Budapest, thermal baths center in Europe

From its nickname “Little Paris of the East” or “Queen of the Danube‘, Budapest radiates through its rich historical and cultural past which has left marks on its beautiful cityscape. Besides its architectural beauty, the Hungarian capital has a unique appeal: its numerous thermal baths. Relaxation, care, water sports… these baths are part of the daily life of Budapest’s since many centuries. During my meeting with the Hungarian guide, Katalin Décsenyi, I was able to discover and enjoy this ancient tradition.

The thermal waters of Budapest: a natural treasure that has passed through the eras

Budapest today is a famous spa town thanks to its medicinal waters and various baths (the Fürdő), powered by natural hot waters beneath the city. These mineral-rich waters had been known for their many virtues for thousands of years. Celts, Romans, Turks…many civilizations that have occupied Budapest benefited from these sources to heal and relax. Using an ingenious collection and dispatch system to the surface, natural water baths are daily renewed and wastewater is reused by the city in many forms: heating, cleaning etc…

The baths of Budapest, true witnesses institutions of different cultures

Budapest today has 13 “baths”, each offering a different experience. Most of them are very old, dating back to the Greek and Ottoman era. If you wish to enjoy an experience in a magnificent setting, the three most emblematic of the city are the Gellert baths, real showcases of Art Nouveau with their beautiful indoor pools; the Rudas baths, Turkish baths dating from 1566 have retained their eastern magnificence with their columns, domes and stained glass; and the Széchenyi baths, bright and modern spa complex built in the 19th century.

Most of these baths are mixed-gender and have several pools with different temperatures and steam rooms, saunas and jacuzzis. Many treatments are also offered: massages, pedicures, hydrotherapy, mud care ect…

Other ancient baths such as Lukács and Király are appointed specifically to medical needs: breathing treatments, rheumatism, arthritis, scoliosis ect… Their waters have recognized benefits.

For those who do not like public swim but wish to look at the masterpieces of architecture in the baths of Budapest (Gellert baths or Rudas baths for example), it is also possible to visit them.