a large pool with people in it
All attractions

Gellért Thermal Bath

Budapest, Hungary
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a large pool with people in it

Photo by Steve Sharp

Steam curls from turquoise pools under painted domes. Mosaic tiles glisten, and the air carries a hint of minerals and centuries-old stories. On the banks of the Danube, Gellért Thermal Bath blushes with warm sunlight, inviting both locals and travelers into a sensory world of comfort and ritual. Here, tradition blends with relaxation—proof that wellness, in Budapest, is an art practiced as faithfully as music or food.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
10400 HUF

Contact Information

Location
Address
Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary
Phone
Website

Planning your visit

Reaching Gellért Thermal Bath is easy, but a bit of foresight will make the day go smoother. Seasonal peaks and mid-morning rush hours can crowd the elegant halls. For quieter moments, early mornings or weekday afternoons bring a gentler pace, letting the beauty of this landmark shine without interruption. Tickets are available on site and online, with combinations for pools, massages, or both. Expect a lively but relaxed atmosphere, especially during holiday periods, when local families join the flow.

  • Best time to visit: Weekday mornings or late afternoons, especially in spring and autumn for mild temperatures and fewer crowds
  • How to get there: Accessible by tram (lines 19 & 41 stop at Szent Gellért tér), Metro Line 4, or a short walk across Liberty Bridge from the city center
  • Accessibility: Elevators and ramps offer support for seniors and those with mobility needs; family changing rooms are available
  • Average visit duration: 2-3 hours for pools; add extra time for spa treatments or lunch

Must see stuff

Gellért’s grandeur is visible in every tile and pool. The Art Nouveau main hall makes a dramatic entrance, with sunlight falling through stained glass and columns wrapped in floral ceramic. Indoors, thermal pools—each set at a precise temperature—range from chilly plunge baths to nearly steamy 40°C sanctuaries. The outdoor wave pool, open in warmer months, pulses with gentle swells and laughter. Murals and statues add a museum-like layer to each corner; even the quietest hallway feels designed for discovery. Don’t skip the rooftop terraces, perfect for river views or a cooling breeze after a steamy soak.

  • Main indoor pools: Ornately tiled thermal baths with medicinal hot springs
  • Wave pool: Outdoor fun, especially active in summer; a favorite with families
  • Stained glass windows & mosaics: Photo-ready and unique to Gellért’s iconic architecture
  • Private medicinal baths: Smaller, quieter pools for those seeking privacy
  • Saunas & steam rooms: Different temperatures and aromas; great for unwinding
  • Fountain of Attila Jozsef: A local poet’s statue and a peaceful spot for reflection
  • Historic facts: Opened in 1918 atop ancient spa foundations, ranking it among Europe’s most famous baths

Tips for your visit

Gellért rewards a bit of readiness. Towels and swimsuits are for rent, but bringing your own can save both time and money. While most staff speak some English, signage leans local, so paying attention at the entrance helps. Lockers come with electronic wristbands, but keep valuables minimal. Small cafes inside serve light Hungarian fare—think goulash soup and sweet strudels—but a full meal is best enjoyed in the nearby cafés of Buda, many offering garden seating. Don’t skip the outdoor pools if the weather allows; their mountain views steal the show. Few locals linger past dusk, so late afternoons often become suddenly peaceful.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Arrive before 10 am or after 5 pm; avoid weekends if possible
  • What to bring: Flip-flops, towel, swimsuit, water bottle, and a swim cap for the main pool
  • Local etiquette: Rinse before entering pools; indoor voices keep the atmosphere restful
  • Safety or comfort: Tiles may be slippery—walk slowly and use handrails near pools
  • Extra tip: Massages are popular—reserve in advance for the best time slots