Széchenyi Thermal Baths: a complete guide
- things to do
- January 3, 2024
Welcome to the ultimate guide to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of Budapest’s crown jewels. In 2024, whether you’re planning a relaxing day or a rejuvenating experience, it’s essential to know the costs involved. This article breaks down all the pricing details for entry, services, and extras at Széchenyi, and explains everything that you can expect from your visit.
Quick links:
• Széchenyi: the largest and most popular thermal bath in Budapest
• What to expect
• Széchenyi baths entry fee
• Széchenyi opening hours
• Top tips to visit Széchenyi thermal baths
• The best time to visit Széchenyi
• How to get to Széchenyi thermal baths
• Széchenyi during winter
• Bottom line: is it worth visiting the Széchenyi thermal baths?
Széchenyi: the largest and most popular thermal bath in Budapest
Széchenyi Bath stands out as Budapest’s largest and most popular thermal spa, and it also ranks among Europe’s most expansive natural hot spring spa baths. Approaching its 111th anniversary in 2024, Széchenyi Bath has welcomed many million visitors, who have relished its therapeutic warm waters and delightful aquatic amenities through its storied past.
What to expect
Architectural beauty
Before diving into the watery pleasures, take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the entrance hall dome, adorned with Zsigmond Vajda’s artwork that captures solar and zodiacal motifs along with mythological water elements. It’s a testament to Budapest’s architectural beauty and a visual treat not to be overlooked.
Al Fresco aquatic bliss
Divided into two primary areas, the outdoor section is a favorite among visitors at Széchenyi Baths. This picturesque setting is framed by the building’s pastel-yellow facade and consists of three distinct pools: two thermal pools—with temperatures ranging from a warm 30°C to a toasty 38°C (86°F to 100.4°F)—and a full-sized 50-meter swimming pool maintained at a cooler 26-28°C (78.8-82.4°F).
The outdoor thermal pool is a hub of tranquility, particularly in the colder months, offering a therapeutic escape into its warm embrace. It’s a local’s retreat for unwinding, with some even enjoying a good read or a game of chess amidst the steamy waters. Come summer, the vibe shifts; the activity pool beckons with its refreshing cooler waters and the powerful whirlpool, while the surrounding terrace invites sunbathers to bask in the sun’s glow.
Oh, and the swimming pool is exactly for that—swimming. So, a swim cap will be essential here.
Indoor serenity
Inside, Széchenyi Baths houses 15 pools with temperatures spanning from 18°C to 40°C (64.4-104°F). While some are less frequented except by regulars, the most visually arresting areas are not to be missed. These include a beautifully curved central pool and a Romanesque enclave adorned with maroon columns and sun-kissed waters. Also available are a hot plunge pool, a cooler counterpoint, and a suite of saunas and steam rooms for a complete thermal experience.
Pampering massages
Beyond the pools, the baths also offer a variety of massages, from a brief aromatic touch to a more indulgent harmony aroma session. Prices for these start at 18,000 HUF (approximately $50 USD, £41 GBP, €47 EUR).
Indoor therapeutic pool
• Water temperature: 28-40 degrees Celsius
• Water depth: 1.0-1.3 meters
• Recommended soaking time: 20 minutes
Recommended for degenerative joint diseases, chronic arthritis, orthopedic treatments, and more, these thermal water contain calcium-magnesium bicarbonate, sulphate, sodium, fluoride, and metaboric acid. The thermal water’s heat dilates blood vessels, lowering blood pressure, relaxing muscles, and allowing skin mineral absorption. Treatment lasts 20 minutes and requires a medical prescription.
The Beer Spa experience
For an unconventional twist, the beer spa presents a quirky yet intriguing option. Here you can indulge in a beer-infused soak complete with unlimited beer on tap. While it may come with a higher price tag (32,500 HUF, so about $90 USD per person), it’s an experience that stands out in Budapest’s array of attractions.
Sparty
Last but not least, for those who fuse nightlife with wellness, the Sparty transforms Széchenyi into a nocturnal festival of water and music for a great part of the year, on Saturdays. It’s a unique Budapest party experience, attracting a lively crowd ready to revel till the break of dawn. It’s also a tad more expensive than just a normal visit to Széchenyi, but totally worth it if fun is what you’re looking for.
You can visit the Sparty website for more details, but here’s a snapshot of what you’ll find in terms of prices:
Széchenyi Baths entry fee
1. Daily Entrance Tickets
• ‘Good morning Budapest’ ticket (entrance until 9 am): 7,500 HUF (Weekdays)
• Daily ticket with locker usage: 9,400 HUF (Weekdays)
• Fast Track ticket (available only online): 9,400 HUF (Monday to Thursday), 10,900 HUF (Fridays and weekends), 11,900 HUF (holidays)
2. Massages
• Classical massages: 20 minutes – 18,000 HUF
• Aroma massage: 20 minutes – 18,000 HUF
• Refreshing massage: 20 minutes – 18,000 HUF
• Premium massages (60 minutes) for 1 person: 26,000 HUF
• Luxury refreshing massage: 26,000 HUF
• Harmony aroma massage: 26,000 HUF
3. Products (currently they don’t have rental service)
• Towel: 6,000 HUF
• Bathrobe: 12,000 HUF
• Bathing suit: 6,000 HUF
• Swim cap: 2,000 HUF
4. Private Spa Packages
If you’re keen to have some more exclusivity, the private spa might just be what you’re looking for. Have a look on the available packages:
Deluxe Relaxing Room Package:
Prices:
• Without massage: 44,000 HUF.
• With massage: 52,000 HUF.
• 2 people without massage: 32,500 HUF per person.
• 2 people with a 45-minute massage: 45,000 HUF per person.
• Bath ticket for 4 hours, which grants access to a private room equipped with a private bathroom (shower).
• Entry to Dayspalm relaxing area and VIP bar, where you can indulge in cocktails and snacks.
• Admission to both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as saunas.
• Complimentary 0.33l of mineral water.
• A cozy bathrobe, a soft towel, comfortable slippers, and a swimming cap.
• In-room amenities such as shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion.
• Access to a hair dryer for your convenience.
• A delightful chocolate dessert.
• A special Budapest Spas Handmade Soap.
• Your choice of either a 0.75l bottle of sparkling wine (Hungária extra dry) or a 0.2l soft drink.
SUPERIOR RELAXING ROOM
Prices:
• Without massage: 34,500 HUF
• With massage: 43,000 HUF
• 2 people without massage: 26,500 HUF per person
• 2 people with a 45-minute massage: 39,000 HUF per person
It includes:
• Bath ticket for 4 hours
• Access to their Dayspalm relaxing area and VIP bar for cocktails and snacks
• Admission to indoor and outdoor pools, saunas
• Complimentary 0.33l of mineral water
• Choice of sparkling wine (Hungária extra dry) 0.2 l or a soft drink 0.2 l
• Indulgence in a chocolate dessert
• Provision of a comfortable bathrobe, towel, slippers, and a swimming cap
• In-room toiletries, including shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion
• Access to a hair dryer
• Their dedicated colleagues are available for personalized massage offers on-site
PAMPERING PACKAGE – THALASSO PRIVATE SPA PACKAGE
• Price: 46,000 HUF per person
It includes:
• Bath ticket for 4 hours
• Access to indoor and outdoor pools, saunas
• Luxurious relaxing room, which includes a private shower and a private bathroom
• Detox body ritual by Thalion (60 minutes)
• Complimentary 0.33l of mineral water
• Provision of a comfortable bathrobe, towel, slippers, and a swimming cap
• Access to a hair dryer
• In-room toiletries, including shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion
• Indulgence in a chocolate dessert
• Budapest Spas Handmade Soap
• Choice of sparkling wine (Hungária extra dry) 0.2 l or a soft drink 0.2 l
5. Thalasso therapy (out of the Private Spa package)
Since you’re here, you might be curious about the second most famous thermal baths: check our guide about Gellért thermal baths in Budapest.
Széchenyi opening hours
To ensure a seamless experience, familiarize yourself with this list of their opening hours. Planning ahead can make all the difference, especially when considering crucial details such as the cash desks closing promptly at 7 PM, or the 20-minute rule, requiring guests to vacate the pool areas before their scheduled closing time.
Thermal baths
• Weekdays: from 7 am to 8 pm
• Weekends: from 8 am to 8 pm
Special Note
• Pools and pool areas must be vacated 20 minutes before closing time.
Additional Facilities Opening Hours
• Saunas and hot air chambers: from 10 am to 7.30 pm
• Program sauna: weekdays from 7 am to 10 am
• Private Spa: every day from 9 am to 6 pm (from Kós Károly sétány)
• Private Medical Spa: weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm
• Daysplam: weekdays from 9 am to 6 pm, weekends from 10 am to 6 pm
Other Information
• Drinking fountain: Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00-17:00, closed on Sunday and Monday.
Top tips to visit Széchenyi thermal baths
1. Lockers or cabins? Choose wisely.
There are two options to safeguard your belongings: lockers or private cabins. Measuring a roomy 120cm by 30cm by 65cm, these ample lockers are a great choice if you’re traveling light and don’t mind using the gender-separated communal areas. For those seeking more privacy and security, the cabins are better. For a small price difference, you can store valuable items and switch attire in your own space.
2. Bring your own things.
You need flip-flops to Széchenyi baths, as well as bathing suit and towel. Bringing them from home will just make your visit more economical, but you can also buy these on-site. If you do so, these are the prices: flip-flops will cost you 4,000 HUF (approximtely $11 USD, £9 GBP, €10 EUR) and towel and bathing suit will be HUF 6,000 each ($17 USD, £14 GBP, €16 EUR). It’s just more economical and convenient to bring your own. Oh, and don’t forget your shower essentials (no need for hair dryers, theirs are free to use).
3. Planning a swim? Bring a swim cap.
In the swimming pool, donning a swim cap is mandatory; however, this rule does not apply to the other 17 pools within the complex. Buying one on-site will cost you 2,000 HUF (around $6 USD).
4. Pay attention not to get lost.
Navigating to the outdoor pool can be a bit of a puzzle due to the subtle signage, adding an element of adventure to your visit. After entering the baths and scanning your wristband, proceed straight past the cabins, then veer right and continue towards the back of the facility. You’ll eventually spot an inconspicuous glass door at the far corner; this is your gateway to the open-air pool. Otherwise, just let your intuition guide you to the farthest right or left until the glass door.
5. Don’t lose your wristband.
Your entry into Széchenyi Baths comes with a plastic wristband, which serves a dual purpose – not only does it act as your admission pass, but it also functions as a secure access device for your locker or cabin. Ensure you fasten it correctly to avoid any problems during your visit.
6. Use the Budapest Card to get a discount.
Unlock a 20% discount on your Széchenyi Baths visit by wielding the Budapest Card. This valuable pass not only slashes your entry fee but also grants free public transport, free entry to the best museums, free walking tours, and more entry discounts.
7. Shower before taking a dip.
It’s customary to rinse off under the showers before immersing yourself in the thermal baths. Remember to do this to avoid any disapproval from the locals. There are shower facilities conveniently located throughout the complex.
8. Nudity is not allowed.
Since this is a public bath, the requirement for clothing is strictly enforced.
9. Dry your swimsuit before leaving.
Going to Széchenyi Baths might be your first item in a full day’s checklist, but that doesn’t mean you have to tote a soggy swimsuit around Budapest. The baths are equipped with nifty spin dryers that whisk away most of the moisture from your swimwear in moments. Plus, they offer convenient plastic bags to stash your damp attire.
The best time to visit Széchenyi thermal baths
For a serene experience
For a calm experience at Széchenyi Baths, set your alarm for an early morning visit. With doors opening at 6 AM, you’re afforded a rare opportunity to enjoy the tranquil waters practically in solitude, save for a few local regulars. The early hours offer a stark contrast to the later influx of visitors, with the calm of dawn giving way to the bustling atmosphere of a midday crowd. As the morning progresses, the influx of tourists thickens, especially from 8:30-9 AM. By midday, the space becomes densely populated, prompting an early exit to escape the throngs.
For a cheaper entrance
How to get to Széchenyi thermal baths
Navigating to Széchenyi Baths is straightforward and adds to the charm of your adventure. Nestled in Budapest City Park (called Városliget), in the city’s northeastern quadrant, it’s a stone’s throw from the central buzz and the plethora of sights Budapest boasts.
Take the M1 metro line
You can hop on the M1 metro line, the city’s historic underground, at any stop from Vörösmarty Square through to Széchenyi Fürdő station, whisking past key attractions like Deák Ferenc Tér, the Opera, and Hősök tere (Heroes’ Square).
The metro service in Budapest is renowned for its punctuality and efficiency, with tickets priced at 450 HUF per ticket (packs of 10 will be cheaper).
Or just go by foot
For those who a leisurely walk, the route from Deák Ferenc Tér is a picturesque option. You can stroll down Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the grandeur of the tree-lined boulevard en route to Heroes’ Square. From there, a simple straight traverse across the bridge and a short walk will lead you to the welcoming entrance of Széchenyi Baths on your left, completing the pleasant trek in under an hour.
Széchenyi during winter
During the winter season, Széchenyi Baths underwent a significant change in 1963 when they decided to remain open year-round, a move that has been quite successful. Visitors can enjoy the complex even on Christmas, December 31st, and January 1st. In that same year, improvements were made to provide heating in corridors, lockers, and changing rooms. Prior to a restoration project in 1997, there were indoor, heated corridors that led to the outdoor pools during the winter months. However, these corridors were eventually removed to preserve the architectural beauty of Széchenyi Baths.
This is, in fact, one of the best times to visit Széchenyi, because it offers a unique experience. Picture yourself in the outdoor pools, surrounded by the grandeur of the magnificent building, and the stark contrast between the cold weather outside and the warm, soothing waters of the baths. You might even be treated to the sight of snow falling, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. So, if you’re up for a memorable adventure, don your warm bathrobe and flip flops, and embrace the magic of winter at Szechenyi Baths.
Bottom line: is it worth visiting the Széchenyi thermal baths?
Absolutely, a visit to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths comes highly recommended. Besides being aesthetically stunning, these baths offer a rich, relaxing experience. You’ll find that the well-organized facilities make for a seamless visit. While there are various options, including saunas that cater to those seeking a heat-infused retreat, many visitors find the outdoor pools alone to be a delightful source of entertainment and relaxation for a couple of hours.
The sheer size and variety of pools, the architectural grandeur, and the health benefits associated with thermal waters add to the list of reasons why Széchenyi Thermal Baths should be on your itinerary.