With Budapest sweltering, the redeeming splashes of a walk-through sprinkler gate or a public fountain can be such a salvation in a hot metropolis. Here are five spots to cool off a little.
Dob utca
A true hidden treasure is this large recreation area not only in the heart of town but in the very hub of the party district between Dob utca and Wesselényi utca. Here you will find a fountain, a sprinkler gate, and a fair number of shaded benches.
Egyetem tér
With the public fountain still due to reopen after the refurbishment of downtown Egyetem tér, in the meantime pedestrians can cool off by strolling through the sprinkler gate also set up here.
Erzsébet tér
The large water feature that centrepieces focal Erzsébet tér is popular day and night, although there’s not much splashing going on. However, you’ll find a sprinkler gate on the same side of the square as the Fröccsterasz (‘Spritzer Terrace’) bar – which doesn’t seem such a bad idea, either…
Margaret Island
The famous Musical Fountain at the southern end of Margaret Island nearest the bridge is an age-old classic, and you can sit surrounded by greenery with a gentle spray drifting in the air. During the warmer months, from 11am to 9pm revered tunes play in a loop, from classical favourites to the Rolling Stones.
Szabadság tér
The fountain on Szabadság tér with its automatic sensors has offered sweet relief during each summer heatwave for nearly a decade. If you’re quick, you can catch a nice big gush of water.
