Danube Beaches and Floating Pools are Coming to Budapest!
Budapest, famous for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife, is about to add another incredible attraction to its list: Danube River beaches and floating pools! That’s right, you might soon be able to take a dip in the very river that gives the city so much of its character.
Budapest: Not Just the “City of Spas”, But the “City That Swims in the Danube”?
For years, the idea of swimming in the Danube in Budapest was more of a historical memory than a reality. Back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, floating bathhouses were all the rage, offering locals a refreshing escape during the summer months. But those days faded away. Now, thanks to improving water quality and a forward-thinking city government, that dream is being revived!
The big news is that Budapest is planning to open a brand-new, free public beach as early as this summer. It’s slated for the area where the Hosszúréti stream meets the Danube, near Savoya Park (a shopping center) on the border of the 11th and 22nd districts. That makes it easily accessible for those living in the nearby housing estates.
What About the Water Quality? Is It Safe to Swim?
That’s probably the first question on your mind! The good news is that the Danube’s water quality has been steadily improving. The city’s already had success with the Római-part beach (in District III), which has been a popular spot for years. This experience, combined with continuous water quality testing, has given officials the confidence to move forward with more locations. The Budapest Spas and Thermal Baths company (BGYH) is constantly monitoring the water, so you can be assured that they’re taking safety seriously.
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Before giving the green light to the new beach, authorities carefully consider a whole range of factors. Of course, water quality is paramount. But they also look at things like the river’s current, boat traffic, accessibility, and how easy it is to get the necessary permits.
Floating Pools: A Nod to the Past, with a Modern Twist
But wait, there’s more! Beyond the beach, the city is also experimenting with a modern take on those historic floating bathhouses. Imagine a modular, eco-friendly pool complex right on the Danube! The first test location for this floating pool is planned for Pünkösdfürdő, in District III, near the Békásmegyer housing estate.
This isn’t just about creating a cool place to swim. It’s also about learning what people want and how these kinds of facilities operate. The city will be gathering feedback and tweaking the design to make sure the final version is a hit.
Why This is a Big Deal for Tourists
So, why should you, as a tourist, care about all this? Here’s the thing: Budapest is already amazing. But having the option to cool off in the Danube takes it to another level. It adds a whole new dimension to the city’s identity.
Imagine telling your friends back home that you went swimming in the Danube in Budapest! It’s a unique experience, a chance to connect with the city in a whole new way. And it shows that Budapest is a city that’s constantly evolving and looking for ways to improve the lives of its residents and visitors. Keep an eye out for these developments as you plan your trip. By summer 2025, you might just be able to add “Danube swimming” to your Budapest itinerary!
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