The baths of Szechenyi, Budapest

The Széchenyi Baths (Széchenyi fürdő) in Budapest are the largest thermal bath complex in Europe and one of the city’s most popular attractions. Fed by natural hot springs in Városliget City Park, the waters reach a temperature of up to 77°C. To make bathing comfortable, the water is cooled and mixed with artesian water, resulting in pool temperatures ranging from 18°C to 40°C.

Pools and Facilities

The complex includes a wide variety of pools and wellness features:

• 18 pools in total – three outdoor and 15 indoor.
• Outdoor pools include:
  • A large swimming pool (+27°C, up to 1.5 m deep).
  • A thermal pool (+38°C).
  • A fun whirlpool (+34°C).
• Indoor facilities include thermal pools, steam rooms, saunas, cold plunge pools, and even a mineral water drinking spring.

Additional amenities such as changing rooms, cafés, and massage services make the experience both relaxing and entertaining.

Location and Access

Széchenyi Baths are located in Pest, the flat part of Budapest, within the Városliget (City Park). The park is also home to Vajdahunyad Castle and the Budapest Zoo. Visitors can walk to the baths from central Pest in about 40 minutes or take the metro (M1 line) to the station Széchenyi fürdő.

Architecture

The main building was completed in 1913 to designs by Győző Czigler and is one of the largest neo-Baroque buildings in Budapest:

• Grand neo-Baroque façades with domes facing the park.
• Richly decorated halls with mosaics and sculptures.
• A large courtyard with sculptures, arcades, and the outdoor pools.

Because of its grandeur, the complex is often called the “palace of baths.” The interiors are decorated with aquatic motifs—mythical sea creatures, mermaids, and fish—adding to its unique character.

Opening Hours and Tickets

• Monday–Thursday 07:00–20:00, Friday 07:00–22:00, Saturday–Sunday 08:00–20:00.
• Tickets allow access to all pools and saunas for the whole day.
• Cash desks close one hour before closing; the pools must be left 20 minutes before closing.
• A weekday ticket with a locker costs about 13,200 HUF (2026); prices vary depending on the day and services included, and online booking is available.

The Széchenyi Baths are not just a wellness retreat but also a cultural landmark, combining history, architecture, and relaxation in the heart of Budapest.