Bath is one of the most famous spa towns in the world.
Known for its Roman-built baths, the town has been a relaxation hub since the Roman Empire. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Roman Baths and even enjoy a modern spa experience at the Thermae Bath Spa, which uses the same natural thermal waters.
Budapest, Hungary
Often called the “City of Spas,” Budapest is home to more than 100 thermal springs. The city’s spa culture dates back to Roman times, but its Turkish baths, like the Rácz and Király Baths, are among the most iconic.
Today, you can enjoy luxurious thermal baths like the Széchenyi and Gellért Baths, which combine history with relaxation.
Vichy, France
Located in central France, Vichy has been a spa destination for over 2,000 years. The town’s mineral-rich waters are known for their healing properties, and its stylish 19th-century architecture adds to the charm.
Vichy is still renowned for its wellness treatments, including skin care products that use its famous mineral water.
Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic
Founded in the 14th century, Karlovy Vary (also known as Carlsbad) is a jewel of the Czech Republic. Its thermal springs have attracted royalty and celebrities over the years.
The town’s elegant colonnades and fountains make it a picturesque destination. Don’t miss the Becherovka liqueur, a herbal drink that aids digestion.
Bad Ems, Germany
Bad Ems is a historic spa town on the Lahn River.
It became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and was frequented by European nobility. Known for its hot springs and beautiful surroundings, Bad Ems still offers treatments and modern spa facilities.
Baden Baden, Germany
Another iconic German spa town, Baden-Baden, is located at the edge of the Black Forest.
Its thermal baths have been famous since Roman times. Visitors can relax in luxurious spas like the Caracalla Spa or the historic Friedrichsbad, which offers a unique blend of Roman and Irish bath traditions.
Montecatini Terme, Italy
Montecatini Terme, located in Tuscany, has been a spa destination since the Roman era.
The town’s thermal waters are rich in minerals and are believed to aid digestion and liver health. With its Art Nouveau architecture and serene gardens, Montecatini Terme is a perfect blend of history and relaxation.
Hammam-Lif, Tunisia
This ancient spa town near Tunis dates back to the Roman Empire.
Hammam-Lif is known for its natural hot springs, which flow from the slopes of Jebel Boukornine. The city offers a unique combination of Roman history and Tunisian culture, making it a must-visit destination for spa enthusiasts.
Ourense, Spain
Ourense is located in Galicia and has been famous for its hot springs since Roman times.
The town has numerous thermal pools, including the iconic Termas de Outariz. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak while taking in the beautiful natural surroundings.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland and a sacred place for the Māori people.
Its natural hot springs, mud pools, and geysers have attracted visitors for centuries. The town offers cultural experiences and spa treatments, making it a unique wellness destination.