What to bring to thermal baths in Budapest?

You need to bring a swimsuit and two towels during your soak: one for the soak and one towel for drying.

Bringing your own towels is the safest option. Rules differ by bath and change often. Széchenyi, for example, has not rented towels with standard tickets since the pandemic (rental comes only with its Palm House package), but you can buy a towel on the spot, usually at a high price. Check the bath’s website before you go.

If you travel with carry-on luggage only, a quick-dry travel towel packs small. A hotel spa may sell towels without lending them.

It is compulsory to wear shoes or flip-flops. Don’t forget to take your toiletries since they are not included in the price. A swimming cap is a must if you swim in the conventional swimming pool.

A waterproof phone pouch is handy, especially for the Saturday night Sparty at Széchenyi.

Leave valuables at your hotel and bring a bottle of water. Weekends and evenings are the busiest times.

For a quick answer on towels, see do I need to bring a towel to the thermal baths.