14 health spas in Europe to reset and rejuvenate

Would you like to step away from the daily grind and retreat to a place that supports your physical well-being? Blissful health spas in Europe are hidden away in stunning locations, offering the chance to reset and refresh.

Here's a list of 14 best European spas, created by well-travelled bloggers experienced in Europe travel. These resorts are known for their exceptional wellness amenities, scenic surroundings and architectural wonders.

1. Baden-Baden, Germany

Recommended by Julia of Badenguide

Baden-Baden is one of the oldest spa resorts in Europe. It also belongs to the group of The Great Spa Towns of Europe. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation awarded to eleven iconic spa towns across seven European countries.

The resort reached its peak of popularity at the end of 19th – at the beginning of 20th centuries, when noble people from all over Europe came to try healing properties of local mineral water. It is widely-known that Baden-Baden hot springs are beneficial to health.

The resort is located in the region of Baden-Wurttemberg. It is a lovely corner of inspiring countryside and magnificent architecture. Baden-Baden can be visited all year round as local spa areas are open at any season of the year. Winters are quite mild here whereas springs, summers and autumns are pretty colorful and warm.

The resort has an airport nearby, so it is quite easy to get to Baden-Baden from different parts of the world. There are also plenty of accommodation options here ranging from moderate to luxury. If you are focused on hot springs, there will be several spa complexes waiting for you. The well-known ones are Baths of Caracalla and The Friedrichsbad Thermal Spa. Both are open daily and have to offer a wide range of facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, inhalation baths, different types of saunas, artificial waterfalls, massage showers and so on. It is also recommended to visit Trinkhalle which is a 90-meter drinking pavilion, located in the center of the resort.

Besides mineral baths, do not forget to visit other great attractions of the town, for example, the famous Rose Garden or Faberge collection museum. If you like natural attractions, then go to Merkur mountain by foot or funicular to see the best views of the town. By the way, the Old and New Castles ruins are also interesting to visit.

For your stay in Baden-Baden choose Aqua Aurelia Suitenhotel. This modern and comfortable hotel is located right next to the Caracalla Thermal Baths. Guests also appreciate spacious rooms and abundant breakfasts.

2. Bad Reichenhall, Germany

Recommended by Lisi of Escaping Worlds

Bad Reichenhall is a Bavarian town close to the Austrian city of Salzburg. It's one of the best spa towns in Germany! Bad Reichenhall is known for its salt production and has a rich history. Especially during the summer month, this town blossoms. Embedded in the middle of the mountains with a gorgeous city center, it’s definitely worth visiting.

Next to the thermal baths, mountaineers' activities are a highlight here. But don’t worry, you don't need to be super sporty. A visit to the salt mine is fun and educational. The cable car Predigtstuhl takes you up the mountain, to promising views. 

In Bad Reichenhalls Royal Spa Garden you can find something unique: the brine inhalation facility, which is only open during summer and free of entrance. It's highly recommended for respiratory diseases but also for a common cold. 

Another remarkable place in Bad Reichenhall is the Rupertus Spa. It's located within walking distance of the city center. It has several pools, including outdoor pools, saltwater pools and a cool pool next to the whirlpool. The huge sauna area invites you to relax. You can choose from saunas with different temperatures and characteristics, a caldarium and various resting areas. Don't forget that saunas in Germany are textile free.

After all these activities, you will need some fuel. How about authentic Bavarian dishes at the Tucha Restaurant or a delicious pizza at the Alla Stazione Pizzeria? A stroll through the city center will take you to ice cream stores for dessert.

Visiting Bad Reichenhall during the summer months also has the advantage that the thermal baths aren't crowded. The Rubertus Spa is very popular with locals from near and far.

For your stay choose Galerie Hotel. Located right next to the Royal Spa Garden, it also offers spa and wellness center. Guests are happy with comfortable rooms and friendly staff.

3. Saturnia, Italy

Recommended by Adriana of Wanderlicious

Terme di Saturnia, or the hot springs of Saturnia, the most famous thermal spring in the region of Saturnia, is the most Instagrammable, photogenic place. However, as the most famous, it gets very popular throughout the day so visit early morning or in the later afternoon (after 2pm) when most of the tours have left for the day! 

You should also visit Capua Winery; it has beautiful vines and delicious wines, showcasing Tuscany's renowned vineyards and landscapes. Porta Romana, an ancient Roman structure with fortified walls and a lookout post, invites you to explore Italy's rich historical architecture. Make sure you stop to eat at L'Oste In Piazza in town, or Fontenova. Happy spa days!

For your stay in Saturnia choose Agriturismo Le Cascatelle. This tuscan guesthouse is located close to the hot springs. Guests are delighted with beautiful interior, locally sourced food and peaceful location.

4. Reykjavík, Iceland

Recommended by Soline of On the Road Diary

When you hear about Iceland, it’s usually to talk about its volcanoes or hot springs. Due to its incredible location on two continental tectonic plates, there are many hot springs in Iceland.

Reykjavík has harnessed this incredible potential and exceptional natural spas have sprung up in every corner of the city. Among them, we recommend the Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon. 

The Sky Lagoon is built into the rocks and faces the ocean. The large basin resembles an infinity pool, with the ocean as far as the eye can see. In addition to the entry ticket, you can purchase a 7-step wellbeing ritual, to have the full-spa experience.

The Blue Lagoon is the most famous hot spring of Iceland because of its incredibly blue color. It’s also very close to the airport, a 15-minute drive, which makes it very easy for tourists to visit even on a short stay or layover.

After bathing in one of these incredible hot springs, you have to try a lobster roll, at Íslenski Barinn. If you visit more of the south coast of Iceland, you can also eat an incredible lobster roll in the parking of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

For your stay in Reykjavík choose Hotel Borg by Keahotels. Guests are delighted with the convenient location, comfortable rooms and great spa services.

5. Locarno, Switzerland

Recommended by Zoe of Together In Switzerland

Located in the sunny canton of Switzerland, Locarno is an amazing place to visit for a wellness spa vacation in Europe. 

Locarno is one of the many lakeside locations at Lake Maggiore, specifically in the northern part of Switzerland. It’s a great place to visit with the Mediterranean weather, Italian inspired restaurants and quaint city streets with local boutiques for shopping at. 

Locarno is well known in the Ticino Region for its Thermal Salini Bath and Spa. This is a large wellness center with massage treatments, saunas, spa facilities, hot tubs, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and direct access to the lake for natural swimming water. They also have one restaurant on site for if you get peckish. They provide day tickets but also wellness packages, which you can combine treatments and massages together with access and extra options.

You can easily rent a bathing robe, towel and slippers during your visit if you do not have your own. If visiting during the Summer, it’s best to book in advance as many locals will otherwise take all the availability from external visitors!

What’s special about choosing Locarno as your destination, is that you are also not far from the Verzacsa Valley. This valley is a true highlight to everyone visiting the region. The crystal clear waters combined with natural rocks and historical stone-built bridges is the place to be on a very hot day. It’s perfect to visit while also enjoying a hike alongside the river. 

For places to dine at, make sure to visit both Ristorante Sensi and Al Torchio Ristorante Pizzeria in Locarno before leaving. You won’t be disappointed!

For your stay in Locarno, choose Hotel la Palma au Lac. Guests are happy with the spa facilities, friendly staff and great location on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

6. Pomorie, Bulgaria

Recommended by Maria of MapAndCamera

Pomorie is a small town on the Black Sea coast and, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful spas in Europe. In addition to having one of the best beaches in Bulgaria, the town has a long tradition of balneotherapy. Pomorie has mineral springs with water temperatures ranging from cold at 20° C to extremely hot at 80° C. The mineral waters are used in health therapies and SPA treatments.

Pomorie Lake is famous for its mineral-rich healing mud. Pomorie mud has been used for centuries to treat skin and mobility problems. You can just go to the shore of the lake and cover yourself with mud for free.

Sea salt has been mined in Pomorie Lake since before the town existed. The lye obtained after salt extraction is also used in spa treatments. The healing properties of Pomorie's mud and mineral springs have been known since ancient times, and the tradition of their use continues to this day in modern spa hotels and wellness centers.

There is a lot to see and do in and around Pomorie, apart from sunbathing, being covered in healing mud or relaxing in a SPA center. You may visit the only salt museum in Eastern Europe or go bird watching on the lake of Pomorie. It is a protected zone with a habitat of over 200 species of birds. Only 1 km from Pomorie is a Thracian tomb from the 3rd century AD.

The Pomorie region is famous for its wine production and you can visit one of the wineries in the area. Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is less than 20 km away and next to it is the resort of Sunny Beach, famous for its party vibe and white sandy beaches.

For your stay choose Grand Hotel Pomorie. This comfortable hotel is located next to the beach. Guests appreciate wide variety of spa treatments, spacious rooms and beautiful views from the windows.

7. Bad Gastein, Austria 

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

Bad Gastein in the Salzburg region is a forgotten Belle Époque town located in the Gasteiner Valley, Austrian Alps. Known for its healing waters, it was a place where noblemen and well-known people would rejuvenate. These days, Bad Gastein is one of the best spa towns in Europe.

The waters of this German health resort contain radon and the controversial radon therapy is still something that you can experience today. 

Two major thermal baths, the Felsentherme in Bad Gastein and the Alpentherme Gastein in the nearby town of Bad Hofgastein, can be visited and both are top establishments worth every penny. 

On the way further up to Sportgastein, tucked away in the mountains, is the Gasteiner Heilstollen. Here you can participate in a radon curative tunnel treatment. A physician checks your vitals, you change into a towel, and then you hop on a train. This train takes you for 30 minutes through tight tunnels into the core of the mountain, and there you will get to relax in a radon cave. 

Back in the day, people would come to treat their body and soul in the area. A major wellness point was the gold mining village of Altböckstein. A garden park area was established, and today it is still a place where tranquility is actively enforced for people who take part in a classic Bad Gastein cure. The summer months invite hikers and winters attract skiing enthusiasts in Bad Gastein. 

Head to the Gasthaus Jägerhäusl restaurant for the best traditional Austrian and top international food bites.

For your stay in Bad Gastein choose Hotel Salzburger Hof. Guests are delighted with the views from the windows, beautiful decor, abundant breakfasts and modern spa facilities.

8. Mariánské Lázně, Czech Republic

Recommended by Joanna of The World In My Pocket

Mariánské Lázně is one of the famous spa Czech towns, located near the border with Germany, a mere two-hour drive from Prague. It's also one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe (a World Heritage Site consisting of 11 famous historic spa towns and cities in seven countries).

This spa resort is situated amidst scenic mountains in the Slavkovský Forest nature reserve, making it a picture-perfect destination for relaxation and wellness. The town itself is very pretty, with Neo-Baroque architecture and charming parks.

The town is home to several prestigious spa hotels, with Ensana's properties being particularly noteworthy. Among them, the five-star Nové Lázně stands out because of its gorgeous building and extensive range of treatments. This hotel is the main hub treatment hub for all the Ensana properties. The treatments use the heling properties of local spring waters, natural gases, and therapeutic mud.

When visiting Mariánské Lázně, don’t miss visiting the singing fountain, which puts on a performance every night at 9PM. Nearby, the Colonnade, is another place that you must visit in the city. It has a very peculiar architecture, with intricate ironwork and modern frescoes. The Pavilion, where all the springs come together, is another must-visit spot. Here, you can buy a traditional spa mug designed for sipping the spring water through its ceramic straw-like handle and use it at the springs.

If you are visiting Mariánské Lázně for a spa holiday, you will be meeting with a doctor on your first day. They will recommend you a particular diet, based on your personalised treatment plan, that the hotel chef’s will cook for you every day. You will have all your three meals in the hotel.

If you would like to stay in in a beautiful spa hotel in great location choose the above-mentioned Ensana Nové Lázně. Guests are pleased with the decor, helpful staff and delicious meals.

9. Opatija, Croatia

Recommended by Martina of PlacesofJuma

One of the most charming spa towns in Europe is undoubtedly the picturesque Opatija in Croatia. As early as the 19th century during the Habsburg era, this coastal town was known as a spa destination, attracting nobility who spent their vacations here.  The town is declared as declared the first resort on the Adriatic! Today, visitors marvel at the beautiful villas from the Habsburg era. Opatija remains popular and exudes a unique charm of times gone by.

There are gorgeous Mediterranean gardens for relaxation, a stunning seaside promenade for walks by the sea, and the culinary offerings in Opatija are top-notch! Another highlight is the many excellent wellness hotels that are located directly in the town. One of the best wellness hotels and a top recommendation for a vacation in Croatia is the beautiful Hotel Ambasador - Liburnia, a fantastic 5-star hotel in a prime beach location!

Opatija is a hidden gem for a getaway in the off-season. May and September are particularly recommended as there are fewer tourists, and the beaches are perfect for relaxation. Additionally, prices are much lower than in the summer.

Opatija offers wonderful dining experiences. For a culinary highlight, you should visit the restaurant "Plavi Podrum." Located in the picturesque district of Volosko, just a few minutes from Opatija, this restaurant is known for its excellent Mediterranean cuisine.

The best way to reach Opatija is by flying into Pula, Rijeka, or Zadar. Renting a car is recommended, allowing you to explore other towns along the Riviera as well.

If you would like to enjoy a relaxing wellness treatments head to the above-mentioned Hotel Ambasador - Liburnia. Guests are delighted with the spa facilities, comfortable rooms and sea views from the windows.

10. Sopot, Poland

Sopot is an example of underrated health spas in Europe. It's a charming seaside resort located just 12 km from the city of Gdańsk.

The resort offers unique climate and natural brine springs, also known as chloride-sodium, iodine, and bromine-rich waters. The invigorating seaside climate is tempered by the resort's terraced location between the forested Gdańsk Upland and the seashore.

Sopot's journey as a health resort started in 1808, marked by the arrival of physician Jan Jerzy Haffner. In 1823, Dr. Haffner established a bathing facility, paving the way for a surge of visitors and the subsequent development of a park, Europe's longest wooden pier, the South Baths, the North Baths, and the Spa House with its adjoining square.

The resort's medical profile encompasses a wide range of specialties, including orthopedics, rheumatology, cardiology, angiology, laryngology, obesity, and osteoporosis. Sopot offers treatment for circulatory and respiratory ailments, rheumatic conditions, spinal and peripheral joint disorders, osteoporosis, and obesity. Additionally, spa guests can reap the benefits of thalassotherapy by strolling along the seashore, heliotherapy by basking on the beach, and terrain therapy by embarking on hikes through the forests of the Gdańsk Moraine Upland.

Highlights of Sopot's Spa:

• Five specialized spa treatment facilities.
• Spa Park located in front of the pier. Plac Zdrojowy offers a delightful setting for relaxation and enjoying concerts.
• Balneological Institute offers therapeutic brine baths and inhalations.

Sopot is easily one of the best spa towns in Europe because of its natural beauty, therapeutic wonders, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking rejuvenation and revitalization.

For your stay in Sopot choose Sopotorium Hotel & Medical Spa. Besides picturesque location, guests are happy with the SPA amenities, comfortable rooms and delicious breakfasts.

11. Lądek-Zdrój, Poland

Lądek-Zdrój is one of the lesser known European spas but well-worth the visit! It's just 2-hour-drive from the city of Wrocław and can be a great addition to your Poland travel itinerary.

It's located in the southeastern part of the Kłodzko Land, at the foot of the picturesque Złote and Bialskie Mountains, along the Biała Lądecka River. The terrain and the green-covered mountain slopes create a mild climate, placing Lądek-Zdrój in the so-called "lower mountain" climatic zone, highly valued for its climatotherapeutic properties. The climate of Lądek-Zdrój has a soothing effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and calm. The natural wealth of healing springs, along with the terrain and favorable climatic conditions, make this place an excellent escape from the strains of civilization.

The greatest treasure of the Lądek-Zdrój resort is its warm mineral springs – thermal baths with a unique chemical composition and healing properties on a European scale. It has been known for centuries that baths in these local radon sulfur-fluoride thermal springs have beneficial effects. There are six natural medicinal water sources and one deep thermal water well in Lądek-Zdrój.

Lądek-Zdrój is the only spa in Poland that uses radon sulfur-fluoride thermal waters in its treatment process. You can bathe in very modern tubs with hydromassage and color therapy systems, or you may enjoy pearl baths in the beautiful historical marble tubs of the Wojciech Spa.

For your stay in Lądek-Zdrój choose Rezydencja Grawert Boutique & Spa. This charming Victorian-style hotel is located just 100 metres from the Wojciech Spa. Guests appreciate stylish rooms, friendly staff and great massages.

12. Egerszalók, Hungary

Healing water hisses and bubbles underground throughout the whole of Hungary but one of the best spas to visit is Egerszalók.

About 5 km from the Eger spa town and approximately 135 km from Budapest lies a unique therapeutic bath, formed around the only salt hill in Europe. This unique salt hill was created by intricate deposits of salt from the mineral-rich water, which has a temperature of 65–68°C.

The super-modern spa complex built there, the Hunguest Saliris Resort, is impressive. The building is situated on a steep slope, offering a magnificent view of the valley below from its windows.

The spa area covers 10,844 m² and can accommodate nearly 1,000 people at a time. There are 17 indoor and outdoor pools, some of which are located in the valley. There is a wide variety to choose from: sitting pools with healing water, a cave pool, jacuzzis, pools with water attractions, children's pools, and pools for hydrotherapy using the Kneipp method.

The wellness center includes rooms designated for Thai massages, saunas – Finnish, Russian, steam, dry, ice, beer, honey, and salt.

You can also enjoy red Eger grapes baths, Cleopatra baths, sea baths with green algae, or get wrapped in chocolate, gold, or black pearls. The bath complex also features a self-service restaurant, a beer hall, a bowling alley, and a sports field.

Near the bath and hotel are park areas with an artificial lake, walking paths, and cycling paths. After bathing, it is worth visiting the caves carved into the volcanic rock. Once inhabited, they now serve as cellars where excellent beverages await guests.

For your stay in this unique European spa town choose the Hunguest Saliris Resort. Guests are happy with the location, spa facilities and comfortable rooms.

13. Bath, UK

Recommended by Lavina of Continent Hop

Bath is considered one of the most beautiful cities in England. It is filled with spectacular examples of Georgian architecture and magnificent landmarks, such as the Roman-era thermal complex and Bath Abbey. The city's splendor is best demonstrated by the fact that it is the only city in the United Kingdom entirely listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This unique spa town in Europe is just an hour and a half away from London. Its foundation in 863 BC was due to the presence of three hot springs beneath its surface, a feature that made it one of the best spa towns in Europe. From spa days and pampering retreats to museums and parks, Bath offers a diverse range of attractions for all types of travellers. 

The Roman Baths offer a glimpse into 2000 years of history. This site is home to thousands of archaeological artifacts, each with its own story to tell. However, it's important to note that the water at the Roman Baths is not processed and is not open for public use.

Instead, you may head over to the nearby Thermae Bath Spa - the only British thermal baths powered by natural hot springs. It's also the largest spa in Bath, and it offers a unique experience. Visitors can bathe in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters in one of the indoor or outdoor pools. There are also a variety of steam rooms, saunas, and experience showers. You can book there specially designed treatment packages to treat yourself to this luxurious experience. 

Bath Abbey is one of the best places to visit in Bath. Its history goes back to the 7th century, and the Perpendicular Gothic architecture sets it apart from other buildings. 

Jane Austen Centre is an interesting place to spend an hour for bibliophiles. 

If you want to experience British fine dining, I suggest stopping by Clayton's Kitchen. Located at 15A George Street, it is perfect for lunch. 

All these things make it a perfect addition to the 2-week Europe itinerary. 

Many people prefer visiting Bath on a one-day trip. If you are one of them, I insist on booking all the entry tickets and tours in advance. It will give you enough time to actually explore Bath without standing in lines. 

For your stay choose No 15 by GuestHouse. This beautiful hotel is conveniently located in the Bath center. Guests appraise the decor, spacious rooms and fabulous spa services.

14. Vichy, France

Vichy is a popular spa town in central France, located on the banks of the Allier River. It's also one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe listed by UNESCO World Heritage.

The beneficial properties of the local warm mineral waters were appreciated by the Romans, who established a colony here called Aquae Calidae. The town boasts a wealth of elegant Belle Époque architecture that reflects its golden age as a spa destination.

The heart of this French spa is the picturesque Parc des Sources, established at the beginning of the 19th century, around which runs a covered promenade. At its northern end is the Hall des Sources - a beautiful Art Nouveau building of the main water-drinking hall. The water from six springs has a temperature ranging from 22°C to 43.5°C and is beneficial for treating rheumatic diseases as well as various digestive system ailments.

Nearby is the extensive complex of the old baths called the Centre Thermal des Domes. At the southern end of the park stands the majestic opera house, built at the beginning of the 20th century, adjacent to the Grand Casino, which now serves as a conference center.

While visiting Vichy, it is also worth seeing the modernist St-Blaise Church, built in the 1930s, and the Museum of African and Asian Art, located in a small villa in the Vichy center.

For your stay in Vichy choose Célestins Spa Hôtel. This comfortable hotel is located right next to the park and the Allier River. Guests are delighted with massive spa area, rooftop swimming pool and beautiful decor.

Other beautiful places in Europe

If you still need an inspiration for amazing places to visit in Europe, check out the below articles:

✅ 17 underrated cities in Europe you need to visit

✅ 13 most beautiful mountain resorts in Europe

✅ 20 best hikes in Europe

✅ 19 European natural wonders

✅ 6 best Tatra Mountains resorts

✅ Adventure honeymoon - 16 best places in Europe

✅ 9 most beautiful hikes in the Balkans

✅ Non-beach things to do in Tenerife

✅ 17 most beautiful lakes in Europe

Maps of Europe

Travelling with a paper map gives you some important advantages:

✅ Unlike digital maps that rely on the internet, a paper map is accessible at all times, regardless of location or network availability.

✅ Paper maps don't rely on batteries or electronic devices, making them dependable and immune to technical malfunctions or battery drain.

✅ Using a paper map eliminates the need for data usage, which can be costly or limited when traveling internationally. You can avoid roaming charges and data overages by relying on a paper map instead.

If you'd need a reliable, high quality map, check out the National Geographic map on Amazon:

If you enjoy collecting memories and showcasing your travel destinations, check out this detailed scratch-off map of Europe. It's perfect for marking your European trips!