Budapest awaits all visitors with a multitude of experiences and events. But the capital is also the perfect choice if you simply wish to take a break from the rigors of everyday life and feel like pampering your body and spirit – either for a weekend or as part of a longer trip. Budapest is the city of medicinal baths, so it would be quite fitting to start the self-care routine in one of its most beautiful bathhouses. A few years ago, the building of St. Lukács Medicinal Baths and Swimming Pool was fully renovated, and it now boasts thermal baths, swimming and leisure pools and a wellness area. Let go of stress while enjoying the exceptional benefits of medicinal water, and then conclude the day by popping into the sauna or getting a massage for good measure. The open-air pools are also worth a try: the ultimate spa experience is provided in the form of traction baths, underwater jet massages, neck showers and massage nozzles. However, buying the Budapest Card before heading off to the bathhouse is highly recommended. Not only can card holders use public transport free of charge within the city, but they are also eligible for a one-off free admission to St. Lukács Medicinal Baths and Swimming Pool. After getting acquainted with Budapest’s thermal baths, visitors can immerse themselves in the mystical world of Eastern relaxation. Mandala Day Spa offers exclusive services and a spiritual bath experience in a meditative atmosphere. In addition to five special pools, guests can choose from traditional massages, underwater treatments or try the Mandala Aqua Healing. Spa-goers open a door in the heart of Europe and are then transported to the magical Far East’s land of indulgence. What’s more, Budapest Card holders will enjoy a 20% discount. Many people believe that active rest is the best way to unwind. Well, Scitec Gold Fitness Club is just the place for them. Their 3,600 m2 fitness centre is equipped with the most cutting-edge exercise machines and offers a great variety of group fitness classes. The sports centre’s doors are open 24/7 to everyone wishing to get in shape. The Budapest Card provides one free entrance to this facility as well. Once our body is relaxed, we can focus on our spirit. In the autumn, culture aficionados will be able to enjoy the captivating CAFe Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival, while in the winter, Christmas markets will pop up on the capital’s squares, where visitors will be able to taste the most delicious dishes of Hungarian cuisine. Once the weather turns friendlier, the Budapest Spring Festival will dazzle the audience with its spectacularly wide array of cultural events, while during the Summer Festival, world-class musicians will perform on the Margaret Island Open-air Stage surrounded by the recreational park’s wonderful greenery. Don’t forget: Budapest is the capital of four seasons, where visitors can attend hundreds of cultural events each season!