Thermal baths are well known in Budapest and are part of an ancient tradition that continues to this day. So how can you visit the Gellért thermal baths during your stay?
The thermal bath is to Hungarians what morning coffee is to the French: a tradition rooted in daily life. Budapest has 118 natural thermal springs. This gives locals and tourists alike a wide choice of ways to relax. The Gellért thermal baths are also highly regarded for their medicinal properties. In fact, they are among the most prestigious in the country. They are located in the heart of the capital, near the mountain of the same name, on the banks of the Danube. Mount Gellért, as well as the thermal baths, owe their name to the first Italian bishop who, in the 11th century, tutored the first Hungarian king: Stephen I.
Want to immerse yourself in tradition? Here’s everything you need to know about Budapest’s Gellért thermal baths.
History of the Gellért thermal baths
To visit the Gellért thermal baths in Budapest is to take a step back into a rich and astonishing history. The spa opened its doors in 1918, but its history goes back much further than that. The high therapeutic properties of its water were first described in the 13th century, during the reign of Hungarian King András II. In the Middle Ages, a hospital was built on the site of today’s Gellért thermal baths. It was a place for treatment, washing and relaxation. The baths gained in popularity with Hungarian monks and hermits. They even welcomed Turkish and Ottoman soldiers at the time of the invasion (16th century). The latter sometimes stayed for long periods.
But it was in the 19th century that the Gellért thermal baths enjoyed their greatest success. With the democratization of tourism, foreigners began to enjoy the benefits of the thermal baths just as much as the inhabitants of Budapest.
At the end of the 19th century, the structure housing the baths was demolished so that the Freedom Bridge (Szabadság híd) could be built. At the same time, plans for the Gellért thermal baths we know today were drawn up by three Hungarian architects: Ármin Hegedüs, Artúr Sebestyén and Izidor Stark. Construction began in 1912, and the current baths were opened to the public in 1918!
In the course of the 20th century, the facility was expanded to include an ultra-modern wave pool and bubble bath. Today, the Gellért thermal baths offer a wide range of activities, including spa, hammam, sauna… everything you need to relax!
What to see and do in Budapest’s Gellért thermal baths?
As well as enjoying the benefits of water, a visit to Budapest’s Gellért thermal baths is also a chance to discover the Art Nouveau style. Indeed, the decoration and architecture of both the main hall and the gallery immerse visitors in a sumptuous bygone era. The richness of the decor, the glass roof and the glass roof of the hall all contribute to the beauty of the place.
The spa offers a wide range of services, including complex balneotherapy and a day hospital, providing patients with comprehensive care and medical follow-up. For others, access to a wide range of massages is available: hot stone, essential oil and energizing massages. Also available: spa pedicure, steam cabins and Finnish saunas with free access, Cleopatra, mud and herbal baths. For spa enthusiasts, the Gellért thermal baths offer a chocolate treatment. A gourmet treatment renowned for its antioxidant virtues, improving skin quality and preventing ageing. They also offer a Hungarian wine treatment, an invigorating vinotherapy ritual excellent for blood circulation.
Massages and treatments last between 20 and 60 minutes. The same service can be provided in 20, 45 or 60 minutes. Treatments (Cleopatra, mud, herbs, chocolate or wine) last one hour.
A little extra fun: the establishment has a naturist sunbathing area for women or families, as you wish.
You may be surprised by what some call « a strange smell ». This is sulphur rising to the surface, proof that the waters are indeed thermal.
How do I get to the Gellért thermal baths in Budapest?
There’s plenty of transport to take you to the Gellért thermal baths. Budapest is extremely well organized when it comes to public transport. A leisurely stroll will allow you to discover the city and its bridges, one of which was responsible for the destruction of the Gellért baths in the 19th century! Getting to the Gellért thermal baths in Budapest couldn’t be easier! They’re right in the heart of the city, in the 9th district, on the Buda (west) side. To give you an idea, it’s a three-kilometer walk south of the Hungarian Parliament. Which is quite convenient if you want to include their visit, and a massage for example, in your day in Budapest.
- By metro: get off at Szent Gellért station on line 4;
- By bus: choose routes 7 or 86, which serve the baths directly;
- By streetcar: this is the easiest way to get around, with 4 lines dropping you off near the baths: the 18, 19, 47 and 49.
Gellért thermal baths opening times and prices
SCHEDULES
- The Gellért thermal baths are open every day from 6 am to 8 pm;
- Visits are organized every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. ;
- Special opening hours apply on the following days: December 24 (6:00 am to 2:00 pm), December 25 (10:00 am to 6:00 pm) and January 1 (10:00 am to 10:00 pm).
Please note: It is advisable to arrive 40 minutes before the appointment time for a treatment (massage, pedicure…). This bonus time will allow you to get your ticket, change and shower, so that you’re well prepared. If you arrive late, your session will be shortened so as not to penalize the next client.
RATES
- Visit to the Gellért thermal baths: 2000 Ft (about 6€);
- Access to the baths: between 5900 and 6500 Ft (between 17 and 19€). Prices depend on the day of your visit and the option you choose for your belongings: changing room or cabin;
- Saturday and Sunday: additional 00 Ft, or €0.60. This increase is intended to encourage the presence of customers during the week and relieve congestion at weekends;
- Wellness services: from 7,000 Ft (approx. €21) for a 20-minute solo aromatic massage to 37,000 Ft (approx. €110) for a one-hour duo thermal massage;
- Private bath for two (1 h 30): 16,000 Ft (48€).
Please note: Please notify employees of any pregnancy, medical operation, allergy or illness. Certain treatments may not be offered in your case. For example, essential oils are not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women.
Don’t forget to buy a ticket or a Budapest Card!
If you choose to take advantage of a special ticket, you’ll be able to enjoy the baths and wellness facilities before anyone else. In fact, you’ll avoid queuing to enter one of Hungary’s most beautiful architectural gems. Don’t worry, with a special ticket you can choose the type and duration of your massage.
As for the Budapest Card, it is accepted for entrance tickets, not for visits. This card gives you access to a number of advantages:
- Free access to transport and 19 museums;
- Attractive discounts (up to 50%) for certain attractions;
- Some unmissable cultural programs and sights.
It costs between €22 and €67, depending on the duration you want to activate (between 24 and 96 hours).
GOOD TO KNOW
- Nudity is no longer de rigueur. Bring your swimsuit;
- Bathing caps are not compulsory in all baths. Put a cap in your bag, just in case;
- Thermal water is not recommended for children under 14. Babies are only allowed in the pools if they are clean;
- Towels and bathing shoes (flip-flops) are not provided. Remember to bring your own for greater comfort and to avoid slipping;
- Euros not accepted, please bring Forints ;
- Photography is explicitly forbidden;
Now you’re ready to visit the Gellért thermal baths in Budapest!