Tourists Warned Over Budapest's Iconic Thermal Bath Amid Hygiene Complaints
Tourists seeking relaxation at one of Budapest's most famous outdoor baths have been cautioned by dissatisfied visitors who report unpleasant odours, severe overcrowding, and allegedly dirty conditions. Széchenyi Thermal Bath, a sprawling neo-Baroque complex dating back to 1913, is a major draw for tens of thousands of visitors monthly, famed for its steaming 38°C waters and vibrant Saturday night "Sparty" events that blend thermal bathing with electronic music and laser shows.
Luxury Features Contrast with Growing Discontent
The extensive facility boasts 18 indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, medicinal waters, an on-site restaurant, a Beer Spa, and dedicated areas for massages, facials, and pedicures. Basic tickets start at approximately €59 (£51), while Premium Plus options at €97 (£83) include entry, a locker, three drink coupons, a private cabin, and rebooking privileges. Despite its allure as a viral bucket-list destination for European travellers, an increasing number of patrons are voicing frustration over what they describe as unsanitary conditions and subpar standards.
Visitor Experiences Highlight Hygiene Concerns
In February, British tourist Melika, known as @melika_zaidi on TikTok, shared a video detailing a negative experience, labelling it a "waste of money." She reported that the venue did not match the vibrant social media photos, with overcrowding and visible dirt on tiles. Melika also recounted an upsetting incident where a shop assistant made assumptions about her size while purchasing a robe, which she said "completely ruined my experience." She avoided the indoor pools, describing them as "grimy," and noted the building appeared dilapidated with peeling yellow paint.
Similarly, British couple Zach and Rach (@zachrachandlife) reviewed their April 2025 visit in a YouTube clip titled "The Gross Truth About Budapest Thermal Baths," giving the venue a modest five out of ten score. Zach stated, "The indoor pools were literally filled with skin and dirt floating around. It was absolutely filthy. The outdoor one was really clean and nice, but the indoor pools looked like they had never been washed."
Mixed Reviews and Practical Advice
TikTok user @experienceaddict offered a more nuanced perspective, praising the outdoor pool's atmosphere and cleanliness but warning against the indoor pools, which she described as "super dirty," "gross," and smelly. On Reddit, discussions revealed varied opinions: one user cautioned that the Sparty events on weekends are "absolutely disgusting" and advised visiting before 11 AM to avoid crowds, while another reported contracting pneumonia after a visit. A third noted strange odours and green-tinged water in some baths, recommending frequent use of showers and avoiding nudity areas if uncomfortable.
Contrastingly, some visitors praised the bath, especially in winter, describing the experience as "really fun" despite the cold. The Daily Mail has reached out to Széchenyi Baths for comment, but responses are pending as complaints continue to surface online, highlighting a growing divide between the bath's iconic status and visitor satisfaction.
