Budapest is the capital and largest city of Hungary. It was first documented in 896 and has a long and varied history. It has been held by various empires, including the Romans, the Ottomans, and the Habsburgs. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987.
In the early 19th century, Budapest was a city of two halves – the older, Buda side and the newer, Pest side. The unification of the two sides in 1873 marked a new era for the city, and it soon became a major center of industry, trade, and culture in Central Europe.
During the first half of the 20th century, Budapest experienced many changes. It was occupied by the Soviets during World War II, and became part of the Communist–controlled Eastern Bloc after the war. It underwent extensive redevelopment during the 1950s, and in 1989, the city was part of the revolution that led to the end of Communist rule in Hungary.
Today, Budapest is a thriving, modern city, with a vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and a wealth of attractions. It is a major destination for tourists from around the world, and is one of the most popular cities in Europe.
Gellért Thermal Bath is a popular spa and wellness centre, famous for its thermal baths, spa treatments, and therapeutic massages. It is especially renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and its medicinal thermal waters, which are believed to have healing properties. Just make sure to bring your towel and swimwear. Otherwise, you will need to purchase them in the Baths for a premium price for around 6000 HUF each.
Gellért Thermal Bath also has outside area, which is much more enjoyable in a good wether. Though since it is warm it is nice even in a rain.
Budapest was quite windy and cold. Though the views were spectacular at night by the river. So most of my time spent in Spa warming up. My favourite is Rudas Thermal spa. Less touristic than Gellért Thermal Bath or Széchenyi Thermal Bath, which are the most famous and fanciest thermal baths in Budapest, also more expensive and busier with tourists, so not really relaxing when you are bumping into other people in the pool.
I was staying in Airbnb near the St. Stephen’s Basilica, which once again looks amazing at night. Many restaurants around. Have eaten Goulash again and Hungarian sausages and must say was better than last time I’ve visited, just felt that I was overcharged with service fee.
Rudas Thermal Bath is a Turkish bath in Budapest, Hungary, located on the bank of the Danube River. The bath has been in operation since the 16th century, making it one of the oldest in Europe. The thermal baths feature a range of thermal pools and saunas, as well as a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The baths also offer a range of massage and spa treatments, including Turkish massage and mud baths. Rudas Thermal Bath is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Just make sure to check before going as some days are men or women only. Very strong sulphur smell is very distinct in the in Rudas baths. Also it is equipped with different saunas.
Sulphur thermal baths are good for a variety of reasons. They can help to relax and soothe the body, reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote detoxification. They can also be beneficial for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, as well as helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Additionally, the sulphur in the water can help to reduce the symptoms of respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis.
I would come back again to Budapest (which I did!). Lovely city and great food. I had an amazing pizza in Local Korner! Waiter poured me extra wine as it was the end of the bottle haha. Just be cautions if ordering local Hungarian deep-fried pizza as it very oily and might upset your stomach.
I really recommend to visit Grill Mania restaurant if you love meat.
Tips
Most famous thermal baths are Széchenyi Thermal Bath, but they are also most busy. Alternatively you can go Rudas Thermal Baths (famous for sulphur baths, just make sure to check schedule as they have gender specific days) or Gellért Thermal Bath.
Don’t forget to bring towel and swimwear if you are going to thermal baths. You normally can buy both, but it will cost you extra (almost the same as the ticket.
You can use Uber or Bolt apps to call the taxi. You will definitely get a better price.