Tag Archives: Budapest

Budapest has 123 natural springs and two dozen thermal baths, which have been enjoyed since the time of the Romans. One of the highlights of our trip was the afternoon we spent at the lovely Szechenyi Baths, located in Budapest’s City Park. To be honest, we probably would not have been bold enough to go to the baths had Rick Steves not raved about them. Rick describes them as “the quintessential Budapest experience”, so we really had no choice. The bath building was beautiful. I loved the gold color. Following Rick’s explicit instructions, we entered the building, paid for the baths and a locker, and then found our way to the women’s dressing area. There wasn’t a lot of English being spoken around us, but once in the dressing room we found that we were not the only tourists trying to figure out how everything worked. There are three large pools outside and some thermal baths inside. We stuck with the outdoor pools, which felt perfect in the cool spring air. The pools were divided by temperature from 86 to 100 degrees. They had jets and bubbles and were so comfortable. The people watching was primo, too. The best part was there was no smell of sulphur- just clean, warm, bubbly water. So glad that Rick talked us into going. Another nice indulgence, though not nearly as adventurous, was evening cocktails at the Four Seasons Gresham Palace. This gorgeous Art Nouveau building has been beautifully restored. We didn’t venture beyond the bar and the bathrooms, but both were really nice. I am so happy I was able to explore this beautiful city with my daughter. Add it to your list, and don’t forget the baths!