Each year on 22 March, the world comes together to celebrate World Water Day, and so do thermal baths in Budapest, Hungary. March 22nd is a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of freshwater, including thermal hot spring waters, and advocating for the sustainable management of water resources. The initiative was first proposed at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and officially adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1993.
In Budapest, a city internationally renowned for its thermal water heritage, World Water Day holds special significance. This year, the capital’s iconic thermal baths joined the celebration by offering free guided tours, complete with mineral water tastings and surprise gifts for participants. These programmes invited guests to discover the healing history, architecture, and natural wonders of the city’s celebrated baths — from Szechenyi Bath and Gellert Spa to Lukacs Bath and Rudas Baths.
Celebrating World Water Day at Budapest’s Historic Thermal Baths
Date of Observance: 22 March
Programmes & Activities for year 2025
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
March 22 – Tours at 11:00 & 15:00
Guided tour with prize draws and mineral water tasting.
Meeting point: Entrance from Kós Károly Promenade, in the main hall.
Max. 25 people per tour. – Registration is closed – the groups are full.
St. Gellert Thermal Bath
March 22 – Tours at 9:00 & 14:00
Guided tour with prize draws.
Max. 20 people per group. Fully sold out. Registration is closed
Lukacs Thermal Bath
March 22 – Tours at 11:00 & 15:00
Guided tour with prize draws and mineral water tasting.
Meeting point: Drinking fountain inside the bath.
Max. 20 people per tour. Registration is closed – the groups are full.
Rudas Thermal Bath
March 22 – Tours at 10:00 & 12:00
Guided tour with prize draws.
Max. 15 people per group. Registration is closed – the groups are full.
To those who couldn’t secure a spot this year: you’re still warmly invited to visit the exterior of each bath and, where possible, admire the entrance halls, which are often open to the public. We suggest arriving before 9 am if you’d like to enjoy these spaces in a quieter atmosphere, especially at the more popular locations like Szechenyi Baths and Gellert. While all events were free of charge and open to the public with prior registration, each time slot has now reached full capacity. We thank everyone for their enthusiastic interest and look forward to welcoming those who registered in advance.
Stay tuned for more public programmes and special occasions throughout the year — Budapest’s baths have many more stories to share!
What is World Water Day? What happens on March 22nd?
What is World Water Day?
World Water Day is an annual observance held on 22 March to highlight the importance of freshwater and advocate for the sustainable management of the world’s natural water – freshwater resources. It serves as a call to action to protect and conserve clean water for everyone.
When was World Water Day first established?
World Water Day was proposed in 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro, and it was formally adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1993.
What is the theme of World Water Day?
The official theme for World Water Day is announced year by year by the United Nations. Each year, the theme focuses on a specific water-related challenge, such as groundwater, climate change, or access to clean water.
How does Budapest celebrate World Water Day?
Budapest celebrates World Water Day each year with a different programme, guided visits, tasting of medicinal water from the drinking wells and other activities. While offering guided tours inside the baths is not an option throughout the year, on special themed days, the thermal baths may offer guided tours in its famous thermal baths, including Szechenyi Bath, Gellert Spa, Lukacs Bath, and Rudas Bath. These special programmes often include mineral water tastings, historical insights, and surprise gifts for visitors.
How do I register for World Water Day events in Budapest’s baths?
On the official website of each respective bath please use the registration form to show your interest.
