Guests at Rudas’s historic Turkish baths are now required to wear two aprons – one front, one back

Try walking into these baths today wearing an apron, and the hawk-eyed staff will quickly jump from their perch by the main pool and gesture that you need to cover up. They’ll discreetly hand over another apron, to cover your rear. Apparently, apron skirts are now Rudas Baths’ fashion standard.

Since the start of 2025, actually, with occasional visitors still catching up, since it was never publicized on official spa channels, guests at Rudas’s historic Turkish baths have been formally required to wear two aprons – one front, one back.

The change may sound like a minor wardrobe update, but it has sparked surprisingly passionate debate among regular bathers, history enthusiasts, naturists, and curious tourists. Some welcome the additional privacy. Others say a centuries-old tradition just quietly died.

Why did one of Europe’s oldest Turkish baths decide to rewrite its own dress code? 

Rudas Aprons – What Actually Changed?

In December 2024, Rudas introduced a rule requiring guests on single-sex Turkish bath days to wear two aprons instead of one. Covering both sides of the body became mandatory rather than leaving it optional, as it had been for as long as anyone could remember.

Pipeaway reached out to the baths for an explanation. The response, signed by Sales and Marketing Director Szilvia Czinege, read:

“We previously received several guest complaints about the inappropriate behavior of some guests, and after a discussion with regular guests, we decided on this measure, which we believe is better suited to hygiene conditions as well.”

I followed up asking about the consultation process, the volume and nature of the complaints, statistics on guest suspensions, and the broader history of the bath’s dress code. Despite repeated emails, Rudas chose to leave the questions hanging.

We can only speculate about the reasoning behind the management’s silenzio stampa, but it does suggest they would prefer the topic not to be discussed at all.

Reading this newest statement against Rudas’s history of PR on sensitive decisions, “inappropriate behavior” looks like the polite institutional Hungarian for people were having sex in the baths again. Even if an open-air gay intercourse at Rudas, inflated to mythical proportions (with some interpreting this notion as a way to deter the public attention from true decision motifs), was a real occurrence, it is not clear how an additional piece of hanging fabric could prevent this behavior from happening. Does Rudas know how sex works?

On the other hand, noting “hygiene conditions” in the context of the discussed garment change sounds like bolting a fig leaf onto another fig leaf. Despite the effort to present the rule as partly clinical, the previous, equally controversial spa communication on public health concerns regarding full-coverage swimsuits reveals that the reasoning behind the inconsistent approach to dress codes might indeed be the hygiene – but a moral one.

Need to sweeten up this story a bit? Look for the best Hungarian desserts in Budapest!

A Tradition Older Than Modern Hungary

To understand why two scraps of fabric caused this much noise, we first need to rewind five centuries, to when Ottoman architects turned the hot springs under Buda into one of Europe’s most remarkable bathing complexes.

Modeled on the hammams of Constantinople, the occupiers harnessed the power of the city’s thermal water as – therapy.

With its octagonal pool beneath a domed ceiling pierced by colored glass, Rudas remains one of the finest surviving examples of Ottoman bathing architecture in Europe.

While the rest of the building has been renovated several times over the centuries, the historic Turkish bath has retained much of its original character – part spa, part living museum.

Unlike modern swimsuits, the traditional bathing apron, known in Hungarian as kötény, was never intended to provide full coverage. Fastened around the waist, it covered the front of the body while leaving the back bare. It represented a compromise between modesty and practicality – dignity preserved, thermal water fully enjoyed, exactly as bathers had done for centuries.  

The apron’s peculiar design, covering the private parts while standing and, with a simple twist around the waist, covering the sauna chair when seated, became one of Rudas Baths’ defining quirks.

While locals wore it without a second thought, tourists often spent awkward minutes figuring out how to tie the Rudas apron correctly, and then shared amused & confused stories online.

Some dreaded it enough to bathe in swimsuits instead, or asked staff for a second apron, to fashion their very own mini-skirt of privacy (sic!).

When, in my 2017 article, I wrote that doing so would make you “look like an idiot” (I guess, in the same way how we short-sightedly made fun of our clueless elders shooting vertical videos on their first phones, long before stories were imposed as THE format), I couldn’t have imagined that someone would look at the most ridiculously-looking attire in the room and eternalize a two-part skirt as an official outfit policy.

Rudas Apron is More than a Dress Code 

Unlike modern spas, where visitors compete in branded swimwear, Rudas offered an experience that felt rooted in another era. On men-only days, everyone from Budapest retirees to nervous backpackers, from businessmen and politicians to those receiving social help, wore the same simple garment. The Rudas apron became an unlikely social equalizer.

Even if newcomers felt an initial embarrassment, it evaporated within minutes. Inside the centuries-old bathing hall, surrounded by men of every age and build, most visitors quickly realized nobody seemed particularly interested in anyone else’s appearance.

This surprisingly unremarkable rectangle of fabric had become part of Rudas’s identity, contributing to its cultural heritage.

Clothing traditions often preserve history, as reliably as buildings and monuments do. The Scottish kilt, the Japanese yukata, the Finnish sauna towel, and the yangmeori hat from the Korean bathhouse culture, all tell stories about the societies that made them.

At Rudas Baths, the bathing apron performed a similar role. It served as a quiet reminder that you weren’t visiting just another spa, but stepping into a living tradition that predates the country’s modern borders.

The historic Turkish bath has outlasted wars, fires, occupations, and revolutions. Empires rose and fell behind its stone walls while bathers continued soaking in the same way as always, the apron surviving the changes as well.

Until December 2024. The world’s most famous bathing rag quietly became a pair of modesty panels.

This Isn’t Budapest Baths’ First “Sex Scandal”

Beyond the brief official statement provided to Pipeaway, addressing behavior and hygiene concerns as reasons for the double-apron measure at Rudas, the baths management hasn’t elaborated further, leaving room for everyone to draw their own conclusions. 

The measure, introduced so silently, does seem odd and controversial, especially as Budapest Gyógyfürdői és Hévizei Rt. (BGYH), municipal company running the city’s thermal baths, has a history of dealing with sex scandals.

In 2004, a Hungarian TV2 reporter walked into Király Bath’s men-only session with a hidden camera and came out with footage of men soliciting, embracing, and having sex. The investigative exposé landed like a grenade in the national Tourism Ministry, which was actively using the historic bathhouses in its promotional campaigns, engaging even Tony Curtis to say: “Some like it hot”. The scandal triggered moral patrols and an immediate temporary ban on men-only days. After a short restitution, apron bathing at Király was formally phased out in 2011. Despite lowered prices, the struggle to attract non-gay clientele was real: the bath, weighed down by debt, never fully recovered its old status after introducing mandatory coeducational days. Its eventual 2020 closure is officially attributed to a lapsed hygiene license and an unaffordable renovation bill.

Then there’s Gellért Thermal Bath. German media revealed that, in 2007, insurer Hamburg-Mannheimer (later ERGO) organized a corporate trip to Budapest for its best salesmen. They had rented out the historic bath for a night and turned it into a “Freiluftbordell” (open-air brothel). Dozens of prostitutes entertained the company’s 100 top-performing agents at this “team-building” event.

We needed no investigative reporting to learn about naughty encounters in Budapest baths; some were self-documented. Both Gellért and Széchenyi Thermal Baths served as film sets for the adult industry. From Layne Derrick’s “Pools of Desire”, a 1999 homoerotic feature with dozens of fully naked men at Gellért, splashing, wrestling, and stroking each other during massage and rather touchy shower sessions, to more recent and explicit pick-up sex videos starring the likes of Chris Kubrick and Antonio Mallorca with female bathers, some of these racked up millions of views on specialized porn sites. Tony Curtis’s tourism spot never got close to the view counts of “some like it hotter” videos.

From Sausage Parties to Fake Masseurs

Besides amateur and professional porn makers, Széchenyi’s everyday visitors also overflow the spa with eroticism. Index.hu, for instance, described catching “group petting of young couples in love”.

Tripadvisor reviews back that up: body care in Budapest baths goes beyond just enjoying minerals. Due to a high proportion of men attending Sparty, Széchenyi’s late-night music event, users often described it as a sausage party and not the safest place for women. The upset visitors repeatedly highlighted floating condoms, groping serious enough to require therapy, and a significant number of other sexual assaults.

Gellért received its portion of reports for sexual activities in the pool, but also a series of reviews titled “Worst massage I have ever had”. Among them, several were serious safety incidents, where customers felt inappropriately touched by masseurs (this, or this), and even reception staff impersonating masseurs (sic!).

Unlike the undisclosed, unquantified complaints Rudas cites as justification for a dress-code overhaul, these well-documented incidents at other baths haven’t triggered, for instance, a ban on private events, late-night parties, or cameras in the bathhouse.

Most of the serious accusations made against the spa and security staff for not acting against the offenders, or being offenders themselves, remain officially unanswered (familiar?). When they do get to respond to online reviews describing guests crossing the line, Sparty’s team refers to them as “idiots” or “morons” ruining their great programs. Real accountability for not making the premises safe enough is dismissed. Because they “run online campaigns against inappropriate behavior” and “print warning posters”.

Modesty Panic as a Smoke Screen?

Is it a coincidence that private hires, boozy night programs, and not really regulated cameras (indistinguishable whether used for social media or porn production), all happen to be reliable revenue streams, and somehow never trigger the kind of moral intervention Rudas just applied to a piece of cotton?

Could it be that the dress code change and gradual adding of more and more mixed hours at Rudas uses a moral excuse in order to hide economic interest in attracting tourists, especially while the golden goose of Gellért endures extensive renovation, affecting the overall baths’ revenue?

Budapest is already thoroughly gentrified and swimming in visitors. They are accompanied by lobbies whose interests don’t always align with the wishes of traditional bath enthusiasts. Easier bath access to persons of any gender on any day of the week enables a more lucrative bath commodification. And that’s an argument that consistently follows supposed “moral regulation” of Rudas Baths.

Back in 2019, the management drew a furious petition from regulars after quietly cutting the beloved Friday Rudas Baths men’s day down to a few morning hours (back then until 12:45 pm; cut further since – to 10:45 am), converting the rest of the day to co-ed. The management left no room for blushing: “Our decision was influenced by both the increased tourist traffic and the prevention of widespread open-air sex.”

Titles screaming “Public sex gone out of control” seemed like a red cloth waved before the bullish society in which Viktor Orbán’s right-wing government had banned same-sex marriages and families, abolished gender changes, criminalized Pride, and modeled a string of anti-LGBTQ laws on Russia’s, while Fidesz co-founder, MEP József Szájer, was simultaneously fleeing a lockdown-violating gay orgy in Brussels by sliding down a drainpipe.

Framing gay men as suddenly dangerous after lunchtime, as if flipping some kind of hormonal switch at noon, is Szájer-level hypocrisy: kicking gays out when the clock ticks, when they get physically assaulted, or even when they just hold hands, while still cheerfully extracting money from those filthy queer wallets every morning.

Regulars who signed the petition didn’t buy the official “widespread open-air sex” story. “I don’t know what they are talking about”, said one. “Referring to public sex is a sham, it is a non-existent problem”, commented another. A third called it fiction, invented as an excuse “to be mad at gays”. A fourth summed it up bluntly: “What has been publicly communicated about the reasons is only to make people feel angry with gay people, while this was presumably done under pressure from lobbying by some companies involved in tourism.”

The Hygiene Paradox

Besides just correcting the male visitors’ afternoon behavior, this time around, Rudas Bath claims its motivation for adding an extra apron is to improve hygiene conditions, too.

But here’s the problem: a second wet apron, tied on and reused across a two-hour soak, sauna session, and steam room visit, isn’t more sanitary than one. If anything, it’s twice the damp fabric against skin, twice the laundry load…

It gets better: to address the double-apron demand as contradictory in terms of hygiene, we could quote a real expert: Budapest Baths.

You see, despite the official website’s FAQ containing information that both burkinis and bodysuits are welcome, real life has exposed that ladies (most often Muslim visitors) in ¾ swimming leggings have repeatedly been asked to leave for violating the etiquette (see here, or here).

Both in response to Fodor’s media inquiry and a Tripadvisor review, management explained that their policy allows only shoulder- and knee-long swimsuits. The rationale behind it is that more fabric results in an increased safety and hygiene hazard.

“Large swimsuits have a much higher water carrying capacity, leaving much more water coming out of the pools that can cause accidents. In addition, it is also a matter of public health concern, as there are more bacteria on a larger surface, and its evaporation in saunas and steam chambers is unhealthy”, the officials explained.

By that exact logic, two soaked aprons also have a much higher water retention than one (more accidents), as well as more bacteria (increased public health risks). And yet, the introduction of another mandatory apron got sold as the hygienic choice.

Double apron exposes Budapest Baths’ double standards: this was never about bacteria. The rule is clearly not a hygiene fix. It’s a rear-view fix, dressed in hygiene language. It’s a part of a broader tendency to regulate which bodies get to be visible in public and their effect on the comfort of the majority.

Looking for a relaxed clothing-optional experience with no judgment? Try naked hiking in Australia, naked bike rides in the UK, FKK beach-hopping in Makarska, an overnight stay at a Seoul bathhouse, or a nudist resort in Greece.

Rudas’ Second Apron Controversy – Conclusion

Rudas isn’t just a Budapest bath with single-sex days anymore. It’s the only one. Every adjustment Rudas makes to its single-sex sessions, therefore, isn’t just a policy tweak but the last living version of an Ottoman-era tradition being reshaped in pursuit of the tourist revenue every mixed-gender bath in the city now depends on.

Is Rudas walking Király’s road? The shape of the story is uncomfortably familiar: a historic single-sex bathing tradition under commercial and reputational pressure gets incrementally modernized to keep the peace, until what’s left barely resembles what people originally came for.

Each adjustment, stacked over years, nudges Rudas toward a more sanitized version of something that was never really about modesty to begin with. The apron was always a practical compromise between nudity and swimwear – a garment built for function, not virtue signaling. It let you enjoy the baths without fuss, and go home without a wet swimming suit weighing down your bag.

Budapest Baths has tangled itself into a modesty theater, where it needs to simultaneously argue that there could be too much AND not enough of fabric

The original apron wasn’t famous because it covered so little. It was famous because it represented continuity. It connected modern bathers to generations who tied the same knot under the same Ottoman dome. Replacing one apron with two may seem like a tiny alteration, yet symbols often matter precisely because they are small.

Budapest Baths has tangled itself into a modesty theater, where it needs to simultaneously argue that there could be too much AND not enough of fabric. Equally uneasy about Muslim women and gay men, it struggles in providing coherent answers, often choosing not to respond at all. But not addressing challenges doesn’t make them disappear.

If the real goal on men-only days at Rudas is total modesty, why keep the apron at all? Why not, instead of slowly cooking the moral crab, have enough public courage to simply require ordinary swimwear? The compromise at an unusual middle ground preserves the appearance of a historic tradition, but in a form that no longer reflects the original custom.

And if the objective is to put an end to an “inappropriate behavior” (something that Budapest’s mixed baths clearly struggle with as well, without triggering equivalent policing), is the modesty crackdown with a piece of half-transparent apron truly efficient? Or should the new dress code mandate chastity belts for everyone?

Once you open the moral Pandora’s box, where exactly do you draw the line?

What do you think about the new Rudas Baths apron rules?
Leave your comment below and pin the article for later!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

The post Rudas Baths Apron Controversy: Why Budapest’s Historic Spa Wants You to Cover Up? appeared first on Pipeaway.

Every year, Brezna Ethno Village organizes a contest in literally doing nothing. Those who walk in their sleep could never win it

We live in a fast-paced and demanding environment. The championship in supreme laziness organized in the small Balkan country of Montenegro could be seen as detachment from reality, not differing much from competitive eating challenges.

In the world of never-ending tasks and deadlines, where no employee is entitled to an annual leave that would enable them to even join the contest in literally doing nothing, taking a break is considered a luxury.

But slowing down can be a secret weapon for productivity and well-being. From the Pomodoro Technique which slices the workday into sanity-saving half-an-hour slots with mini-breaks, to the travel concept of a year-long sabbatical that, as a work break every seven years, has been around since biblical times (thanks, shmita), unwinding is not only welcome, but – essential.

Burnout doesn’t discriminate – it hits both mortals and celebrities. Adele, Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber and Drake made decisions of taking a break from music, Emily Blunt and Chris Hemsworth hit pause on their acting careers, and Naomi Osaka pulled a brake on tennis tournaments. Their reasons varied from seeking higher education to reconnecting with family or focusing on health issues.

Reposing releases pressure to perform at our best, reboots our system, and recharges us to unleash our full potential.

Many world cultures recognize the power and the importance of taking a break. And today we’ll explore what timeout methods you can steal for yourself!

I started my global travel journey also because I desperately needed a break. Remind yourself that we are not cats!

Montenegro’s annual laziness spectacle

Now in its 12th year, the Brezna Ethno Village in Montenegro has been hosting the wackiest competition known to humankind: the quest for the title of “Laziest Citizen”. The rules are simple: lie down, stay horizontal and, if nature calls, you’re granted a 10-minute bathroom break every eight hours.

Back in August, 21 individuals lay down under the gentle shade of a colossal maple tree, aiming to break last year’s jaw-dropping record of 117 hours of inaction (nearly five days in bed!) and win the grand prize of 1,000 euros. But nobody could’ve predicted that this year’s batch of horizontal heroes in the sleepy village would turn out to be so persistent.

August passed, September flew, and even when October rains arrived, there were still four contestants determined not to give up / get up.

With the bed battle moving indoors, the final showdown boiled down to two 23-year-olds. Beautician Lidija Marković and student Filip Knežević were challenging each other around the stereotype that Montenegrins are lazy. But beyond just the laziest person competition, they were also engaged in a test of stubbornness and willpower that would make a mule proud.

“The most important thing is to believe in yourself and to be mentally strong”, Lidija says. “I am a hardworking person, I have my own beauty parlor, and usually lie around only when there’s not much work, about 2-3 hours a day. Only occasionally, I lie around all day. I joined the competition because I needed a break. I couldn’t wait to enjoy and rest. While there, I was reading books, listening to music, and watching movies. I spent the most time talking to other contestants. There were also quarrels. But that irritation helps you get an even greater desire not to give up.”

“I think that in this competition, significant results can be achieved by all mentally strong people because, after a few days, this grows into a psychological struggle”, Filip confirms. “Personally, I didn’t have any critical moments because I came to get rest. I like to lie around in regular life too, with a good book or a movie, and that typically takes a couple of hours at home, usually 3-4.”

Shortening the long hours by reading the Bible and binge-watching the “Scream” horror series, Filip made it into the final duel with Lidija that lasted until the 50th day.

Lie-down setup

After exactly 1,200 hours of perfecting the art of lying in bed, the myth of Montenegrins as world-class couch potatoes was defended.

“We did something to make the whole world laugh”, Lidija admits. “But I think nobody will be able to break this record. None of us would have signed up if we’d known it was going to take this long.”

“I am well-organized, so people could think I have too much free time, but after all, I was forced to even postpone some obligations”, Filip reveals.

Then came a surprise: the competition in taking a break had to take a break.

“When it was only Filip and me, I told him I certainly wouldn’t let him win. And then we decided to get up together. We’re surely both winners, but he left the victory to me”, Lidija claims.

But on the other side, the story goes somewhat differently, as Filip suggests that the end was forced. He had initially hoped for a fair fight at the epic nap fest, but what he experienced was closer to a Balkan-style intrigue. Filip came out of the competition disappointed, suggesting that Lidija “had to” win.

“I was personally under terrible pressure from the organizer Mićo Blagojević, who from the very first days eminently favored and ‘pushed’ Lidija”, Filip confides. He suspects that she needed a publicity boost for her beauty salon, so he finally succumbed to the organizer’s proposal to conclude the contest, split the prize, and “leave media attention” to his opponent.

The organizer went silent when I reached out, but Lidija dodges the accusations: “I have no comment on this and I don’t know if it’s true that Filip said so. The fight was fair.”

Filip’s story serves as a valuable lesson that even in the Olympics of doing absolutely nothing, persistence can yield remarkable results, but it could still be not enough.

“I am persistent when I feel some injustice and favoritism of others as I experienced here”, he explains. “I saw this as a competition that primarily arose on the stereotype that we, Montenegrins, are lazy and that we will pass time joking around. In the end, it didn’t turn out like that, both because of the organizer and because of some of the competitors who saw an opportunity to win miserable money and some ‘media fame’.”

Mićo Blagojević, the organizer of Brezna's competition in lying around, responded to Pipeaway's request for comment after the article was already submitted. 

In a Facebook message he sent, he said: "This is a lie-down contest. It's not possible to favor anyone. It's about who endures the longest, that's all. Anything else is not doable. Favoritism you say 🤣🤣🤣"

How to take a break around the world

While Montenegro’s art of extreme relaxation, with its intriguing appeal and less appealing intrigues, is available to contestants from abroad too, you don’t have to pack your sleeping bag for Southeastern Europe to master the art of taking a break.

Around the globe, countless traditions celebrate the habitude of recess. Their rewards might not be calculated in euros, but that doesn’t make them less valuable.

1. Siesta (Spain and Latin America)

Spanish siesta, which also exists in Mexico and particularly in rural parts of Latin America, is perhaps one of the most well-known midday rest traditions. People in these countries take a break in the early afternoon, usually somewhere between the tick-tock of 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., to rest, nap, or simply refresh themselves.

Streets become quieter, shops and businesses close their doors, and everyday folks retreat to their homes to relax or spend time with family and friends.

This tradition is common in places with warm climates, as the scorching midday heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable. Therefore, the slumber of the siesta encourages a slower pace of life and serves the purpose of recharging the batteries for the rest of the day.

Besides well-being, the siesta also fosters a sense of community. It’s an unofficial fiesta of connection.

From siestas to fiestas, there's much more that goes into the vibrant culture of Spain. 

2. Fjaka (Croatia)

Fjaka is a concept in Dalmatia, the coastal region of Croatia. It describes a state of deep relaxation and lack of any aspirations.

Summer temperatures are responsible for this tradition too, as locals experience the lack of energy that immobilizes and numbs them. When you are literally “caught by fjaka”, there’s no fighting it. The time loses meaning, and lethargy prevails. You cannot NOT surrender to this break.

Taken by fjaka, Croats may look for a shade to regenerate in a quick nap or just unwind in daydreaming. The practice involves taking a leisurely approach to life, savoring the moment, and giving the middle finger to daily routines.

There’s no rush, the world of duties will still be there when fjaka releases you from its sun-soaked grasp!

Iceland is inviting you to take a break with the help of - horses. Check out their creative tourism campaign!

3. Riposo (Italy)

In Italy, especially in smaller towns and villages, there’s another Mediterranean tradition of taking a break, known as riposo. It typically involves easing off during the hottest part of the day, often after lunch, to rest or nap. Post-pasta siesta? Yes, please!

Workplaces, shops, and even some public services may close for a few hours during riposo, to provide everyone some space for tranquility.

Even if you just take a 30-minute nap, it is believed that such a riposo will refresh your mind, boost your productivity, and make you healthier in the long term.

The midday snooze of riposo is the ultimate dolce vita.

4. Inemuri (Japan)

The Japanese practice inemuri, the art of napping while being present. This shut-eye happens at the workplace and is typically not frowned upon, as it’s considered an advanced act of multitasking. It also shows that the napper is a hardworking individual if they feel the need to take a break while on duty.

The centuries-old practice of sleeping in public is also embraced in restaurants, department stores, schools, parks, and the holiest of napping venues – trains. Whenever you commute in Japan, you’ll see locals dozing off. The practice is socially acceptable as long as one doesn’t invade other people’s space.

The Japanese work hard, they are overachievers of overtime. Sometimes, the work-related pressure leaves less room for sleeping in bed at home. Inemuri provides brief pockets of time for taking a break from that busy schedule and is an affordable cost of success.

So next time you see someone in Japan nod off in the middle of a meeting, don’t be quick to judge – they’re not being rude; they’re just mastering the art of inemuri.

5. Bathing rituals (world)

When it comes to switching off from the daily grind, some folks have embraced a good old soak. In different corners of the globe, public baths are designed to peel off everyone’s social status together with clothes and reconnect people in a relaxing atmosphere.

The Japanese have onsen. Taking a break in these traditional hot springs involves dipping into mineral-rich hot water, which is believed to have health benefits. It’s a popular way to relax and unwind in Japan.

Japan’s first neighbor loves to indulge in Korean spas. The bathhouses in South Korea provide bathtubs, saunas, scrubbing stations, and even napping spots called jjimjilbangs (for both snorers and non-snorers).

In the Islamic world, the hammam reigns as a traditional steam bath and spa experience. It is a popular way to relax and cleanse the body, from hygiene rituals in Morocco all the way to the Turkish baths of Budapest. People often take breaks to visit hammams and enjoy their therapeutic benefits.

And then there’s Finland, the land of sauna culture. Spending time in a hot room where arguing is prohibited could be a secret behind Finland’s reputation as the happiest country in the world. Until recently, Finns used to treat sauna sitting as a competitive sport. They’d challenge each other to sauna-offs, seeing who could endure the most heat. Something like the Montenegro contest, but with much more sweating involved.

6. Tea & coffee breaks (world)

In the United Kingdom, the relaxing social custom of afternoon tea has evolved as a snack break to bridge the hunger time between lunch and dinner. Usually served around 5 p.m., a cup of tea is enjoyed along with finger-food sandwiches, scones, pastries, and cakes. Another British tradition involves taking a break around 11 am – elevenses typically recharge energy with tea and biscuits.

The Japanese tea ceremony or chanoyu elevates taking a break to a whole new level. Rooted in Zen Buddhism, the ritual involves the intricate choreography of preparing and serving matcha tea in a serene setting. This break is designed with meticulous attention to detail, from utensils to gestures, encouraging participants to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and find inner peace.

In Morocco, the art of taking a break is also exemplified by a traditional tea ritual. Atay or mint tea is poured from a height into small glasses, allowing both host and guests to pause, savor the aromatic herbal infusions, and engage in meaningful conversations.

In some other countries, such as Italy, the afternoon break replaces tea with coffee – or caffè. Literally called a coffee break, the hot beverage is a perfect excuse to meet and exchange with others.

Fika is a cultural tradition of taking a break in Sweden. The work-life balance is restored with coffee and pastries. It is a social activity, often combined with candlelight, reminding people to relax, chat, and slow down.

In the Philippines, Southern Europe, and Hispanic America, merienda is a light meal or snack paired with tea or coffee in the late afternoon. It’s the moment when work and daily chores take a backseat, and socializing with loved ones takes center stage.

The hot beverage fuels our civilization. Find the world's best coffee here!

7. Friluftsliv (Norway)

Norwegians are second on the world chart of coffee drinkers, just behind Finns, with every citizen consuming nearly 10 kilos of coffee per year. Taking kaffepause is always allowed, from early morning to late night.

Coffee is a must-have accessory for every occasion, including hiking. But the outdoor lifestyle itself, or friluftsliv, is a crucial cultural concept in Norway.

Spending time in nature is embraced at any given moment. Whether it is waking up at the crack of dawn for some pre-work skiing, or just taking a leisurely Sunday stroll (søndagstur), taking a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life is considered an essential way to recharge one’s energy.

For the best hikes in Norway, head to Lysefjord, the impressive land of cliffs and rocks!

Why taking breaks is important

Sometimes, we can feel guilty for taking a break, but that’s just societal pressure talking. Even Jesus was taking time off, so stopping the grind is certainly not a cardinal sin!

Hitting the pause button on life’s relentless treadmill can have a significant impact on physical, mental, and emotional well-being, as well as overall productivity.

Whether you are opting for a quick power nap, or taking a break for a month or even a year, your choice should improve your performance.

Here are key reasons why taking breaks is vitally important:

Rest and recovery

You’re not a robot. Relentlessly pushing forward without a break can lead to a physical and mental meltdown. Breaks provide rest and recovery for the body and mind, preventing the dreaded burnout. Your health will thank you.

Turbocharging productivity

Breaks aren’t time-wasters; they’re time-investments. Regular breaks can boost productivity. When we take short breaks during work or study sessions, we often return to our tasks with increased focus, energy, and efficiency.

Brainpower on steroids

Your brain needs its beauty sleep too. Taking a break can improve concentration and cognitive functioning. After a break, the brain is all set to absorb and process information more efficiently and make better decisions.

Stress relief

Activities like deep breathing, stretching, or a short walk belong to a stress-fighting arsenal. They soothe tension and bring a sense of calm back into your life.

Creativity juices flow

Taking breaks can stimulate creativity. Stepping away from a problem lets your mind approach it from new angles, with creative insights and “eureka” solutions.

Social connection

Breaks often offer opportunities for social interaction. Whether it’s a water-cooler chat with colleagues, a coffee date with friends, a hike with family, or a conversation with a friendly stranger, socializing can boost mood and foster connections.

So, if you’re looking to establish a healthier work-life balance, taking time to relax and recharge is non-negotiable. Your personal life shouldn’t be at the mercy of your endless to-do lists and ever-dinging notifications.

If you need to take a break from a relationship, that can also free your spirit. Learn how to deal with a breakup!

Taking a break is okay – Conclusion

From KitKats to cats, the art of taking a break has been promoted to a crucial capacity in navigating today’s world. If you’ve been driving too long, even a car will tell you to consider taking a break.

Sometimes we need to break from work patterns to be able to – work on ourselves. It’s a process that puts the focus back on us and allows us to reset.

Whether we’re taking a break from a career, studying, dating, working out, social media, alcohol, or even from an extended break itself, the disruption can work wonders for both our physical and mental health

Incorporating regular breaks is a cultural phenomenon that varies from one part of the world to another. Whether it’s the siesta in Spain and Mexico, the tea ceremonies of Japan and Morocco, or the Swedish fika, each country has its own way of embracing downtime.

The people of Montenegro believe they are the heavyweight champions of lounging around. But they understand that even taking a break sometimes needs a break. It seems timeout should arrive naturally. Otherwise, ironically, resting has the potential to become tiresome.

Filip Knežević, a man who’s been lying for 1,200 hours, plans to chill out after the entire labored ordeal – on a vacation. “I plan to take advantage of the last sunny days and hit the seaside, take a walk, and even a dip because it relaxes me to the maximum”, he tells me.

“I’m enjoying time with my boyfriend and family”, Lidija says. “I’m still resting, and in ten days, I’m starting with work. I feel perfect.”

While playing with the stereotype of Montenegrins’ slothfulness, the winners of this quirky championship didn’t only break records and expectations. They also uncovered some ultimate truths about lying.

Whether we’re taking a break from a career, studying, dating, working out, social media, alcohol, or even from an extended break itself, the disruption can work wonders for both our physical and mental health. And that’s a priceless reward that cannot be counted in euros.

The 23-year-old legends of laziness, who slept through the high summer, will hopefully have a better autumn experience on their holidays. At least, they shouldn’t be bothered by fjaka.

Did you like this global guide to taking a break?
Pin it for later!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

The photographs in this article have been sourced through Pexels, Unsplash, Flickr, Freepik, private albums, and other open sources.

In the order of appearance, the authors are as follows: 
Woman on a beach (cover image) - Eriks Cistovs, Pexels
Lidija Marković and Filip Knežević - private photo albums
Siesta in Cusco - Diego Delso, licensed under CC-BY-SA
Menton street - Kamilla Isalieva, Unsplash
Human statue - Roberto Ventre, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Inemuri on train - John Gillespie, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 
Finnish ice hole - valokuvaaja Sonja Lahtinen, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Man on floor - Freepik
Friluftsliv - Juliane Liebermann, Unsplash
"Die Hängematte" (The Hammock), oil on canvas - Gustave Courbet
Converse shoes on grass - Ilham Rahmansyah, Unsplash
Woman on grass (pin image) - Wes Hicks, Unsplash
Sloths (pin image) - AI image by Ivan Kralj / Reve.

The post Taking a Break: The Art of Timeout Around the World appeared first on Pipeaway.

The mere volume of some bathhouses can easily impress. That’s one of the main reasons why the gigantic Dragon Hill Spa is often proclaimed the best jjimjilbang in Seoul. But I hesitated whether to even include it among the top 5.

I will elaborate on that later. But for me, a spa is a place where we go to relax. We enter these facilities tired and expect to exit revitalized. Not the other way around.

There is a jjimjilbang in every Seoul neighborhood. The best one to recommend should be the one that reconciles authenticity with openness towards foreigners

My criteria for ranking the best Korean spa in Seoul was informed by exactly this aspect: how do these bathhouses deliver when providing fulfilling experiences for a variety of their guests?

Jjimjilbangs are, indeed, a place for everyone. These public bathhouses, where we go to hang out with family, friends, colleagues, or lovers, provide a unique way of bonding 24/7. Stripped off of our everyday clothes, we enjoy Korean onsen like non-classified humans. For locals, it’s a strong communal experience; for tourists, it is a cultural one.

Every neighborhood in Seoul has a small bathhouse. But for jjimjilbang-visiting foreigners, the language might present a barrier. The bigger jjimjilbangs could greet you in English, but also be quite soulless. Choosing the best jjimjilbang in Seoul for tourists is about fine-tuning this balance.

If you want to know more about jjimjilbang, its rules, etiquette, and step-by-step instructions, I strongly recommend that you consult this introductory Korean spa guide.

After you master the theory and purchase your flight to Asia, you can join the relaxation practice with thousands of Koreans in these best jjimjilbangs in Seoul.

Once you land at the airport, plan your visit to Luggage Storage Seoul, leave your suitcase (you won’t need much for the jjimjilbang visit after all!), and head to the world of relaxation. Everything you’ll need for the visit will be given to you at the spa reception.

If you prefer sleeping in a hotel and just relaxing in the Korean bathhouse, look no further than Agoda which offers you accommodations ranging from budget stays to five-star luxury options. 

  

The best jjimjilbangs in Seoul

1. Siloam Bulgama Sauna Spa
Price: 17.000 Won (12,50 Euros)

A forest wallpaper, fake plants, and, for some unknown reason, dog, poultry, squirrel, and kangaroo sculptures at the entrance, did not promise much. But behind the tacky exterior of Siloam Bulgama Sauna Spa, I found the best jjimjilbang in Seoul.

On six floors, there was a welcoming space for day-long hangouts that soothe body and soul. With its around-the-clock operation, Siloam Sauna could accommodate 3.000 people, both Koreans and travelers who found it a convenient place to spend the night in central Seoul.

If you want to combine a Korean-style spa with hiking to Seoul’s highest mountain, Mt. Bukhan, consider booking this well-rated experience!

Operating since 2001, Siloam Bulgama Sauna Spa pumps high-quality Germanium water from a 300-meter underground. It feeds a variety of baths where enriched with aromatic herbs, it can show its full healing potential.

There are also written translations in English. A bath that says it will reduce your menstrual pains could be confusing in the men’s section of the spa, but hey, it certainly cannot hurt!

Besides a salty sauna, where another guest could offer to scrub your back, there are also official body scrubbers, who could become pushy in front of some tourists, but nothing one cannot escape from with a smile.

In the naked area, you could also make use of the barbershop, hair salon, and snack bar, but if you head to the gender-meeting lounge on the second floor, you could have proper food in the restaurant. There are pictures of all the meals, and I thoroughly enjoyed my bibimbap with sauna eggs and an unmissable sikhye rice drink. I had to pay for this order in cash, and it cost me 15.000 Won (11 Euros).

Siloam Sauna – for men, women, and snorers

Siloam Bulgama Sauna Spa offers rooms dedicated to nail art, children’s play, table tennis, fitness, cinema, and computers.

But their fomentation floor will treat your body in a variety of ways. There are rooms of different temperatures and materials, ranging from ice and salt to jade and charcoal. There are mobile-charging lockers in front of the rooms, so you don’t expose your phones to temperature shock.

The highest floor of the jjimjilbang is reserved for oxygen-rich sleeping, and it has hundreds of individual beds, in segregated rooms for men, women, and – how thoughtful! – snorers. If you want, you can even sleep in red clay caves!

While you could consider leaving your luggage in lockers at Seoul Station, I came to Siloam Sauna directly from my flight and was positively surprised that they could store my bag in a special secure room free of charge.

For the best available accommodation in the vicinity of Seoul Station, click here!

How to get to Siloam Sauna?

Siloam Bulgama Sauna Spa old address: 49 Jungnim-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul  (CLOSED atm)
The new address of the same brand: Junggok-dong Siloam Sauna, 173 Yongmasan-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul

As confirmed by Pipeaway readers, Siloam Bulgama Sauna Spa near the Seoul Station and Seoullo 7017 overpass has been closed since late 2021. It is not yet clear if that is the permanent end of my favorite jjimjilbang in Seoul.

Luckily, you can try the newer Siloam Sauna facilities at the Gwangjin-gu address, and let us know if they are a decent successor. I will surely update you on that when I return to South Korea.

Before heading to a jjimjilbang, it's good to exhaust yourself by exploring Seoul. If you're looking for ideas on things to do, find them here!

2. The Spa in Garden 5
Price: 12.000 Won (9 Euros)

If you thought Siloam Sauna was hard to find, what would you say about The Spa in Garden 5? Located on the 10^th floor of a shopping center, this jjimjilbang tested my orientation skills the most. Especially if you are arriving late, when there are no shoppers around to ask, make sure to read the instructions on how to get to The Spa in Garden 5 carefully. Otherwise, you could experience sauna-style sweating while still searching the building.

Placed in the southeastern part of the capital, in Seoul’s most populated district, The Spa in Garden 5 is a quite popular, barely more than a decade-old establishment. Weekend nights tend to attract the most crowd, and due to the organization of the space, it is not the most sleep-inducing option on this list of the best jjimjilbangs in Seoul.

Being newer, The Spa in Garden 5 seems to be well-maintained, but the contemporary design of its bath facilities could have a shopping-mall feel to it.

The shy visitors could benefit from the fact that showers are arranged in more private, stall divisions. After you wash up, you can head to a couple of hot tubs with massage beds, and then withstand some heat in the saunas (a wet one at 45 degrees Celsius, and a dry one at 110!). If you dare, you can conclude your bath experience by jumping into a plunge pool with ice-cold water and massage jets.

If you want to create a jjimjilbang experience at home, check this relaxing background music, perfect for massage therapy!

The Spa in Garden 5 – where the ice room melts quicker than a waffle

The co-ed area has a variety of special rooms where you can continue relaxing. Enter oven-like traditional pine tree saunas (103-115 degrees), expose yourself to light and salt therapy (83 degrees), treat your atopic dermatitis in the cypress room (31 degrees), or try the ice room that sadly had no ice (and had only 11,6 degrees Celsius).

Colder than the room was a half-frozen waffle I got at the snack bar, the only place serving food during the night after the jjimjilbang’s restaurant closes.

If you manage to get there in time, you might count on more than instant food, such as bibimbap, soba, udon, or pork cutlet. At The Spa in Garden 5, you don’t need to carry cash around, as everything can be charged on your electronic key.

Equally closed during the night is the ice cream kiosk, as well as the books and board game area. The best you can do at that late hour is to sit in a massage chair or withdraw into a cave-like chamber for sleeping if you reserved it in time. Otherwise, you might need to find a sleeping spot on the ground in the central communal area.

The Spa in Garden 5 also has a small gym, a movie theater, a kids’ playing area, and special VIP rooms intended for bigger groups that can rent them by the hour.

If you would like to stay in the vicinity of Garden 5, check out these available hotels!

How to get to The Spa in Garden 5?

The Spa in Garden 5 address: 10 Chungmin–ro, Songpa–gu, Seoul

The Spa in Garden 5 is a 15-minute walk west of the Jangji Station, served by line 8. Take exit number 3, make a U-turn when you get out, and turn left at the first crossroad. Continue on this road, and the shopping center will be on your left side. You need to use the entrance that is the furthest away, in a building marked with ‘Tool’ letters. Take the elevator to the 10^th floor.

3. Itaewon Land Spa
Price: 10.000 Won (7,50 Euros)

Located in the Itaewon district of central Seoul, famous for its multicultural environment and nightlife, Itaewon Land Spa is a jjimjilbang that doubles as a lodge is a convenient solution for post-clubbing or pub-crawling downtime.

Itaewon’s kitchen, besides expected ramen, noodles, kimchi stew, curry rice, and pizza, offers even a hangover soup. It seems Itaewon Land Spa wants to brand itself as the best jjimjilbang in Seoul for full detoxification!

That being said, you might have to be a little drunk to fall in love with the space. Especially the worn-out bath area would benefit from some facelift. An uneven floor with cracked tiles, a steam room out of order, and a scrubbing area that looks as if someone has thrown a bomb does not provide big promises.

However, there are still three warm pools, with mineral-rich water sourced from 300 meters below the ground, and a Finnish sauna where you can sweat at 90 degrees before jumping into a cold plunge pool.

For the best prices of accommodation in the Itaewon neighborhood, click here!

Itaewon Land Spa – sleeping with celebrities

On the upper floors of this 5-story building, one can find the largest Korean traditional oak wood sauna, a gravel walk room, an ice room, a children’s playground, a TV room, massage chairs, and a small gym. There are even tarot readings on offer!

If you want to sleep, you can rent a blanket for 2.000 Won (1,50 Euros) from a staff member who is, oh paradox, sleeping behind the counter. There are quite dark sleep-inducing capsules on the fifth floor.

For those who want to upgrade to a single room, the price would be 20.000 Won extra (15 Euros), which is twice as cheap as a full-body massage. Speaking of body treatments in this jjimjilbang, keep in mind that foreigners will always have to pay 5.000 Won more for the same service.

I haven’t slept in the private cabins of Itaewon Guesthouse, but I have heard they are quite basic, without windows and with paper-thin walls. So your call!

Itaewon Land jjimjilbang is mainly catering to locals, celebrities included. Supposedly, you can see members of K-pop boy bands such as 2AM or CNBLUE using the facilities! Jjimjilbang is also often featured as a set for famous Korean TV dramas such as “Secret Garden”, “Lover in Paris”, “I’m Sorry, I Love You”, “Are You Human?”, “Dating Agency: Cyrano”, and so on.

How to get to Itaewon Land Spa?

Itaewon Land Spa address: 34 Usadan-ro 14-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Pipeaway readers confirmed that Itaewon Land Spa has been permanently closed (2023 information), so sadly, it seems you cannot visit it anymore.

When in Europe, try to visit Rudas Baths, one of the European baths that starred on the big screen!

4. Dragon Hill Spa
Price: 16.000 Won (12 Euros)

Dragon Hill Spa is another Seoul jjimjilbang famous for hosting the famous. It is a popular filming spot for K dramas and TV shows (such as “The Return of Superman” and “Running Man”).

Located in the central Yongsan district, one of the largest jjimjilbangs in Seoul attracts equally large crowds. With a variety of content spread over eight floors, it could be seen as a place offering something for everyone. That might be its biggest benefit, as well as a terrible mistake.

Dragon Hill Spa seemed to be louder than anyone visiting jjimjilbang would want to. It felt overcrowded with visitors, which became most obvious at nighttime when looking for a quiet and comfortable place to sleep became a detective’s task. Finally, after jumping over dozens of bodies spread all over the floor, resembling a mass murder scene, I chose to sleep in the computer room, snuggled in a chair.

The arcade room with games is where the loudness dominates, but you could also experience it in all the main areas. So heading to a traditional charcoal kiln or an ice room had another motivation: escaping the noise.

Vaginal steam and Egyptian meditation at Dragon Hill Spa

I was expecting more from the Dragon Hill Spa’s bath zone, too. There were several (expected) baths with different temperatures and an aroma-infused wet sauna. The positive surprise came mainly with the men-only Hinoki pavilion. Bathing in a tub made of a tree that the Japanese regarded as sacred felt like a royal privilege. I don’t know if women felt equally enthusiastic about their special – sitz bath, which is essentially a vaginal steam treatment.

The shared healing zone had the therapeutic Hinoki woodland room, pine tree firewood sauna, crystal sauna, nephrite jade room, and somewhat tacky Egypt-inspired pyramid meditation room.

In the rest of the building, one could find a gym (reserved for private members only), which even offered a simulated ride on a fake horse, an outdoor swimming pool (only in swimwear!), a cinema hall, karaoke rooms, a sky garden with a grill menu, and a more traditional Korean restaurant where I ate hotpot bulgogi. Unlike other jjimjilbangs, Dragon Hill Spa had three types of cooked eggs on offer: charcoal, smoked, and roasted. It almost looked like a colorful Easter!

All in all, while Dragon Hill Spa does provide a lot of space to explore Asian bathing culture, I felt that its title of the best jjimjilbang in Seoul was quite overrated. There are jjimjilbangs in Seoul that provide diverse spa experiences without falling into a commercial trap, places where at least you can get a good night’s sleep.

If you are looking for recommended hotels in the vicinity of Dragon Hill Spa, click here!

How to get to Dragon Hill Spa?

Dragon Hill Spa address: 40 Hangang–daero 21 na–gil, Yongsan–gu, Seoul

Dragon Hill Spa might be the easiest to find on this list of jjimjilbangs in Seoul. It’s located 30 meters away from the Yongsan subway station, served by line number 1. Take exit number 1, and the most popular bathhouse in Seoul will be on your right. With large Dragon Hill Spa neon signs, you would have to be blind to miss it.

When in Seoul, it would be a shame not to indulge in its gastronomy. Check out these amazing Korean desserts!

5. Hamilton Hotel Sauna
Price: 9.000 Won (6,70 Euros)

The last place on this list of the best jjimjilbangs in Seoul belongs to Hamilton Hotel Sauna. I wanted to check whether it deserves this spot mainly because of the silent rumors that Hamilton’s jjimjilbang basement was an unofficial Seoul cruising spa for gay guests.

There are logical wonderings whether gender-segregated spas and the whole nakedness concept could unintentionally target patrons whose interests go beyond just enjoying the health benefits of the spa.

Frankly, beyond expected gazes motivated by interracial curiosity, I haven’t experienced unwanted advances in any of the Korean jjimjilbangs I visited. Well, Hamilton Hotel Sauna might have a different story.

Located in the same neighborhood as Itaewon Land Spa, Hamilton Hotel was constructed in 1973 and developed together with the district. American soldiers, tourists, and, among them, gay tourists as well, became the most present visitors of Itaewon.

In the vicinity of a myriad of gay bars on the so-called Homo Hill, a cheap Seoul jjimjilbang, Hamilton Hotel Sauna, became one of those establishments where new friends could extend the night.

If you want to book a room in the Hamilton Hotel, check for the latest prices here!

Hamilton Hotel Sauna under the gay radar

There was no restaurant here, nor a rich spa experience. Just several bathtubs with cold, warm, and hot water, pumped from a sulfur bedrock 380 meters below ground.

There were also two saunas, a dry one and a steam one. What happens in the sauna, stays in the sauna, but I could have sworn that a young man from Macao I just met exited one of these saunas with a line of thick white liquid on his chest.

In the dressing room, there was a written warning by Hamilton Hotel management confirming that they were aware of the inappropriate behavior of some guests. With no proofreading, their message said: “If you have any sexual in a sleeping room or a bathtub, you should be immediately kicked out after paying the water bill.”

Sleeping room? Where’s that? Above the dressing room, there was a low-ceiling communal sleeping gallery (maybe 1,50 meters high) where one could take a mat and rest for the night.

And yes, I can confirm that several Koreans were engaging in blatantly sexual behavior in semi-darkness. One was walking around maniacally touching himself, another one was pretending to sleep while someone was thoroughly enjoying his not-really-asleep body part.

It almost seemed that closing one’s eyes was misinterpreted as a call to action. Every time I would open my eyes, a man’s hand was getting closer and closer to my crotch area.

I imagine that in the world of broken gay radars, this radical approach could create a lot of unwanted confusion and shock. So while the hotel management will never support lewd actions in its facilities, those are also hard to eradicate. If you are visiting Hamilton Hotel Sauna, you should be aware of that.

This was not the first time I experienced unusual encounters in a bathhouse. Check out this gay Khmer adventure in Cambodia, and then read how a bathhouse in Budapest tried to end "inappropriate behavior" with double aprons!

How to get to Hamilton Hotel Sauna?

Hamilton Hotel Sauna address: 179 Itaewon-ro, Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Hamilton Hotel is located practically at the entrance of the Itaewon metro station, served by line 6. Take exit number 1, and you should be in front of the hotel. Hamilton Hotel Sauna has a separate doorway right from the reception entrance, leading down to the basement.

Do you want to extend your Korean visit to Jeju Island? In this article on the best things to do in Jeju, you can find a selection of recommended local jjimjilbangs!

The best jjimjilbangs in Seoul, South Korea – Conclusion

Jjimjilbangs in Seoul are generally safe spaces to relax from the bustle of the hectic metropolis (well, truth be told, runaways can also enjoy some amazing ecological parks!).

Stepping into these special bathhouses opens the door to experiences that heal and connect us. Denuded, we celebrate cleanliness as the first step towards health and well-being.

There are hundreds of jjimjilbangs in Seoul, and picking the best one is an ambitious task. One would have to spend months and months exploring the Korean bath scene in Seoul to be able to claim the highest quality with confidence.

As houses that have heat in their name, even jjimjilbangs in Seoul can provoke heated debates

Old jjimjilbangs might close, the new ones might open, and that is all normal in the competitive Seoul market. The tradition of public bathhouses has centuries-old roots, but modern businesses are constantly adding and subtracting, creating new products, and responding to new needs.

All Seoul jjimjilbangs on this list have their positive and negative aspects. That’s why searching for the best Korean spa in Seoul is an exciting task.

As houses that have heat in their name, it is not unusual that jjimjilbangs can provoke heated debates. Not everyone has the same definition of a “hot encounter with a stranger”, so certain establishments can produce disappointment. For some, it could be the Disneyland atmosphere of Dragon Hill Spa, for others, the gay cruising vibe of Hamilton Hotel Sauna.

When we try to focus on what makes this communal ritual important, we will see that all these Seoul jjimjilbangs come with a charm worth exploring.

In that sense, there might never be a true title of the best jjimjilbang in Seoul. Otherwise, we would stop looking for always new surprises lurking around the corner.

Note: All the above-mentioned prices relate to the use of both baths and jjimjilbangs. If you do not wish to stay overnight, your ticket might be cheaper than quoted.

Did you like this guide to the best jjimjilbangs in Seoul, South Korea?
Pin it for later!

Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway might make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

The post Top 5 Jjimjilbangs in Seoul appeared first on Pipeaway.

So who were the luckiest contenders? Szechenyi Baths open the article, quickly followed by Rudas Baths. The overview then transfers the readers from Budapest to Miskolc for unique Cave Baths.

Truth be told, Germany also has three respectful candidates on this list. But with the inclusion of thermal centers of Berehove (Ukraine) just at the border with Hungary, it seems that the Hungarian thermal basin has valid arguments for proclaiming victory.

The best Hungarian baths

So what makes Hungarian baths so special? “With more than 1,300 hot springs, this landlocked country is a thermal spa paradise”, writes the author Vanda Mendonça. Her pick was Szechenyi Baths, the largest European thermal bath with 15 indoor and three outdoor pools, many saunas, steam rooms, and massage cabinets.

With more than 1,300 hot springs, Hungary is a thermal spa paradiseVanda Mendonça, The Yogi Wanderer

Rudas Baths are the only Budapest bath that has separate women’s and men’s days. “(…) On single-sex days, visitors do not typically use traditional swimwear. Instead, they get apron-like loincloths at the entrance, which barely cover the most critical body parts from exposure. This might not be suitable for the shyest visitors, but the idea of visiting the baths is to relax, and not stress oneself, right?”, writes Pipeaway’s Ivan Kralj. If you are intrigued, read more about Rudas Baths here!

The Cave Baths in Miskolc are the third Hungarian bath on this comprehensive list. “With cave passages created over thousands of years filled with medicinal thermal water, you are going to have a wonderful experience at this lesser-known European thermal bath”, promises Linn Haglund from the Brainy Backpackers.

European baths are a cultural experience

Thermal water brings numerous health benefits to our bodies and souls. The Yogi Wanderer, specialized for bringing inner peace to world travelers, notices another important value: “(…) Bathing in hot spring water is also an important and centuries-old tradition across Europe. Visiting a European thermal bath is not just a wellness experience, but also a cultural experience you can’t miss.”

If you want to check which thermal baths and hot springs from other countries made it to The Yogi Wanderer’s list, read the original article. I will only mention that visitors of Hungary, Switzerland, Georgia, Iceland, Poland, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Turkey, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine will find that Europe has many thermal wonders to discover.

The Yogi Wanderer is Vanda Mendonça, a Portuguese journalist who felt trapped in her media job and found comfort in practicing yoga. She became a yoga teacher, but then also discovered that she can provide advice to mindful travelers through blogging.

What are your favorite thermal baths? Share your best spa experiences in the comments section below!

Did you like this article?
Pin it for later!

The post Hungarian Baths Dominate the List of European Thermal Treasures appeared first on Pipeaway.

Typically open 24 hours a day, it is not just a place to enjoy the hot tubs, sauna, massage, or famous Korean scrub. Traditional Korean spa is a social meeting place for locals and a budget-friendly accommodation for travelers!

In this step-by-step Jjimjilbang guide, you will learn what is a Korean spa like and how to use it. Find out how to respect Korean bathhouse etiquette and how not to break Jjimjilbang rules! Here it is: the ultimate guide to the Korean spa for beginners!

Every neighborhood in the South Korean capital has its own bathhouse. Check these top 5 jjimjilbangs in Seoul! 

Korean spa history

Korean spa culture has its roots in religious practices. Chinese sources of the Song Dynasty described in 1123 that, every morning, Koreans were taking baths in their rivers. This was a form of Buddhist spiritual purification. There was no separation by gender, and men and women were bathing naked. River bathing continued until the 20^th century.

In 1429, the Joseon Dynasty introduced different moral standards, considering the mixed bathing vulgar. The Buddhist monks started to maintain Hanjeungmak, the traditional Korean sauna that was burning pine wood to heat the kiln, a dome-shaped room made of stone or clay. Here, the priests performed spiritual cleansing and healing rituals. They separated visitors by gender; men were sweating in the afternoon, women in the evening.

Japanese colonization brought to Korea bathing houses inspired by Sento. However, Koreans and Japanese were not allowed to bathe together. When the first modern public bathhouse opened in Seoul in 1905, Koreans didn’t come, and the project was short-lived.

Public bathhouses (called Mogyoktang or Mokyeok-Tahng) were appearing around the country despite the resistance. By the end of the 20^th century, the popularity of these establishments grew; their number was higher than 10.000. The naked bathing was in again! Mogyoktang’s unique signature became a thorough skin scrubbing.

In 1960s Korea, prostitution was illegal. The bodies of the naked citizens and the hands of masseuses found a mutual interest. “Special services” were offered in establishments called Health Clubs, Massage Salons, and Turkish Baths. Until the Turkish embassy protested against disguising the brothel activities behind their nation’s name.

Do you want to get a taste of Turkish baths in Europe? Check out Rudas Baths in Budapest, Hungary!

History of Jjimjilbang

The first Jjimjilbang was founded in Seoul in 1992. Today, there are thousands of these 24/7 Asian bathhouses in South Korea!

The history of Jjimjilbang (찜질방, jjimjil = heating, bang = room) started in 1992. The first one was established in Seoul. This new form of public Asian bathhouse combined Mogyoktang and Hanjeungmak with additional features such as sleeping areas and various entertainment rooms. Most of the Jjimjilbangs operated 24/7!

The Koreans very warmly welcomed this upgraded experience. From 550 in 1995, the number of Jjimjilbangs in the country grew to 1600 in 2004.

At the beginning of the century, the Asian bathhouse boom raised various issues regarding cleanliness and security. The new law in 2005 made stricter rules for Jjimjilbangs, prohibited alcohol use, and overnight stays for minors. It seems the latter one is not applied anymore, as children are clearly spending their nights in the Jjimjilbang too!

For more information on the history of Jjimjilbang, read Patrick Vierthaler’s research on Korean bathing culture!

What is a Korean spa like?

Korean spa is not just a place to soak in various pools and sweat in different saunas. Jjimjilbang is open 24 hours for a reason! It allows you to step out of the hasty everyday life, switch off, and spend hours and hours relaxing.

Sure, this includes wet and dry saunas and hot and cold basins of water. But you can also have a traditional meal, get a haircut, play some games, watch movies, or take a nap. You can mingle with old and new friends, or enjoy the me-time, be it on the massage table or in a peaceful corner of a warm room dressed in crystals.

Unlike the Finnish sauna, where clothing is optional and one can hide insecurities behind a towel, in the wet area of the Korean bathhouse, nudity is mandatory. That’s why male and female sections are physically divided. There’s no fear of being exposed in front of the opposite gender!

In Greece, you can have the most pleasant naturist experience at the best nude beaches of the Cyclades Islands, but also in dedicated clothing-optional resorts in Kefalonia, Rhodes, and Crete! 

Asian bathhouse & cultural shock of nudity

Almost every Westerner’s article on Asian bathhouses I’ve read focuses on the awkwardness of nudity and the so-called cultural shock of Jjimjilbangs.

Honestly, if you are a person who enters a Finnish sauna in a swimsuit, you might be looking for relaxation in the wrong places.

If you feel intimidated by the whole idea and cannot overcome the nudity aspect of joining the Korean spa experience, maybe you should spend a day on the beach.

Some writers assure that nobody will stare at you. I guess it depends on your definition of staring! You are probably a non-Asian person in an all-Asian environment. Your body may differ in color or shape; people WILL look at you. Get over it!

It is irrelevant to point out that nobody will judge you in a Korean naked spa. You’re in a bath! Everyone visits the Asian bathhouse to enjoy the facilities, not to choose the stripper of the month!

If you have issues with Korean spa nudity, what would you say about the naked men hiking trend?

How to use Jjimjilbang – 13-step guide to the Asian bathhouse of South Korea

Jjimjilbangs are often large multi-story facilities. For first-time visitors who do not speak Korean, the layout of this Asian bathhouse may be confusing. But this step-by-step Jjimjilbang guide will help you understand how to use a Korean spa!

Step 1: Pay the entrance fee, get the bracelet

First, you need to pay. There will be several packages available. Typically, a day rate ticket is valid until midnight (entrance between 5 am and 8 pm). The check-out for the night rate ticket is at noon at the latest (one can enter from 8 pm till 5 am).

In some places, bath and Jjimjilbang (technically, the clothed area) are integrated. In other sites, one can come only for the bath. So if you want to experience a real sleepover spa, mention the word Jjimjilbang at the ticket booth! And of course – pay the night rate, unless you want to leave before midnight.

In exchange for your money, you will get a numbered bracelet that could be your electronic “wallet” for other purchases inside, or it could have a physical key to your locker (or both).

The Jjimjilbang welcome package will also include shorts and a T-shirt you will need to change into later. If you didn’t get them, keep your ticket and exchange it for your pajamas at the counter in the changing area.

Step 2: Take your shoes off

Before stepping on the wooden flooring, take your shoes off and store them in the small lockers.

Step 3: Change into your birthday suit

As mentioned earlier, Jjimjilbang is a gender-segregated Asian bathhouse. Follow the sign to an appropriate changing area: nam (남) for men and yeo (여) for women.

Find the locker with your number and undress completely. By this moment, you will already notice naked people walking around.

So don’t overthink, be confident, and leave everything in the locker. Remove your rings, glasses, and earrings, and continue completely bare! The only thing you could bring with you to this nude Korean spa is your toiletries.

Rudas Baths in Budapest had different dress code policies in its history. Nowadays, it requires single-sex day visitors wearing - two aprons. 

Step 4: Take a shower

It’s time to get wet. First, you will pass through the vanity room, where later you can use complimentary beauty products such as hair gel, body lotion, or cotton swabs. There are also hairdryers and scales to weigh yourself.

The bath is usually behind some glass doors. Before entering any of the pools, it is essential you take a proper shower. Your options will be either taking a standing one, usually with no partitions, or sitting down at one of the washing stations. These are equipped with a small plastic stool to sit on and a plastic bowl to rinse with. Some Koreans primp in front of these mirror-equipped showers for hours, so being able to sit is somewhat helpful. However, if you do decide to shave, do it at the end of all your bathing rituals!

The flow of water through the shower may start when you push the tap, and then operate for a certain amount of time. If you finished washing and the water is still flowing, pull the tap back, and the water will stop. Use water resources rationally!

Step 5: Enjoy the Jjimjilbang bath

Now that you are properly clean, you can enter the bathtubs. The temperature will be different in each of them and usually displayed (typically, anything between 38 and 42, and then – a cold one). Shifting between warmer and colder pools will stimulate your blood circulation.

If you plan to stay longer in the hot bath (and more than 15 minutes is not advisable), immerse only the lower part of your body in the water! Keep the heart above the water level!

More advanced establishments may have a salt bath, a mud bath, a mugwort bath (made with mugwort tea), or any other bath infused with some healing herbs. Enjoy the soaking in the bath cubicles!

Step 6: Relax in the sauna

The wet area of the Asian healing spa will usually have one or more saunas. Often one dry one, one wet one. If there is a Korean sauna with salt, scrub your skin with it!

Beware, Asian saunas can get hot, so don’t overstay! After sweating inside the sauna, you might find a string that pours cold water over you when pulled. Or plunge in the cold pool!

Some of them may come with a metal bar for those who want to show off with their pull-ups.

Step 7: Try the Korean spa skin scrub

Korean spa is globally unique for its vigorous skin scrubbing. They call this intense skin cleansing process Seshin and scrub therapists – Ddemiri.

In the corner of the wet area, you will see rubber beds. The Korean massage room is exposed and offers minimal privacy.

Persons working there are easily recognizable, as they are the only ones wearing underwear. They offer Korean full-body scrub and massage treatments (the price is at least double the night rate stay in the Jjimjilbang, but it can go up all the way to Western prices).

If you are visiting on a budget, you can do the scrubbing yourself, or even locals may offer to help. At the entrance to the main bathing area, you will find the coarse towels for the body scrub, the so-called Italy towels. These exfoliating mitts, invented in the Korean town of Busan (the home of Spa Land, the most massive public bath in Korea), are used to scrub and peel the layers of dead skin off your body. Take a Korean scrub towel, find an unaccompanied local, and rub each other’s back! Maybe Korean massage exfoliation will ignite a friendship of a lifetime!

Step 8: Stay hydrated

Soaking for hours can easily dehydrate you!

After you dry yourself with the small towel available at the entrance to the bathing area (small enough that you cannot wrap it around yourself, so you are really stuck with that nudity aspect), remember to drink enough fluids!

Just before the bathing area, there are usually water coolers. Use the paper cone, fill it with water, and drink!

Step 9: Relax in Jjimjilbang fomentation rooms

Get dressed in those pajamas-style Jjimjilbang clothes you got, and join the other members of the Asian bathhouse ‘cult’!

Your next station is fomentation rooms (찜질방)! Various kiln rooms, also called poultice rooms, surround the communal area. Here, you sweat dressed up. Remember, nudity, even partial one, is not allowed in this co-ed zone!

Take a block of wood and use it as a pillow when you lie down in these oven-shaped resting rooms of various temperatures. Relax in the salt room or charcoal cave, surround yourself with jade crystals or clay balls, take a nap in the pyramid, or enjoy the scent of the forest in the wood-covered space. When you’ve had enough of the hot areas, step inside the ice room!

The variety of fomentation rooms will depend on the size of the Jjimjilbang. Smaller ones may have just the communal area to sprawl on the floor or tatami mats.

Step 10: Explore the rest of the Jjimjilbang

Modern-day Jjimjilbangs are much more than just a spa or a sauna! These popular weekend getaways for Korean families may include a fitness room, massage chairs, barbershop, shoe shining station, nail salon, PC room, arcades with games, karaoke studios, or even a small cinema! Feel free to explore the space!

Step 11: Indulge in an authentic Korean meal

The snack bar, with simple food choices such as cup noodles or sandwiches, may stay open 24/7. But Jjimjilbang’s restaurant closes during the night, so make sure to check the working hours before relaxing too long in the Asian sauna.

Besides some great Korean specials such as hot stone bibimbap or various soups, stews, and noodle dishes, one food at Jjimjilbang is a must-try! Maekbanseok gyeran (맥반석계란) actually originates in Jjimjilbang! These eggs with smoky brown shells have been slow-cooked/steamed in the sauna, and their texture is chewier. The color of the white part of the Korean sauna eggs is not really white, but brown.

From the beverage department, Jjimjilbang’s must-try treat is sikhye (식혜). This traditional sweet drink is a sort of rice punch. It is made of water, sugar, malted barley flour, and cooked rice. Besides rice grains, this ice-cold beverage can sometimes also contain pine nuts. This is the best way to refresh yourself after a prolonged sweating and bathing session.

If you are looking for something sweet, these are the places in Seoul where you can find some amazing Korean desserts!

Step 12: Sleep in Jjimjilbang

Last but not least, it’s time to (try to) sleep in the Jjimjilbang.

Smaller Jjimjilbangs will only have a communal room with a heated floor (traditional ondol style, which uses direct heat transfer from wood smoke).

If you prefer not to sleep on the floor, find a sleeping mat and a pillow block resembling a brick for your headrest. Some Jjimjilbangs will provide free blankets, while others will rent them for an additional price (if you need one?).

The main sleeping area often comes with a TV, and a lot of people passing by on their way to buy some snacks. Try to find a quiet corner for your relaxation!

Bigger Jjjimjilbangs have dedicated sleeping zones, with less light and noise. These could have bunk beds or cubby holes to sneak in, providing a better sense of privacy.

In some Jjimjilbangs, there will be separate sleeping rooms for men and women, rarely even rooms reserved for snorers.

Step 13: Pay extras on your way out

After sleeping, you can enjoy the Korean bathing/sweating ritual again (if your ticket is still valid). If not, drop the used towels and Jjimjilbang uniform in the provided bins, and head towards the exit. Settle any unpaid bills!

After spending the night in Jjimjilbang, try some of these amazing Korean desserts in Seoul!

Korean spa benefits

Besides the obvious function of making a visitor clean, the benefits of the Asian bathhouse spill into the health department too.

The far-infrared radiation emitted from the heated materials used in Jjimjilbang (such as red clay, jade, germanium, elvan stones) penetrates deep under the skin. This stimulates blood circulation and reduces muscle and joint pain. Raising body temperature is considered to be good for our immune system, too.

Korean spa benefits especially affect women. After giving birth, some of them spend weeks in rooms made of red clay. They believe this will prevent women’s ailments. Mugwort tea bath is very beneficial for the health of the female reproductive system! There is even a Chai-yok healing treatment, where a woman sits above a boiling pot of mugwort tea, essentially experiencing a vaginal steam bath.

Korean body scrub exfoliates the dead skin and uses milk and water to moisturize it while improving blood circulation.

Besides the physical benefits of spending time in a Jjimjilbang, this place also helps reduce stress levels. Spending time out of the everyday buzz and pampering together with friends, family, or even perfect strangers, brings us to a more relaxed state of mind.

Spending time in an Asian bathhouse is one of the best things to do in Jeju Island! Make sure to check the list of Jeju Island attractions before visiting!

What to bring to a Korean spa?

You could conclude by now that Jjjimjilbang tries to cater to the many needs of its customers. So technically, you do not need to bring anything to this Asian bathhouse.

However, you may consider bringing your own toiletries if, for instance, you don’t want to use the sterilized hairbrush. There will probably be a small shop where you can buy essentials at the Jjimjilbang as well. But if you wish to have products you trust, bring your own! This could include shower gel and shampoo (in Korean spas, typically only bar soap is available), toothbrush and toothpaste, razor and shaving cream, and even exfoliating gloves (if you don’t want to use the available “Italy towels”).

If you want to be sure you will get sleep in a room with noisy kids or snorers, consider bringing earplugs. If you prefer total darkness, bring a sleep mask!

Also, bring some cash with you. While you may be able to pay for the entrance with a credit card, in some establishments, the cost of your additional purchases (such as lunch) will not be charged to your wristband, but will instead require payment in cash.

What NOT to bring to a Korean spa?

Do not bring your swimming suit! You will not be able to use the Korean spa if you do not want to get completely naked.

Do not take your mobile phone! Or at least keep it safe in your locker. One reason is that taking photographs in areas where other people walk naked is generally frowned upon. The other reason is that bringing it to rooms with extreme temperature differences, as well as into the wet areas of the Jjimjilbang, could affect the lifetime of your smartphone.

What to wear to a Korean spa?

Your clothes will be of no importance once you enter the changing room and strip naked or put on the Jjimjilbang-approved uniforms.

But keep in mind that after a long session of bathing, you may want to wear clean clothes when you leave the Korean spa experience. So bring extras!

How to make a Korean spa hat?

If you want to have Yangmeori (양머리) or a so-called sheep hat on your head, like many other Jjimjilbang-goers, you can make it yourself! In a matter of seconds, you can fold a headpiece that will make you look like a lamb or… Erm, Princess Leia? Here is a short video tutorial on how to tie a Korean spa towel!

Korean spa prices

There is indeed a variety of establishments. Depending on the size of the Jjimjilbang, as well as the package you choose, the cost will differ. The price could be higher if you spend the night, as well as if you visit a Korean spa on a weekend or national holiday. In general, expect to pay anything between 8.000 and 17.000 Won (approx. 6-13 Euros).

Korean bath house guide – Conclusion

Whether you decide to visit the Korean day spa or stay in a jjimjilbang at night, this iconic place of Korean culture will undoubtedly provide a better insight into the everyday life of South Korea. It will teach you about customs, food, rituals, relationships…

No matter if you’re going to Jjimjilbang alone or with company, even with a language barrier, this place will make you feel like a foreigner for a short period only.

Jjimjilbang culture does not rely solely on its healing and detoxifying properties! It is a meeting point! Korean spa world teaches about sharing and about common things, more than about differences. With mandatory disrobing, there are no classes, and no background in this nude Asian bathhouse. In the naked environment of Jjimjilbang, nobody can hide behind the mask of social status. CEO or homeless, we are all the same!

There is no pretension, and there is no shame. Korean children grow up in an environment where they see body differences as normal, and not as a source of doubt. They grow up into individuals with healthier self-esteem and, hopefully, less judgment. They learn to take care of their elders, the same way they were taken care of.

Public baths had similar sociological values wherever they appeared. From the Roman to the Turkish Empire, from Japan to Korea, world nations celebrated them as places of encounter.

Spa in South Korea continues to exist not only as a place of hygiene but also as an alternative Jjimjilbang accommodation, open 24 hours a day. Staying overnight in a Korean spa not only gives a glimpse of the life of a real Korea but also enables you to save some bucks. This means that you can explore the world outside of Jjimjilbang with – extra cash. Whether you are enjoying the Korean spa in Las Vegas or in Seoul, that money can certainly be spent on other enjoyable purposes.

Did you like this introduction to the Korean bathhouse, the most peculiar Asian spa? Pin it for later!

The post Korean Bathhouse 24/7: Spend a Night in Jjimjilbang, the Nude Asian Spa appeared first on Pipeaway.

Set on the bank of the Danube, Buda side, at the foot of the Gellert Hill, just next to the Erzsebet Bridge, Rudas Baths were built in the 16^th century, during Ottoman rule.

The healing center with the baths was actually there from the 13^th century when the Knights of St John built the hospital.

The renovation project was monitored by Pasha Mehmed Sokolovic, who had ordered the use of the best materials and tiles imported from Turkey!

The relaxing and healing qualities of 21 underground springs laid the foundation for the long history of Terme Rudas Budapest.

Rudas Baths are among the 18 best thermal baths in Europe, according to travel experts. Three Hungarian baths made it to The Yogi Wanderer's list!

Rudas Baths Men’s Day

Unlike the other Budapest bathhouses that are open to both men and women on all days, Rudas Bath during the week caters to one gender only, like in the old days! Tuesdays are reserved for the ladies and other workdays for gentlemen.

Bathing suits are required only during the weekends. On a same-sex day, you literally don’t have to bring anything!

Daily thermal ticket costs 6.700 forints (17 euros/18 dollars). If you want to reduce your Rudas Baths price, Budapest Card will provide a 50 % discount, but also free public transport, free museum tickets, and many more benefits!

At the reception of Rudas Baths, you will receive a plastic bracelet with a magnetic chip. Use it to pass through the turnstile gate!

The staff inside does not speak much English, so just take the white piece of cloth they are offering to you, and approach the wall-mounted machine which will scan your bracelet and inform you about the number of your cabin. Find the booth and undress! Use the wristlet to lock the cabin again.

There are Asian baths where visitors are separated by gender and enjoy their experience bare naked. Check out the Korean spa!

The revealing apron

It might seem awkward at first because the apron you got is covering only the front part of your crotch. But that is the traditional way!

Sure, you might jump into your swimming trunks, and I have seen exceptionally shy visitors doing just that (or taking two aprons to form the full circle skirt!), but honestly, you would only look like an idiot.

Ignoring the local customs draws attention and raises the level of embarrassment and awkwardness, not the other way around.

So just go with the flow, feel free, and relax! If Arnold Schwarzenegger managed to survive it when they were filming “Red Heat” here, so can you!

Well, things do change: the new dress code policy at Rudas is two aprons indeed! Real all you need to know about the modesty apron controversy. 

You can watch the entire “Red Heat” movie here! Here’s a preview of the scene filmed in the baths!

Swimming under the Rudas Baths’ rainbow

First, you will arrive at the shower area. Make sure to shower before entering the baths! That is the fundamental rule of hygiene.

The soap provided might not be of the best quality, so if you prefer something else, bring with you whatever suits you better!

The main thermal area room is dominated by the magnificent octagonal pool.

Covered by a hemispheric 10-meter diameter dome supported by eight pillars, the pool is a place of the play of light. The tiny windows in the cupola filter the light beams and wash the pool in different colors of the rainbow!

With the echo of the space, the voices of visitors produce a reverberating sound that inspires one’s meditation.

The temperature of the water in the main pool is 36 degrees Celsius. It is surrounded by four smaller pools, where the temperature ranges from 28 to 42 degrees.

Some of them are perfect for plunging in after the visit to the sauna. There are three consecutive Finnish saunas connected to each other with gradient temperature, and one steam room.

The idea of the loincloth is that you turn it around in the sauna, so you don’t sit on the chair with your bare bottom. The consequence of this idea is that your front is now exposed

Nudity and gay cruising

When you exit the pool, your loincloth will, naturally, get wet, and this means your anatomy will be more visible than you have possibly planned.

But if you want to enter the saunas, you should really leave your inhibitions in the pool! The idea of the loincloth is that you turn it around in the sauna, so you don’t sit on the chairs with your bare bottom. The consequence of this idea is that your front is now exposed to the views of the other visitors. So is theirs. Get over it!

Even if some visitors might be interested in something more than bathing, this is not a gay establishment! Everyone is welcome and friendly, so follow the usual respectful manners, and you will enjoy the atmosphere of this special place!

One of the Korean spas in our selection of the best jjimjilbangs in Seoul also turned out to be an informal gay cruising spot. Would that deter you from visiting?

The healing touch of masseurs at Rudas Baths

The next area is dedicated to various types of massage.

I have tried Rudas Baths’ signature water massage with soap foam, which is rather affordable (5.200 forints or 13 euros/14 dollars for 20 minutes, at the time of writing; nowadays, only available as 40-minute treatment for 12.000 forints which equals 29 euros or 32 dollars), but also quite enjoyable.

Even if the establishment has younger masseurs, I was treated by the expert hands of Mr. Laci, who has decades of experience which indeed transfers.

Before exiting the thermal baths area, there is another plunge pool, for the bravest ones. With a temperature of 16 degrees Celsius, this was the only one I didn’t dare to try.

Towels are available at the exit, and you can stay in the resting zone until you gather back your strength. Taking a nap is welcome!

For proper sleep, book yourself one of the affordable accommodation options. Check the latest prices of the most recommended places to stay in Budapest!

Spa labyrinth

If you have bought the combined ticket that includes the swimming pool and wellness area, for 3.100 forints extra (8 euros/dollars more), your exploration of Rudas Baths has just begun.

The Ottoman-era wing was enlarged in the 19^th century and, in this classicist wing, one can enjoy swimming in the 20-meter-long pool.

This is a shared space between men and women every day, so you will need a bathing suit for this part of the building!

There are five more pools here, including the panorama pool on the rooftop, which provides excellent views of the Danube.

The wellness area is another labyrinth consisting of a Finnish sauna, aroma sauna, steam cabin, hot-air cabin, salt cabin…

When I say labyrinth, I really mean it. Even if, in my first passing through, I easily found the restaurant sandwiched between the wellness facilities, I had a hard time finding it later, when I actually got hungry.

If you fancy a full-day spa experience in Rudas Baths that accompanies thermal water pleasures with a three-course meal and a glass of wine or champagne, reserve your spot now!

Eat well

Rudas spa could benefit from some better sign navigation, but if you manage to reach the restaurant which serves Turkish-Hungarian fusion cuisine, you will not be sorry!

I have tried the local specialty – goulash soup with freshly baked bread! With the price of 950 forints (2 euros/dollars), and a free beer included (!), this was such a steal!

So I just had to try the cheesecake as well, which was delicious and refreshing for 1.150 Forints (3 euros/dollars more or less)!

After a good meal, you have to treat yourself to some delicacy! These are the best Hungarian desserts you can eat in Budapest!

Drink even better

Hungarians believe that Hungaria, Attila and Juventus springs provide health, so visitors are welcome to drink the water at the designated areas.

After bathing, your skin will be scented with a rotten egg smell, but that’s a small sacrifice for health benefits!

Interested in the water content? The spa website says that this is a “radio-active hot spring water with calcium-magnesium-hydrogen-carbonate also containing sodium and sulfate and with a significant content of fluoride ions”. It might not tell you a lot, but supposedly it has a therapeutic effect on degenerative joint diseases, chronic and sub-acute arthritis, discus hernia, and neuralgia!

If you fancy naked relaxation, consider traveling to Greece! Discover their clothing-optional resorts and most fantastic nude beaches! 

From radio-active water to psychedelic music

Thermal baths are an unskippable part of any Budapest itinerary. Rudas Baths is a small window into the city’s past. The history of bathing as a socializing ritual that also brings health benefits to its practitioners reaches back to Roman times in this area.

Turks certainly brought additional value to the culture of soaking in thermal water, and while it was exclusively reserved for men for centuries, since 2006, women can use the baths on set days.

Weekends are shared, and at some places include even night bath experiences, which at Szechenyi Baths grow into sparty. The combination of spa and party comes with psychedelic music and laser shows!

The hippos in the neighboring Budapest Zoo are also enjoying the geothermal waters from the Szechenyi spring. Some experts interpret that the thermal waters are the reason why the hippo couple got a baby, which generally doesn’t happen in captivity.

Day by day, Budapest’s bath story is continuously evolving. We always knew that water means life. But here, where miraculous streams flow under our feet, we become aware that water does not mean just any life. It is an essential element of – the good life. The secret is to embrace it and use all its benefits!

But wait, that’s not all…

Gellert Baths – another spa labyrinth to get lost in

Sourcing its water from Gellert Hill, the same as Rudas Baths, Gellert Baths (Gellert Furdo in Hungarian) is another Budapest spa you can check.

Gellert baths complex opened in 1918, with the Art Nouveau building housing both the thermal baths and the hotel. The outdoor pools (including the wave pool and the Finnish sauna) were added later.

Until 2013, Gellert Baths were separated by gender, but today their clients can mix, which makes it more practical for the visit of couples and families. However, this adds up to the atmosphere of the space feeling more touristy, and personally, I prefer Rudas’ more relaxed local feel.

Famous for its Secession architecture and beautiful mosaic tiles decoration, Gellert Baths are still intriguing to explore.

However, you will need to put more effort into doing it! If you think the wellness area of Rudas Baths is a maze, wait to get lost in Gellert Baths! I literally had to ask several times to find the sauna area in this labyrinth, with two of the employees not even knowing the answer! Signage boards in the place could definitely get improved!

Another thing I need to object to concerns the metal parts of the door handles in the saunas. Heated up to such temperature, they become dangerously hot, so take care!

Gellert Baths admission costs 11.000 forints (27 euros/30 dollars), with locker included. The ticket price with the cabin usage is 1.000 forints extra (2 euros/3 dollars). At weekends, the price is 1.500 Forints more. If you stay at Danubius Hotel Gellért in the same building, you can use the baths for half of the price!

This article was originally published on the Pipeaway blog on December 16th, 2017, but was updated on April 8th, 2025. 

Did you like this guide to Rudas Baths?
Pin it!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, with no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

The post Rudas Baths: Turkish Thermal Bath in the Heart of Budapest appeared first on Pipeaway.