There is no denying that sometimes, we all need that spa weekend to just unwind, relax and forget the dins of the day. We usually go for a hike in the mountains, then enjoy a quiet evening tucked in front of the fireplace. This time, we wanted to do something totally different. Since we were in Hungary, we decided to try the Gellรฉrt Thermal Bath, located in Budapest.
A Historic Spa Weekend in the Gellรฉrt Thermal Bath
The Gellรฉrt Thermal Bath was founded in 1918, almost a century ago. Gellรฉrt is not just perfect for a spa weekend, but for history and art lovers too. The Gellรฉrt Thermal Bath is the most famous Art Nouveau thermal bath in Europe. The spring waters of Gellรฉrt were discovered in the 15th century. Or at least this is when they have been recorded in Hungaryโs chronicles. These thermal waters became incredibly popular by the 19th century when more citizens and foreign travellers wanted to get the benefits of the thermal therapy.
In the 16th century, the Ottomans occupied the Hungarian Kingdom by taking over the Royal Palace known as Buda Castle. Turkish baths were built in the present place of Gellรฉrt Spa.
In the 17th century, Buda was taken from the Turks by the Austrian Army. The baths became the property of a home doctor called Leopold I, also known as the Holy Roman Emperor.
It was during this century that the mineral pools in the Gellรฉrt Hill were known as the Muddy Pools. By the 19th century, fine buildings were constructed so people can get access to the waters in a more sophisticated and civilised manner. The baths were named after the Italian bishop St Gerard Sagredo, who was also the first bishop of Hungary back in the 11th century. The reason for his importance is that St Gerard Sagredo was Kingโs St. Stephan of Hungary tutor. St Stephen played a major role in converting the Hungarians from pagans into Christians.
The history of the Gellรฉrt doesnโt stop here. The original baths buildings were destroyed to give way to the newly constructed Liberty Bridge. A new design was created for the Gellรฉrt Baths in the Art Nouveau style.
Wellness Budapest: Our Spa Weekend in the Gellรฉrt Thermal Bath
Fascinated by its history, we couldnโt wait to finally enjoy the Gellรฉrt Thermal Bath. We heard so many amazing things about it but didnโt quite know what to expect. We decided to arrive first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds. The baths open at 6 AM and close at 8 PM. Totally up to you when you arrive but we actually wanted to start the day in style. And we definitely didnโt regret it.
There are 10 pools of various sizes in Gellรฉrt Bath. There are several geothermal pools open to both men and women. When it gets hot, there is a nice wave pool located outdoors.
Get You Discounted Danube Cruise & Gellรฉrt Bath Tickets
There are also a few things we want to tell you about. You can buy tickets in advance for the Gellรฉrt Spa. In fact, we recommend you do this. You can also book a massage therapy for your spa weekend. For couples, I recommend getting the private bath for two guests experience. What is better than enjoy the wellness treatment and have privacy?
If you are wondering about what to wear at the Gellรฉrt Spa, know that in 2013 the whole complex became mixed, which means no nudity is permitted. A swimwear of some sort must be worn when in a public pool.
You can take photos around the Gellรฉrt but make sure you donโt become intrusive and you respect everyoneโs privacy.
Included in your ticket you can get either a locker or a changing cabin. A locker is a storage box whilst the changing room is essentially a small private cabin (similar to those in retail shops). All cabins also have storage facilities.
The Gellรฉrt Bath is not recommended for pregnant women. Most of the indoors and outdoors pools contain hot water.
Make sure you have a swimming costume and a towel with you. If you forget them, note that you can still rent them at the Gellรฉrt Spa. You can also rent a bathrobe for your convenience. Donโt forget to bring your printed confirmation for the ticket. You can also bring soap and shampoo and even sun lotion if you plan on being outdoors long.
You can use the showers and there are also hair dryers at your disposal.
Spa Weekend as a Couple
Did someone say wellness in Budapest? Although is perfect for solo travellers too, we canโt help to recommend Gellรฉrt for couples interested in having a relaxing time together. I strongly recommend the private baths where you can enjoy intimate time with your loved one. Included in the price you get a fruit bowl and a bottle of sparkling wine. This really is a spa weekend for couples and can be enjoyed for up to 3 hours. Included, you get access to the entry hall, the private bath hall, a heated cabin which can be used as a sauna and a private toilet. The doors get locked from the inside so you are guaranteed privacy.
Where to stay in Budapest – Luxury
Where to stay in Budapest – Budget
How to get to Gellรฉrt Spa
Szent Gellรฉrt Gyรณgyfรผrdล รฉs Uszoda H-1118 Budapest, XI. kerรผlet Kelenhegyi รบt 4.
The Gellรฉrt Baths are located on the Buda side, so make sure you are on the right side of the Danube. You can cross to the Buda side via Liberty Bridge which is located pretty much in front of the Spa.
Gellert Spa Budapest Prices
Gellert Bath Ticket with locker (prices may vary depending on the exchange rate)
โฌ 17 weekday
โฌ 18 weekend
Gellert Bath Ticket with cabin
โฌ 18 weekday
โฌ 19 weekend
Thank you, Hungaria Koncert for facilitating this for us and making the necessary arrangements to enjoy an amazing spa weekend in Budapest. We really loved our visit and can’t wait to return to your incredible city!
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