Located in the heart of Budapest, Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With its stunning architecture, expansive pools, and therapeutic waters, it's no wonder that this bath complex attracts visitors from all over the world. In this blog post, we'll dive into the details of planning your perfect day at Széchenyi, from what to bring and when to go, to the best pools and treatments to experience. By the end of this post, you'll have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable experience at one of Europe's most impressive thermal baths.
Before you visit Széchenyi Bath
Before you even step foot inside, you'll be in awe of the stunning Neo-Baroque architecture that greets you. Once you enter, prepare to be amazed by the sheer size and variety of the bath complex. With 18 pools, 15 indoor and 3 outdoor, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking to soak in the therapeutic waters, relax on the sun terrace, or even attend one of the famous “sparties”, Széchenyi has it all. One unique feature is the Palm House, a stunning glass-enclosed room on the terrace where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the breathtaking views. It's important to note that the bath complex can feel like a maze, so it's easy to get lost. Read this blog to navigate your way through the various pools and facilities with ease.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Széchenyi Thermal Bath is early in the morning, around 9am, before the midday crowds arrive. The bath complex is enjoyable year-round, but during the winter months, it provides a warm escape from the chilly weather. Start your day by enjoying the outdoor pools, then head inside to experience the massages, saunas, and indoor pools. When hunger strikes, take a short walk to the lakeside Robinson Restaurant for a satisfying meal. Alternatively, if you're looking for a unique experience, book a ticket to one of the famous sparties held on Saturday nights. These lively events combine the relaxing atmosphere of the baths with a fun, party vibe, complete with music and light shows.
Tickets to Széchenyi Bath
Opening hours
Széchenyi Baths is open daily throughout the year, with slightly varying hours depending on the season.
- Between April 29 to May 12, 2024 the outdoor swimming pool will be under maintenance.
- Outdoor and Indoor Pools Hours: Monday to Thursday: 7am-8pm, Friday to Sunday: 8am-8pm
- Saunas and Hot Air Chambers are open daily from 10am to 7:30pm
- Szechenyi Baths opening hours in December:
Dec 11: 7am - 4pm (all facilities)
Dec 24: 6am - 2pm (all facilities)
Dec 25: 10am - 6pm (3 outdoor pools and most thermal sections)
Dec 26: 6am - 8pm (3 outdoor pools and most thermal sections)
Dec 31: 6am to 6pm
- On January 1st the opening hours are from 11am to 8pm.
Tips for visiting Széchenyi Bath
- Bring your own towel, flip-flops, and a bathing cap to avoid extra costs.
- Rent a private changing cabin for added comfort and security.
- If you're visiting during the winter months, don't forget to pack a warm robe or cover-up for moving between the indoor and outdoor areas.
- Take advantage of the on-site massage services for the ultimate relaxation experience.
- To make the most of your visit, plan to spend at least 3-4 hours at the baths, allowing ample time to relax, explore, and rejuvenate.
- If you have a Budapest Card, you can enjoy a 20% discount on the entry fees to Széchenyi Baths.
For more tips, read here!
Getting to Széchenyi Bath
Széchenyi Baths is located inside the beautiful City Park, directly opposite the Budapest Zoo. There are several ways to reach the baths, depending on your preferred mode of transportation:
🚇 By Metro:
The easiest way to get to Széchenyi Baths is by taking Metro Line 1 (the "Yellow Line"), which is the oldest metro line in Budapest. The nearest stop is Széchenyi Furdo, located just a short walk from the baths entrance. The journey from the city center (Vörösmarty tér) takes approximately 25 minutes.
🚊 By Tram:
Another convenient option is to take Tram 72 from Vörösmarty tér and disembark at the Széchenyi fürdő tram stop, situated right in front of the baths.
🚌 By Bus:
If you prefer to travel by bus, board bus 105 at Deák Ferenc tér, heading towards Széchenyi Baths. Alight at the Heroes Square stop, and you'll find yourself just a short stroll away from the baths entrance. The journey from Deák Ferenc tér takes approximately 25-30 minutes.
Amenities and accessibility
- Széchenyi Baths has a dedicated wheelchair-accessible entrance at the Thermal Section from Kós Károly Walkway, with no stairs or lifts. It is recommended to purchase a Bath Ticket with a Cabin, as the traditional Lockers are located in the basement and may be difficult for wheelchair users to access. While the bath complex and pool areas are wheelchair-friendly, it's important to note that the pool lifts are currently out of order.
- Széchenyi Baths offers free aqua fitness classes every half an hour from 8am to 5:30pm. There is also a facility for checking BMI, Blood Pressure and Body Fat percentage.
- Széchenyi Baths provides a perfect setting to relax and enjoy the outdoor pools under the warm sun. Rent a sunbed to unwind and create an ideal atmosphere for a leisurely day.
- For a brief overview of Széchenyi Baths without bathing, consider taking a 15-minute guided tour of the facilities.
- Széchenyi Bath offers additional services through private companies, including a beauty salon, body massage, fish pedicure, and Thai massage.
What to see at Széchenyi Bath:
- At Széchenyi Bath, you'll find an impressive array of services to indulge in. The beer baths are a unique experience, where you can soak in a tub filled with warm water and natural extracts used in the brewing process. It's said to have therapeutic benefits for the skin and body.
- The outdoor area boasts three pools: the Thermal Pool at a toasty 38°C, the Lap Pool at a refreshing 26°C, and the Leisure Pool at a comfortable 34°C.
- Inside, you'll find the Steam Area with five pools, including a cold plunge at 20°C for those brave enough to try it.
- The Thermal Area is where you can soak in the mineral-rich waters, with seven different pools to choose from.
- Don't miss the Sauna Ritual program on weekend afternoons for a truly invigorating experience which is a 12 to 15-minute guided program in the sauna, led by a qualified sauna master.
- If you're feeling energetic, head to the Fitness Center for a workout. For a unique experience, try the salt inhalation steam bath, which can help improve respiratory health.
Nearby attractions
Located just a short walk from Széchenyi Baths, Heroes' Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. The square features an impressive monument dedicated to the seven chieftains of the Magyars, who led the Hungarian people to the Carpathian Basin. The square is also home to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art, both of which are worth a visit if you have the time.
This stunning castle, situated within City Park, is a must-see attraction. The castle was built in 1896 as part of the Millennial Exhibition, which celebrated the 1,000th anniversary of the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin. The castle features a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, making it a fascinating attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Situated across from the Széchenyi Baths, Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is a fantastic destination for families and animal lovers. Founded in 1866, it is one of the oldest zoos in the world and is home to over 1,000 animals from various species. The zoo also features a beautiful botanical garden with a wide variety of plants and flowers, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll.
