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Why are thermal baths an important part of Budapest’s culture?

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central Budapest — Budapest Central Budapest, looking north along the Danube River, with the Parliament Building on the east bank.

Thermal baths are a fundamental element of Budapest’s culture, deeply rooted in the city's history and geography. The city is situated over numerous underground hot springs that contain minerals such as radium, which have been sought out by bathers for their supposed healing properties since Roman times.1

This tradition of spa culture has been maintained and celebrated through the centuries, notably flourishing during the Ottoman Turkish era. Today, Budapest is widely recognized as a city of spas, where these thermal waters are integrated into grand, architecturally significant complexes like the Gellért Hotel and Baths. These facilities serve as more than just places for physical therapy; they are essential social spaces that reflect the city's unique blend of historical luxury and modern leisure.21