There are more than 60 thousand mineral springs and 1150 thermal springs in Hungary. It would be foolish not to use these riches, that is why Hungarians have built 55 hydropathic establishments and 67 thermal hotels here. They also develop medical and health tourism.

The country’s capital, Budapest, is the leader in this sphere. This is one of the most beautiful European cities and the first spa capital in the world (there are about 130 thermal springs found here). Budapest can offer around 70 bathhouses and public thermal baths: old Turkish and modern, moderate and luxurious, democratic and aristocratic ones. First therms were built here by the Greeks, and bath industry reached its prosperity at Turkish times. There are several Turkish baths in Budapest, including Kiraly, Rudas and Szechenyi – the last one is the largest bath in Europe, with 12 various pools. As for Budapest citizens, they like visiting Lukacs bath, with water arriving from Rozsa Hill springs. Many hotels also have their thermal pools, Gellert hotel among them. In 1930s the hotel was very popular for its mosaic floors and glass ceiling.

Those who come to Hungary to get some medical treatment like staying in a hotels with thermal pools and wellness centers. Two of them are located on a quiet and green Margit island, amidst Danube. Here you will find Danubius hotel complex – Danubius Grand Margitsziget and Thermal Margitsziget, connected by an underground tunnel. Guests are provided medical treatments that can be ordered directly at the hotel or included in room rates (but note that prices are higher in the first case). Some tourists also prefer a stay at Danubius Health Spa Resort Helia, located opposite Margit, or at modern Aquincum 4-star hotel.

Those who want to do the sightseeing are usually offered combined tours which include a tour around the capital of Hungary and spa treatments at local resorts. Some of such resorts are located by Lake Heviz 200 km from Budapest. Heviz is one of the largest and famous Hungarian resorts, its situated by the world’s biggest natural thermal lake, which has a unique microclimate. Its temperature is 28-38 centigrade at daytime, so you can bathe here all year round. Heviz offers numerous hotels, pensions and guesthouses, but only huge hotels have their medical bases. Among them are: Karbona, Lotus Therme, Aqua, Heviz, Rogner Hotel & Spa Lotus Therme and Panorama.

Another thermal resort, Hajdusoboslo (also called “Mecca for the rheumatic”) is becoming more and more popular with tourists. It is located 202 km east of Budapest, or a 2,5 bus ride from the city. The resort is renowned for its large bathing complex in the open air, which includes a lake and 13 medical, children and sports swimming pools. In 2000 the first Hungarian aquapark was opened on its territory. Initially the park occupied a 6200 sq.m. territory, but two years later it doubled in size. The bathhouse offers 40 different medical treatments. So if you want to be healthier, Hungary is the destination for you.

Frequent rain falls and snowy winters are why Hungary is becoming more popular for winter sports such as skiing. Ski chalets are available to rent along with self catering apartments. Tourists who enjoy the outdoor lifestyle can rent a holiday cottage in the mountains, hiking, climbing, horse riding, fishing and swimming are just a few of the activities that can be enjoyed.

Many tourists rent a holiday villa or self catering villa and visit the world heritage sites of Hungary. Budapest is the most famous heritage site. It is the capital city of Hungary and famous for three sites, Buda, Pest and Castle Hill. You will find the marvellous Royal Palace situated here. It is built in Gothic style. It has been built and modified for more than 300 years. In 1968, the castle was destroyed by the Christian army. In 1715, the castle was rebuilt once again. Buda Castle Labyrinth is another famous tourist attraction. It is the underground maze which stretches all the way to Castle Hill.

Most tourists rent a holiday apartment or cottage and use this as a base to explore the local tourist attractions. One that is not to be missed is The Great Synagogue in Budapest. This is the largest synagogue is Europe. It is stunning monument. The Szoborpark statue park is another favourite for tourists and is well worth visiting.

Most of the statues are of communists from the history of Hungary. As you walk around, imagine driving to your job every day and driving past these monumental statues on your way to remind you of the leader that you must honour and accept, no matter how much terror he brings to your country. The museum is an introduction to the spirit behind the Iron Curtain.

For lovers of shopping there is The Central Market Mall. This is situated in Budapest. The 19th century market is the largest in the city. This was built in the 1890s and was re-established in 1994. Budapest offers rented accommodation such as self catering apartments and holiday villas; you can arrange this through the home owner.

Another great attraction are The Great Plains as they can be used for horse riding at the weekends. These plains are also the home to various popular stud farms that are used for regular horse shows and exhibitions. You can book for horse riding lessons or go on excursions with various horse riding schools.

Hungary is a great place for both summer and winter holidays, whether you’re looking to rent a luxury villa with a swimming pool in the sun, or a ski chalet in the snow, Hungary is the perfect location.