Budapest- the city of baths
Budapest is also known as the city of baths. Its thermal baths are naturally fed by 120 hot springs. Many of them date from the 16th century. One may wonder why are they so popular among tourists. Well, most of the baths in Budapest have a series of indoor thermal pools where the temperatures are either warm or hot, steam rooms, saunas, rooms for massage and ice-cold pools.
There are several rules you need to know and apply as a tourist. Have your swimsuit on you at all times while you stay at the Budapest baths, wear a swim cap, it is mandatory when you swim in the lap pools. Bring your flip-flops. They prevent you from slipping and it is the sanitary thing to do.
You are advised to go out of the thermal water after 20 minutes. Children under 14 are not allowed to swim in the thermal pools. Smoking is not allowed in the thermal baths area, neither in the open-air spots.
Each spa has its own particularities, you may find Saturday night parties, or a drinking hall, hot tubs, etc. If you’re looking for a magical experience, soaking in the warm water on a cold day may be just the right experience for you. The great thing about this baths is they are open all year and you have the change to enjoy them no matter the season.
The most known thermal baths in Budapest
Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Széchenyi is Budapest’s largest thermal bath complex. It was built in the 20th century and it has 15 indoor pools and 3 huge outdoor pools, great for every season. We suggest you check its address carefully before heading there, it might be a bit tricky to navigate.
It has a variety of facilities: saunas, steam rooms, jets, you can do swim laps in the main pool. The thermal water is high in calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen carbonate and is said to ease joint pain and arthritis and improve blood circulation.
Széchenyi awaits its visitors with Saturday parties, sparties (spa parties), Dj’s, laser shows, etc, you will surely find an activity for your taste.
Rudas Thermal Bath Budapest
Rudas Thermal Bath in Budapest is a Turkish style complex that dates from the 16th century. You can even swim here by night. The baths are open until 4 a.m. every Friday and Saturday for night bathing and water temperatures range from 11 C (52 F) to 42 C (108 F).
Lukács Baths
These baths were opened during the 19th century. They are seen as a real medical mecca, its waters being rich in rich in calcium, hydrogen-carbonate, sulfate, chloride as well as sodium and fluoride ions. You can find here an infrared sauna, a steam bath, a Himalayan salt wall (to ease respiratory problems), and a weight bath (to treat spinal injuries).
Király Baths
These baths are also Turkish styled and they date from the 16th century. They offer a traditional thermal bathing experience away from the crowds, being also a more affordable option.
If you visit Budapest, make time to swim in the Budapest’s thermal waters. You won’t regret it.