The 8 Best Thermal Baths in Budapest

things to do
January 5, 2024

One of the best things to do in Budapest is exploring its thermal baths and spas. The city, abundant in thermal springs, offers you many options, whether you’re seeking pure relaxation, addressing specific health concerns, or simply yearning for an authentic local experience.

If you’re wondering which is the best thermal bath to go in Budapest, check out this curated list of the 8 best options.

QUICK NAVIGATION LINKS

• Best thermal baths in Budapest:
1. Szechényi
2. Gellért
3. Rudás
4. Lukács
5. Dagály
6. Palatinus
7. Veli Bej
8. Dandár
• History about Budapest thermal baths
• What to bring and wear?
• Choose the right thermal bath

Best thermal baths and spas

1. Szechényi

Szechényi Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1913 (and expanded in 1927)
• Architectural style: Neo-Baroque
• Number of pools: 21
• Water temperatures: 18°C – 40°C / 64.4°F – 104°F
• Location: District 14, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146

Budapest’s most popular outdoor thermal pools

Situated in the heart of City Park (Városliget), Széchenyi is the largest and most renowned thermal bath in Budapest, and one of the biggest complexes in Europe². It boasts a wide variety of thermal pools where you can relax while admiring the architectural surroundings on its well-known outdoor pools. The complex also offers saunas, steam baths and medical spa services.

Should I book Szechényi Baths?

If you’re into grand architecture and would like to try the outdoor thermal pools, then yes – Szechényi is the most popular thermal bath. However, it might become somewhat congested during peak seasons. You can book it in advance or buy on-site.

Thermal bath prices at Széchenyi:

	Entry until 9am	Full-Day ticket w/locker
Mon-Thu	HUF 7500	HUF 9400
Fridays	HUF 8700	HUF 10900
Holidays	-	HUF 11900

Massage prices at Széchenyi:

Time	Price
20 min	HUF 10800
45 min	HUF 18000
60 min (premium)	HUF 26000

Learn more on our dedicated article about the Széchenyi thermal baths.

2. Gellért

Gellért Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1918
• Architectural style: Secession (Art Nouveau)
• Number of pools: 12
• Water temperatures: 27°C – 40°C (80.6°F – 104°F)
• Location: District 11, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 (Hotel Gellért)

Art Nouveau gem

Gellért thermal baths are undoubtedly one of the most best thermal baths in Budapest – or, at least, one of the most visited (and photographed). With a more sophisticated atmosphere and over 100 years of history, this true architectural treasure of Budapest is characterized by the Secession style (a Viennese variation of Art Nouveau).

Medicinal properties

Like others, Gellért is also known for its medicinal properties, and is sought after to treat conditions such as arthritis, hernias, circulation or respiratory problems, among others.

Thermal bath prices at Gellért:

	Full-Day ticket w/locker	2 people (90 min)
Mon-Thu	HUF 9400	-
Fridays and weekends	HUF 10900	HUF 11900
Holidays	HUF 11900	-

Massage bath prices at Gellért:

Time	Price
20 min (classic)	HUF 10800
45 min (classic)	HUF 18000
60 min (premium)	HUF 26000

Learn more on our dedicated article about the Gellért thermal baths.

3. Rudás

Rudás Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1550
• Architectural style: Ottoman and Modern
• Number of pools: 6
• Water temperatures: 16°C – 42°C (60.8°F – 107.6°F)
• Location: District 1, Döbrentei tér 9, 1013

A popular Turkish bath experience

Built in the 16th century during the Ottoman occupation, it has a historical atmosphere that transports us back in time. Its most impressive feature is the octagonal domed pool, typical of Turkish baths, under a majestic stone ceiling.

Different entry requirements

Historically, Rudás was frequented only by men, and today it still has some rules regarding access – there are specific days/hours for men, women, and for mixed bathing.

View to the Danube

If you go to Rudás, check the outdoor pool – it has a view of the Danube. Oh, and you can also include a romantic dinner for two.

Thermal bath prices at Rudás:

	Full day (all zones)	Full day - Turkish bath or Wellness
Week days	HUF 8600	HUF 5900 (Thursdays until 12:45 pm, Fridays until 10:45 am)
Weekends	HUF 12200	-
Holidays	HUF 13200	-

Massage prices at Rudás:

Time	Price
20 min (classic)	HUF 9000
20 min (water massage w/soap foam)	HUF 6500
45 min (classic)	HUF 14000
45 min (peeling water massage)	HUF 10000
60 min (premium)	HUF 20000

4. Lukács

Lukács Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1880s
• Architectural style: Moorish and Classical
• Number of pools: 8
• Water temperatures: 19°C – 40°C (66.2°F – 104°F)
• Location: District 2, Frankel Leó út 25-29, 1023

One of the oldest

Lukács is one of Budapest’s most traditional baths, with its origins dating back to the 12th century. Established by the knights of the Order of Saint John, it was later maintained by the Orders of Rhodes and Malta, and then by the Ottomans¹². It has inside pools, where the Ottoman influence is most seen, and the outside areas, which are more recent.

Ottoman influence

In 1884, Fülöp Palotay purchased the bath, and a spa hotel was built. And after several modernization projects, a wide range of medicinal pools was added. However, the Moorish architectural influence still lingers in certain areas.

Thermal bath prices at Lukács:

	Full day ticket
Weekdays	Adults: HUF 4400; Seniors and students: HUF 3200; From 5 PM onwards: HUF 3200.
Weekends and holidays	Adults: HUF 4800; Seniors and students: HUF 4200; From 5PM onwards: HUF 4200.

Massage prices at Lukács:

Time	Price
20 min (classic)	HUF 5400
45 min (classic)	HUF 9000
60 min (premium)	HUF 19200

5. Dagály

Dagály Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1948
• Architectural style: Socialist Realism
• Number of pools: 10
• Water temperatures: Up to 24°C – 40°C (75.2°F – 104°F)
• Location: District 13, Népfürdő u. 28-30, 1138

The Socialist-Realist one

On the Pest side of the Danube to thenorth, you can enjoy thermal baths in a seting of authentic socialist realism, a style of the former Soviet Union.

Many pools at a cheaper price

At a lower price than others, Dagály Baths offer a variety of pools: thermal, immersion, massage pools, Kneipp pools, children’s pools, and even pools with activities (like the wave pool). And you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy great vistas of the Danube and the Buda Hill.

Thermal bath prices at Dagály:

	Day ticket
Weekdays	HUF 9400 (+1000 HUF with access to the Wellness area)
Weekends and holidays	HUF 10900 (+1000 HUF with access to the Wellness area)

Massage prices at Dagály:

Time	Price
20 min	HUF 4000
45 min	HUF 7400

6. Palatinus

Palatinus Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1919
• Architectural style: Bauhaus
• Number of pools: 11
• Water temperatures: 26°C – 36°C (78.8°F – 96.8°F)
• Location: District 13, Soó Rezső stny. 1, 1003 (Margaret Island)

“The Thermal Beach”

Located on Margaret Island between Buda and Pest, Palatinus Baths are supplied with water from the island’s natural springs and, being outdoors, they are often regarded as a type of thermal beach.

There’s also a spa

Besides the medicinal pools, swimming pools, children’s pools, wave pools, etc., you can also find find saunas and steam baths in the indoor spa.

Thermal bath prices at Palatinus:

	Weekdays	Weekends
Adult	HUF 4400	HUF 4900
2 hours	HUF 3400 + HUF 1000 cash deposit	Only on Sat until 12pm + HUF 1200 cash deposit
From 5pm	HUF 3400	-
3-14 years old, students, seniors	HUF 3500	HUF 3900
Familiy ticket	HUF 9800 - HUF 12300	HUF 10800 - HUF 13700

Massage prices at Palatinus:

Time	Price
20 min	HUF 4500
45 min	HUF 7500

7. Veli Bej

Veli Bej Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1574-75
• Architectural style: Ottoman influence
• Number of pools: 6
• Water temperatures: Up to 38°C (100.4°F) in the main pool
• Location: District 2, Árpád fejedelem útja 7, 1023 (Budai Irgalmasrendi Kórház)

A renovated Turkish bath

Veli Bej Spa is another treasure from the Ottoman era. It’s located in the Császár Hotel and, despite recent renovations, offers an authentic thermal experience, featuring the typical octagonal pool at its center.

Among the various services, you can enjoy Turkish baths, a Finnish sauna, an infrared sauna, a jacuzzi, relaxation massages, therapeutic massages, sports massages, and more.

Thermal bath prices at Veli Bej:

	3h ticket
Monday-Thursday	From 3pm-9pm: HUF 4500
Saturday	From 6am-9am: HUF 5000; From 9am-12pm: HUF 4500; From 3am-9pm: HUF 5000
Sunday	From 6am-12pm: HUF 5000; From 3pm-9pm - HUF 5000

8. Dandár

Dandár Thermal Baths

• Built in: 1930
• Architectural style: Expresionism
• Number of pools: 5
• Water temperatures: 36°C – 38°C (96.8°F – 100.4°F)
• Location: District 9, Dandár u. 3, 1095

Less fame, less people

Dandár Bath is one of Budapest’s lesser-known thermal baths, making it a quieter and more relaxing option. With its therapeutic waters and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more intimate bathing experience. Like in other cases, you have the option to enjoy regular baths or add wellness services.

It was built as a public bathing facility, but has undergone several renovations, especially after the damage caused by World War II.

Thermal bath prices at Dandár:

	Weekdays	Weekends
Full ticket (adults)	HUF 3400	HUF 3500
Only indoors thermal area (adults)	HUF 2700	HUF 2800
Only indoors thermal area (seniors and students)	HUF 2100	HUF 3400
Only indoor thermal area - 2h	HUF 2200 + HUF 500 deposit in cash	-
Only indoors thermal area - from 5pm	HUF 2200	-

Massage prices at Dandár:

Time	Price
20 min	HUF 10800
45 min	HUF 18000
60 min (premium)	HUF 26000

*There are another two great Turkish baths in Budapest: Rácz and Király. Even though they would probably be part of this list, in 2024 they’re still closed. Once they re-open, this article will be updated.

A bit of History

Budapest boasts a staggering 123 thermal springs¹, so it’s no surprise that the city is so rich in thermal baths and thermal spas.

Ottoman tradition (but not only)

While the Romans and Celts had already tapped into the therapeutic properties of these thermal springs for healing, public baths, or just for drinking, it was the Turkish presence in Hungary that further solidified this tradition. Today, many of these thermal baths in Budapest (“fürdő” in Hungarian) have Turkish origins, being housed in centuries-old buildings with octagonal chambers. Yet, the city also has post-Ottoman structures, with other styles.

What do you need to wear to the thermal baths in Budapest?

It’s important to know the etiquette in Budapest’s thermal baths:

Wearing a swimsuit is mandatory in most baths. Bring your own or rent some (when available) at the facility. Also – keep an eye out for gender-specific sessions that don’t require bathing suits, but be aware that many have become mixed-gender, and wearing bathing suits is mandatory.
You should also bring flip-flops from home, or buy some on-site.
Bring two towels (or rent them) – one for use during your spa day and another for the end.
Wearing swimming cap isn’t mandatory, but it’s recommended especially for people with longer hair.
Wearing a robe isn’t compulsory, but you can bring or rent one.
Bring shower essentials for after your bath, or simply buy them there. Also, usually there are public hairdryers available.
Oh, and – most importantly – don’t forget to bring your ticket or the email confirmation in case you’ve purchased it online. If you’re buying it in person, better to bring some cash (HUF) with you just in case card isn’t being accepted (and because sometimes a small cash deposit is needed).

Choosing the right thermal bath

When visiting the thermal baths in Budapest, choosing a place to go can be challenging due to the multitude of options. Here are some pointers to help you decide.

1. Paying attention to the peak times

If avoiding crowds is important to you, you’ll want to know that from mid-afternoon the baths get busier, and in the Summer (June to September) that happens more. Going in the morning might be a better time – but you might just want to check Google Maps for the less busy periods of your desired bath.

Also, it’s worth nothing that, even though most baths are open during Hungary national holidays, on those days they might be busier.

Which thermal bath in Budapest is the least crowded?
Veli Bej is one of Budapest’s least crowded thermal baths, possibly the least. It is nestled within the ‘Budai Irgalmas Rendi’ Hospital, just behind Lukács Baths. Other smaller Turkish baths can also be found with less people.

What is the most famous thermal bath in Budapest?
Széchenyi and Gellért are the most famous thermal baths, especially due to its spacious facilities, historical buildings and imposing architecture. However, you’ll probably find larger crowds there.

2. Choosing the authentic Turkish bath experience

If you want a traditional Turkish bath in Budapest, Veli Bej or Lukács are some of the main (Király and Rácz are currently closed). These spaces are smaller, so the atmosphere is different – so you might get reduced crowds, and definitely more budget-friendly prices. And then there’s Rudás, a more popular and bigger bath, also famous for its Ottoman influence.

3. Choosing the bath based on medicinal properties

Budapest’s thermal waters, often accompanied by a strong sulfur scent, are rich in minerals like lithium, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, bicarbonate, sulfate, sulfide, metabolic acid, silicon, carbon dioxide, etc. However, each bath is different and has their own recommendations.

What are the benefits of the Budapest baths?
Some baths are recommended for treating conditions like joint diseases, chronic arthritis, specific orthopedic issues, herniated discs, neuralgia, etc. In certain places, the thermal water ingestion is also advised for gastric, intestinal, renal or respiratory problems, metabolic disorders related to gout, diseases of the gallbladder and bile ducts, etc.

Are thermal baths in Budapest worth visiting?

Visiting one of the thermal baths in Budapest is totally worth the experience, and one of the main things to do in the city. Whether you’re looking for a popular thermal bath to visit, an authentic Turkish bath experience, or a medical treatment, most Budapest’s spas can give you any of that.

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