Relaxing Gems - Széchenyi Thermal Baths in the City Park
Updated: Sep 15
The city of Budapest sits atop a treasure trove of thermal springs, and since Roman times, locals have recognized the healing powers of these naturally warm thermal waters. Széchenyi Thermal Baths is one of Europe's largest baths with a whopping 18 pools, each with its own vibe. Picture yourself unwinding in a toasty thermal pool, surrounded by grand Neo-Baroque architecture that'll make you feel like royalty.
Széchenyi Baths in Budapest, source: www.unsplash.com
Location, address:
9-11 Állatkerti körút, Budapest, District 14 (on maps, you will see District XIV), H-1146. (i.e. the post code is 1146)
Plan your visit in advance:
Opening Hours:
From Monday to Sunday, all week, all seasons (spring, summer, fall, winter), even during public holidays. Szechenyi Bath is the only thermal bath in Budapest that is open until very late on a daily basis. All thermal facilities and the outdoor pools are open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. The cashiers close one hour before closing time, and all visitors need to leave the pools by 7:30 pm (30 minutes before the bath closes).
What you should bring:
swimwear
accepted styles of swimware: bikini, one-piece, speedo, swim trunks, etc. as long as you wear some classical swimwear, it will be fine.
not accepted styles: full body swimwear, burkini, long sleeved or long legged swim wear are not accepted - apologies for the inconvenience
flip-flops/slippers (are required to be worn in the whole area of the bath - you can buy a pair in the entrance hall shop - no possibility to rent)
a towel (no possibility to rent / purchase options include a cheaper, more affordable towel and a more expensive gift towel)
a bathrobe: recommended during winter, as the outdoor pools can only be entered from the outside (no tunnels or other heated corridors leading to the open air warm baths)
soap, shampoo (there are no complimentary soap or shampoo dispensers in the showers)
swimming cap is only needed in 1 of the pools out of the 15 public pools at Szechenyi Baths. It is necessary to wear a swimming cap if you want to swim in the cool-water outdoor central swimming sports pool (to do laps), otherwise not needed in any of the thermal baths, plunge pools, etc.
a waterproof wallet or purse if you want to take your money with you in the baths too (you can also store your money in the lockers or cabins (these are not insured). Optionally you can also rent a safe to store your valuable items (this is insured).
mobile charger – e.g. if you plan to stay at the thermal bath all day and you are a heavy mobile phone user
you can bring your own drinks and picnic basket
Tips for first timers at the Széchenyi Baths:
Do try both the outdoor and the indoor baths and the thermal spa facilities (saunas, steam rooms, aqua fitness, whirlpool, jets, sun decks, etc. these are included in your Szechenyi Baths ticket)
Make sure you do not lose your wristband that you receive upon checking in. There is a serious penalty fee for a lost wristband!
What NOT to bring:
do not bring any valuable items to the baths (like jewellery, electronics, etc.) - or you can rent a small safety box to store your valuables
do not bring your cigarettes, as smoking is prohibited in most places in Szechenyi Baths (inside and outside, by the pools too)
Night Parties in Széchenyi Baths
Almost every Saturday night you can join the world famous hip Szechenyi Bath Spa parties, known as Sparties. The Sparty events are held in the outside pools, which have a water temperature around 34-38 degrees Celsius (93-100 Fahrenheit) which makes staying outside enjoyable even in cold weather.
Hours of Saturday Party Nights: 9:30 pm – 2:00 am
Age restrictions:
Children younger than 14 years old are not allowed to enter, because thermal (hot) water is not suitable for them (there are several other indoor and outdoor pools suitable for children in Budapest).
People under 18 years of age are not allowed to attend Sparty night parties.
Welcome to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of Europe's largest
If you're dreaming of a magical dip in Budapest, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths is your golden ticket to relaxation and fun. Tucked away in the enchanting City Park, this bathhouse is not your average soak-and-snooze spot—it's a full-blown aquatic adventure!
Dive into the rich history of the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, a crown jewel in Budapest's wellness scene. Built in 1913, based on the design of architect Győző Czigler, this iconic bathhouse in City Park is not just a spa – it's a testament to Budapest's age-old love affair with thermal baths.
The Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest in 1913, Source: Fortepan, from the photos of György Klösz
Seriously, where else can you splash around in a thermal bath and feel like you're in a fancy palace at the same time?
The Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest today, Source: www.gemsofbudapest.com 2024
But wait, there's more! Széchenyi boasts not one, not two, but a whopping 18 pools, each with its own vibe. Fancy a game of chess while soaking? Dive into the chess pool! Want some vitamin D with your splash? Head to the outdoor pools and soak up the Hungarian sun. And for the brave souls, the ice-cold plunge pool is there to wake you up with a chilly thrill.
You can also find some specialized services within the building (for a separate entry fee):
For those who want to have a relaxing day amongst the lush foliage and cozy hammocks in a serene environment, the exclusive rooftop area with the Spa of the Palm House Oasis in Széchenyi Bath with its palm trees, exotic plants, glass roof, comfortable cushions, soothing atmosphere, fruits and herbal teas.
Book your Széchenyi Bath Massage Treatments: at least 4 days ahead, by indicating the hours that best suit you. The price of the massage includes the entrance to the baths too. Masseuses for these treatments are official medical massage therapists of the Széchenyi Baths. Guests arriving alone are allowed to have a massage from the age of 18.
Combine fun with wellness when making the most out of your visit in Szechenyi Bath: add a Beer Bath session on top of your Szechenyi Bath entry sprucing up your spa experience with an endless supply of beers while letting your skin absorb the vitamins and enzymes naturally present in brewer’s yeast.
Now, let's talk about the iconic yellow buildings – they're not just Insta-worthy, but they house saunas and steam rooms that'll have you feeling like a spa superstar. Oh, and did I mention the spouting geysers and whirlpools? It's like a water carnival, my friends!
The thermal baths at the Széchenyi Baths in Budapes, source: www.unsplash.com
But the real cherry on top? Széchenyi is not just a bath; it's a social hub. Locals gather here for a friendly game of chess, a chat, or just to bask in the soothing waters. So, whether you're on a solo adventure or rolling with your squad, Széchenyi is the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant energy.
And here's a pro tip: Visit the Saturday evening Night Parties (Sparty), when the bath is lit up, and you'll feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden palace of relaxation and partying.
Széchenyi Baths during a Nigh Party, source: Sparty
So pack that swimsuit, grab your towel, and get ready for a splashing good time at Széchenyi Thermal Bath – where the water's warm, the vibes are cool, and the memories are oh-so-refreshing!
