A Guide to Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, Hungary

If you’re looking for a truly unique and rejuvenating experience, then look no further than Szechenyi Baths – the crown jewel of Budapest’s thermal bathing scene.

With its stunning architecture, soothing waters, and a history dating back over a century, Szechenyi Baths have become an iconic destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Immerse yourself in this captivating blog post as we embark on a journey exploring Hungary’s crown jewel of thermal spas—the Szechenyi Baths! From the best pools to soak in to the hidden gems that will make your visit memorable.

Get ready for a blissful journey through the world of Hungary’s most famous thermal baths!

About the Szechenyi Baths

Széchenyi Baths is the largest medicinal bath in Europe. It is one of the most popular attractions in Budapest. The baths receive over 1 million visitors a year. 

The Széchenyi Baths were built in 1913 and designed by Győző Czigler. The baths are located in City Park (Városliget), which is one of the largest parks in Budapest.

The park also contains two other smaller medicinal baths, an outdoor swimming pool, an ice rink, a boating lake, and the Budapest Zoo. 

The baths complex offers 18 pools – several outdoor pools, indoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, massage rooms, and a spa. Two thermal springs supply the thermal water in the baths. The temperature of the water ranges from 64 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (18 and 38 °C), and it is said to have healing properties. In fact, their full water composition and therapeutic suggestions are listed on their website.

How to get to the Szechenyi Baths

The Szechenyi Baths are located in the heart of Budapest, just a short walk from many of the city’s most popular attractions. To get there, simply take the metro to the Szechenyi furdo stop and follow the signs to the baths. Once you’re at the baths, you can purchase tickets for entry at the main entrance.

If you’re coming from the airport, you can take the 200E bus to get to Deak Ferenc Square. From there, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk to the baths.

You can also take the Metro line 1 (the yellow line) to its terminus at Heroes’ Square, and then it’s just a 5-10 minute walk from there.

Szechenyi Baths tickets

As formerly mentioned, the Szechenyi Baths are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budapest. If you’re planning to visit Szechenyi Baths, make sure to purchase your tickets in advance.

There are several ticket options available for Szechenyi Baths:

Full-Day Ticket: This ticket provides access to all of the facilities at Szechenyi Baths, including indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and massage services. and private changing cubicle

Morning Bath Ticket: This ticket provides access to all of the facilities at Szechenyi Baths for 2 hours (6-8 am).

Party Ticket: This ticket provides access to all of the facilities at Szechenyi Baths for three consecutive hours from 9.30 pm to 2 am.

Mini guided Tour Ticket: Enjoy all of the facilities at Szechenyi Baths and get some inside stories from a 20 min. guided tour.

BUY | Purchase your Szechenyi Baths Tickets here

Can use my Budapest Card at the Szechenyi Baths?

Your Budapest Card, which is Hungary’s official city tourism pass, can be used at the Szechenyi Baths.

The card is valid up to 72 hours and entitles you to 20% discount on the entrance fee.

To use the discount, simply present your card at the ticket office. Just be aware to que in a different line (offices on the left) than the main crowd without the card.

BUY | Purchase your Budapest Card here

Best time to visit the Szechenyi Baths?

The best time to visit the thermal pools during the weekdays, as it can get quite crowded on the weekends.

The busiest times are usually from 10am to 6pm. If you want to avoid the crowds, aim to arrive later in the day or during baths opening hours (9 am).

I recommend visiting the Szechenyi Baths during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The weather is milder during these times, making it more comfortable to enjoy the baths. The water temperature is also slightly cooler during these months, which can be more refreshing during a long soak.

The Szechenyi Baths Facilities

Therapeutic Indoor and outdoor pools

The first thing you’ll notice upon entering is the stunning neo-baroque architecture of Budapest’s most famous thermal baths, which were built in 1913. The facility includes 3 outdoor pools, 1 indoor pool, and 10 different saunas and steam rooms.

The outdoor pools are open all year round, while the indoor pool is only open from October to April. The water temperatures in the outdoor pools range from 18-38 degrees Celsius (64-100 Fahrenheit), while the indoor pool is kept at a constant 27 degrees Celsius (80 Fahrenheit). The different saunas and steam rooms also have varying temperature levels, so there’s something for everyone.

Massages and treatments

The Szechenyi Baths aren’t just a great place to relax and take in the sights. They also offer a variety of beauty treatments to help you look and feel your best. From traditional massages to facials, there’s something for everyone.

For something truly unique, try the Moor Mud Wrap. This therapy uses Hungarian moor mud, which is rich in minerals and known for its detoxifying properties. The therapist will apply the mud to your body and wrap you in warm blankets for 20-30 minutes. You’ll then rinse off in the shower before enjoying a relaxing massage.

You can purchase tickets for these services here or at one of the many kiosks around Budapest.

The Grand Budapest Pool Party

One of the most popular activities at Szechenyi Baths is the grand Budapest bath party. This party is held in one of the largest thermal pools in Europe and attracts a fun-loving, international crowd.

The party starts at 10pm and goes until 4am, so you can enjoy a refreshing swim under the stars before dancing the night away.

There are two DJs playing a mix of electronic and commercial music, and there are plenty of bars to keep you refreshed.

If you want to take a break from the music, there’s also a heated outdoor pool where you can relax and soak up the incredible views of Budapest.

The Szechenyi Baths dress code

Remove your shoes before entering the changing area. A pair of flip flops is a must. Also be sure to pack a swimsuit that is comfortable and modest. For ladies it is generally considered more appropriate to wear a one-piece or tankini.

Don’t forget to pack a towel! You will need it for drying off after your swim, and it can also be used as a blanket or sarong while you relax in the thermal pools.

Remember that the water in the pools is quite hot. In fact, many visitors prefer to wear a bathing cap to protect their hair from the heat. A swim cap is also mandatory in the lapse pool. If you don’t have a bathing cap, don’t worry – you can always buy one at the baths themselves.

There are a few different options for men’s swimwear at Szechenyi. The most popular option is probably board shorts, which offer good coverage and won’t ride up when you’re swimming. However, if you’re not comfortable with board shorts, you can also opt for swim trunks or even a rash guard.

Showers, gender-separated locker rooms, and cabins (private changing rooms) are the only places where you can wear nothing. You can open or close your personal locker with the bracelet received at the entrance.

Are the Szechenyi Baths worth a visit?

The Szechenyi Baths are one of Budapest’s must-see attractions and definitely worth the visit.

They offer a unique experience no matter what time of year you come to enjoy their hot springs, and provide a sense of rejuvenation and relaxation that will last long after you have left.

For anyone looking for the perfect way to end their day in this beautiful city, it’s hard to go wrong with a stop at the Szechenyi Baths – #1 on my list for best thermal baths in Budapest!

Planning a trip to Budapest?

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