Art Nouveau splendor and a soothing soak at the Hotel Gellert.

With wonderful architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history, Budapest is a wonderful destination.  Since joining the European Union in 2004, it has many of the advantages of Western Europe.  But it’s managed to maintain most of its Eastern European mystique.

Straddling the Danube, the cities of Buda and Pest offer lots to see and do.  And you’ll likely be worn out after a full day of seeing the sights.  But there’s a great way to unwind in Budapest when it’s time to kick back.  Visit one of the city’s 118 natural thermal springs for a soak. 

If you want to multi-task and combine architecture appreciation with your dip, make a bee line to the Gellert Baths.  Built in 1918, The Gellert Hotel and Baths is one of the most glorious examples of the Art Nouveau style in Budapest. 

Located on the banks of the Danube at the base of Gellert Hill, the Gellert complex has something for everyone.  Inside, exquisite tile work, stained glass, and undulating ornamentation surround the swimming pool, ladies’ and gents’ thermal pools, weight baths, saunas, and cold plunge pools.  There’s also a wide range of spa treatment, massages, and therapies available.

Outside, there are three pools, including a wave pool that’s one of the most popular places in town on a hot summer day, and lots of chaises for sunbathing. 
Basic admission, which includes a locker,  is 13 Euros, but there are so many add ons that it’s hard to know what to buy.  Ask for someone who speaks English to help you figure it out.

When we were in Budapest, we were lucky enough to have friends living there, so we did lots of things unknown to tourists.   But of all our experiences, our afternoon at the Gellert Baths was the most enjoyable. 

Read our Budapest itinerary here.

Images Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/oansari/