One of Budapest’s most beloved landmarks, the Gellért Bath, has officially closed its doors for a major renovation project. The beautiful Art Nouveau spa will be under restoration for the next three years, so if it was on your list for this trip — you’ll need to save it for a future visit.

But don’t worry. The Budapest thermal baths 2025 scene is still going strong. Known as the “City of Spas,” Budapest offers plenty of wonderful places to relax, unwind, and enjoy its famous healing waters. Here are our top picks and what makes each one special.

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Rudas Baths: A Timeless Classic in the Budapest Thermal Baths 2025 Scene

Just across the river from Gellért, Rudas Bath is the most convenient alternative. Dating back to the 16th-century Ottoman era, Rudas is best known for its atmospheric Turkish bath, complete with an octagonal pool beneath a centuries-old dome.

Good to know: From October 1, the baths will be mixed-gender daily from 11 AM until closing.

Traditional touch: On weekday mornings (6–11 AM), you can still experience authentic men-only or women-only bathing hours — a tradition that goes back centuries.

Renovation note: Some work is still ongoing in the sauna world and around the dome, but the main baths remain open.

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Lukács Bath (Our Insider Tip)

Often overlooked by tourists, Lukács Bath is a true local favorite — and recently restored, so it feels both historic and fresh. Its medicinal waters have been used for centuries and were once famed across Europe for their healing properties.

Atmosphere: Quieter than the more famous spas, with a strong community feel.

Why we love it: You’ll spot plenty of Budapest residents here, which makes it feel more authentic than some of the busier options in the Budapest thermal baths 2025 lineup.

Extra tip: Don’t miss the outdoor pools, which are especially magical when steam rises on cooler days.

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Széchenyi Bath: The Heart of Budapest Thermal Baths 2025

If you’ve seen photos of Budapest’s baths, chances are they were of Széchenyi Bath. Located in City Park, this is the largest spa complex in Europe, with its iconic yellow Neo-Baroque buildings surrounding steaming outdoor pools.

Famous for: The outdoor pools where locals gather for games of floating chess.

What to expect: A bustling, social atmosphere — perfect if you’re looking for the full Budapest thermal baths 2025 experience.

Good for first-timers: If you only have time for one spa, Széchenyi is the most iconic choice.

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A Splash of History

Bathing in Budapest isn’t just about relaxation — it’s a tradition that goes back nearly 2,000 years.
Romans were the first to build bathhouses here, drawn by the hot springs beneath what is now Óbuda.

Ottomans arrived in the 16th century and gave the city its classic domed Turkish baths — Rudas and Király are some of the finest surviving examples.

By the 19th century, Budapest had reinvented itself as a European spa capital, building grand bathhouses like Gellért and Széchenyi that combined medical treatments with leisure.

Today, when you slip into the warm, mineral-rich pools, you’re taking part in a ritual that locals have enjoyed for centuries. The Budapest thermal baths 2025 continue this living heritage, connecting history with modern comfort.

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Quick Spa Planner – Budapest Thermal Baths 2025

A simple guide to help you plan your perfect spa day:

Local tip: Always double-check opening times or temporary closures before your visit. For the latest information and train or tram schedules, visit the official Hungarian transport website. It’s the best way to plan your route between Budapest’s famous baths.

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How to Make the Most of Your Bath Experience

If it’s your first time, here’s how to enjoy the baths like a pro:

1. Shower

2. Relax in a warm pool

3. Take a dip in a cold pool

4. Head to the sauna

5. Cool down with a cold shower

6. Try the steam bath

7. Another cold shower

8. Explore pools with different temperatures

9. Final shower

10. Rest and relax, wrapped in your towel

Pro tip: Bring flip-flops, a towel, and a swimming cap if you plan to use the lap pool. Remove silver jewelry before bathing — sulfur in the thermal water can tarnish it.

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Our Local Secret

Budapest is also famous for its nightlife — and if you’ve had a late night out, the ultimate cure is the thermal baths!

Locals swear by this ritual: soak in hot pools for 30 minutes, then cool down with a cold shower. It’s the perfect Budapest thermal baths 2025 hangover cure — tried, tested, and trusted.

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Final Thoughts

While Gellért takes its well-earned rest, the Budapest thermal baths 2025 experience remains one of the city’s most iconic traditions. Whether you prefer the history of Rudas, the authenticity of Lukács, or the grandeur of Széchenyi, the spirit of Budapest’s spa culture is alive and thriving.

So pack your swimsuit, follow the local tips above, and dive into the healing waters that define this timeless city.

Want to learn more about the stories behind Budapest’s baths?
Join us on one of our daily free walking tours. Discover how the Budapest thermal baths 2025 connect centuries of history, healing, and Hungarian culture.