Sports and leisure activities Hungary

What's very local

Thermal baths are the epitome of Hungary. While they all have their own rules, bathing caps and flip-flops are mandatory in the pools. Secure lockers are available. We recommend a 3-hour stay to get the most out of your visit. Although children are allowed in most baths, the Rudas do not allow them under the age of 14. Rates are often higher at weekends and lower at certain off-peak times.

In Budapest, go canoeing on the Vajdahunyad castle lake in Bois-de-la-Ville, or skating in winter. Go jogging, play Frisbee or cycle on Marguerite Island.

The National Blue Trail (Országos Kéktúra - www.kektura.hu) is a major hiking trail that crosses Hungary from west to east over 1,170 km, from Írott-kő (near Velem, on the Austrian border, 16 km from Kőszeg) to Hollóháza, on the country's northeastern edge. The route is marked with official stamps to be collected in a walking booklet. Completely free of charge, it is marked with a horizontal blue line and passes through mountains, forests, villages and cultural sites.

Your documents please

However, for stand-up paddling (SUP) and other water sports, you'll need to know how to swim.

To be booked

It's advisable to book your entry online for the baths, to avoid the occasional queue. For water sports activities, it's always advisable to book in advance.

Main events

Two well-known races take place in Budapest: the official marathon and the half-marathon.

Tourist traps

Choose your Danube cruise carefully: they're all touristy if you go through an agency that specializes in them. On the Mahart Passnave boats, on the other hand, you'll probably come across a few more Hungarians!