One of Budapest's most iconic tourist destinations is poised for a substantial £22 million renovation project after increasing numbers of visitors voiced concerns regarding severe overcrowding, questionable cleanliness standards, and disruptive party atmospheres. The Szechenyi Thermal Baths, a historic spa complex originally opened in 1913, attracts tens of thousands of guests monthly who flock to experience its famous 38-degree Celsius outdoor thermal waters and extensive indoor bathing facilities.
Mounting Criticism Prompts Major Investment
The sprawling neo-Baroque venue boasts an impressive array of amenities, including eighteen separate indoor and outdoor pools, multiple sauna facilities, medicinal thermal water treatments, massage and facial services, an on-site restaurant, and even a unique 'Beer Spa' experience. The complex also hosts high-energy 'Sparty' events on Saturday evenings. However, recent tourist feedback has been overwhelmingly negative, with many describing the baths as being 'ruined' by excessive crowding, 'grimy water' conditions, and what some termed 'disgusting parties'.
Detailed Renovation Plans Unveiled
Following three years of preliminary upgrades, the 110-year-old complex is now preparing for a comprehensive transformation. The ambitious plans include the complete renovation of four major indoor pools, substantial upgrades to changing room facilities, a thorough refurbishment of the main entrance staircase, and the implementation of a new sauna renovation programme. These works build upon a series of improvements already carried out during 2024 and 2025, with over £2 million invested in upgrades last year alone.
Previous improvements included the initial phase of renovations to the indoor thermal area, replacement of pool coverings, extensive wall repainting, restoration of the main entrance, and upgrades to facade windows and doors. The management also introduced modern ticket machines and digital systems to streamline visitor experiences. Further work completed in 2025 saw the complete refurbishment of the outdoor swimming pool alongside replacement of the building's HVAC and fire alarm systems.
Visitor Complaints Highlight Urgent Needs
The substantial investment comes in direct response to growing criticism from international visitors regarding the deteriorating condition of the baths. Numerous tourists reported unpleasant odours, visibly dirty indoor pools, and overwhelming crowds that diminished their experience. In February, British TikTok user Melika posted a viral video describing her visit as a 'waste of money', showcasing packed outdoor pools and peeling exterior paintwork.
Similar criticism emerged from travel vloggers Zach and Rach, who rated the attraction 'five out of ten at best' in a video titled 'The Gross Truth About Budapest Thermal Baths'. Zach specifically noted that 'the indoor pools were literally filled with skin and dirt floating around' while describing the conditions as 'absolutely filthy'. Another TikTok user, @experienceaddict, praised the outdoor baths' atmosphere and cleanliness but strongly warned visitors to avoid the indoor pools, characterizing them as 'super dirty' and foul-smelling.
Management Response and Historical Context
Szilvia Czinege, sales and marketing director for Szechenyi Bath, acknowledged the challenges of maintaining historic spa buildings while responding to visitor concerns. She emphasized that Budapest remains unique as the only world capital with so many historical baths still operating in their original function. Czinege explained that daily operations necessitate constant maintenance, with minor repairs conducted during operational hours or overnight, while larger-scale renovations require partial service restrictions.
The director highlighted several important considerations regarding thermal water characteristics, noting that mineral content can create peculiar smells, different coloration, opacity, and sediment presence that some visitors might misinterpret as poor cleanliness. She specifically attributed discoloration on indoor thermal pool coatings to decades of use, wear and tear, and operation with iron manganese-containing thermal water.
Visitor Numbers and Preservation Priorities
Czinege revealed that the spa welcomes between 3,000 and 4,000 daily guests, translating to approximately 1.3 million annual visitors. She acknowledged that such high volumes can sometimes lead to guest dissatisfaction despite ongoing maintenance efforts. However, she reaffirmed that preserving the centuries-old bathhouses remains an absolute priority for management.
The upcoming investment forms part of a broader Budapest bath renovation programme valued at over £88 million, with more than £22 million specifically allocated to the Szechenyi complex over the next two years. Preparations for this comprehensive redevelopment began in 2023 with extensive building diagnostics, detailed planning, and licensing work. Management remains committed to balancing historical preservation with modern visitor expectations while maintaining Budapest's reputation as Europe's premier spa capital.
