The Széchenyi Thermal Baths: relaxation in the heart of the park
No visit to Városliget would be complete without a trip to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. Opened in 1913, this grand spa is one of the largest medicinal bath complexes in Europe, drawing both locals and tourists to its warm, mineral-rich waters.
The neo-Baroque architecture adds a sense of grandeur, with its soaring domes and decorative statues.
The thermal baths are fed by natural hot springs, and the water contains a unique mix of calcium, magnesium, and other beneficial minerals. Visitors can relax in outdoor pools, even in winter, when the contrast between the cool air and steaming water creates a mystical atmosphere.
The bath complex also includes saunas, steam rooms, and wellness treatments like massages, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Entrance to the Széchenyi Baths costs around 10,000 HUF (€26), and it’s advisable to book tickets online in advance, especially during the busy summer months. The baths are open year-round, so whether you’re looking for a refreshing dip in the summer or a warming soak in the winter, Széchenyi is always a good idea.
Heroes’ Square: a monumental entrance to the park
At the entrance to Városliget stands Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere), one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. This grand square was built to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of Hungary’s conquest of the Carpathian Basin in 895 AD.
It features the Millennium Monument, with statues of the seven Magyar chieftains who led the Hungarian tribes into the region. Surrounding the square are statues of key figures from Hungarian history, such as King Stephen I, the country’s first Christian ruler, and Lajos Kossuth, the leader of Hungary’s 1848 revolution.
Heroes’ Square is not only a striking architectural sight but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Flanked by the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art, the square acts as a gateway to Városliget, inviting visitors to step into the park and explore the wonders within.
Practical information and tips for visiting Városliget
Városliget is easily accessible by public transport. The park is located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, one of Budapest’s grandest boulevards. You can take the M1 (yellow) metro line to Hősök tere (Heroes’ Square) or Széchenyi fürdő (Széchenyi Baths) station, both of which are located on the edge of the park. Alternatively, buses and trams also serve the area.
If you prefer cycling, the park is bicycle-friendly, with plenty of paths and bike rental services available nearby. Walking is also a pleasure here, with wide avenues and peaceful gardens making it easy to explore on foot.
For dining, there are several options inside and near the park. Robinson Restaurant, located by the park’s lake, is a great place for fine dining with a view, while Pantlika Bistro offers casual Hungarian cuisine in a relaxed setting. Don’t miss trying lángos, a traditional Hungarian deep-fried flatbread, from one of the local vendors.
- Is Budapest City Park free?
- Yes, Budapest City Park (Városliget) is free to enter, although some attractions within the park, such as museums and the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, charge an entrance fee.
- What’s in City Park Budapest?
- City Park in Budapest is home to a variety of attractions, including the iconic Vajdahunyad Castle, Széchenyi Thermal Baths, Heroes’ Square, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Budapest Zoo, the Municipal Circus, the House of Music, serene lakes, gardens, and open green spaces perfect for picnics, walks, and seasonal events.
- How big is City Park in Budapest?
- City Park in Budapest spans approximately 302 acres (1.2 square kilometers).
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