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| Photo by Louise Spurgeon on Unsplash |
Budapest is known as the City of Spas, and two of its most famous thermal baths—Széchenyi and Gellért—are must-visit attractions for anyone looking to experience Hungary’s rich bathing culture. But if you have to choose just one, which is the best option for you?
Both offer stunning architecture, healing thermal waters, and a relaxing escape, but they each have their own unique atmosphere, features, and history. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which bathhouse best suits your needs, whether you’re looking for a lively social experience, luxurious relaxation, or historic charm.
🏛️ A Quick Overview: Széchenyi vs. Gellért Baths
| Feature | Széchenyi Baths | Gellért Baths |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | First-time visitors, socializing, outdoor soaking | Luxury seekers, architecture lovers, indoor relaxation |
| Vibe | Lively, energetic, large crowds | Elegant, quiet, refined |
| Pools | 18 pools (indoor & outdoor) | 10 pools (mostly indoor) |
| Temperature Range | 20-40°C (68-104°F) | 26-40°C (79-104°F) |
| Main Highlights | Huge outdoor pools, spa parties, chess players | Stunning Art Nouveau design, wave pool |
| Massage & Wellness | Wide range of treatments | Luxury treatments available |
| Saunas & Steam Rooms | Multiple options | More limited |
| Price | €18-€25 | €18-€25 |
| Location | City Park (Pest side) | Next to Liberty Bridge (Buda side) |
🏰 Széchenyi Thermal Baths: The Grand & Lively Spa
Széchenyi Baths is the largest and most famous thermal spa in Budapest. Built in 1913, it is an iconic Neo-Baroque complex featuring vast outdoor pools, steamy thermal waters, and a buzzing social atmosphere.
🌟 Why Choose Széchenyi?
✔️ Perfect for first-time visitors
✔️ Lively atmosphere, great for groups
✔️ Beautiful outdoor pools for year-round soaking
✔️ Spa parties ("SPArties") on weekends
✔️ Affordable compared to high-end spas
🔥 Key Features of Széchenyi Baths
- Three massive outdoor pools – including a thermal bath, a swimming pool, and a whirlpool.
- 15 indoor pools of varying temperatures and mineral compositions.
- Saunas & steam rooms with different heat intensities.
- Relaxation and wellness treatments, including massages and beer baths.
- Famous chess players enjoying games in the steaming thermal waters.
🌿 The Outdoor Experience at Széchenyi
One of the main reasons visitors love Széchenyi is its outdoor pools, which are open year-round. Even in winter, you can soak in warm, mineral-rich water while surrounded by misty air and grand yellow walls.
🔥 Pro Tip: Visit in the early morning to avoid crowds, or go in the evening for a magical nighttime soak.
🎉 Széchenyi SPArties: Nighttime Thermal Pool Parties
If you’re looking for a fun and unique experience, don’t miss Széchenyi’s legendary "SPArties", which take place on weekend nights. These events transform the baths into a nightclub with DJs, neon lights, and a party atmosphere.
- When? Every Saturday night (9:30 PM – 2:00 AM)
- Who should go? Party lovers, young travelers, groups of friends
- Tickets: €50-€70 (includes entry and a locker)
🔥 Pro Tip: Book your ticket well in advance, as SPArties sell out quickly!
🏛️ Gellért Thermal Baths: The Elegant & Luxurious Spa
Located in the historic Gellért Hotel, Gellért Baths is Budapest’s most beautiful and luxurious thermal spa. Built in 1918, this Art Nouveau masterpiece is famous for its stunning architecture, colorful mosaics, and elegant atmosphere.
🌟 Why Choose Gellért?
✔️ Perfect for couples and relaxation seekers
✔️ Breathtaking Art Nouveau interiors
✔️ Less crowded and quieter than Széchenyi
✔️ Unique wave pool (operating in summer)
✔️ High-end spa treatments available
🔥 Key Features of Gellért Baths
- Beautiful indoor thermal pools with intricate mosaics and stained glass windows.
- A warm, relaxing atmosphere—great for a peaceful soak.
- Thermal pools with healing properties, sourced from Gellért Hill’s hot springs.
- A wave pool (open in summer) for a fun outdoor experience.
- Luxury spa treatments, including mud wraps, aroma therapy, and private thermal baths.
🌊 The Indoor Experience at Gellért
Unlike Széchenyi, which is known for its large outdoor pools, Gellért offers a more intimate, indoor-focused spa experience.
🔥 Pro Tip: Take time to admire the architecture—the intricate tiles, domed ceilings, and stained-glass windows make Gellért Baths feel like a palace!
💆 The Best Spa Treatments at Gellért
If you’re looking for a truly indulgent experience, Gellért Baths offers some of the best luxury treatments in Budapest.
Top Treatments to Try:
✔️ Aromatherapy massage – €40-€70 (50-70 minutes)
✔️ Thermal mud wrap – Helps with joint pain and detoxification
✔️ Private bathing room – A more exclusive experience for couples
🔥 Pro Tip: If you want a quieter and more romantic experience, visit Gellért Baths in the late afternoon or evening.
🆚 Széchenyi vs. Gellért: Which One Should You Choose?
💦 Choose Széchenyi if you want:
✔️ A lively, social atmosphere
✔️ Huge outdoor pools (great in winter!)
✔️ A fun, Instagram-worthy experience
✔️ A chance to party at SPArties
✔️ A budget-friendly but classic thermal bath experience
🏛️ Choose Gellért if you want:
✔️ A luxurious, romantic experience
✔️ Stunning Art Nouveau architecture
✔️ A peaceful and less crowded spa
✔️ High-end spa treatments and massages
✔️ A mix of indoor pools and an outdoor wave pool
🔥 Still Can’t Decide? If you have time, visit both! Each offers a unique experience, and both are among the top things to do in Budapest.
✅ Final Thoughts: Which is the Best Budapest Spa for You?
Both Széchenyi and Gellért Baths are amazing experiences, and you really can’t go wrong with either. It all depends on what kind of thermal bath experience you’re looking for:
- Want to socialize, soak in outdoor pools, and see Budapest’s biggest bathhouse? → Go to Széchenyi Baths.
- Prefer a quieter, more refined spa experience with stunning architecture? → Choose Gellért Baths.
No matter which one you choose, you’ll leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to explore more of Budapest!