In Paris, one climbs the Eiffel Tower. In London, one takes in the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. In Moscow, one strolls through Red Square. These are the bedrock experiences of each city: the non-negotiables.
In Budapest? One bathes.
Budapest was known from medieval times for its therapeutic thermal baths, which are fed from hot springs deep inside Gellért Hill below the city’s famous Citadella and its panoramic views of the Danube and Budapest’s eight bridges. The waters are rich in calcium, magnesium, sulfate and sodium, all highly effective in alleviating the aches and pains associated with arthritis, spinal problems, or just sore feet from too much sightseeing!
In 2018, the Gellért Baths, Budapest’s most beautiful and storied spa will celebrate its centenary anniversary. Visiting the Gellért Baths is a delightful highlight of any trip to Budapest, and a great way to get off the tourist trail and luxuriate in a truly Hungarian experience.
The Gellért Baths are justifiably famous as Budapest’s “Palace of Baths” because of their sumptuous interiors. Located in the opulent Hotel Gellért, the baths are richly decorated in the Art Nouveau style with stunning mosaic floors and walls from exquisite tiles made in Hungary’s famous Zsolnay factory. Stained glass windows and intricately carved wood compliment the decor.
Visiting the baths requires a bit of advance planning, but it is well worth the effort to experience some of the restorative effects of the hydrotherapy and soak up a unique facet of Budapest’s rich cultural history. The Gellért Baths offer massages, mud baths, dry and steam saunas in addition to the warm pools. Completely handicap accessible, the baths are open daily from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Ask one of Alexander Roberts’ knowledgeable reservation agents to help you plan your trip to Budapest such as our privately guided
Budapest, Krakow and Prague.