Visiting Szechenyi Baths in Winter in Budapest: 16 Best Things to Know
There are few things more magical than visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter. Picture this: you’re in a steamy outdoor thermal pool, snow is gently falling around you, and you feel like you’re inside a real-life snow globe. Now, contrast that with the 30 seconds of absolute agony when you have to carefully run from the indoor changing rooms to the pools in below-freezing temperatures. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, but one I would absolutely ride again.
I enjoyed visiting Széchenyi Baths with my husband in December, and it was hands down one of my favorite experiences in Budapest. But there are definitely some things I wish I had known before going—like how not to accidentally end up in the wrong outdoor pool and freeze my butt off. So here’s everything you need to know before visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter, based on my own slightly ridiculous, but ultimately wonderful, experience.
This post may contain affiliate links.
1. Why You Absolutely Should Visit Szechenyi Baths in Winter
If you’re visiting Budapest in winter and skip Szechenyi Baths, you’re doing it wrong. The crowds are way smaller than in summer, the outdoor pools look straight-up magical in the cold, and after a long day of sightseeing in freezing temps, nothing feels better than sinking into 100-degree thermal water. We visited Budapest as part of a European Christmas Market Cruise (highly recommend!) and I was immediately hooked.
Beyond that, visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter is the ultimate way to relax. Budapest’s thermal waters are full of minerals that supposedly have healing properties, which is great if your legs are sore from walking all over the city. Whether or not you believe in the science, one thing’s for sure—it feels incredible.
2. How to Get to Szechenyi Baths
Szechenyi Baths are in City Park and super easy to get to. The best way? Take the metro. The M1 line drops you off practically at the entrance (Szechenyi Fürdő stop). Walking is also an option, but Budapest in winter is no joke, and I personally had no interest in arriving at a thermal spa already frozen solid.
If you do choose to walk, bundle up properly because the wind can be brutal. The metro is not only faster but also much warmer, which is a big plus in freezing temperatures. If you’re staying in the city center, it’s a short and convenient ride.
3. Do You Need to Book in Advance?
Short answer: Yes, if you hate waiting in long lines. Szechenyi Baths are popular year-round, but especially on weekends. We booked our tickets online and breezed right in—highly recommend. If you show up without a ticket, be prepared for a wait, especially in the afternoon. Booking ahead also means you can choose your ticket type without stress. It’s a simple step that makes your whole experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Recommended Tour: Szechenyi Skip-the-Line Entrance
4. What’s the Best Time of Day to Visit?
When visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter, if you want a peaceful, almost spa-like experience, go early in the morning. If you want a dreamy, romantic, steam-covered night dip, go in the evening. We visited on a Friday around midday, and while there were a decent number of people, the check-in process was quick—just one couple ahead of us in line. Weekends get busier, so plan accordingly!
The time of day also affects the atmosphere. Early mornings are great for relaxation, while evenings have a more social vibe. If you don’t mind a bit of a crowd, midday and afternoon visits can be fun, too. No matter when you go, the experience will be unforgettable.
5. What to Pack
Pack smart, and you’ll thank yourself later. Bring a swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and a GoPro or waterproof phone case. Nearly every towel we saw was white because people took hotel towels—so maybe bring a colored one unless you enjoy playing “Whose towel is this?” with strangers. Also, do not bring cloth hotel slippers. I saw so many people with soaked, miserable-looking slippers because the floors are constantly wet. Waterproof flip-flops are the way to go.
There are covered towel racks outside to keep your towel dry(ish) if it snows or rains. Renting towels isn’t an option, but if you forget one, you can buy one inside. You also don’t need a robe or cover-up from outside since you can head directly from the changing area into the pool. Just know that your towel will get cold while you’re in the water, so prepare for a brisk post-swim wrap-up.
6. Should I Book a Locker or Private Changing room?
You’ll get a wristband that locks and unlocks your assigned locker or private changing room. Lockers are small and located in gender-specific changing rooms—good if you’re solo or don’t mind communal changing. The private changing room is a better option if you want privacy or have extra bags, as it can hold larger items like suitcases.
We opted for a private changing room, and I’d recommend it. If you’re visiting as a couple, one of you can get a cabin ticket and the other a locker ticket, and you can both use the private changing room. It’s much more convenient. Having a space to change at your own pace without dealing with a crowded locker room was a big plus for us.
7. What is the Cost?
Check out the most up-to-date prices for visiting Szechenyi Baths here: Szechenyi Baths Prices. It is somewhat expensive, but it’s the quintessential Budapest experience. If you’re looking to save a little money, it’s cheaper to visit Monday-Thursday. The experience is worth every penny, and planning ahead can help keep costs down.
Like this post?! How about…
8. How Cold Is It Outside, and Will You Survive the Walk to the Pools?
Expect Budapest’s winter temps to hover around freezing. It actually snowed while we were at the baths, which was super magical. Yes, the 30-second walk from the indoor changing rooms to the outdoor pools will be brutal—but it’s worth it! Pro tip: know which pool you’re going to in advance so you can hop in and warm up immediately. Flip flops definitely help too; I cannot imagine trying to walk over the freezing wet bricks with bare feet.
9. Do Szechenyi Baths Stay Open in the Snow?
I can confirm that yes, at least during lighter snow, the outdoor baths stay open. It snowed on us, which I loved! It was like a winter wonderland and made visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter even more special. The warm water and falling snow created a contrast that made the experience unforgettable. The only hard part? Convincing yourself to get out of the nice warm thermal pools and walk through literal falling snow in a wet bathing suit to get back inside.
10. The Outdoor Pools
There are three outdoor pools: one hot (38°C), one warm (32-34°C), and one actual swimming pool (26-28°C). We accidentally got into the “warm” pool first and instantly regretted it—it was not warm enough for the freezing winter temps. The swirling steam over the water looked incredible, but I was too busy shivering to fully enjoy it. If it’s chilly outside, go straight for the hot pool. Get familiar with the map so you can head straight to the hottest pool!
After warming up inside and studying the pool temperature map, we found the hot pool and basically lived there for the rest of the day. The contrast between the cold air and the steaming water was perfect. Floating there while snowflakes fell around us was one of my favorite travel experiences ever. If you only have time for one pool, make it this one. I cannot stress this enough: a few degrees Celsius matters a lot when visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter!
11. Indoor Baths & Saunas: Are They Worth It?
Szechenyi Baths also has indoor thermal pools with temperatures ranging from “this is not warm at all” to “boiling cauldron.” After being outside, we hopped into a 40°C indoor pool, and it was absolute bliss. The heat was so relaxing, and it felt like my entire body was melting (in the best way possible). If you get too cold outside, these pools are the perfect way to warm up fast.
The indoor section also includes multiple saunas and steam rooms. The saunas can get intense, but they’re a great way to detox and feel even more relaxed. The variety of pools means you can find the perfect temperature for your comfort level. If you have time, I definitely recommend exploring the indoor baths while visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter.
12. What’s the Deal with Szechenyi Spa Parties (“SPARTY”)?
Think nightclub meets thermal bath. If you love nightlife and unique experiences, this might be for you. If you prefer a peaceful soak, you’ll probably want to skip it. You can check out SPARTY info here: SPARTY Tickets.
It was not for me (too many people), but it seems like a really unique experience. Some people absolutely love it, and others find it overwhelming. If you’re curious, do some research and see if it matches your vibe.
13. How Long Should You Plan to Stay?
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy it. We spent our time bouncing between the indoor and outdoor pools, and it was the perfect way to wrap up our trip exploring the European Christmas Markets. If you want to try everything, plan for even longer. You’ll leave feeling completely relaxed and refreshed.
14. Can You Take Photos?
Yes, but be respectful while visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter. Also, your fingers will be frozen, so good luck framing the perfect shot. We snapped a few quick ones and then prioritized keeping our hands warm in the steamy baths. The pools are stunning, especially with the steam rising in the cold air, making for amazing pictures!
15. Drying Off & Heading Out
There are hair dryers in the changing rooms, and I fully took advantage of them so I wouldn’t leave with a frozen head. If you have long hair, plan to dry it before stepping outside or you’ll experience the joy of ice-crusted strands.
There are also machines to wring out your wet swimsuit, plus plastic bags to carry them home without soaking your bag—super helpful. After the baths, we went straight to the Christmas market at Vajdahunyad Castle, which I highly recommend. It was the perfect way to wrap up our day after Budapest’s most famous baths.
16. Final Verdict: Is Visiting Szechenyi Baths in Winter Worth It?
Absolutely, visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter is totally worth it. Between the steamy pools and the cozy warmth after freezing Budapest sightseeing, it was one of the highlights of our trip. Bonus points if it snows—there’s nothing like floating in a hot bath while winter works its magic around you.
Where to Stay in Budapest, Hungary
If you’re considering whether to stay on the Buda or Pest side, do yourself a favor and stay on the Pest side. Most of the attractions are on the Pest side (aside from Fisherman’s Bastion), and honestly, staying on this side made my life so much easier. Here are my recommendations on where to stay in Budapest, Hungary:
- Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest: for the most luxury hotel
- Corinthia Budapest: for the most beautiful hotel
- Prestige Hotel Budapest: for timeless elegance & the perfect location for visiting the Christmas Market at St. Stephen’s Basilica (this was my choice and I absolutely recommend it).
- Intercontinental Budapest: for stunning views of the Danube
- H2 Hotel Budapest: for good value in Budapest City Center
- Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection: for the best location & panoramic rooftop views
I absolutely loved visiting Budapest, and really enjoyed all of the beauty the city had to offer. I mean, come on, how could you not just swoon after seeing these views of Fisherman’s Bastion at sunrise?
Read More:
If you enjoyed this post on visiting Szechenyi Baths in winter in Budapest, Hungary, check out some of the posts below!
Finland: 17 Best Things to Do in Finnish Lapland in Winter
Germany: 1 Day in Regensburg, Germany in December
Vienna, Austria: The Ultimate Vienna Bucket List
