The Gellert Baths are considered to be the most opulent in Budapest. Although they are only a few years younger than Szechenyi Baths, the general upkeep of Gellert has kept them in much better condition. Without exaggeration this place qualifies for the description, “Stunning!” It is not only the most beautiful spa I have ever seen, it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen, period. Also, if you are traveling with children, Gellert boasts a large outdoor wave pool that kids will love.
That said, Gellert is not perfect. As other reviewers have noted, the place is a winding maze of steps and passages that can be confusing and grueling. Also the best hot pools at Gellert are inside, which is better for winter but feels confining on a beautiful summer day. There is a small outdoor hot pool, but in nice weather it is much too crowded. And finally, Gellert allows too much smoking in outdoor areas. Europeans will smoke anytime they get the chance, but at least at Szechenyi they make some attempt to control it.
So which is best, Gellert or Szechenyi? (Szechenyi is covered in a previous blog post.) Gellert is definitely more upscale. But even with the upkeep issues, my vote still goes to Szechenyi. I like the easy access outdoor spaces and the size of the outdoor hot pool. When we were there, they were even showing World Cup games on a huge big screen TV.
The Gellert and Szechenyi Baths are wonderful. You shouldn’t have to make a choice. Go to both.
Szecheny Mineral Springs and Baths, Budapest
Putting together a bucket list? Don’t forget to leave a few blank spaces for discoveries you will write in as you go. The Szechenyi Baths, in Budapest is just such a place. I had never heard of Szechenyi when we started planning our trip. Eighteen separate pools and hot tubs. Numerous steam baths and dry saunas, some with aromatherapy. Massage and other holistic medicinal therapies. A fun pool. All of this housed in a gorgeous, almost palace like, facility completed in 1913. The wow factor is huge.
People have been drawn to the natural hot springs around Budapest since the early bronze age. In fact the springs were what brought the Romans here in the 2nd century BC. With the spine warming tingle of naturally hot mineral water, it is easy to see why the Romans wanted to build their territorial capital here. The waters are invigorating, especially if you have joint problems like I do. Szechenyi is the oldest mineral bath located on the Pest side of the Danube. Since the water is hot, almost 170 degrees fahrenheit, the outdoor pools can be open all year. It is an unforgettable place and a most memorable day. Truly, one for the bucket list!