Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Tickets, Tours & Visitor Info

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is Budapest’s luxurious oasis, a must-visit for its rejuvenating waters, stunning architecture, and the unique experience of a traditional Hungarian spa.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Neo-Baroque architecture that makes Széchenyi Thermal Bath a visual delight.
• Bask in the therapeutic waters of the outdoor thermal pools, especially enjoyable during the colder months.
• Explore the various saunas and steam rooms to experience the full range of wellness options available at the bath.

Tickets & Prices

Széchenyi Thermal Bath offers a variety of ticket options to suit different needs. Daily entrance tickets come with or without locker usage, with prices varying between weekdays, Fridays, weekends, and holidays. For early risers, the “Good Morning Budapest” tickets, valid until 9 AM, offer a budget-friendly option with specific weekday and weekend rates. 

Additionally, purchasing a Budapest Card gives a 20% discount on daily tickets. 

Fast Track tickets, available only online, allow quicker access without queues, with prices similarly varying by day. For a more luxurious experience, private spa packages like the Deluxe Relaxing Room Package and the Superior Relaxing Room Package include private rooms, VIP area access, massages, and refreshments, with pricing options for individuals and couples.

Additional services at Széchenyi Thermal Bath include a range of massages, such as classical, aroma, and refreshing massages, available only for visitors over 14 years old. 

While rental services are not offered, visitors can purchase items like towels, bathrobes, swimsuits, swim caps, and slippers on-site. 

For a smoother experience, it’s wise to buy tickets in advance and consider options with cabins for added privacy and secure storage. Be mindful of seasonal and holiday pricing, and check for any special promotions or discounts during peak times.

Tours

The guided tours at Széchenyi Thermal Bath offer a fascinating 15-20 minute glimpse into its architectural and historical significance. These tours are perfect for those who prefer to admire the baths’ beauty without taking a dip. Highlights include the Marble Room, various pools, and an overview of the complex’s layout. 

Tours run twice daily at 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM from Monday to Sunday, available in both English and Hungarian. Tickets cost HUF 3,000 per person and can be purchased at the cashier, with advance booking recommended during peak seasons.

For a smooth experience, bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and consider visiting during early morning or late afternoon tours to avoid crowds.

Opening Hours

Széchenyi Thermal Bath welcomes visitors daily, with regular hours from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekends. Specific facilities like saunas and steam rooms operate from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM, while the Private Spa is accessible from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. 

The Dayspalm and Medical Spa have slightly different hours, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, respectively. For those interested in the Drinking Fountain, it is available Tuesday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, starting May 21, 2024.

For a more relaxed experience, we recommend visiting early morning or late evening to avoid crowds. Sauna sessions are specifically available on Saturdays throughout the day. Keep in mind that cash desks close one hour before the bath’s closing time, and pool areas must be vacated 20 minutes before closing.

What to see and do

Here’s what you can do while at the spa. 

Relax in the Outdoor Pools

When you visit the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Budapest’s crown jewels, you’ll find yourself amidst an array of impressive outdoor pools. Imagine this: three large, inviting pools beckoning you to dive in. The layout is quite straightforward, yet each pool offers a unique experience.

First, there’s the hot thermal pool. This is where you can bask in medicinal waters that are said to have healing properties. The warm embrace of the thermal pool is perfect for melting away stress and rejuvenating tired muscles. Then there’s the swimming pool. If you’re keen on swimming laps, remember to bring a swim cap. Don’t worry if you forget—caps can be purchased on-site. 

Lastly, my personal favorite, the activity pool. This pool features a whirlpool that spins you around with a strong current, making it a fun and unique experience. 

A little insider tip: visit early in the morning to enjoy the whirlpool fully before it gets crowded.

Enjoy the Indoor Thermal Pools

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a variety of indoor thermal pools, each with different temperatures and mineral compositions. The range of pools caters to different preferences, from those who enjoy a hotter soak to those who prefer cooler waters. 

Beyond the temperature, the historical and aesthetic features of the indoor areas are genuinely captivating. Imagine intricate tile work and classical statues surrounding you as you soak. It’s like stepping back in time to a more opulent era.

Experience the Saunas and Steam Rooms

If you thought the pools were the only draw, think again! Széchenyi boasts an impressive range of sauna and steam room facilities. You can choose from traditional Finnish saunas to aromatic steam rooms infused with various scents. 

Not only are these experiences relaxing, but they also offer numerous health benefits. Regular use can improve circulation and aid in detoxification, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated.

Indulge in a Massage or Spa Treatment

For those seeking an extra layer of relaxation, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath offers a variety of massage and spa services. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing Swedish massage or need a more therapeutic treatment, there’s something for everyone. 

They also offer facials and mud treatments, adding to the spa’s extensive menu. A little insider tip: it’s highly recommended to book your treatments in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak times.

Visit the Beer Spa

Now, this is a unique experience that you won’t want to miss—The Beer Spa. Yes, you read that right. Imagine soaking in a beer-infused bath while enjoying unlimited beer from your personal tap. The thermal water is mixed with beer ingredients like hops and yeast, which are said to be great for your skin. 

The best part? It’s all-you-can-drink during your 45-minute session. It’s a fun and novel way to relax and enjoy the baths.

Take a Guided Tour

If you’re a history buff or simply curious about the rich heritage of Széchenyi, consider taking a guided tour. These tours offer deep insights into the history and architecture of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, which was constructed in 1913 in the Neo-baroque style. 

You’ll gain a better understanding of Hungary’s unique bathing culture and the significance of thermal baths in Hungarian society. Some tours even offer behind-the-scenes access to areas not typically open to the public, making it a truly enriching experience.

Experience the Széchenyi Sparty

Lastly, if you’re looking for a unique nighttime experience, the Sparty is a must. Imagine the traditional thermal bath experience but with a twist—live DJ music, laser shows, and a lively crowd transform the bath into a vibrant party. The energetic ambiance makes it a memorable experience, blending relaxation with revelry.

Tips for Visitors

Arrive early at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, which opens at 6:00 AM, to avoid the crowds that build up by mid-morning. Bring essentials like your own swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and a robe to save time and money; swim caps are required for the lap pool but not for the thermal baths. 

Visitors can choose between renting a private cabin for more privacy or using general lockers for storing personal items. 

Explore both indoor and outdoor pools to experience the variety of temperatures and mineral compositions, and don’t miss the popular outdoor whirlpool. 

For dining, there’s a cafeteria-style restaurant on-site offering basic food, snacks, beer, and wine.

Directions

To reach Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the most convenient option is to take the M1 Metro Line (Yellow Line) and get off at the Széchenyi fürdő station, which is just a 3-minute walk from the baths. 

The M1 line runs through key points in Budapest, including Deák Ferenc tér, making it a convenient option for those coming from the city center. Alternatively, you can take bus lines 20E, 30, 30A, 105, and 230 to Hősök tere (Heroes’ Square), followed by a 9-minute walk to the baths. The closest bus stop, Széchenyi fürdő M, is accessible via bus lines 72 and 75.

For those who prefer to walk, Széchenyi Thermal Bath is about a 10-minute stroll from Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere). Enjoy a leisurely walk through City Park, soaking in the lush greenery and nearby attractions like Vajdahunyad Castle and the Budapest Zoo along the way.

Nearby Places

Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere): One of Budapest’s most significant landmarks, featuring the Millennium Monument and statues of important Hungarian leaders. Its historical and cultural importance makes it a key venue for national events and celebrations.

Vajdahunyad Castle: An eclectic mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Set in the picturesque City Park and home to the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture, it’s a visual and cultural treat.

Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum): Located at Heroes’ Square, this museum houses an extensive collection of European art from ancient times to the present. Notable collections include works by Spanish, Italian, and Dutch masters.

Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden: One of the oldest zoos in the world, offering diverse animal exhibits and beautiful botanical displays. The zoo’s hippos bathe in water sourced from the same thermal springs as Széchenyi Bath, making it a unique family-friendly activity.

City Park (Városliget): A large public park surrounding Széchenyi Thermal Bath, offering various recreational activities and attractions. Developed in the late 19th century, it features a boating lake, numerous walking paths, and other historic sites.

Did you know that: (4 Interesting Facts!)

1. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest medicinal bath in Europe, boasting 18 pools, including 15 indoor and 3 grand outdoor pools, all fed by two natural thermal springs.
2. The water in Széchenyi Thermal Bath is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sulfate, which are said to have therapeutic effects on joint pain, arthritis, and other ailments.
3. Széchenyi Thermal Bath is not just about relaxation; you can also join a lively game of chess in the outdoor pools. It’s a popular activity among locals and adds a unique twist to your thermal bath experience.
4. Built in 1913, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath features stunning Neo-Baroque architecture. Its grand halls and intricate designs make it as much a visual feast as a place for relaxation.

History

• 1868: The initial idea for a public bath in Budapest surfaces, driven by the increasing popularity of therapeutic bathing.
• 1903: The first plans for Széchenyi Thermal Bath are drafted by architect Győző Czigler, featuring a grand Neo-Baroque design.
• 1909: Construction of Széchenyi Thermal Bath begins, with the aim of creating the largest medicinal bath in Europe.
• 1913: Széchenyi Thermal Bath officially opens its doors to the public, quickly becoming a beloved attraction for both locals and visitors.
• 1927: The bath undergoes its first major expansion, adding new pools and facilities to accommodate the growing number of patrons.
• 1960s: A series of renovations modernizes the bath, including the installation of new water filtration systems and the introduction of additional pools.
• 1999: Széchenyi Thermal Bath receives a significant facelift, with a focus on preserving its historical architecture while updating its amenities.
• 2011: The bath celebrates its centennial with extensive restorations that enhance both its aesthetic appeal and its functionality.
• 2015: Széchenyi Thermal Bath introduces a series of wellness programs and events, such as “Sparty” nights, blending traditional bathing culture with modern entertainment.
• Present Day: Széchenyi Thermal Bath remains one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy its luxurious thermal waters and stunning architecture.

FAQ

Map & Address

Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Location: City Park, Budapest, Hungary

Address: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Budapest, Hungary