Széchenyi Bath, the Queen of thermals
Széchenyi Bath is a must-visit if you’re looking to recharge your batteries and enjoy the best of thermal tourism Hungary has to offer.
- • Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest medicinal bath in Europe, located in Budapest’s City Park (Városliget).
- • It features 15 indoor pools and 3 large outdoor pools, fed by two thermal springs.
- • The complex is famous for its bright yellow Neo-Baroque palace architecture and is open year-round, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Budapest.
You just simply cannot spell Budapest without mentioning baths. Even if you’re only visiting the Hungarian capital for a few days, one of the 12 thermal baths should be on top of your must-see list. And if you have to select one from the dozen, Széchenyi Thermal Bath should probably get your vote – here’s why!
Budapest and its thermal baths
So, why are thermal baths so big in Budapest? Let’s see the numbers: there are over 1,300 hot thermal springs in the country, out of which 123 can be found in the capital alone. Today, you’ll find 12 thermal baths in Budapest, and 10 of them are fully functional. Hungarians regard soaking in a thermal bath not as an indulgence, more like a natural way of life: it has been part of their culture for hundreds of years. It had all begun back in the Roman times, but it rose to prominence again during the Ottoman era (16th-17th century). As part of their heritage, most Turkish baths (like Veli Bej, Király, and Gellért) have been preserved ever since. Many other baths were built during the 19th century for medical purposes, and this function is served to this day at every bath you visit: apart from chilling in the different pools, many visitors actually come here on their doctor’s recommendation. So, what makes Széchenyi the Queen of thermal baths?
Superlatives
First off, this is the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Step aside, Karlovy Vary and Bath, we have a contestant no one can beat! Covering an area of over 6,000 square meters and boasting 3 outdoor and 15 indoor pools, it’s no wonder Széchenyi attracts 4,5 million tourists each year. According to a rough estimate, the thermal bath has been visited by over 100 million people during its century-old history! Its two hot springs supply a staggering 6 million liters (1.6 million US gallons) of 77-degree water every single day.
About the pools
The greatest thing about Széchenyi lies within its versatile pools. Széchenyi Bath has 15 indoor pools and 3 large outdoor pools, offering a wide range of temperatures for relaxation, swimming, and thermal bathing all year round. The famous outdoor pools are open even in winter, making Széchenyi a unique experience in every season.
Would you like to relax on a cold winter day under the night sky in hot water? You got it. Or would you rather take the plunge and swim a little? Széchenyi’s 50-meter pool has got you covered. Are you looking for a classic spa experience? Immerse yourself in one of the hot water pools indoors. The bath itself divides its indoor pools based on two categories: recovery and relaxation. The former includes pools with various temperatures (from 28 to 40 degrees), while the latter contains two pools that are 18 and 40 degrees. These are also known as ‘plunge’ pools, as it’s recommended that you plunge into one after the other to help your muscles relax.
Extra services
Like every bath, Széchenyi also offers a wide range of extra services. If you have a medical problem, Széchenyi has a whole package dedicated to healing its visitors: from underwater jet massages through mud treatment all the way to balneological care, you’ll surely find a service that helps your body recover. See their full list medical offerings here.
As for wellness services, you can pick from a huge selection of different massages (find the comprehensive list here and here). You can also book your own exclusive spa: with a delux relaxing room, local delicacies, and entry to every section of the bath, this package gives you a luxurious experience during your stay.
Tickets and prices
In 2025, ticket prices vary depending on:
- day of the week,
- time of entry,
- type of ticket (standard, cabin, fast-track, etc.).
Please check the updated prices on the official website.
Useful ticket tips
Towels, bathrobes, and flip-flops are not included in standard tickets. Rentals are available on site but can be expensive, so bringing your own is advised.
Online booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak tourist seasons. Popular time slots often sell out.
Several ticket types are available, including fast-track entry with QR code and private changing cabins.
Pro tip: You can get a discount if you show your Budapest Card.
Opening hours (Updated for 2025)
Széchenyi Thermal Bath is open every day of the year, including public holidays.
Typical opening hours are:
- Monday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (extended evening hours)
- Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Last entry is usually allowed about 1–2 hours before closing, and pools close earlier than the entire complex.
Please note: opening hours may vary on public holidays or during special events, so it is always recommended to check the official website before visiting.
As of 2025, only guests aged 14 and above are allowed to enter Széchenyi Bath.
Children under 14 are not permitted, even when accompanied by adults. This rule applies to both indoor and outdoor pools.
Getting there
The easiest way to get to Széchenyi Bath is by getting on the century-old metro line 1 (yes, this was actually the first metro line on the continent) at Deák tér, and getting off at ‘Széchenyi fürdő’. From there, the entrance is just a few steps away. Alternatively, you can also get on a Hop on-Hop off service: one its stops drops you a 5-minute walk from the bath.
Budapest’s public transportation is well-developed, so it’s worth taking advantage of it.
The surroundings
Széchenyi bath is at the heart of the greenest spots in Budapest. Városliget (the City Park) is home to many iconic buildings like Vajdahunyad Vára, the Museum of Fine arts, but you can also find the City Zoo and Circus as well. And if you’d like to freshen up, you can stroll through the shades provided by the century-old oaks along Olof Palme promenade.
More interesting and useful tips
Széchenyi Bath can get very crowded in the afternoons, especially on weekends. For a more relaxed experience, try to visit early in the morning.
Entry tickets are generally valid for one-time entry only. If you leave the bath complex, re-entry usually requires purchasing a new ticket.
Wearing slippers is mandatory in certain indoor areas, and swimming caps are required in the swimming pool.
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!
Parking Budapest – check out our article on this topic to avoid fines and find the best parking spots, even for free.
FAQ
Do I need to book tickets in advance for Széchenyi Bath?
Advance booking is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended, especially on weekends, public holidays, and during peak tourist seasons. Online tickets help you avoid long queues and guarantee entry.
What should I bring with me to Széchenyi Bath?
You should bring swimwear, a towel, and flip-flops. While rentals are available on site, they can be expensive. A swimming cap is required if you plan to use the swimming pool.
Is Széchenyi Bath open in winter?
Yes, Széchenyi Bath is open all year round, including winter. The outdoor thermal pools are especially popular during colder months, offering a unique bathing experience even in freezing temperatures.
Are children allowed in Széchenyi Bath?
No. As of 2025, only guests aged 14 and above are allowed to enter Széchenyi Bath. Children under 14 are not permitted, even when accompanied by adults.
How long can I stay inside the bath?
Tickets allow you to stay for the entire day during opening hours. However, re-entry is usually not permitted once you leave the bath complex.
Where is Széchenyi Bath located and how can I get there?
Széchenyi Bath is located in City Park (Városliget) and is easily accessible by public transport. The M1 metro line stops directly at Széchenyi fürdő station, just a short walk from the entrance.
