The best thermal baths in Budapest

Nicknamed the City of Spas, Budapest is known for its array of historic thermal baths – you can even take a tour around the most visited locations. The first baths were built by Roman settlers over 2,000 years ago and they still attract tourists to the city today. Not only is the architecture often inspired by multiple eras and cultures, but the numerous health benefits of soaking in spring water will also perk up even the most travel-weary visitor. Here are some baths in Budapest you simply can’t miss.

First built during the Ottoman rule in 1550, Rudas Baths have the key architectural elements of a traditional Turkish bath, namely an octagonal pool and dome ceiling. Located on the Danube river, Rudas Baths offers exceptional views to drink in while bathing in pools ranging from 16 to 42°C. It’s easy to spend the whole day here, as there are also massages, body scrubs, and a buffet available. The baths are open to everyone on weekends, but weekdays are divided for different genders – Tuesdays are for women only, while other weekdays are for men.

After dipping your toes in the calming baths, stay at Balance Home, found directly across the Danube from Rudas Baths. This modern, yet cosy accommodation is perfectly situated for a jaunt around the city’s popular sights, such as Buda Castle.

Gellért Baths are located inside the famous Hotel Gellért, a breathtaking Art Nouveau building on the banks of the Danube. This historical bath complex dates back to 1918 and underwent a major reconstruction in 2008, with the goal of returning it to its original splendour. The indoor and outdoor pools are unisex and maintain a balmy temperature of 35 to 40°C. Visitors can also take advantage of the hotel’s additional sauna and massage facilities.

There are plenty of places to wind down in Budapest and when you’re done in the pool, relax in the gardens of Kalmár Panzió. The antique oak furniture and lofty ceilings will make you feel like you’ve gone transported to another era.

Just across the river from the baths, you’ll find the Hotel Memories OldTown. The interior is designed in a fresh, modern style and the rooftop terrace is the perfect place to wind down after a long day.

The Széchenyi Baths were first opened in 1913 and have since become the largest unisex medicinal baths in Europe. Natural hot spring waters are drawn from below the City Park to fill the indoor and outdoor pools. In addition to the natural pools, guests have access to on-site saunas and steam rooms, as well as wellness and beauty treatments. If you’d like to learn more about Budapest, take a tour around the city and finish it off with a dip at Széchenyi to calm your tired feet.

Just next to Heroes’ Square in the centre of Budapest, you can try one of the holistic treatments at the Mirage Medic Hotel. This hotel is located in an archetypal 19th-century building and will help you feel rejuvenated after a long day of exploring.

Király Bath began construction in 1565, making it one Budapest’s oldest thermal baths. Like many other buildings in Budapest, Király Bath was damaged during WWII but later rebuilt. The result is a blissfully peaceful bath that mixes old and new while preserving the original charm. Király may be smaller than some of the other unisex baths in the city, but still boasts four impressive pools with temperatures ranging between 36 and 40°C.

Király Bath and many of the city's other famous sights are within walking distance of Milford Suites Budapest. This aparthotel offers all of the comforts of home, including a fully-equipped kitchen and walls are adorned with contemporary art.

*This bath is temporarily closed. Keep an eye on their website for updates.

A popular spot with locals, the Lukács Baths have a rich history. The area was home to monastery baths as early as the 12th century, but the first public spa didn’t open here until the late 19th century. Since then, the unisex baths have expanded to include both indoor and outdoor pools with temperatures of 24 to 40°C. Bathers also have access to steam rooms, saunas, massages and water aerobics.

After a day of swimming, find your sea legs by staying in a boat – albeit a stationary one. Just 700 metres from the Lukács Baths, OnRiver - MS Cézanne is a hotel with a sun terrace and sweeping views of Budapest.

Escape the crowds of central Budapest and enjoy the refreshing spa water at Dandár Thermal Bath. Housed in an impressive art deco building, this thermal bath boasts indoor and outdoor pools that range between 36 and 38°C. Visitors can also relax in the sauna and steam rooms – or wake themselves up in the ice-cold plunge pool. This location is rarely busy and it’s open to everyone, all week long.

Located outside the main centre, Haller Wooden Houses offer a charming stay just a 15-minute walk from the Dandár Bath. Despite being a little way out of the centre, public transport is easily accessible. The wood-panelled units are simple and clean, while the rich garden and impressive barbecue are not to be missed.