Budapest - City of Thermal Spas

Budapest and Hungary has been treasured for its thermal mineral waters even before the Romans named the area Aquincum as part of the province of Pannonia. Later, the invading Ottoman Turks contributed to the spa culture of Budapest (and Hungary) by refining the systematic use of hot springs as healing waters and by constructing community bathing buildings. Some of these baths are still standing and are part of the reason why Budapest earned the nickname ‘the Mecca of the rheumatics’.

Balneology (treatment of disease by bathing) may not be accepted science, but you will still find many people who swear to the powers of the thermal springs (supposedly good for locomotion, circulatory, and gynaecological disorders).

City of Diversity

Budapest offers many other things to experience, so if the thermal baths are not for you, you may want to visit the recreational areas on Margaret Island or the Castle District with the Royal Palace, charming medieval houses and squares, and Fisherman’s Bastion, with one of the best views over the city.

If you are interested in architecture, then you will enjoy walking around and discovering the fine examples of every building style through modern history.

If you are interested in religion, then Budapest boasts the largest synagogue in Europe; the tomb of Imam Gül Baba (the northernmost site for Muslim pilgrimage) and the magnificent Saint Stephen Basilica hosting the mummified right hand of King Saint Stephen, the founder of the Hungarian State and Church.