For Hungarians, going to the baths have been a thing since the 15 century. The city sits atop nearly 123 hot springs, so needless to say there's easy access to hot water.
But the baths are more than just hot tubs.
The thermal water is rich with minerals such as sulphate, calcium, magnesium, which can soothe chronic pain and illnesses such as joint inflammation, kidney stones, asthma, and more.
Plus, they're fun to sit and soak in.
When Chase and I visited Budapest, we had a great experience at the Gellért Baths, a picturesque spa located in the Hotel Gellért. While I admit I went for the Bourdain of it all (Gellért was featured in an episode of Parts Unknown), I thought the baths were spectacularly beautiful. And probably worth the 22 euro each for a private dressing room.
While there was the very nice YMCA pool vibe, it was the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon in Hungary. Chase relaxed in the sauna (which he said really helped with his cold), I floated in one of the thermal baths and we both relaxed.
(Until we found a band-aid floating in one of the pools.)
I would expect a pleasant experience. I would bring flip flops.
That all said, here are six thermal baths in Budapest to go to when you visit.
Vel Bej Baths
This well-concealed thermal bath has been around since the Ottoman Empire. If you're looking to avoid tourists, this is one of your best choices.
Vel Bej Baths has four small pools with water at different temperatures, as well as a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, leisure showers, steam room, and infrared sauna.
Closest Bus Stop: Császár-Komjádi uszoda
Széchenyi Baths
Undoubtedly Europe’s largest spa complex, Széchenyi Baths attract the highest number of visitors from the residents of Budapest to tourists.
There are 11 indoor thermal pools with showers and steam rooms. Apart from the plunge pools, you can also soak in mineral-rich hot water or play a round of chess.
Closest Subway Stop: Széchenyi fürdő
Lukács Baths
Lukács Baths have been around since the 12th century. The modern facilities include a steam room, saunas, massage services, and fitness park. Lukács also has private baths with of highest water quality. You can also drink warm mineral water, which is supposed to be good for your health.
Closest Tram Stop: Szent Lukács Gyógyfürdő
Rudas Baths
Opened during the 16th century, Rudas Baths have since been renovated and expanded. The water temperature is up to 42° C. In addition to a steam cabin and spa, there is also a rooftop panoramic pool.
Closest Tram Stop: Rudas Gyógyfürdő
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Gellért Baths
Build like a cathedral, Gellért Baths take you back to the origins of baths in Budapest in the 13th century. It is undoubtedly one of the best thermal baths in Budapest, given the blue waters with a temperature of between 26° C and 40° C.
Apart from the indoor swimming pool, there's also a sauna, steam cabin, and medical massage. The spa is part of Gellért Baths, even though they are operated separately.
Closest Tram Stop: Szent Gellért tér M
Király Baths
Established in 1570, Király Baths are the perfect destination for peace and tranquility. The biggest of the baths has a maximum temperature of 36° C while the smaller ones range between 26° C and 40° C.
There is also a secluded section with private baths rich in minerals such as fluoride, magnesium, and calcium.
Closest Bus Stop: Kacsa utca
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