When the summer heat hits the city, everyone wants to get outside to soak up the sunshine. Budapest’s many green oases can entice you to take a blanket and tune out the world. But being a big city, sometimes it can feel a bit odd to take off textile in public. If you don’t have time to visit one of the many public pools and spas around the city but still want to sunbathe, we recommend these seven spots, where showing off some skin – with a little common sense – is fine.
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Feneketlen-tó
The so-called Bottomless Lake in District IX is widely believed to plunge deep into the Earth’s crust. It most likely does have a bottom, but as swimming is not allowed here, guess we’ll never know. The lake is a beloved spot in Buda with lots of flourishing flora, and it is also easily reachable by public transport as it is located right next to the transit hub of Kosztolányi Dezső tér. Those who are a little more active can play tennis here or jog around, while for the rest of us there is an intriguing world of ducks and turtles to discover. This is an especially nice spot for sunbathing pretty close to the city.
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Városlige
Locals really go for it here. While City Park offers plenty of open green spaces, the hill is the go-to place for sunbathing. A super tanned regular crowd can be found atop it every day, but there is plenty of space for everyone. Bring a blanket or a towel and laze around all afternoon while watching people play with their dogs at the foot of the hill. Nearby Kertem offers refreshments.
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Kopaszi-gát
Kopaszi-gát is an idyllic place for picnics and for spending some time away from the buzz of the city. Found by red Rákóczi Bridge on the Buda side, this little islet makes the river look like a lake as the Danube calmly stands still here. The venue of many rendezvous, proposals, birthday parties and friendly gatherings, Kopaszi-gát is ideal for a whole afternoon’s stay thanks to the many restaurants and bars standing side by side. No cars are allowed on the islet, so feel free to put your towel down anywhere on the green grass and just enjoy the sun stroking your skin.
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Margaret
As Budapest has the advantage of a massive island parkland in its heart, Margaret Island is an obvious choice of destination, and one hard to beat. Every sunbather has their favourite spot on this pleasure island; many hang around at the southern tip extending beneath the bridge, while others prefer the spacious green oasis in the middle. The tall and bushy trees always offer pleasant shade to get away from direct sunlight and there are enough hideaways spots, too if you’re shy. You can also pop into the Palatinus baths to plunge into the pools and enjoy the slides.
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Naplás tó
Away from the centre but still within the borders of Budapest lies Lake Naplás in District XVI, a 15min walk from Cinkota HÉV train stop, which is a 15min ride from Örs Vezér tere. It is a fishing destination in summer, and an ice rink in winter. It is the perfect sunbathing spot for the self-conscious – generally there is nobody around, only fresh air and a pretty panorama.
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Orczy Park
Orczy Garden is one of the best-kept secrets of District VIII, five minutes from Nagyvárad tér metro station. It's a great choice, because you can always walk around the lake to stretch your legs and see the turtles. There is also a running track all around, nicely shaded by towering trees. Watch out for their roots, the track is a bit bumpy.
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Szent István Park
Szent István Park is the biggest and most beloved in Újlipótváros thanks to its pretty panorama overlooking Margaret Island and the Buda Hills. This is a real family favourite, and many come here regularly with the kids – or to sunbathe. Dogs are not allowed inside, so feel free to close your eyes and get lost in your thoughts. Due to the closeness of the Danube, the air is never stifling, and after enough relaxation, Pozsonyi út is next door, lined with restaurants and cafés.
