Where can you relax before and after the UEFA Champions League Final? Here are the best places to unwind

Cheering is definitely an energy-intensive activity. It’s a good idea to balance out the pre-game excitement or the post-game adrenaline rush with activities that help you slow down and recharge. Although Budapest is always bustling, there are plenty of places where you can escape the noise of the city for a few hours. Here are some places where you can unwind before or after the game.

Take a dip in an impressive building and enjoy the view of the city from the iconic panoramic pool

Budapest is rightly considered one of Europe’s most famous spa cities. Its historic thermal baths offer relaxation and a unique atmosphere. Located in City Park, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest bath complex in the capital and a must-visit attraction. The monumental building resembles a castle more than a wellness center. As well as 18 indoor pools, there is also an outdoor adventure pool, a hot tub, a swimming pool and a lazy river. For something special, try the beer bath: a mixture of malt, hops and beer salt provides a unique experience.

Situated at the foot of Gellért Hill, the Rudas Thermal Bath combines the atmosphere of traditional Turkish baths with modern wellness experiences. Relax completely in the Finnish sauna, steam room, salt room, aromatic sauna and ice cabin. However, one of the baths' biggest attractions is the rooftop panoramic pool, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube and Budapest's bridges. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can even take a night-time dip between 10 pm and 3 am, allowing you to admire the city’s lights from the water.

Discover the city’s green oases - Margaret Island, City Park and Kopaszi Dam are waiting for you

Budapest has many green spaces where you can relax or enjoy outdoor activities.

Situated in the heart of the capital, Margaret Island is a tranquil retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s the perfect place to recharge or get some exercise. Hop on a bike and explore the island along its paved roads and trails, or try a tandem bike, a bike-palo or an electric mini-car. When you’re ready for a break, simply lie back in the grass or relax on a lounger with a refreshing drink.

Another must-see green space is City Park, where even a simple stroll can be rejuvenating. Vast parks, cafés, sports fields and meadows perfect for picnics are spread out across the area. Vajdahunyad Castle and City Park Lake provide particularly charming views, and you can go boating there, too. It’s worth heading there even if you just want to sunbathe for a while.

The Kopaszi Dam is one of the most peaceful meeting spots near the Danube in Budapest, and a long walk or short run here is sure to help you unwind. Thanks to the waterfront promenades, well-maintained green spaces and cozy outdoor seating areas, you can easily forget the noise of the city for a few hours.

Enjoy a cable car ride over the city or a cruise down the Danube

If you enjoy exploring cities from new perspectives, a cable car ride is definitely the activity for you. The Zugliget Cable Car offers a pleasant journey up János Hill, providing increasingly beautiful views of Budapest along the way. After the roughly 15-minute journey, it's worth taking a short walk to the nearby Erzsébet Lookout, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views. On the way back down, you can continue your journey on the Children's Railway, just a short walk through the woods away.

If you’re in the mood for a bit of nostalgia, the Buda Castle Funicular is also a must-see. Departing from the Buda end of the Chain Bridge, it whisks you up to the castle in just a few minutes. With its historic buildings and panoramic views, the castle is one of the capital’s most famous landmarks.

If you’d like to see Budapest from the Danube, a boat tour is the perfect choice. The late afternoon is the best time for the trip: seeing the city bathed in the sunset makes the cruise even more memorable. MAHART PassNave boats depart from Vigadó Square and Batthyány Square docks every 20–30 minutes after 7 p.m., offering you the chance to admire iconic landmarks such as the Parliament, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge from the water. MAHART’s ferries can also take you to Szentendre and Visegrád, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the Danube Bend outside the city.