If you are travelling to Budapest and you keep hearing how beautiful the city and its thermal baths are, then you are probably wondering why. In this blog post we’ll look at the historical, cultural and geographic conditions which led to such profusion of spas in Budapest.

Geothermal Wonders of Budapest

Budapest is located over another geologically unique feature called the Carpathian Basin that is the largest mass of thermal springs in Europe. These are the outcome of natural heating up of the Earth’s core due to which the underground hot water sources heated by the Earth and became springs. These rich and healing waters are tapped by the city’s various thermal baths and provide locals and visitors a wholly unique bathing experience.

It is a Roman Legacy.

Budapest’s thermal baths are popular due as far back as the Roman Empire. The Romans were notoriously fond of bathing, they knew of the healing properties of the natural hot springs in the area. During Roman occupation of Pannonia (Budapest’s region) several bath houses were built of which the population could enjoy the healing waters. Although gone now, some remnants of the Roman-era bathhouses can be seen at places such as the Rác Baths.

Turkish Influence

Budapest was under Turkish occupation in the 16th century and under the Turks the city’s spa culture was further developed. Turkish conquerors brought the Turkish bath tradition to Budapest which influenced the baths of the city for generations. Also examples of Turkish influence on Budapest’s thermal bathing culture are the Király Baths, the Rudas and the Császár Baths.

The only acceptable degree of submersion was neck deep and cases increasingly emerged of men bathing in shallow pools, accompanied by women who did not fancy their hips submerged.

In the 19th century, urbanization and modernization of Budapest were rapid. In this transformation the city recognized the bath, seen as a social requirement and began to build public baths. Architectural masterpiesces, these grand bath houses were designed by prominent architects. This era of grandeur left its mark in Budapest life in form of the iconic Széchenyi Baths and Gellert Baths.

Social hubs of Thermal Baths

For their therapeutic value, thermal baths have been enjoyed in Budapest, but they have also become important social hubs. These establishments are popular with the locals and tourists alike for a good time, relaxing, socializing and enjoying their unique atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms and a variety of wellness facilities create the perfect mix which is why the thermal baths are such a big part of being in the city.

Thermal baths are excellent for the Health.

From bathing in the thermal springs of Budapest you gain a whole heap of health benefits. The element contained in the waters is also rich in content for mineral, including calcium, magnesium, sulfur which are known to cure certain ailments like rheumatism, arthritis and respiratory ailments. Also, the baths are warm, supporting relaxation, better blood circulation and alleviating stress.

It seems there is no easy way to prepare for your visit to the thermal baths in Budapest.

Visit plan: Keep in mind the opening hours and reserve tickets before you go if queues are long (e.g., peak tourist season).

It definitely is more convenient if you bring your own towels and swimwear although some baths offer rental services. Take a dry bag with you to keep your wet things!

Respect the rules and traditions of each bathhouse, follow the bathhouse etiquette. Before entering the pools, take a shower and mind the respective swim ware requirements.

There are so many baths to try, every one has a different character to them and the baths in Budapest are iconic. Don’t only stick to one, you may spend the time of your stay exploring different ones.

Plus the extras – Some baths provide extras like massages, wellness treatments and even bars or cafes. Use those to make your stay better.

Conclusion

A multitude of thermal baths in Budapest is due to geological, historical and cultural factors. Both the city’s thermal baths cater for those looking for relaxation, wellness and they also provide a different bathing experience. Take part in the city’s bathing traditions, take a dip in the much loved waters for centuries.