Established by the Turks and in use for more then 400 years, the Kiraly is one of the most atmospheric bathhouses in Budapest. Built around 1566 on the order of the pasha Mustapha Sokoli for his private enjoyment, the modern name "kiraly" actually

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Established by the Turks and in use for more then 400 years, the Kiraly is one of the most atmospheric bathhouses in Budapest. Built around 1566 on the order of the pasha Mustapha Sokoli for his private enjoyment, the modern name "kiraly" actually means king, coming from the name of the family who owned the bath complex in the 19th century. The structure has an octagon shape with huge pillars holding up the cupola. Small round skylights inside the dome add an Arabian Nights feel to the landmark building. The thermal water here is effective for healing nerve-related problems, respiratory illnesses, and locomotive (movement) disorders. The Turkish soaps and buffing cloths the massage staff use will also give you a polished glow that is the closest thing to post-coital bliss you can get without having sex. Men's days are heavily gay here but a new law forbids naked bathing (you have to use a little loincloth that they provide or your own trunks) and sex on site is discouraged. This and the Gelleart Spa are old-fashioned baths in the centuries-long Turkish tradition of the hammam. Sex is a side benefit. People go here to stay healthy, relax, and get clean. Take Tram 4/6 to Budai hídfõ. Men: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; women: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday until noon.

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