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Budapest’s best budget beaches: where to cool off without breaking the bank

As temperatures soar in Hungary’s capital, the search for refreshing summer escapes begins. While Budapest is home to some renowned and luxurious thermal baths, not everyone is looking to splurge on a single afternoon dip. Whether you’re a local family on a budget, an expat looking to explore, or a student trying to beat the heat without spending a fortune, Budapest and its surroundings offer several affordable or even free swimming options at beaches worth checking out.

Budget-friendly beaches within the city

Bókay Garden Swimming Pool and Beach (Pesterzsébet, District XX)

Set in a leafy park, this cosy complex features both a swimming pool and a beach pool, making it ideal for families. According to Travelo, prices in 2025 remain reasonable: HUF 2,400 (EUR 6) for adults and HUF 1,900 (EUR 4.7) for pensioners.

Újhegyi Swimming Pool and Beach Bath (District X)

Offering a relaxing environment with a full range of facilities, including swimming, leisure, and children’s pools, this location even includes sauna access in the ticket price. Admission for adults is HUF 2,600 (EUR 6.5), while pensioners pay just HUF 2,000 (EUR 5).

Palatinus Beach (Margaret Island)

Palatinus Bath Budapest beach
Source: FB/Palatinus Gyógy-, Strand – és Hullámfürdő Hivatalos

One of the city’s most iconic summer destinations, Palatinus combines natural surroundings with a variety of pools and modern infrastructure. While regular admission costs HUF 3,400 (EUR 8.5) (HUF 2,300/EUR 5.7 for pensioners), visitors may find discounts during off-peak periods or outside high season.

Római Beach Bath (Római Strandfürdő, Óbuda)

Római Strandfürdő
Photo: Facebook/Római Strandfürdő

Located near the scenic Danube bank in Óbuda, this classic Budapest beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with slightly more affordable rates compared to major complexes. Full-price tickets for 2025 are HUF 3,700 (EUR 9.2), with pensioners paying HUF 3,300 (EUR 8.3). The beach is expected to open on 15 June, weather permitting.

Paskál Thermal and Open-Air Bath (District XV)

Surrounded by greenery, Paskál offers both traditional beach pools and thermal water options. With a full-price entry of HUF 4,200 (EUR 10.5) and pensioner tickets at HUF 3,800 (EUR 9.5), it still ranks among the city’s more affordable wellness-focused locations.

Római Free Beach (Római szabadstrand, Óbuda)

Free Danube beach Budapest Római
Photo: Facebook/Római szabadstrand

For a truly cost-free experience, head to the Római Szabadstrand in District III. Once off-limits due to pollution concerns, the Danube here is now clean enough for bathing again. Unfortunately, the beach is not yet open: according to its official Facebook page, it will welcome visitors again from 27 June. It’s a great urban escape without spending a single forint.

Free or low-cost beaches near Budapest

Göd Free Beaches (Alsógöd and Felsőgöd)

Roughly 30–40 minutes by car from Budapest, the town of Göd offers two completely free riverside beaches. Both provide essential amenities like changing rooms, restrooms, and food stands, perfect for a short getaway on a hot day.

Malom Lake (Veresegyház)

Just 25 km northeast of Budapest lies Veresegyház’s picturesque Malom Lake (Malom-tó), where summer swimming is entirely free. The local government maintains clean facilities, including showers and toilets, and the lakeside is dotted with cosy food stalls and restaurants, Drive.hu writes.

Bánki Lake (Nógrád County)

Located a bit farther north, Bánki Lake (Bánki-tó) is a popular destination year-round, not just during its well-known summer festivals. While there’s a small entry fee (HUF 2,500/EUR 6.2 for adults, HUF 1,700/EUR 4.2 for students and pensioners), adult visitors arriving after 4 PM pay just HUF 1,600 (EUR 4), while pensioners and students arriving after 4 PM have to pay HUF 1,200 (EUR 4). Activities include paddle boating, SUP, and sunbed rentals.

Délegyházi Lakes

Tavirózsa Camping
Photo: Tavirózsa kemping

To the south of Budapest, the Délegyházi Lakes (Délegyházi-tavak) area offers a peaceful waterside retreat. At Tavirózsa Camping, entry costs HUF 2,000 (EUR 5) for adults, while children under 6 and seniors over 65 enjoy free admission. With barbecue areas and lakeside buffets, it’s ideal for both day trips and longer stays.

Plan ahead, stay cool

While Budapest’s iconic baths remain a bucket-list experience, these affordable or free beaches offer fantastic ways to relax and stay cool during the summer, without sacrificing your wallet. From riverside getaways to well-equipped municipal beaches, the capital and its surroundings provide plenty of wallet-friendly options for sunseekers and swimmers alike.

Read more news about baths in Hungary HERE.

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