Top 9 sport and swimming pools in Budapest
Trying to find the best swimming pool in Budapest? We collected the top 9 for you.
Apart from being the city of baths, Budapest could easily be baptized as the city of swimming pools as well. With over 20 major pools and countless small ones, choosing one that fits your needs might seem daunting at first. Take a plunge with us as we enumerate the top swimming pools in Budapest! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing dip, a spot to perfect your strokes, or a family-friendly pool, the city offers an abundance of options to suit every preference. From luxurious thermal pools with stunning architecture to recreational complexes filled with slides and wave pools, there’s truly something for everyone. And if you’re seeking a more outdoorsy vibe, you might even stumble across some of the best beaches in Budapest, where you can bask in the sun and cool off in pristine waters. So, whether you’re a serious swimmer or just looking to unwind, Budapest has it all. For a truly unforgettable experience, don’t miss the chance to explore Aquaworld Resort Budapest, one of Europe’s largest indoor water parks, boasting exhilarating slides and a tropical adventure vibe. With so many aquatic attractions to choose from, Budapest ensures your water-filled escapades are nothing short of extraordinary!
1. BVSC Swimming Pool
Situated right next to Városliget, BVSC is a swimming pool for professionals and amateurs alike. If you’re visiting during summer, you’ll find the outdoor pool open, however, it is usually too crowded for proper swimming, so you’d better stick with one of the indoor pools.
Actually the swimming pool is very close to the famous Szechenyi Bath too, which also worth to visit.
Pool size: 50 and 25 meters
Extras: Sauna, tanning salon
2. Császár-Komjádi Sports Swimming Pool
Now here’s a massive entry on our list: Császár-Komjádi (or just Komjádi, as locals call it) can welcome up to 1800 visitors at the same time. With 5 swimming pools and recently renovated facilities, Komjádi is the preferred training grounds for professionals as well: the water polo team Vasas as well as Olympic swimmers regularly show up here.
Pool size: 50 and 25 meters
Extras: Komjádi doubles as a hotel as well, so if you’re here for a brief stay but can’t live without swimming, be sure to book a room as close to the pool as possible.
3. Hajós Alfréd National Aquatics Complex
Named after the very first Hungarian Olympic medalist, Hajós Alfréd, this swimming pool is a state-of-the-art facility. With 8 indoor and outdoor pools covering over 80.000 square meters, it’s no wonder Hajós Alfréd has been home to the European Water Polo Championship (2001) and the LEN European Aquatics Championship (2006 and 2010).
Pool size: 50, 33, 25 meters
Extras: 2 saunas
4. Paskál Bath
As old (or young) as the modern Hungarian Republic, Paskál bath is a truly refreshing entry on our list. It’s somewhere between a classic swimming pool and a full-on thermal bath: with facilities both catering the needs of those who prefer to swim and those who’d rather relax, Paskál is a versatile choice if you’re up for something different than the bigger pools like Komjádi or Hajós.
Pool size: 33 meters
Extras: Thermal, plunge, leisure, relax and children’s pools, saunas, aquafitness, massages, and a steam chamber.
5. Palatinus Strand Baths
Palatinus is most well-known for its beach, and then it’s loved for its swimming pool. With Komjádi just across the Danube, Palatinus might not be the first choice for swimmers, but thanks to its location and awesome facilities, it’s a must-try on our list of Top 9 pools of Budapest.
Pool size: 40 meters
Extras: 15 different indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, massage.
6. Tüskecsarnok Swimming Pool
Tüskecsarnok (The Hall of Thorns – the name comes from its spiky roof design) is one of the newest swimming pools in the capital. Tüskecsarnok is a multi-functional facility: multiple sport events have been held since its opening, so if you don’t feel like swimming, you can catch a basketball or hockey match and cheer with a crowd of 2500 people.
Pool size: 25 and 50 meters
Extras: Wellness, fitness, squash, gym.
7. MOM Swimming Pool and Sports Center
One of the marvels of shopping centers is that you can do everything in one place. Swimming pools haven’t really been part of that offering, but then MoM Park was built. With 3 swimming pools, wellness options and fully-equipped facilities, MoM Sport is a perfect option for swimming – right in the heart of Buda.
Pool size: 15, 25, 33 meters
Extras: Sauna, steam cabin, aquafitness, jacuzzi.
8. Nyéki Imre Swimming Pool
If you’re willing to take a longer trip towards the outskirts of the city, Nyéki Imre is a rewarding choice for swimmers. Its beautiful architecture is a treat to the eyes both inside and outside, plus its recently opened outdoor area gives extra options for swimming and leisure alike.
Pool size: 25 and 33 meters
Extras: jacuzzi, children’s pool, aquafitness.
9. Mányoki úti Swimming Pool
As tiny as it is, Mányoki is an adorable addition to the capital’s broad selection of swimming pools. Located just a 5-minute walk from Gellért tér, Mányoki is a hidden gem for swimmers. To make sure your time is undisturbed, check their reservation board here.
Pool size: 25 meters
Extras: swimming instruction, sports hall, sauna.
Pro tip: If you love thermal water, visit the Király Baths and the Lukács Baths as well.
Prefer driving to public transport?
Some of the venues we listed may be a little more difficult to reach by public transportation than others. If you’re interested in car rental, click here for more info.
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Did you know?
The massage in Budapest is amazing! You should visit one of the most renowned massage salons where you can enjoy the treatment of qualified, professional masseurs!
