Veli Bej bath (formerly called Császár Bath) is a historical thermal bath located in Budapest, Hungary. It was originally built during the Ottoman period in the 16th century, and was recently renovated to include modern amenities. The bath is considered one of the hidden gems of Budapest, as it is often overlooked by tourists.

The bath features a variety of thermal pools, including a large indoor pool with various massage jets and a smaller outdoor pool. The water in the thermal pools is known for its healing properties, and is rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sulphate.

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In addition to the thermal pools, Veli Bej also offers steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation areas where visitors can unwind and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The bath also offers various treatments, such as massages, facials, and body wraps.

One of the unique features of Veli Bej is its rich history and architectural design. The bath has been beautifully restored to include original Ottoman-style arches, domes, and ornate tilework. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture while enjoying the thermal pools and other amenities.

Veli Bej Bath Budapest
Veli Bej Bath Budapest © Kőrösi Tamás - We Love Budapest

Why Visit the Veli Bej Bath

There are many reasons why visitors should consider a trip to Veli Bej bath in Budapest. Here are just a few:

  1. Historical Significance: The bath was originally built during the Ottoman period in the 16th century, and its beautiful architecture reflects its rich history. Visitors can admire original Ottoman-style arches, domes, and ornate tilework while enjoying the modern amenities.
  2. Relaxation: Veli Bej bath is a perfect place to unwind and relax. The thermal pools and various treatments, such as massages and facials, are designed to soothe and rejuvenate the body and mind. The tranquil atmosphere and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
  3. Healing Properties: The water in the thermal pools at Veli Bej bath is known for its healing properties. Rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sulphate, the water can help relieve various ailments such as joint pain, muscle tension, and skin conditions.
  4. Authentic Experience: Veli Bej bath is often overlooked by tourists, making it a great place to experience a more authentic thermal bath experience in Budapest. Visitors can enjoy the thermal pools, steam rooms, and saunas in a less crowded and more peaceful setting.
  5. Modern Amenities: Despite its historical significance, Veli Bej bath has been renovated to include modern amenities such as a large indoor pool with massage jets, a smaller outdoor pool, and relaxation areas. Visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds - a beautiful historical setting with modern amenities and conveniences.

Overall, Veli Bej bath is a unique and memorable destination for anyone visiting Budapest. Its rich history, beautiful architecture, and modern amenities make it a must-visit attraction for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

 

 

A perfect 3 hour at unique cultural experience

In just three hours, you can experience the unique cultural and relaxation offerings of Veli Bej bath. Whether you're looking to escape the bustle of the city or just indulge in some self-care, a visit to this hidden gem is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and renewed.One of the highlights of Veli Bej bath is the thermal pools. Soak in the healing waters and enjoy the various massage jets and bubbling fountains.

Veli Bej bath Budapest boasts thermal waters that are rich in calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen carbonate. The large spring-fed basin contains non-chlorinated water, while the other pools receive their water from Lukács Spa. The mineral-rich water is particularly beneficial for those with musculoskeletal disorders, making it a recommended destination for anyone seeking natural therapeutic relief.

The Turkish baths at Veli Bej in Budapest have undergone a beautiful renovation, and now offer visitors a range of amenities. There are five Turkish baths with varying water temperatures, as well as a brand new wellness area featuring a jacuzzi, two steam rooms, Finnish and infrared saunas, massage showers, an ice machine, hydroxeur and tangentor baths, Kneipp walk, swimming pool, and massage services.

Despite its family-friendly atmosphere, with an 80-person capacity, the central domed Turkish-style spa pool is usually frequented by adults. Additionally, Veli Bej is run by the Order of Charity (Ordo Hospitalarius) for the Care of the Sick, and is integrated with rheumatology and cardiology wards. For those seeking more privacy, there are also intimate "family cabins" available. Otherwise, children under 14 are not allowed in the bath.

Overall, the renovated Turkish baths at Veli Bej provide a perfect blend of traditional and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and indulge in relaxation and self-care.

The Octagonal Pool
The Octagonal Pool

Spend your relax time at Veli Bej Bath

Named after the Turkish dignitary Veli Bey, the baths were originally built by Sokollu Mustafa Pasha in 1574-75 during the 150 year Ottoman era in the 16th – 17th centuries. The main pool at the Veli Bej Bath is considered to be the oldest and largest Turkish bath in Central Europe. Unlike many modern pools, the thermal water used at Veli Bej is not chlorinated, and instead, the pools are filled through a flow-through method. This means that the water is completely changed four times a day, ensuring that visitors can fully benefit from the mineral-rich water.

It's true that due to the limited space you can only spend 3 hours in the spa, but it's still worth a visit.

There are 8 pools and 4 saunas to make your stay unforgettable.

Indoor Pools

  • thermal pool
  • swimming pool
  • weight pool
  • jacuzzi

Saunas

  • infrared sauna
  • steam room

Water composition:

The bath has five thermal pools with the following water composition:

  • Sodium 90 mg/l
  • Potassium 10,6 mg/l
  • Calcium 151 mg/l
  • Magnesium 40,6 mg/l
  • Total hardness CaO 304 mg/l Sio2 32 mg/l
  • Chloride 116 mg/l Sulphate 183 mg/l
  • Hydrogen-carbonate 500 mg/l
  • Fluoride 1,62 mg/l Ph 6,6
  • Water temperature: 38,8 °C

The water of the bath is beneficial in the following cases:

  • Degenerative disorders of the spinal columns and joints
  • chronic arthritis
  • neuralgia
  • calcium deficiency in bones

Tips and Tricks if you visit Veli Bej Bath Budapest

  1. You cannot buy tickets online. It can be bought only personally in the ticket office in the entrance.
  2. Due to its limited capacity, the spa is open for only three hours at a time, with a maximum capacity of 80 people.
  3. Unfortunately, there are no discounted tickets for students and pensioners.
  4. Children under 14 are not allowed in the bath.
  5. From 12:00 to 15:00 is the water exchange.
  6. No day ticket, you can buy a three-hour ticket.
  7. Between 12:00 and 15:00, it is possible to buy group tickets for a fee by prior appointment. 800 HUF/person, the guide fee is 10.000 HUF.
  8. Located just a 15-minute drive from the spa, Normafa is one of the most popular hiking spots in Budapest. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, Budapest Chairlift, take in the scenic lookout, or even try paragliding for an exciting adventure.
  9. In close proximity, you can discover Gül Baba's Turbe (Tomb of Gül Baba), which offers a stunning panoramic view of the Danube and Margaret Island.
  10. Hungary's largest underwater cave, the Molnár János Cave, can also be found in this area.
  11. Explore Margaret Island, the József Hill lookout, or the Szemlő Hill cave.

Opening hours

Days A.M. P.M.
Monday to Friday - 15:00-21:00
Saturday 6:00-12:00 15:00-21:00
Sunday 6:00-12:00 15:00-21:00

 

Ticket Prices (2023)

Days Opening Hours Price
Monday to Friday 15:00-21:00 4.500 HUF
Saturday 6:00-12:00 4.500 HUF
Saturday 15:00-21:00 5.000 HUF
Sunday 6:00-12:00 5.000 HUF
Sunday 15:00-21:00 5.000 HUF

 

 

 

Site location: Budapest, Árpád fejedelem útja 7, 1023

GPS coordinates: 47.519137, 19.037736

Google Photos: Click here

 

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