Gellért Thermal Bath
Budapest
The Gellért Thermal Bath, located in Budapest, Hungary, is a renowned bath complex known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and medicinal thermal waters. Built between 1912 and 1918 as part of the Hotel Gellért, the baths feature intricate mosaic tiles and a striking main hall with a glass roof. The thermal waters, sourced from Gellért Hill, contain minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and fluoride, believed to aid various ailments including joint and spine problems. The complex includes indoor thermal pools, plunge pools, a wave pool, saunas, and medical treatment facilities. Historically, the site has been used for healing since the 13th century, with Turkish baths established during Ottoman rule. Despite suffering damage in World War II, the baths were restored to their original splendor after renovations, most recently in 2008. The Gellért Baths remain one of Budapest’s premier spa destinations, offering a blend of therapeutic benefits and architectural grandeur. Currently closed for refurbishment until 2028, it is anticipated to reopen as a fully restored historic spa.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit outside of peak weekends and holidays for a more relaxed experience. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to avoid queues. Note that swimsuit and towel rentals are no longer available due to health measures, so bring your own or purchase on site. The baths are best enjoyed year-round, with the outdoor wave pool particularly pleasant in warmer months. Medical treatments are available on site, and mixed-gender bathing is now standard since 2013.
Interesting facts
- •The Gellért Baths were used as filming locations for several films including "Accumulator 1" (1994) and "Cremaster 5" (1997).
- •The outdoor wave pool can generate artificial waves every 30 minutes.
- •The thermal water contains a unique combination of minerals like calcium, magnesium, hydrocarbonate, alkalis, chloride, sulfate, and fluoride, beneficial for various medical conditions.
- •During World War II, the prestigious Art Nouveau women's thermal bath was bombed, leading to significant damage.
- •The baths were originally gender-segregated but have been mixed gender since 2013.
History
The Gellért Thermal Bath’s site has been used for healing since the 13th century, initially hosting a hospital and baths.
During the Ottoman occupation in the 16th and 17th centuries, Turkish baths operated here, utilizing a 'magical healing spring.' The current Art Nouveau bath complex was constructed between 1912 and 1918 alongside the Hotel Gellért.
Despite damage during World War II, including bombing that destroyed the original façade and interiors, the baths were rebuilt and modernized, with a major restoration completed in 2008 to revive their original elegance.
The complex expanded in the 1920s and 1930s with additions like an outdoor wave pool and thermal bath under a glass dome.
The baths have been a luxury spa destination throughout their history, frequented by notable guests including royalty and artists.
Place Guide
Main Hall with Glass Roof1918
The iconic main hall features a stunning Art Nouveau design with a glass roof that floods the space with natural light, highlighting intricate mosaics and elegant architectural details.
Thermal Pools
Several thermal pools contain mineral-rich water sourced from Gellért Hill’s springs, maintained at temperatures between 35 and 40 °C, used for therapeutic bathing.
Outdoor Wave Pool1927
A large outdoor swimming pool capable of producing artificial waves every 30 minutes, offering a unique bathing experience especially popular in warmer seasons.
Medical Treatment Pools
Four indoor medical pools and specialized facilities provide therapeutic treatments including underwater traction and inhalation therapies.
Effervescent Swimming Pool1934
A pool equipped with 84 special jets that create a bubbling, massaging effect in the water, combined with colored lighting for ambiance.
Contact
Phone: (06 1) 466 6166
