Budapest: Széchenyi Thermal Spa Ticket & Wine Tasting Combo

Summary

Soak in history at széchenyi baths then taste hungary’s spirit

You’ll start by sinking into Budapest’s legendary Széchenyi Baths—steam rising all around—before heading downtown for complimentary tastings of Hungarian pálinka or local wines at GastroCellar. Your ticket includes full-day spa entry with cabin use plus discounted extras at the cellar. Expect laughter, warmth (inside and out), and small moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I messed up right away — forgot my flip flops. The lady at the entrance just shook her head and pointed to a little kiosk where I could buy some (bright blue, very stylish). It was early but already you could hear laughter echoing off the yellow walls of Széchenyi Bath. Steam curled up from the outdoor pools into the chilly Budapest air, and I remember my skin prickling as I stepped out. There’s something about that first dip — you think it’ll be too cold, but then it’s like your bones sigh. An older man floated past me with a newspaper held above his head, totally unfazed by the world.

Inside, it’s this maze of hot rooms and echoey halls. Our local guide gave us a quick rundown on which pools were hottest (the one on the left, apparently) and how to spot the regulars — they always have their own towels and a particular way of nodding hello. I tried every pool I could before losing track of time. My fingers got wrinkly; I didn’t care. The smell is this odd mix of minerals and old stone — not unpleasant, just… ancient? There are moments when you catch sunlight through stained glass and everything feels golden for a second.

Afterwards, we wandered toward Király Street for the GastroCellar tasting (the spa ticket gets you in there too). It’s a bit of a walk — maybe 20 minutes if you don’t get distracted by pastry shops like we did. Inside the cellar it was dim and cool, with heavy wooden tables. The bartender poured us a tiny shot of pálinka (“sip slowly,” he warned), plus two small glasses of wine — white and rosé. I tried to say “egészségedre” properly; pretty sure I failed but got a smile anyway. The pálinka burned in a way that made me laugh out loud.

I still think about floating in those pools while snowflakes drifted down around us. Budapest felt both grand and oddly intimate that day — maybe because everyone’s just there to soak, steam, taste something strong, forget about time for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Relax at spa and taste Hungarian drinks

• Visit Széchenyi Thermal Bath
• Enjoy indoor and outdoor pools
• Experience Neo-baroque architecture
• Go to Hungarian Gastro Cellar
• Taste pálinka or white and rosé wine

Top questions

How do I get into Széchenyi Thermal Spa with my ticket?

You must scan your booking QR code at entry; bring it on your phone or printed.

Is pickup included for this Széchenyi Bath ticket?

No hotel pickup is included; public transport options are nearby.

Are children allowed at Széchenyi Baths?

No, children under 14 are not allowed to enter the venue.

Can I visit GastroCellar on a different day than my spa entry?

Yes, your GastroCellar tasting is valid for 5 days after your spa entry date.

What drinks are included at GastroCellar?

You can choose 1cl pálinka or two 0.5dl glasses of wine (one white, one rosé).

Are swimsuits required at Széchenyi Bath?

Yes, swimsuits are required but full-body suits are not allowed.

Do I need to bring flip flops or can I buy them there?

You must wear flip flops; if needed, you can buy them at the venue.

Where is GastroCellar located?

Király street 20., 1061 Budapest (opposite Gozsdu Udvar).

What’s included

Your day includes full-day access to all pools at Széchenyi Thermal Spa with private cabin or locker use, plus complimentary tasting options—choose between pálinka or two local wines—at GastroCellar in central Budapest. You’ll also get discounted add-ons like prosecco or snacks at the cellar if you want to linger longer before heading back out into the city.