Fitness + Pools · 9 of the best in Budapest
A swimming nation
The back story
About A swimming nation
Hungary is one of the great swimming and water-polo nations, and Budapest, with its thermal baths and outdoor pools, is a wonderful place to swim, whether you like lengths or lazy soaks.
Alfréd Hajós
At the first modern Olympic Games, in Athens in 1896, Alfréd Hajós won two swimming races in the cold sea, becoming Hungary’s first Olympic champion. He later became an architect and designed the swimming complex on Margaret Island that now bears his name.
Water polo
Hungary has won more Olympic gold medals in water polo than any other country, and the sport is followed passionately.
Hungary’s first Olympic champion later designed the pool that bears his name.
Where to swim
Swim lengths at the Hajós Alfréd or Császár-Komjádi pools, soak in the thermal baths, or join the crowds at the Palatinus strand on Margaret Island in summer.
Our advice: bring flip-flops, a swimming cap (required in many lap pools) and a towel. For thermal water and a swim in one visit, the Széchenyi Baths have an outdoor lap pool.
Why it's on our list
- Alfréd Hajós
- Water polo
- Where to swim
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with A swimming nation before you go.