Dive into 2025 with Budapest’s Thermal Baths
zita kisgergely
Budapest, Hungary, is recognized as a hotspot for international filmmakers seeking authentic European charm, inspiring shooting locations and bang for buck. But it’s also known as the City of Spas, famous for its thermal bath culture. Wellness tourism is big here, for visitors and locals alike, and offers a unique way to unwind while marvelling at some beautiful architecture in the process.
1. Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Széchenyi Baths. Picture via Wikipedia.
One of the largest medicinal baths in Europe, this thermal spa began construction at the end of the twentieth century, opening its doors in 1913. Expanded in 1927, the complex includes three outdoor and fifteen indoor pools, whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms. Temperatures vary between 18 and 38 degrees Celsius.
The idea of lounging in the outdoor pool section with locals playing chess in their speedos doesn’t captivate you? It should. Try gazing at the vibrant yellow façade of the opulent neo-baroque buildings while steam rises from the warm water in the dead of winter and do some mind prep for 2025.
2. Gellért Thermal Bath
Gellért Baths. Image from www.gellertbath.hu
Utilizing the mineral hot springs under Gellért hill, these baths are attached to the grand Gellért Hotel that overlooks the Danube River. Opened in 1918, the spa complex was expanded to include an outdoor wave pool in 1937 (apparently the first of its kind). References to the healing waters here date back to the 13th century.
Located on the Buda side of the city, this spa is for lovers of Art Nouveau. From the grand, sweeping entrance hall and stained-glass windows to the intricate sculptures of Miklós Ligeti and turquoise blue mosaic tiling of the baths inside (from Zsolnay porcelain), this place is guaranteed to transport you to another era and make you feel nothing short of royal.
3. Rudas Baths
Rudas Baths. Picture from www.termalfurdok.hu
These baths were originally commissioned by pasha Sokullu Mustafa (who was the governor of Buda from 1566 to 1578 during the Ottoman occupation) and finished around 1571. The historical part of this spa complex retains many elements of a traditional Turkish Hammam, characterised by its Ottoman dome and octagonal pool.
Just up the road from the Gellért, the baths have since been expanded with a more modern wing that includes several therapy pools and an indoor swimming pool. But perhaps what sets this complex apart is the outdoor rooftop mega jacuzzi that offers a stunning view across the Danube River and Budapest’s skyline. A definite for date night.
4. Lukács Baths
Lukács Baths. Image from Wikipedia.
Near Margit bridge on the Buda side, the buildings of this spa were completed in the 1880s and the complex named after Saint Luke–who is thought to have been a physician and disciple of Saint Paul.
While Széchenyi and Gellért lure visitors with their picturesque architecture, Lukács is aesthetically perhaps more on the functional side; a place where many locals go just to take advantage of the water’s health benefits. Nevertheless, it still delivers an authentic thermal spa experience with both outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool, indoor baths, saunas and steam rooms. In summer, a sunning deck near the outdoor pools are a winner if you’re looking for alternatives to the run-of-the-mill public pool.
5. Császár Baths (Kaiser or Veli Bej baths)
Császár Baths. Image from www.termalfurdok.hu
If you’re after a hidden gem that is less touristy than the complexes above, try Veli Bej. Also commissioned by the Ottoman pasha Sokullu Mustafa, this one is said to be the oldest surviving Turkish bath in Budapest (but who’s going to quibble about a few years when we’re talking about the 16th century). The healing properties of the water here have been known since Roman times.
Renamed the Császár Baths after Ottoman occupation ended, the original octagon-shaped pool (also under the characteristic dome) has been fully refurbished for the ultimate authentic Turkish bath experience. The spa area has been expanded to include a jacuzzi and saunas that are attached to the swimming pool complex of the Császár Hotel.
Budapest’s thermal baths aren’t just about relaxation—they’re about immersion, both culturally and visually. From the imposing Széchenyi to the intimate Császár, these legendary spas offer inspiration for filmmakers and visitors alike.
Plan your next film shoot in Budapest, have a soak, and discover why this city continues to captivate storytellers from around the globe.
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