Budapest Hot Springs, Budapest, Hungary: If you’re trying to choose between the many spas and hot springs in Budapest and have time only for one, it’s not an easy choice. Perhaps you came across some less than favourable reviews like I did online when I conducted some research on the famous spas in Budapest, Hungary’s beautiful capital. In any case, I decided to take the plunge and opt for Széchenyi Baths.
I had already spotted the magnificent building on my first visit to Budapest after a wonderful afternoon spent at the Hungarian State Circus, which is located in the same vicinity. Mesmerised by the stunning architecture and intrigued by the Hungarian spa culture, I made it a point to go to Széchenyi Baths on my return to Budapest – so that’s exactly what I did, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Széchenyi • Budapest Spa Review
Having arrived early one morning at about 7am last October, I discovered it was perfect timing as there weren’t too many people around. I was shown to the ‘cabin’, which is a cubicle reserved for your usage once you select services at the main entrance. It is a decently sized changing room where you can also leave your belongings – an attendant is assigned to you and is on call to unlock the electronic door any time you want to come back in, and lock again on the way out. I appreciated how attentive she was even as the changing area got busier and the spa generally became crowded.
Spa: Budapest Hot Springs • Széchenyi Thermal Baths
On to the spa area: this consists of several indoor pools – some are suitable for gentle swimming and others for relaxation. I really enjoyed the steam rooms, all with varying temperatures and features. One of the saunas was nearly at boiling point, and yes, I did go in! It is best to cool off afterwards in one of the showers nearby, and then dip into the cold plunge pool to feel the maximum benefit.
Even though it was chilly outside, the outdoor pools (the famous ones as pictured in the main photo) keep one warm once inside, and are a refreshing contrast between the temperature of the water as well as the cool air in the atmosphere.
Two hours in Budapest – it can be done
There are so many options throughout the spa that I could have spent the whole day there – the effect was pure bliss and relaxation. If you have only two hours to spare, the experience can be managed as the destination is easy to reach and the process to enter is simple.
Visit Budapest Hot Springs again
Visiting Széchenyi Baths again is a top priority for me, and I am already planning a trip to Budapest with the spa as a main focus of my visit.
Széchenyi Spa in Budapest: top tips as verified by Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Swimming Pool:
- Official name of the spa: Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Swimming Pool
- Official website: Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Swimming Pool:
- Ticket information & prices: Full day and temporary (morning or afternoon)
- There are showers with closed doors within the spa area
- An alternative to the ‘cabin’ is the electronic lockers available in the same area. Very few belongings would fit here so it’s advisable to take a cabin if you require more space
- Additional services are available on arrival, including towel hire and various massages
- Credit cards are accepted
- Hair dryers are available but are not powerful
- A swimming pool is also located outdoors, for which a swimming cap is mandatory
- Slippers are recommended although not mandatory
- Refreshments are served in the premises’ restaurant and bars, as well as surrounding eateries
- Name of metro station? – Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- Number of entrances: Three
- If you are looking to book online the official partner is Hungária Koncert
- Camera policy – Photos can be taken for private use. For media requests official permission is needed.
- For historical info of Széchenyi spa, see Wikipedia Info
- For more information on visiting Hungary, see the main website to plan your trip
Did you find this article useful in deciding which spa to visit in Budapest? Please do let me know in the comments, and share your feedback or your own hot tips about the hot springs in Budapest.
Enjoy Budapest!