One of the 18 pools. Photo: © Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Swimming Pool
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest natural hot spring spa in Europe and it has been one of the most popular public baths in Budapest since its opening in 1881. Its water is supplied by two thermal springs, their temperature is 74 °C (165 °F) and 77 °C (171 °F). The water is rich in sulfate, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate and a significant amount of metaboric acid and fluoride. This spa has over 15 pools; 3 of them are large outdoor swimming pools and the rest are smaller and indoors. There are also various saunas, steam chambers and rooms where you can get different types of massages.
The baths open from 6 am and are loved by tourists and locals alike, so they get busier and busier as the day goes on. In order to get the best experience while avoiding the crowds, try to get there as early as possible. The baths get especially crowded after lunchtime.
Strangely, in the hottest outdoor thermal pools you will probably see retired Hungarians playing chess in the water.If you know how to play, they’ll be delighted to challenge you. You can bring your own board or watch some of the regulars battle it out.
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What is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath?
It is the largest medicinal bath in Europe.
Are the baths divided by gender?
The construction of the thermal bath datres back to the early 1900s (1909 to be precise) and at that time the Bath consisted of private baths, separate steam-bath sections for men and women, and male and female “public baths.” The complex was expanded in 1927 to its current size and since 1981 it has been possible for both sexes to visit the main swimming and thermal sections.
Are hot pools suitable for everyone?
Today a visit to the Széchenyi Baths is a fun activity for couples and families alike, although the hot pools are only recommended for children over the age of 14.
What kind of wellness treatments can you expect?
You can choose from a wide range of wellness treatements: steam rooms, saunas, massage therapies, mud baths, herbal or wine massages as well as aquafitness and gymnastics sessions. A free fitness studio is also available. The complex also houses a day clinic that provides various prescribed therapies and physiotherapy. The Thermal Beer Spa is another unusual option that you can choose.
General informations
Useful information for your visit to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Location
It is located in Budapest, between the Lőportárdűlő and the VI district. The address is: in Pest, next to Heroes’ Square. H-1146 Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 11.
Opening hours
To visit the Széchenyi Thermal Bath the times are as follows:
- Every day: 6 am – 10 pm.
The outdoor pools are open until 10 pm, while the indoor pools, steam rooms, and saunas close at 7 pm.
Visitors are asked to leave the pools 15 minutes before the baths close. Guided tours take place daily at 10 am and 4 pm.
How to get to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath
To reach the Széchenyi Thermal Bath:
Metro: Széchenyi fürdö, line M1 (yellow).
Attractions nearby
- Museum of Fine Arts Budapest (498 m)
- Heroes’ Square (507 m)
- Budapest City Park (545 m)
- Andrássy Avenue (1.3 km)
- State Opera House (2.5 km)
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