Budapest sits on more than 100 thermal springs, and soaking in its historic baths is a must. Here’s how the main baths compare and how to save money.
Budapest bath prices (2026)
| Bath | Mon–Thu | Fri–Sun | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Széchenyi | 13,200 HUF | 14,800 HUF | Huge outdoor pools, neo-baroque yellow palace |
| Rudas | 12,000 HUF | 15,000 HUF | A 16th-century Ottoman dome, a rooftop pool, night bathing |
| Lukács | 7,000 HUF | 8,000 HUF | Local atmosphere, fewer tourists |
| Gellért | Closed (renovation, expected to reopen around 2028) | Art Nouveau interiors | |
Prices are from Budapest Trip (2026). Széchenyi charges a peak rate of 15,800 HUF during holiday periods (for example, 18 December 2026 to 6 January 2027), and a cabin costs an extra 1,000 HUF.
Ways to save
- Széchenyi “Good morning” ticket: enter before 9:00 for 10,500 HUF (Mon–Thu) or 11,800 HUF (Fri–Sun).
- Go on a weekday, which saves up to 3,000 HUF at Rudas.
- Choose Lukács for half the price of Széchenyi.
- Bring your own towel, flip-flops and swim cap (caps are required in some lap pools).
Which bath should you choose?
- First-timers should go to Széchenyi for the iconic outdoor pools, which are magical in winter steam.
- History and views: Rudas, with its Turkish dome and the rooftop pool overlooking the Danube.
- A local feel and value: Lukács.
- Nightlife: the Saturday “Sparty” bath parties at Széchenyi (check the official dates) and Rudas night bathing on Fridays and Saturdays (22:00–03:00).
Bath etiquette
- Shower before entering the pools, and keep valuables in a locker.
- Stay hydrated, and don’t spend too long in the hottest pools.
- Pregnant visitors and people with heart conditions should check with a doctor first.
- Compare skip-the-line bath tickets.
More Budapest guides
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- Budapest itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Budapest
- Hungarian Parliament tickets and tours
- Budapest Airport to the city
- Best time to visit Budapest
FAQ: Budapest thermal baths
How much is Széchenyi Bath in 2026?
13,200 HUF Monday–Thursday and 14,800 HUF Friday–Sunday, with a locker. Holiday peak days cost more.
Is Gellért Bath open in 2026?
No. It closed on 1 October 2025 for renovation, with reopening expected around 2028.
Which is the cheapest thermal bath in Budapest?
Lukács, from around 7,000 HUF on weekdays.
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