Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities along the Danube, famously known throughout Europe as the “City of Spas.”
Historically, it has been enriched by a natural network of thermal springs, enabling the construction and maintenance of various baths throughout the city.
Today, the iconic Gellért Baths, one of the city’s most famous alongside the Szechenyi Baths, still operate and also feature a luxury hotel of the same name.
The Gellért Baths are undoubtedly among the most intriguing leisure spaces in Hungary’s capital, ideal for relaxing solo or with company on a visit to Budapest.
History and Architecture of This Art Deco Spa
Initially, what is now known as Gellért was a hospital complex built at the foot of Mount Gellért. However, after the Turkish invasion, it was converted into a spa.
In 1912, renovations began in a Secessionist architectural style influenced by Art Deco, and the project was completed by early 1918.
An expansion later added a wave pool and bubble bath, and in 1927, Gellért Baths formally opened to the public. It quickly became one of the most popular and iconic leisure destinations in the city.
During World War II, however, much of the bath’s infrastructure was damaged, leaving it in ruins. But repairs restored it with the original architectural design intact.
Now, after 83 years in operation, this stunning Budapest bath earned the Hungarian Product Grand Prize in 2013.
Bath Pools and Facilities
Gellért is a tourist complex that, in addition to offering a luxurious hotel, also features pools and saunas, making it one of the best activities to do in Budapest.
Today, it includes 3 outdoor pools and 8 thermal pools.
The main pool, equipped with a wave machine, is an interesting feature as it’s one of the few non-heated pools in the complex.
The water supplying these baths flows from the warm springs of Mount Gellért. The mineral composition includes calcium, sulfate, chloride, magnesium, sodium, and fluoride, ideal for joint treatments, spinal disorders, and inflammation relief.
For this reason, Gellért Baths not only feature treatment rooms but also employ specialized medical and therapeutic staff for such health services.
The complex also includes facilities for aquafitness, sauna rooms, and areas for stress-relief treatments and relaxing massages.
Interior Spaces and Grand Pools
Like much of Budapest’s architecture, the Gellért Baths continue to amaze visitors.
Interestingly, the wave machine installed over 90 years ago is still in operation, a unique feature within Europe.
The bath’s interior also features small pools filled with warm spring waters from Mount Gellért. The thermal section is decorated with stunning pyrogranite details, and each colorful mosaic design is characteristic of the Zsolnay family’s work.
The indoor area still showcases its original furniture and marble columns, and the wooden-carved dressing rooms retain their historic elegance.
Visitors can still admire the statues that have adorned Gellért since its opening, along with the stained glass windows that maintain their original glow.
Outdoor Area
The outdoor area of Gellért Baths features three large pools, although swimming is not permitted.
On sunny days, it’s the most popular area of the baths, especially frequented by older visitors.
This section includes sun chairs and beautifully landscaped gardens that are well worth exploring. The main facade, with its two beautiful baroque-style domes, draws every visitor’s gaze.
Each outdoor pool is lit with forged iron lamps, creating a spectacular nighttime view of the Gellért Baths.
Tips, Recommendations, and Useful Information for Visiting
We’ve prepared this list to help you make the most of your stay at the baths:
Tips to Stay Relaxed and Calm at Gellért Baths
- This spa has been preserved over the years to provide guests with peaceful and relaxing experiences. We recommend you keep your voice down and maintain appropriate behavior while visiting.
- Be sure to follow the posted signs at the entrance to each area. Like other thermal baths in Budapest, Gellért offers mixed areas where men and women can enjoy the facilities together without issue.
- Another important tip: respect the no-diving rule in the pools. Gellért Baths has only one pool designated for swimming; the rest are intended solely for relaxation and therapy.
- We also suggest you acclimate your body to the cold outside temperatures by alternating pool temperatures. Spending too long in the water can cause light-headedness due to the contrast with cooler air temperatures.
Recommendations for Visiting Gellért Baths
- If you want a relaxing experience without unexpected expenses, bring your own swimwear and accessories. While you can purchase these items on-site, it’s best to bring your own cap, footwear, and swimsuit.
- For a quiet and stress-free visit, we recommend coming during the beginning of the week. If you prefer a busier atmosphere with more people, weekends are the best time to visit.
- Take a moment to appreciate the architecture. The pyrogranite statues, stained glass, and intricate mosaics are worth a closer look.
Useful Information for Visitors
- Gellért Baths currently offer 8 thermal pools, sauna areas, and one swimming pool. A private pool service with champagne, berries, and therapeutic massages is also available.
- Other services include hot stone massages, Cleopatra baths, chocolate treatments, pedicures, and herbal baths.
- Guests can also access the Finnish sauna and steam rooms free of charge.
- For just 2 euros, lockers are available to store your belongings so you can enjoy your time without worry.
Tickets: Price and Hours for Gellért Baths in Budapest
Gellért Baths are open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM for the general public.
Admission prices for adults range between 4900 and 6000 HUF, depending on the areas you wish to access. Therapeutic massages and other treatments incur additional costs.
We recommend booking tickets online to avoid waiting in line upon arrival. Here are some options:
How to Get to Gellért Baths
For public transportation, you have two options:
- By Tram, take lines 18, 19, 41, 47, or 49 and stop at Szent Gellért.
- By Bus, take lines 7, 83, 107, or 233E, and get off at Szent Gellért.
Reviews of Gellért Baths
Gellért Baths is one of the most beautiful spots in Budapest, offering a family-friendly environment, even for young children.
The service and facilities are well-maintained and match the price of admission, with evident care in the upkeep of all areas.
The main attraction is undoubtedly the central pool with its wave system, and the marble columns add a spectacular touch to the atmosphere.
After a day of exploring Budapest, Gellért Baths is one of the most highly recommended places to relax and unwind.