Europe is a tableau of histories, cultures, and landscapes. This diverse continent serves as the perfect backdrop for some of the world’s most remarkable thermal spa experiences. From the ancient, mineral-rich springs of Bath, England, to the serene thermal lake of Héviz, Hungary, each destination offers a unique blend of relaxation, wellness, glamour, and yes, cultural enrichment as well. In this blog, my curated selection will take you through to 12 unique destinations, each offering a thermal spa vacation of a lifetime. With just one click, Tripmasters can transport you to these enchanting locales, where natural beauty meets luxurious relaxation.
The first place we’ll visit in this blog is Bath, nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset in southwestern England. It’s one of the top sites in Europe for thermal spas, relaxation, and health and wellness. Let’s dive into why Bath is so renowned, which is of course for its Roman Baths. These remarkably-preserved ancient baths, built around natural hot springs, showcase a pivotal part of Britain’s history, attracting history buffs and wellness seekers alike. The Thermae Bath Spa, a modern addition to this historic city, allows visitors to enjoy the natural thermal waters, which have been a source of relaxation and healing for centuries. Its rooftop pool offers panoramic views of the cityscape, creating a serene blend of past and present.
But, as you’ll learn about all 12 of the cities and towns I’ve chosen, there’s more to Bath than just the thermal waters themselves. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in Georgian architecture and cultural landmarks. The Bath Abbey, with its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling, and the iconic Pulteney Bridge, are tangible examples that showcase the architectural splendor of Bath. For literature enthusiasts, the Jane Austen Centre offers a glimpse into the life of the famed author who resided in Bath. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for leisurely exploration, with quaint streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and galleries, providing a delightful experience for every traveler.
The Blue Lagoon, set in the heart of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, offers a spa experience unlike any other. (In fact, some tourists fly to Iceland specifically for a visit to the Blue Lagoon.) This geothermal marvel, famous for its mineral-rich, milky-blue waters, showcases Iceland’s unique geology to visitors. The lagoon’s warm, therapeutic waters are rich in silica and sulfur, known for their skin-healing properties. The spa’s modern facilities, including a sauna, steam room, and a range of massage treatments, complement the natural setting and provide a holistic wellness experience.
Beyond the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s natural wonders are also prominent tourist attractions. The country’s dramatic landscapes, from towering glaciers and active volcanoes to cascading waterfalls, offer endless opportunities for exploration, especially with our self-drive packages. The proximity of the lagoon to Reykjavik and Keflavik International Airport makes it a convenient starting (or ending) point for immersing yourself in Iceland’s rugged beauty. Visitors can experience the enchantment of the Northern Lights, the serenity of the black sand beaches, the charm of Icelandic villages, and the Blue Lagoon, all in one trip.
Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is known by many as the “City of Spas” for its rich thermal spring culture. The city sits on a network of over 100 thermal springs, fueling its fame as a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Iconic baths like Széchenyi (pictured), one of Europe’s largest spa complexes, and the elegant Gellért Baths offer visitors a unique blend of healing waters and stunning architecture. An important thing to remember in Budapest, like in many of the cities and towns we’ll discuss, is that it’s embedded in the culture and the social fabric. It’s about a holistic approach to health and wellness, a phrase you’ll no doubt see a couple more times in this blog, highlighting a big difference in how Americans and Europeans view thermal spas.
Beyond its thermal waters, Budapest is a city of astonishing architectural beauty and historical depth. The majestic Danube River splits the city in two: Buda and Pest, with each side boasting its own distinct charm. Buda is home to the historic Castle Hill, offering stunning views and a journey into the city’s Medieval history. Pest, with a stronger contemporary feel, features the iconic Parliament building and vibrant cultural scenes. Budapest is definitely more than just spa culture; it’s one of the best places in Europe for live music, annual festivals, and of course the delectable cuisine of Hungary.
Baden-Baden is located in Germany’s storied Black Forest, and for decades upon decades it has epitomized the fusion of luxury and wellness in the minds of Americans. This elegant town has been a retreat for the elite since Roman times, renowned for its healing thermal waters. The Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Spa are at the heart of Baden-Baden’s spa culture, offering traditional Roman-Irish bathing experiences and modern spa amenities. These thermal baths are more than just wellness centers; they are a part of a lifestyle that embraces relaxation, health, and luxury. (What makes it “Irish”? In short, an Irish doctor named Richard Barter popularized the concept in 19th-century Europe and North America of thermal waters as having “curative properties”, believing the Roman-style dry heat of the baths was healthier.)
So let’s dive into the other reasons why Baden-Baden is a memorable vacation spot. Let’s start with its cultural scene and its centerpiece, the Festspielhaus, one of Europe’s largest opera houses. In addition, you can stroll the streets and stop in at a variety of art galleries and museums. The Lichtentaler Allee (pictured), a picturesque park and arboretum, provides a place to rest and relax after a busy day of sightseeing. For those who want a bit more action and adventure to their getaway, the surrounding Black Forest offers hiking, cycling, and nature exploration. The town’s casino, a blend of luxury and history, adds to its sophisticated charm. Baden-Baden has a reputation that precedes it and you’ll find that everything great said about this oasis is true.
Now Ischia is not a city or a town, but an island, a beautiful one in the Bay of Naples just off the Italian mainland. Ischia is vibrant, green, and of course known for its natural thermal springs. The wonders of geology are on full display in Ischia, with the volcanic island not just home to thermal springs but also to beautiful gardens such as the Poseidon Gardens. A unique flowery experience is Negombo, a hydrothermal park where thermal waters combine with Mediterranean flora to create an inimitable tranquil experience. The thermal baths of Ischia are a source of relaxation but also offer therapeutic benefits, drawing wellness enthusiasts from around the world. The island’s geothermal activity also gives rise to phenomena like the Fumaroles Beach, where the sand and the sea are naturally heated.
Ischia is also renowned for its vibrant culture and fascinating history. The Aragonese Castle, perched on a rocky islet, offers a glimpse into the island’s past and stunning panoramic views as well. Ischia’s lush vineyards, traditional cuisine, and charming villages like Sant’Angelo (pictured) add to its reputation and to its mystique. The island’s natural beauty, characterized by its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and verdant hills, just screams out to the traveler, begging for it to be explored. Holistic health and wellness is a constant in Ischia, set against the beautiful backdrop of greenery and the sea.
Spa, a town in Belgium’s Ardennes region near Liège, is synonymous with the very concept of a spa. Its name has become a generic term for places of healing and relaxation worldwide. Renowned since the 14th century for its mineral-rich thermal waters, Spa has been a retreat for royalty and celebrities throughout history. The modern Thermes de Spa continues this legacy, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary spa treatments. Its waters are famed for their curative properties, particularly beneficial for rheumatism and circulatory problems.
Now let’s dive into why Spa is noteworthy apart from its thermal waters. It’s steeped in history and culture, evident in its grand architecture and the historic Pouhon Pierre le Grand spring, where visitors can simply fill up glasses and flasks and taste the mineral water. Spa is also known for its exciting and varied natural surroundings, which offer a multitude of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and golf, all set against the backdrop of the Ardennes. The town’s cultural calendar, featuring music festivals and theater performances, is another highlight for visitors who might not expect to participate but enjoy themselves when they do.
Aix-les-Bains, situated in between the French Alps and the shores of Lac du Bourget (pictured), is another famous European destination known for relaxation and wellness. This town, rich in Roman history, is famous the world over for its thermal springs, which have been a source of healing and relaxation since ancient times. The Thermes Chevalley, one of the main thermal baths in Aix-les-Bains, offers a range of treatments that capitalize on the mineral-rich waters, believed to have therapeutic properties for both the body and mind. The town’s Belle Époque architecture, with its grand hotels and elegant spas, reflects a longstanding tradition of wellness intersecting with opulence.
The appeal of Aix-les-Bains extends to its stunning natural surroundings. The largest natural lake in France, Lac du Bourget, provides a picturesque backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities like sailing, swimming, and hiking. The nearby mountains offer trails for all levels of hikers, showcasing breathtaking Alpine views. The town’s cultural scene cannot be ignored, with sights like the Musée Faure and its impressive collection of Impressionist paintings surely becoming a highlight of any trip to this beautiful town. The blend of thermal wellness, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness makes Aix-les-Bains a captivating destination for travelers year-round.
Karlový Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is one of the most famous spa towns in the Czech Republic. Famed for its hot springs, the town has been a prestigious spa destination since the 18th century, attracting the European elite, from the ruling class of Austria-Hungary to noblemen and families from farther afield. The town boasts over a dozen main thermal springs and numerous smaller ones, each offering different temperatures and mineral compositions. The Mill Colonnade and the Hot Spring Colonnade are not only functional spa facilities but also architectural marvels, embodying the town’s rich spa culture.
Karlový Vary’s charm is amplified by its picturesque setting in the heart of the Bohemian Forest, a place you have to see (not just in photographs) to believe. The town’s elegant, colorful façades and peaceful riverfront create a calming, yet intensely inviting atmosphere. Beyond its spas, Karlový Vary is known for the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world. The town also has a rich culinary tradition, famously known for the Karlovarské oplatky (Carlsbad wafers) and Becherovka, a local herbal liqueur.
Pamukkale, located in southwestern Turkey, is home to two unique natural wonders: its striking white terraces (pictured) and warm, mineral-rich waters. These terraces, formed over centuries by calcite-laden waters, create an unforgettable landscape that resembles a cascade of cotton (“pamuk” in Turkish). The thermal waters, flowing from natural springs, have been used for their therapeutic properties since ancient times, notably during the Roman era. The site also includes the well-preserved ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis, offering a fascinating glimpse into historical spa culture.
Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a place where nature and history intertwine seamlessly. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, including a well-preserved theatre and the Temple of Apollo, or take a dip in the Cleopatra Pool, where it’s said that Queen Cleopatra herself once swam. The surrounding region, rich in cultural and natural attractions, offers opportunities for further exploration, including the ancient city of Ephesus and the Aegean coastline. Pamukkale presents a unique and breathtaking experience, combining the beauty of natural formations, the allure of ancient history, and the therapeutic benefits of thermal waters.
Ourense, in the Galicia region of Spain, is a lesser-known yet remarkable destination for thermal spa enthusiasts. This city, often overshadowed by more famous Spanish destinations, is rich in thermal springs, with waters famed for their healing properties. The thermal springs, such as As Burgas in the heart of the city (pictured), have been used since Roman times and are an integral part of Ourense’s cultural identity. Modern thermal facilities like the Outariz and Chavasqueira thermal baths offer a contemporary spa experience, blending traditional and modern practices. That’s the beauty of Ourense, it’s a place where you can have a historic spa experience, one that’s cutting-edge, or both, if you so desire.
Stepping out from the thermal baths, Ourense is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. The city’s Old Town, with its narrow, winding streets, is home to a stunning cathedral and a variety of historical buildings. The Miño River that runs through Ourense provides picturesque scenery and opportunities for riverside walks and recreational activities. The region’s culinary offerings, including its famed wines and traditional Galician cuisine, add to the charm of a visit to Ourense. A trip to Ourense offers a unique glimpse into the lesser-known aspects of Spain’s tourist attractions and the country’s cultural history.
Montegrotto-Abano, part of the renowned Euganean Spas (Terme Euganee) in the Veneto region of northern Italy, is a distinguished destination for thermal spa enthusiasts. These twin towns, Abano Terme and Montegrotto Terme, are situated in a serene setting amidst the rolling Euganean Hills. The area is famous for its thermal waters, which are believed to have healing properties dating back to ancient Roman times. The thermal waters, rich in minerals, emerge naturally heated from subterranean depths, filling numerous spa pools and treatment facilities across the towns. With the rise of EU Health Standards, the residents of Montegrotto-Abano can claim with evidence that their waters can assuage ailments.
Montegrotto-Abano is not just a haven for wellness; it’s a place rich in cultural and historical significance. The area is dotted with archaeological sites, including Roman ruins and an archaeological museum that testify to the long history of these thermal baths. The picturesque landscape of the Euganean Hills offers opportunities for nature walks, cycling, and exploring the local vineyards, known for producing exquisite wines. At the top of one towering hill sits the 19th-century Villa Draghi (pictured), a landmark in and of itself. The proximity of Montegrotto-Abano to the historic city of Padua and the enchanting Venice adds to its appeal, allowing visitors to easily combine their wellness retreat with visits to these iconic Italian cities. Want to know more? Read my in-person account from May 2023.
Héviz is a town located near Lake Balaton in Hungary, and is particularly renowned for its natural thermal lake, the largest of its kind on the continent. The lake’s water is constantly replenished by spring waters, ensuring a fresh and mineral-rich experience. This warm lake, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a year-round bathing experience, with water temperatures remaining pleasantly warm even in winter. The lake’s mud and water are believed to have curative properties, particularly beneficial for joint and muscular ailments. A summer trip to Héviz can be particularly rewarding for those in ill health, but the steam can also make the town very hot.
The town of Héviz complements its natural spa with a charming atmosphere and a range of wellness-focused accommodations and facilities. Visitors can enjoy not only the thermal lake but also various spa hotels offering a range of treatments and therapies. Beyond its thermal offerings, Héviz has a quaint town center with lovely cafes, shops, and a weekly market, providing a glimpse into local Hungarian life. The proximity to Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, adds another dimension to a visit to Héviz, with opportunities for swimming, sailing, and exploring the scenic lakeside towns such as Siófok. It’s a place to relax, enjoy the communal vibe, and even rub shoulders with Hungarian celebrities, making Héviz unique in many ways.
This selection of 12 beautiful thermal spa towns and regions in Europe just scratches the surface of the dozens of beautiful getaways available to those who want a European health and wellness getaway that they’ll always remember. Visit Tripmasters.com, where you can book from a variety of locations worldwide known for their spas, from Kusatsu Onsen, Japan, to Saratoga Springs in the U.S.
À votre santé! (That’s “to your health!”)
