Imagine sinking into warm, mineral-rich waters as steam rises around you, melting away the stresses of everyday life. Feeling relaxed? Well, just imagine doing this for real in some of the best hot springs in Europe.
From Iceland's otherworldly blue pools to the ornate bathhouses of Budapest, the continent offers a wealth of natural thermal wonders. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, these geothermal locations provide the perfect escape. To help you find the best places to go, below we’ll look at some of Europe's most captivating hot springs, so discover why these natural spas should be at the top of your travel wish list.
What Are Hot Springs and Why Visit Them?
If you’ve never experienced them before, hot springs are certainly a natural wonder you’ll want to try, created by geothermally heated groundwater that emerges naturally from the Earth's crust. These mineral-rich waters, warmed by volcanic activity that meets the cool water at the surface, have been prized for centuries for their therapeutic properties. Visiting hot springs offers more than just a relaxing soak like you would in the bath at home – it's a holistic experience for your body and mind.
The high mineral content, including sulphur, calcium, and magnesium, is believed to help various ailments, from improving skin conditions to easing muscle tension, digestion, and improving circulation according to Bupa, as well as promoting overall relaxation to help with sleep. Beyond the health benefits, hot springs often boast stunning natural settings to enjoy too, making them perfect for both wellness retreats and scenic getaways.
Iceland – Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland boasts some of Europe's most iconic hot springs. The Blue Lagoon, near Reykjavik, is perhaps the most famous. Its milky-blue waters, rich in silica and sulphur, contrast dramatically with the surrounding black lava fields. While popular with tourists, it does offer a truly otherworldly bathing experience that, as travel insurer Staysure notes, could easily be mistaken for one of Iceland’s natural landscapes, even though it’s a man-made complex.
If you’re looking for a more local feel, head to the Mývatn Nature Baths in Northern Iceland. These azure pools offer panoramic views of the lunar-like landscape, including volcanic craters and natural steam that rises from the earth. The mineral-rich waters here are drawn from 2,500 metres underground for a unique experience. Also, don't miss the aptly named Secret Lagoon, locally known as Gamla Laugin, in Flúðir. It’s Iceland's oldest natural pool and is surrounded by bubbling hot springs and even a small geyser that spouts every few minutes.
Hungary – Budapest's Thermal Bath Culture
Budapest is often called the ‘City of Spas’ thanks to sitting atop a network of over 100 thermal springs. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, a sprawling complex housing 15 indoor baths and 3 outdoor pools, is visited by over 1.5 million people per year, making it a very popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
You also have the Gellért Thermal Bath with its intricate mosaics, stained glass windows, and sculpted pillars helping to create an elegant atmosphere. The spa was founded in 1918, and its water is rich in calcium, magnesium, and hydrocarbonate, which is particularly soothing when you need a relaxing day. For a taste of history, try the Rudas Thermal Bath which is a medieval Turkish bath dating back to the 16th century. It features six therapy pools and one octagonal-shaped swimming pool with a domed roof.
When visiting any of the baths in Budapest, be sure to check opening times as some days are men or women-only days (such as at Rudas). Also, make sure you have flip-flops and a swimming cap – if you don’t have one, most will provide this for a small fee on the day.
Italy – Roman Baths and Tuscan Retreats
Italy's hot spring tradition dates back to the ancient Romans, and today, Tuscany is known as a haven for thermal enthusiasts. The Saturnia Thermal Springs in southern Tuscany offers a free, natural experience in one of the oldest towns in Italy. Here, the Cascate del Mulino waterfalls can be enjoyed which create a series of warm pools surrounded by picturesque countryside. For a more luxurious setting, visit the nearby Terme di Saturnia spa resort for a 5-star experience instead. You’ll enjoy the same mineral-rich waters in a more sophisticated setting if this is something you’re looking for.
If you go further North, the Bormio in Lombardy is known as the ‘wellness mountain’, providing a stunning Alpine backdrop. It has nine natural springs that supply warm water to three wellness spas, including the Bagni Vecchi (Old Baths). This features an open-air pool with panoramic mountain views, while the more modern Bormio Terme offers experiences for the whole family.
Germany – Black Forest Spa Towns
Onto Germany now, and nestled in the heart of the Black Forest you’ll find charming spa towns that offer a blend of thermal relaxation and old-world elegance. Baden-Baden has one of three German spas that are listed by UNESCO as a Great Spa Town of Europe and has been a retreat for centuries. The Caracalla Spa Thermal Bath, with its modern facilities and two outdoor, and three indoor pools, provides a luxurious bathing experience.
For a more historic setting, visit Friedrichsbad Spa for a traditional experience. Opening in 1877, this is a bath where clothing is optional, with Wednesdays and Saturdays the only days you are required to wear swimwear. Nearby, the small town of Bad Wildbad offers a tranquil alternative, with the Palais Thermal, featuring a series of pools and saunas amidst stunning architecture, providing a more intimate thermal experience.
Turkey – Where East Meets West in Thermal Luxury
Lastly, we have Turkey, with a visit to Pamukkale, meaning ‘Cotton Castle,’ a must. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning white travertine terraces that are filled with mineral-rich waters. These natural pools flow down the hillside from 200m high where the spring is located, creating a surreal landscape perfect for both relaxation as well as many photo opportunities.
You also have the Pamukkale Antique Pool nearby in the city of Hierapolis, where you can swim among submerged Roman columns. It’s also known as Cleopatra Pools, as the story goes that Cleopatra herself bathed here once upon a time. The calcium-rich waters, heated to a constant 36°C, mean it is perfect at any time of year. Both sites offer a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in thermal waters while surrounded by remarkable historical and geological wonders.
Practical Tips for Hot Spring Visits
Before setting off on your hot spring adventure, consider these practical tips. Always check the etiquette for each location. Some baths require swimwear and will insist on a swimming cap to wear too. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, and limit your soak time to avoid overheating. Pack flip-flops for walking around and a quick-dry towel too as this can be helpful to avoid slipping.
As you’ll need to travel into Europe for any of the above hot springs, be sure to take out comprehensive travel insurance before you go. Accidents can happen, especially when water and nature are involved, so look for policies that will fully cover you. Having a suitable travel insurance policy is vital for peace of mind, protecting you against unexpected medical expenses or trip disruptions, so rather than chance it, be cautious and research the different policy options you may need. Lastly, respect the natural environment you’re in and follow all safety guidelines to ensure an enjoyable, responsible visit.
As you can see, Europe's hot springs offer a diverse set of thermal experiences to enjoy, from the cold climate of Iceland to Turkey's ancient pools. Whether you seek relaxation, healing, or cultural immersion, these natural wonders will provide unforgettable moments during your travels.
