A memoir of journeys made

Visiting and enjoying one of Budapest’s many baths is a must do for people visiting this lovely capital of Hungary!

I have to admit that I didn’t quite know what to see or do in this city but there’s one thing I kept hearing over and over again from friends who have been, they all agree that it is such a lovely place and that they all immensely enjoyed their holidays in Budapest. I was definitely looking forward to this trip!

Googling up on what I can do while there, the baths would always be in the top 10. Now, do realize that I’m currently living in London and it’s not exactly always bright and warm here – it feels like it’s still early spring as I’m writing this! So imagining myself bathing in warm waters got me psyched to go there! haha

Now which place did I choose to go to? It was a bit tricky but I ended up going to Széchenyi because it is the first thermal bath in Pest as well as the largest medicinal and public bath in Europe. It’s popular with the locals and I always see that as a good thing. It’s cheaper and open for longer hours too!

Alas! When we got to Budapest, the weather was averaging 30+C and bathing in warm waters seemed to me not an option. I was already planning a return trip in winter because it just seems so right to laze around in such hot waters with snow falling outside! hehe After 2 full days of walking around the beautiful city, my feet and legs were just aching and instead of having a massage, a warm bath that is said to have healing properties seem to be the best idea and I’m so glad we did it! :D

There is more than one entrance to Széchenyi Baths. One is easily found just outside the underground exit. :)

Locals pass the time at the bath by enjoying a game of chess

There are several indoor and outdoor pools. Check out what temperature the pool is before diving in!

:D

There are even saunas reaching temperature of 55C! After I was in one for less than 10miutes (my cousin wanted to head out because it was too much he said), I had a cold shower. It didn’t seem enough to wash away that really hot feeling. Best way to do so is to take a dip at the colder pools (18C and maybe lower!)!

18C!

Just beside the locker rooms is this area filled with driers (for you hair, clothes, etc). Very convenient! :D

Turns out it was summer solstice when we were in Széchenyi. Cool! :D

It was a really nice experience!

How to get there:
Take the Millenium Underground (M1) to Széchenyi fürdő.
Operating hours:
Monday – Sunday
swimming pools: 6am-10pm
thermal pools: 6am-7pm
Admission fee:
Day pass with a locker: HUF 3,400 (weekday)
HUF 3,550 (weekends)
Day pass with a cabin:  HUF 3,800 (weekday)
HUF 3,950 (weekends)

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