Budapest is the perfect destination for a European weekend break, with direct flights from all of London’s main airports. There’s plenty to see and do in this stunning capital city, but make sure you visit at least one of the historic thermal baths. Here are five of the best:
Gellert
Image Credit: Alex Kudla
The famous Gellert thermal baths are exquisite examples of the art nouveau style. Founded in 1918, there are 10 separate baths and pools - indoor and open air - with each varying in temperature. The baths are open from 6am to 8pm, all year round. Soak in the geothermal waters, enjoy the open air wavepool, or book a deeply relaxing massage.
More information: bathsbudapest.com
Szechenyi
Image Credit: karaian
Szechenyi is one of the biggest natural spa baths in Europe, with 18 pools. Open all year round, there is a choice of indoor geothermal baths and outdoor pools with whirlpools and aqua massage.
These historic, neo-Baroque style baths were founded in the 1880s and are popular with locals and foreign visitors alike.
More information: bathsbudapest.com
Rudas
Image Credit: Guillaume Baviere
People have been enjoying the healing, thermal waters of Rudas since the 16th century. Medieval Turkish in style and recently restored to their former glory, Rudas Baths stand at the base of the famous Gellert Hill on the Buda side of the Danube. Rudas is unique in that it offers men and women-only days during the week.
More information: bathsbudapest.com
Kiraly
Image Credit: Wikimedia
Dating back to the days of Ottoman rule in the 16th century, Kiraly are the oldest thermal baths in Budapest. Time seems to stand still in the historic atmosphere of Kiraly, where the octagonal shaped Turkish baths are dimly lit by holes in the domed ceiling.
More information: bathsbudapest.com
Lukacs
Image Credit: Wikimedia
Not as ornate as Gellert or Szechenyi, Lukacs has its own distinctive character, and boasts underground springs that have been used since the 12th century. Healing waters for back problems are to be found in the weight baths, and the Himalayan salt room is known to help with respiratory conditions. In recent years, Lukacs has also become known for hosting bath parties, complete with laser shows and electronic music.
More information: bathsbudapest.com
Title Image Credit: Elin B (Image Cropped)