Top 5 Open Air Pools

Everybody deserves a little break now and then. And what's a better place to spend some free time than at an open air pool? As the little girl confesses in this cult classic song, one has a good time at the strand (the Hungarian term for beach and classic outdoor swimming pool usually surrounded by a leisure park), because of the funny things one gets to see, and there's soda pop too. Are you ready to splash into the water? Click 'read more' to continue.

1. Leányfalu

Surely, many now young adults spent the hottest summer days with grandma and grandpa at the Leányfalu pool. Near Budapest and Szentendre, it's close enough to stop by, far enough to avoid overcrowded Sunday afternoons. It's a classic strand with swimming pools, leisure pools and food stalls open all year round. All in all, it's nostalgic, popular and well-kept. Entrance fee: 1400 HUF

2. Dagály

For years after the change of regime the Dagály Thermal Bath and Pool was the budget option for many who longed for the water in the city. Many pools in the country are actually thermal baths, as their water comes from the many hot and cold springs, Dagály is one of them. Renovated in 2002 Dagály doesn't even resemble the cheap facility it used to be. With whirpools, artificial waves imitating the sea and geyseers it's still popular especially among families with small children. The water isn't deep, and it's luke warm compared to other pools. Entrance fee: 2000HUF, a comprehensive list of prices can be found here

3. Palatinus

Needless to say, the Palatinus opened in 1919 is hugely popular. Built on the Margitsziget it was initially a Danube beach, expanded with swimming pools later. As it's popularity grew, more and more facilities were built, the final form being designed by István Janáky. You'll find all kind of pools, sustained by the thermal springs of the Margitsziget. To avoid crowd, visit Palatinus on weekdays. Entrance fee: 2100HUF, a comprehensive list of prices can be found here

4. Uszálystrand

Water tanks and isolated "pools" on the Danube were really hip for decades in the 20th century. Then, due to urban pollution and facilities built in the city they ceased to exist. Now, a scenic pool is being rebuilt on the river surface near Erzsébet-híd. Think Badeschiff in Berlin and add the stunning panorama of Buda. It is to be opened to the public on the 10th July. Entrance fee: unknown.

5. Mogyoród - Aquaréna

This gaudy auqa-themepark is near Budapest and the Hungaroring where the F1 race and other car and motorraces take place. ALthough it's pretty expensive and one has to buy a ticket in advance to avoid the queues, it's the most modern, sort of updated form of the strand. And it has a lot to offer from diverse water slides to various games and sports and
restaurants. A campsite is also available. Entrance fee: 5200HUF