of the oldest Turkish baths in the city.
Like Király Thermal Bath, Veli Bej is entirely indoors, which gives it a cozy, intimate feel. At the center are the octagonal thermal pool and a restored domed ceiling—a classic feature of traditional Turkish baths.
Surrounding the main pool are four smaller pools, each with water heated or cooled to different temperatures. There’s also a sauna, steam room, cold plunge, and a few modern wellness pools tucked into side areas.
While Veli Bej boasts a rich history, a major renovation in the 2010s updated the facilities, ensuring they are clean and comfortable.
Csillaghegyi Strandfürdő
Csillaghegyi Strandfürdő Photo by Christo on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Compared to many of Budapest’s historic thermal baths, Csillaghegyi Strandfürdő is relatively new. It opened in the late 19th century, although it was simply an open-air bathing spot at that time. In more recent years, it’s become a complete wellness center with thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs.
While the better-known Széchenyi is a major tourist attraction, Csillaghegyi Strandfürdő has a much more local feel and is especially popular with families and older residents.
One of Csillaghegyi’s unique features is its hillside setting, which is surrounded by trees and lush greenery. The outdoor pools are on the lower level, while the wellness and spa facilities are on the second and third floors.
Dagály Thermal Bath
Dagály Thermal Bath Photo by Christo on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Since opening in 1948, Dagály Thermal Bath has been a popular destination for swimming and relaxing. The outdoor area is spacious, featuring thermal pools for soaking and lap swimming pools for exercise. Dagály has a local vibe, making it ideal for traveling with family or a large group.
The large lawn area is perfect for sunbathing or even picnicking. Inside, you’ll find jacuzzis, saunas, steam rooms, and several thermal soaking pools.
Palatinus Strand
Palatinus Strand Photo by Globetrotter19 on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
Located on Margaret Island, Palatinus Strand is a family-friendly, open-air thermal bath in Budapest. The wave pool is fun for all ages, while the water slides are a hit with kids. Conversely, adults will appreciate the medicinal thermal pools, with one heated to around 96.8°F and the other reaching 107.6°F. These high temperatures can help soothe sore muscles and improve overall blood circulation.
Since Margaret Island is a pedestrian-only area, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Budapest. To avoid the crowds, visit in the early morning or on weekdays. Securing one of the free lounge chairs can be a challenge during peak times.
Paskál Thermal Bath
For a fun day with the whole family, visit Paskál Thermal Bath (officially Paskál Gyógy- és Strandfürdő), located in Budapest’s 14th district. This thermal complex caters to all interests. The indoor thermal pools are ideal for soaking in mineral-rich water to relieve aches and pains, while the swim-up bar offers a more social, resort-like vibe.
During the summer, the outdoor pools are popular with swimmers and sunbathers. For a more peaceful experience, explore the wellness area or book a massage.
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Spa
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Spa
While not a traditional thermal bath, Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Spa offers thermal treatments as part of its comprehensive wellness experience. The spa features an indoor heated pool, saunas, steam rooms, and a hydrotherapy treatment that alternates hot and cold water to stimulate circulation.
One of the spa’s signature treatments uses Hungarian mud, which is sourced from the nutrient-rich plains of southeast Hungary. This mud is known for its therapeutic benefits and mineral density.
FAQs
What is bath etiquette?
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
When visiting a thermal bath in Budapest, there are a few etiquette rules to follow. First, be sure to shower before entering any of the pools. If you have long hair, you’ll want to tie it back to help keep the water clean.
Remember, thermal baths are places for relaxation, not waterparks—so keep noise to a minimum and respect those around you. Quiet conversation is fine, but anything louder might earn you a few unfriendly stares. If you’re feeling chatty, save the funny stories for the outdoor pools, where the atmosphere is usually a bit more relaxed and lively.
How long should I spend at the thermal baths?
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
This really comes down to personal preference. On average, most visitors spend between two and four hours at the thermal baths—sometimes a bit longer at places like Széchenyi or Gellért. When planning your visit, keep in mind that you may need extra time for checking in and getting your locker set up, especially during busy periods.
When soaking in the thermal baths, it’s a good idea to limit your time in any one pool to about 20 minutes, but ultimately, listen to your body and take breaks as needed. If you start to feel light-headed or overheated, it’s time to take a break. Staying hydrated is essential, too—most baths have drinking fountains near the main pool areas.
Can I bring my phone?
Even if a thermal bath doesn’t strictly ban phones, it’s generally best practice—and common courtesy—to leave your phone in your locker rather than carrying it from pool to pool. This helps create a more peaceful atmosphere and respects the privacy of other visitors, who may not want to be photographed while in swimwear.
Should I book in advance?
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
The short answer is: it depends. For popular baths like Széchenyi or Gellért—especially during high season or on weekends—it’s a good idea to book in advance. However, if you don’t manage to reserve ahead of time, you can often still visit by going during less crowded times, like early in the morning. Smaller or less touristy baths usually have plenty of space for walk-ins without prior booking.
Is clothing required?
Swimwear is required at all thermal baths, and most places also require a swim cap if you plan to use the lap pools. Swimwear must be made of swimwear fabric, so for example, a cotton T-shirt will not be allowed in a thermal pool.
Other than that, you only need a towel and a pair of flip-flops. Remember sunblock if you plan to sunbathe outside; the heat in Budapest can be intense in summer.
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