Nestled in the heart of Budapest’s City Park, Széchenyi Baths is one of Europe’s largest and most iconic thermal spas. Re-opened in 1913, it’s one of Europe’s largest thermal spas, but its roots run much deeper—Budapest has been famous for its healing thermal waters for over 2,000 years, dating back to Roman times.
Thankfully, Budapest’s roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate, so getting there is hassle-free whether you take the metro, drive, or walk. This guide covers the best ways to reach Széchenyi Baths, parking options, and nearby sights to explore.
Széchenyi Baths location
Located in Budapest’s historic City Park, Széchenyi Baths is surrounded by culture and history. Just steps from Heroes’ Square, it sits among iconic landmarks like the Museum of Fine Arts, Vajdahunyad Castle, and the Budapest Zoo.
Address: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Budapest, Hungary
Landmark: Located within City Park (Városliget), near Heroes’ Square and the Budapest Zoo
How to reach Széchenyi Baths
By public transport
- Metro: Take M1 (Yellow Line) to Széchenyi Fürdő station – the station is right outside the baths.
- Bus:
- The most convenient option is bus number 105, running from Clark Ádám tér to Hősök tere M. From there, it's a short walk to Széchenyi Baths.
- Trolleybuses 72 & 75 – A scenic alternative, stopping near the baths.
- Other buses: 72, 74, 20E, 30, 30A, 75A, 901, 918 serve the area but may be less direct.
🚗 By car / taxi
- Taxi: Use Bolt, Uber (not widely available in Budapest), or Főtaxi for a direct ride. Expect a fare of around HUF 2,500-4,000 (€6-10) from central Budapest.
- Driving directions: From Deák Ferenc tér, drive along Andrássy Avenue, passing Heroes’ Square before reaching City Park. The trip takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
🚌 By Hop-on Hop-off bus
The Hop-on Hop-off bus is an excellent way to explore Rome and the Vatican at your own pace. These tourist-friendly buses stop at major landmarks, allowing you to hop off, explore, and hop back on when you're ready.
- Several operators, including Big Bus Rome, City Sightseeing, and Roma Cristiana, offer stops near the Vatican.
- Closest Hop-On Hop-Off stops: St. Peter’s Basilica Stop (near Via della Conciliazione), Vatican Museums Stop (near Viale Vaticano) Bus 40 is an express service from Termini Station (Rome’s main train station).
- Tickets usually allow unlimited travel for 24-72 hours, making it an easy and flexible option.
🚗🅿️ Parking near Széchenyi Baths
- On-Site parking: Limited spaces available at City Park, free on weekends but paid on weekdays.
- Nearest parking lots:
- Budapest Zoo Parking – A short walk from the baths, convenient but fills up quickly.
- Museum Underground Parking (near Heroes’ Square, ~5-minute walk) – HUF 500/hour.
- City Park Parking – Closer but often full.
- Street parking: Available but limited; check for parking zones and fees.
- Accessible Parking: Designated spots available near the entrance.
👣 On foot
- If you're near Heroes' Square, it's a 5-minute scenic walk through City Park, passing the Millennium Monument and the Museum of Fine Arts.
- From Andrássy Avenue, stroll past grand Neo-Renaissance buildings, giving you a glimpse of Budapest’s architectural elegance before arriving at City Park’s lush greenery.
🚲 By bike
- Bike rentals: Available via MOL Bubi, Budapest’s public bike system, with docking stations near Heroes' Square.
- Bike parking: Available near the entrance.
From major transport hubs
- From Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport:
- Take Bus 100E to Deák Ferenc tér, then switch to Metro M1 (Yellow Line) to Széchenyi Fürdő station (~50 minutes total).
- Taxi fare: Around HUF 8,000-10,000 (€20-25).
- From Keleti Railway Station:
- Take Metro M2 (Red Line) to Deák Ferenc tér, then switch to M1 (Yellow Line) to Széchenyi Fürdő station (~15 minutes).
🏛️ Entrances at Széchenyi Baths
You'll find two main entrances:
- Main entrance: Facing Állatkerti körút, best for general admission.
- Side entrance: On Kós Károly sétány, often used for spa treatments and pre-booked tickets.
Nearby sights:
- Vajdahunyad Castle – A fairy-tale castle just 5 minutes away.
- Budapest Zoo – Right next door for a fun visit before or after your spa experience.
Recommended tickets to Szechenyi Baths
Frequently asked questions
Taking Metro M1 to Széchenyi Fürdő station is the easiest and most direct option.
Yes, but spaces are limited. Paid parking is available near Heroes' Square and City Park.
Approximately 3 km (1.8 miles) or 10-15 minutes by metro, bus, or car.
Yes, there are ramps, elevators, and accessible changing rooms for visitors with mobility needs.
The M1 Metro is the fastest and most convenient way, while taxis offer comfort but cost more.
