Széchenyi Thermal Baths (Széchenyi Gyógyfürdo)

The basics

Tickets to the Szechenyi Baths include full-day access to the 18 outdoor and indoor pools, thermal baths, and spa facilities, with optional massages and treatments available. (Note that massage treatments must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.) The complex also houses a bar-café, gym, sundeck, and spa shop. For a hassle-free experience, prebook your tickets and enjoy skip-the-line access through a private entrance; opt for a tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off; or combine your visit with other top Budapest activities such as a cruise along the Danube River or a city sightseeing tour. Non-bathers can also experience the architectural marvel on a guided tour of the historic baths.

Things to know before you go

• The Szechenyi Baths can get very busy, so purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance or be prepared to wait in line.

• Bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops, or rent them upon arrival. All tickets include access to a private changing room or a locker.

• The Szechenyi Baths and facilities are wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

The Szechenyi Baths are located in central Budapest’s City Park. The easiest way to get there is by metro; take the Yellow M1 line to Szechenyi station. The baths’ main entrance is opposite the Budapest Circus Building.

When to get there

The Szechenyi Baths are open daily year-round, and the thermal waters mean that swimming in the outdoor pools is possible even in winter. The baths can get busy, especially during the peak summer season, so to avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday and get there early to beat the midafternoon rush. For a different experience, arrive on a Saturday evening in summer, when the baths play host to the Szecska parties and stay open until the wee hours.

The healing powers of the Szechenyi Baths

The Szechenyi Baths’ thermal pools are typically heated to between 68°F and 100°F (20°C and 38°C), and are famous for their high levels of calcium, magnesium, hydrocarbonate, sodium, and sulfate. The steamy, mineral-rich waters have long been reputed for their healing properties, and many seek them out for help with conditions such as degenerative joint diseases and arthritis, as well as post-injury treatments. If that's not enough, the saunas, steam rooms, infrared sauna, gym, mudpacks, and range of massages and physical therapies are chock-full of refreshing, rejuvenating benefits.

Are towels and swimsuits provided at Szechenyi Thermal Baths?

No, swimsuits are not provided at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and towels are only offered as part of the premium Palm House package. For most visitors, it’s recommended to bring your own swimsuit and a fast-drying microfiber towel with you. However, swimsuits and towels are also sold in the gift shop.

Can I book tickets for Szechenyi Thermal Baths in advance?

Yes, you can buy tickets to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths online—in fact, it’s recommended to do so, especially if you’re visiting during the summer, weekends, or other popular times. Some tour packages also pair entry with river cruises and other Budapest activities, and you can also purchase VIP passes in advance.

Are children allowed at Szechenyi Thermal Baths?

Yes, children are allowed at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, although it may not be the best environment for them. There are no water slides or play areas, and it’s not recommended that anyone under 14 use the thermal baths. Those aged 14 and over are welcome, however.

Are there any special treatments or massages available at Szechenyi Thermal Baths?

Yes, there are numerous treatments available at Széchenyi Thermal Baths, including massages, facials, and even fish pedicures (where small fish nibble dead skin off your feet). The baths also have a fitness center, offering aerobics classes, health consultations, and outdoor chess.

Are lockers available for storing personal belongings at Szechenyi Thermal Baths?

Yes, there are lockers available for storing personal belongings at Széchenyi Thermal Baths; it’s advised not to bring your phone or valuables with you to the bathing areas. There are also private changing cubicles that you can rent, which are spacious enough to leave suitcases and other larger items.

Is there a specific dress code at Szechenyi Thermal Baths?

Yes, there is a dress code at Széchenyi Thermal Baths. As the baths are co-ed in all public areas, nudity is strictly forbidden. One-piece and bikini swimsuits are permitted, as are swim trunks and speedos; however, fully-covered modesty swimsuits are prohibited. All visitors need to wear flip-flops or slippers, which can be purchased.​​

Ways to explore

Tickets to the Szechenyi Baths include full-day access to the 18 outdoor and indoor pools, thermal baths, and spa facilities, with optional massages and treatments available. (Note that massage treatments must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.) The complex also houses a bar-café, gym, sundeck, and spa shop.

For a hassle-free experience, prebook your tickets and enjoy skip-the-line access through a private entrance, or opt for a tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off. You can also combine your visit with other top Budapest activities such as a cruise along the Danube River or a city sightseeing tour. Non-bathers can also experience the architectural marvel on a guided tour of the historic baths.

Accessibility

Some entrances and areas of the spa are wheelchair accessible thanks to pool lifts.

Age limits

The hot thermal water is not recommended for children aged 14 and under.

What to pack

Waterproof phone and camera cases, swimming cap

What to wear

Bring a modest swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops, or rent them upon arrival. All tickets include access to a private changing room or a locker.

Not allowed

Nude bathing, swimming diapers

Amenities

Indoor and outdoor pools, changing rooms, lockers, restaurant, towel and swimwear rentals

Address

The Szechenyi Baths are in central Budapest’s City Park. The baths’ main entrance is opposite the Budapest Circus Building.

Driving

From Budapest City Center, head northeast on Károly körút toward Dohány and continue on the quick route (about 10–12 minutes) until you reach the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. The nearest parking is at Budapest Zoo Parking (ZOOna Parking Zone) on Állatkerti krt. 16.

Public transportation

The easiest way to get there is by metro; take the Yellow M1 line to Szechenyi station.

Best times to visit

If you visit the spa before 9am between Monday and Thursday, you can enjoy discounted entry.

Best days to visit

Get there early on a weekday to beat the mid-afternoon rush.

Best months to visit

For a different experience, arrive on a Saturday evening in summer, when the baths play host to “Sparties” and stay open until the early hours.

Special events

The baths host beer spa experiences and festive light shows during the holiday season.