Europe is a year round destination for an abundance of reasons — Christmas markets, summer festivals, gorgeous national parks — the list goes on. However, one of Europe’s most attractive wellness features is its abundance of hot springs baths found throughout the land. Within Europe you’ll find glorious pockets of thermal waters, wellness paradises equipped with the most scenic areas to soak, nearby hiking trails, secluded hills and historical significance surrounding some of these luxurious spas. If you’re planning a visit to Europe, adding a trip to a hot natural springs is a must.
After all the walking you’ll be doing in Europe (yes, it’s typical to walk 5 miles in a day without trying), relaxing by thermal pools are a travelers best kept self-care secret. Spending time soaking and grabbing a massage will revitalize you for another full day of adventure the following day. While I won’t go into detail about self-care for travelers — here’s a couple posts that promote those “self-care” and “soul-care moments” when traveling.
- 10 Wellness Habits You Need When You Travel
- The Best Items To Build A Travel Self-Care Kit
- Easy & Healthy Recipes To Cook In Airbnbs
Below you’ll find some of the best Europe hot springs and thermal bath spas to worth a visit anytime of year! Some feature hot springs baths with possible views of the Northern Lights, while others reside on luscious green islands or in bigger, more well-known cities. Regardless of location, the perfect hot springs bath exist for just about every person.
Feel free to jump ahead!
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Thermae Kostenets
Location: Kostenets, Bulgaria
Thermal Kostenets is a mountainous retreat spa brimming with wanderlust and wellness. Known for its natural hot springs, this facility attracts locals and tourists year round with summer being its high season. During winter, locals mainly flock to soak at these thermal pools, but every now and again you get tourist who enjoy a snowy, wintry soak.
Evan and I visited during the winter, and found a day trip to Thermae Kostenets to be a romantic couples getaway because of its serene location and wellness milieu. Since its tucked along the mountainside, there’s also a fun hiking trail that leads to a waterfall. Consider getting there early to enjoy all the property and surrounding area have to offer.
The quaint town of Kostenets hosts this enchanting thermal spa. It’s located around 50 miles outside the capital of Sofia, Bulgaria (a little over an hours drive by car). Equipped with two thermal pools, a hydro-massages, showers, blow dryers, lockers, towels and more, the facilities are fully stocked with anything guests may need. For instance, upon entering the springs and after a tour of the facilities, the staff greet you with a complimentary fresh-squeezed pomegranate juice. The staff are extremely kind and go out of their way to make sure you have the best experience possible. There’s also lounge chairs located around the pools to relax in after soaking.
Keep in mind, this spa is situated in an extremely remote location. The closest town is about 6 miles away (13 minutes via car) — here’s how to get to the spa using public transportation. Personally, I don’t recommend using public transit to get to the spa.
The best way to reach the hot springs is to fly into Sofia Airport, rent a car, and then drive. You’ll have less time constraints and can enjoy the scenic ride up the mountainside. Although, if you prefer public transport, there is a train that runs from Sofia to Kostenets. From there you’ll have two options: take the bus to towards the springs (buses sometimes run irregularly) or grab a taxi.
Caldeira Velha
Location: Sao Miguel, The Azores Islands
The Azores Islands, a chain of 9 islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean have a volcanic origin. Because of this volcanic activity, the number of hot springs is staggering. Particularly on Sao Miguel, which is known for it’s thermal pools.
One of the best thermal pool is Caldeira Velha. It’s located on the north slope of the Fogo Volcano, just a 25-minute drive from the capitol city, Ponta Delgada, and the main airport. The best way to explore the island and get to the hot springs bath is by renting a car. Eight Euros will give you instant access to the entire area for two hours. This is plenty of time to settle into a pool, relax and embrace the Jurassic Park like vibes you’ll experience here.
There are change rooms, showers, and washrooms available, as well as a small environmental interpretation center. This European hot springs bath has several pools with different temperatures to choose from. The coldest and most beautiful pool has a waterfall and is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Each of the pools feed into the next, for a top temperature of around 98 degrees Fahrenheit. The air temperatures are mild all year, so Caldeira Velha is great to visit anytime.
Though, if you go between October and April, it may be a bit too cold for the upper most pool. But rainy October days are the perfect time to visit the lower pools. Keep in mind these thermal waters are only open from 9:30-5:30 pm, so plan accordingly.
By Nicole Lewis of Wandering With A Dromomaniac
The Sky Lagoon
Location: Kópavogur, Iceland
The Sky Lagoon is one of the newest hot springs in Iceland, and is quickly growing in fame and popularity. This is due to its ocean-side location and close proximity to Iceland’s vibrant capital of Reykjavik. First, visitors will need to fly into Keflavik Airport (KEF) and drive or bus forty minutes to get to Reykjavik.
From downtown Reykjavik, visitors can drive fifteen minutes to soak in the Sky Lagoon’s naturally steamy water and soak ocean-side near the hot spring’s infinity pool.
If you aren’t renting a car, simply grab bus #4 at the Hlemmur Square stop and get off at Hamraborg. From Hamraborg, catch bus #35 to the Hafnarbraut stop. Then walk a couple more minutes to the Sky Lagoon by following the ocean on your left.
Not only are the views gorgeous, but the Sky Lagoon’s human-made rocky walls, complete with a waterfall, make you feel as though you are relaxing on a rugged mountainside. After grabbing an adult (or nonalcoholic) beverage from the swim up bar, you can sip your drink or huddle near a cozy cove. If you are lucky enough to be in Iceland on a clear day, plan your visit to this spa in Europe during golden hour for a glass of bubbly while watching the beautiful sunset.
Admission to soak in the Sky Lagoon starts around 5,990 ISK ($48) before 1:00 pm. It increases to 6,990 ISK ($56) after that. For an extra luxurious spa experience, level up to the “Pure Pass” to experience “The Ritual”. It’s 8,990 ISK before 1:00 pm, and 9,990 ISK after that. This seven-step process involves a hot soak, cold plunge, exfoliating scrub and more, leaving you feelings brand new.
By Theresa McKinney of Fueled By Wanderlust
Baden-Baden
Location: Baden-Baden, Germany
The German town of Baden-Baden isn’t just a place to spend time soaking in one of the best thermal spas in Europe. It’s a place to step back in history to the 19th century when the wealthy and powerful — people like Queen Victoria and Kaiser Wilhelm I — “took the waters” in spa towns as an early form of tourism.
Today there are two thermal baths in Baden-Baden: one from the city’s thermal town heyday, and one brand-new one. Friedrichsbad is a palatial neo-Renaissance structure from 1877 and offers Roman-style bathing combined with Irish hot-air baths. If you prefer not to get naked, go to the Caracalla Spa right next door, with the usual assortment of pools and whirlpools for luxury spa break experience.
However, the beauty of this city is that there are plenty of experiences in Baden-Baden that recreate those former activities those 19th-century nobles enjoyed, especially in the spring or summer. Stroll the grounds of the beautiful park, Lichtenthaler Allee. Visit the grand Trinkhalle, where they connected and conversed while drinking the water. Take a look at the oldest casino in Europe which is still in operation and worth visiting just to see the lavish belle-epoque décor. One hotel, the Heliopark Bad Hotel Zum Hirsch, the oldest hotel in town, even pipes the hot spring water right into some of the rooms, allowing guests to “take the waters” privately.
Baden-Baden is about a half-hour’s drive from Karlsruhe, Germany or an hour’s train trip. From Strasbourg, France, the drive is about an hour long, or an hour and a half by train. Buses run frequently from the train station to the spa district in the city center. If you’re planning on visiting Germany during the winter season, make sure to add visiting the Christmas Market in Europe to your winter wonderland bucketlist.
By Rachel Heller of Rachel’s Ruminations
Blue Lagoon
Location: Grindavík, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is iconic. In fact, in 2012, National Geographic named it one of the 25 wonders of the world. This hot spring is famous for its milky blue water and its location within a 800-year old lava field on the country’s Reykjanes Peninsula.
While Iceland is known for its hot natural springs, the Blue Lagoon isn’t quite one of them. The water that feeds the pool is actually a byproduct from a nearby geothermal power plant. Regardless of where the stunningly colored water comes from, the setting is impossibly picturesque. On top of the beautiful ambiance, there’s also plenty of amenities to take advantage of such as swim-up bars, a restaurant built into a lava wall, and even an underground luxury spa.
Soakers are generally expected to pre-purchase tickets (starting around $65 per person). Tickets are capped at a certain number of people, therefore you’ll never find the spring uncomfortably crowded. However, for the most tranquil experience, try booking a slot either in the morning or the evening. An added bonus is if you go during the evening time, you may get to see the Northern Lights in winter or the famed Midnight Sun if you’re visiting in summer.
Additionally, the spring is conveniently located just 20 minutes south of Keflavik International Airport or 45 minutes southwest of Reykjavik. From Reykjavik, there’s plenty of hot springs tours you can take from this city. Alternatively, snag a rental car from the airport and take a day trip to the Blue Lagoon. No matter how you get here, it’s one of must see hot springs in Europe while you’re enjoying the Land of Fire and Ice!
By Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler
Furnas
Location: Furnas, The Azores Islands
Furnas, Azores is a must-visit hot spring in Europe because it’s the center of adventurous activities. Travelers can witness gorgeous Terra Nostra Park and a number of hot spring pools. They can enjoy activities like soaking in one of the best spas in Europe, explore hiking trails, and go swimming. Another cultural experience a visit to Furnas Lake can bring is witnessing locals enjoying hot Cozido stew — a steamy combination of slow roasted vegetables and meat.
The best time to visit Furnas is from June to August because the temperatures are the highest during these months.
The town of Furnas is located in eastern Sao Miguel, Azore. It’s a small distance of 31 miles from Ponta Delgada, which is the closest airport to the valley. The entire Furnas Valley is surrounded by thermal pools, steam holes, and hot springs. The easiest way to reach Furnas for a days enjoyment in the hot spring bath is via a rental car. You can rent a car from Ponta Delgada and drive for 45 minutes to reach this spring. It’s highly recommended to rent a car because public transportation is expensive. Additionally, it renting a car is much faster.
Apart from the hot spring pools, there is a lot to discover in the small town of Furnas and learn about this format volcanic crater. In addition to the steaming fumaroles, thermal pools, and spring, there is delicious food cooked in the geothermal heat that is also remarkable to see. On your way back if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada, travelers can also enjoy various things to do in Ponta Delgada like exploring Lagoa das Sete Cidades.
By Paulina of Paulina On The Road
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Negombo Thermal Spa and Gardens
Location: Lacco Ameno, Italy
The Negombo hot springs bath are on the small island of Ischia, in Italy’s Bay of Naples. Ischia is naturally blessed with hot springs; there are around 100 and many hotels on the island have their own thermal waters. Ischia’s thermal bath spas have been a popular well-being destination for centuries. You can visit a Roman spa on the island and visitors still come to Ischia for treatments prescribed by their doctors.
Negombo thermal spa and gardens is one of the most popular attractions in Ischia – and for good reason. There are 14 separate water experiences, most of which use Negombo’s thermal spring water. Spend the day hopping between Japanese style foot baths which alternate between warm and icy water, thermal baths in dark, serene caves and invigorating, massaging showers with the naturally-heated, mineral-rich waters.
The thermal pools at Negombo are set in beautiful gardens, dotted with stunning modern sculptures. This European spa also showcases lovely views of the park’s private beach. Spa facilities like massages (pack essential oils to experience an extra calming or invigorating sensation), Ayurvedic treatments and beauty services are available, as well as medical examinations and dermatology. Other facilities at Negombo include a restaurant, a cafe and a hillside bar with gorgeous views of the bay.
Negombo is open between spring and autumn – roughly April to October, although dates may vary. Expect to spend a full afternoon of your time or ideally a day to properly relax and enjoy all the thermal spas.
Ischia is a one hour ride on the fast ferry from Naples, which has an international airport, Naples International Airport. It’s also on the superfast train line to Rome. Ferries to Ischia arrive in Ischia Porto; from there it’s a bus ride or taxi to Negombo.
By Helen of Helen On Her Holidays
Reykjadalur
Location: Iceland
Reykjadalur is another one of the most beautiful hot springs bath in Europe. It isn’t located too far from Reykjavik and it takes about 45 minutes to get there from this city. You could easily add the location to your Iceland itinerary if you plan to do the Golden Circle Tour. The easiest way to get to Reykjavik is to fly into Reykjavik City Airport, as it’s well connected to most European cities. After you land, consider renting a car, as it’s the best way to get to Reykjadalur because it isn’t connected well via public transport.
Reykjadalur isn’t too popular as there are many hot springs in Iceland. However, what makes it worth visiting is it’s an off-the-beaten path destination and it’s an excellent pit stop if you’re traveling to Vik. While there isn’t a best time to visit the thermal waters (as it’s beautiful no matter when you visit) it can get quite cold and freezing in winter.
As you start approaching the hot springs bath you will see wisps of steam rising in the area, thus signaling you’re at the hot springs! While the steam is a beautiful sight, the springs aren’t massive. However, they are free to visit. There are also some hills in the area that offer great hiking trails, so you can hike first before taking a dip in the springs.
Keep in mind, there aren’t any changing rooms or guards at the bath spas. Since there is no changing area, it’s best to wear your swimsuit below your clothes so you can easily change. The parking area is located a short 10-15 minute walk away from the springs.
By Lavina Dsouza of Continent Hop
Bagni san Filippo
Location: Bagni San Filippo, Italy
Bagni San Filippo is located in Italy, more precisely in the picturesque Tuscany region. The closest big city is Florence, (Firenze in Italian), which is 93 miles away. There is also an international airport, Florence Airport, Peretola (in Italian it’s called Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola), with several direct flights around Europe.
One of the best ways to discover Bagni San Filippo hot springs bath is by car. First of all, this is because it’s in a remote location where there aren’t many public transportation options. However, there is a direct bus to reach these thermal waters which takes a bit over two hours. Secondly, Tuscany is a beautiful region and renting a car allows you to see other sights in Tuscany as well.
Side note: If you’re new to road tripping in Europe, here’s some inspiration and exactly what it’s like driving in a foreign country, specifically in Croatia.
Bagni San Filippo hot springs are open all the time and without any fee. It’s located in a beautiful natural environment with a river and different small baths. It’s not as popular as Saturnia hot springs (which is close by), so there will be mostly locals and fewer people. Thus, visitors have more space to just chill in the warm water and it’s a great place to visit anytime.
These thermal springs are a perfect place to discover while backpacking Italy because it’s kind of a hidden gem, where most tourist don’t explore. This is a place where everybody can relax after a busy day without getting disturbed by hordes of tourists. It’s like a summer resort, but without any fees. Plus, everybody can be stay as long as they want.
By Erki from Genem Travels
Heniches’k Hot Springs
Location: Heniches’k, Ukraine
At the Sea of Azov in southern Ukraine is a town called Heniches’k. If you go further south, you enter a beautiful sandy area between the sea and lagoon called the Arabat Spit. Geographically, it’s part of the Crimean Peninsula. Because of its beautiful beaches, this area is popular with locals in summer when the population swells.
The Arabat Spit features several hot springs. The best accessible hot springs bath with amenities is haryache dzherelo (hot spring) in the hamlet of Shchaslyvtseve. Discovered during a typical Soviet oil and gas prospecting venture in the 70s, they discovered an underground lake with hot waters (but no oil and gas). Some locals believe in the healing powers of these mineral-rich waters. This is one of the best ways to learn about Eastern European banya culture and how Ukrainians relax.
Enjoy a soak in the warm bath, the hot bath, and several cold baths. There are changing cabins, private booths, restaurants, and lockers. It’s best to visit in the morning or afternoon during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). Everything is fully operational then, and it isn’t too busy. On windy days, you can see the kites from kite surfers fly from the comfort of these waters.
For additional wellness, head to Heniches’k Lake after the hot spring. Locally, it’s referred to as rozovye ozero (pink lake). It’s very high in salinity, which causes the algae to turn pink when it’s sunny. The mineral mud at that lake also supposedly has cosmetic benefits. Although it’s best to ask a local and perhaps buy it from them.
The nearest big cities are Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, from which you can take a train, bus, or hitchhike to Heniches’k. The distances in Ukraine are huge, so it’s best to outsource the job of getting there. From Heniches’k, visiting the hot spring and pink lake can be done by bus or taxi.
Related post: The Best Vegan Restaurants to Try in Kiev, Ukraine
By Iris Veldwijk of Mind of a Hitchhiker
Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Location: Budapest, Hungary
If you are looking for the best hot springs in Europe, you mustn’t overlook the Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest. It’s the largest medicinal bath in all of Europe. Built in 1918, this massive complex features 18 pools – 15 indoors and 3 outdoors. The temperature of these pools ranges from 64 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, so visitors can jump back and forth between hot and cold pools. The pools in Széchenyi Baths are heated from two natural springs underground, something that is in abundance all over Hungary.
While the indoor pools are incredible, the gem of the Széchenyi Bath lies in the outdoor pools. These luxurious spas are situated in the middle of the neo-baroque palace, so visitors can soak their worries away and admire the stunning architecture at the same time. This is especially true in the winter. Seek a safe haven from the harsh Budapest winter (after exploring the stunning Christmas markets) and admire the steam that hovers on the surface of the water. It is quite the spectacle!
One of the other reasons why Széchenyi Thermal Bath is so great is how easy it is to get to. Located in the heart of Budapest, visitors can simply fly in Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, and take a bus into the city center. After transfer to the M1 Metro to get to Széchenyi Thermal Bath. It’s recommended to go early in the morning (if you want to really enjoy the pools) because there will be a smaller crowd. However, visitors looking to admire the beauty of the place can visit during sunset, as the colors become more vibrant!
It’s no wonder why the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is included on every Budapest itinerary!
By Sean of Living Out Lau
Laugarvatn Fontana
Location: Laugarbraut, Laugarvatn, Iceland
Nestled along the renowned Golden Circle route in Iceland is Laugarvatn Fontana — a lakefront hot spring and Finnish sauna that is popular amongst travelers and locals alike. Striking the perfect balance between a luxury hot spring experience without paying luxury prices, Laugarvatn Fontana is home to a number of sleek amenities. This includes a cafe/bar, rooftop terrace, and four crystal-clear pools that are geothermal heated. It also offers an unbeatable view of the surrounding mountain ranges. Needless to say, it’s a must-see of south Iceland, and fortunately, it’s located only an hour’s drive away from the capital city of Reykjavik. Visiting couldn’t be easier!
Upon arrival at the Keflavik International Airport, rent a car to make the scenic drive north or opt for a Golden Circle Tour with one of the local operators. Before booking, ensure that Laugarvatn Fontana is listed as one of its stops. It is, however, recommended that you rent a car to really enjoy the hot springs and surrounding rugged landscapes at your own pace. If doing so, try to visit either in the early morning or late afternoon once the prime tour hours have ceased. This offers a much more intimate and local experience.
In addition, the hot springs bath facility is open year-round. This means that you can bask in its warm waters despite what season you visit. However, if you want the distinct honor of witnessing Iceland’s famed aurora borealis, opt for the off-season as the days are short here in the Arctic Circle; therefore increasing your chance at a peak at these breathtaking dancing lights.
By Natasha Karcz of Planes, Trains and Karcz
Pamukkale Hot Springs
Location: Pamukkale, Turkey
Nestled into the hillside of the Menderes Valley, the Pamukkale hot springs are about 15 miles outside of the metropolis of Denizli in central Turkey. Revered for having healing properties, the mineral-rich hot spring water seeps down the hillside above the small town of Pamukkale. As the calcium from the water hardens, it creates pure white terraces that look like they are melting downwards.
Discovered by the Greeks and established by the Romans, the ancient city of Hierapolis was founded around the medicinal pools of Pamukkale. Cleopatra herself was said to swim in the thermal waters. Today, people from all over the world seek the healing powers of the Pamukkale hot springs hoping to cure all sorts of bodily conditions.
The best time to visit this otherworldly landscape is in the shoulder seasons of April/May and September/October, as summer can get busy and hot. Make sure to rise early to experience the hot air balloons flying over the thermal pools at sunrise. When visiting the cotton castle, a term given due to the look of the landscape, make sure to take off your shoes to protect the vital UNESCO world heritage site.
Moreover, the town of Pamukkale and the thermal pools are located a 33 miles (20-minute drive) from the center of Denizli. From the Denizli Airport, Denizli Çardak Airport, (Pamukkale doesn’t have its own airport), arrange an airport transfer to Pamukkale. If you’re traveling from within the city, take a minibus from the Denizli bus station at platform 76, or hop in a taxi. Of course, if you decide to rent a car in Turkey, this will be the fastest and most convenient way to reach the Pamukkale hot springs bath.
By Haley of HaleyBlackall
Do you have a favorite hot springs bath in Europe? Leave your favorite in the comments below.
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