Best spa towns in Europe

Sometimes each of us needs to rest, whether it is for medical or other reasons. This article provides you with an overview of the best spa towns in Europe. Be inspired by what these modern cities with historical roots have to offer.

Karlovy Vary, Czech republic

Karlovy Vary Spa is one of the most beautiful spa centers in Europe. Stop for a moment at the place with the largest concentration of healing springs in the world. Every drop of water you taste here fell from rain clouds hundreds of years ago. And during that time, the healing minerals really had to be done. It is definitely worth knowing the effects of the local mineral water, which has been tested since 1350. 

In addition to spas and healing springs, Karlovy Vary, however, offers much more. Whether it’s the amazing architecture of the city, the beautiful surrounding nature, or many cultural events, including the famous International Film Festival. And let’s not forget to mention that you may also know this wonderful spa town from movies such as Casino Royale (the famous James Bond series – 2006 – with Daniel Craig) or Last Holiday (2006 – with Queen Latifah and Gérard Depardieu).

For a luxurious rest in Karlovy Vary >>

Budapest, Hungary

Under the ground of the Hungarian capital, Budapest is more than 100 natural hot mineral springs. The tradition of the steam baths (fürdö) of the Budapest spa can be observed since Budapest was under Roman rule. The Ottoman occupation also left a handful of its spas here, some of which are still in operation today, completely unchanged (Rudas, Rácz, Király, and Császár). There are about 30 healing spas in the city. Although most of them are suitable for the treatment of various problems and diseases, Budapest residents go there for completely different reasons. The main thing is to relax and talk. And this is really the case, the spa usually has a pleasant and relaxed mood.

Budapest is not only the capital of Hungary but also the center of everything happening in it. Here you will find the oldest metro in Europe, one of the best music festivals in the world monuments. A remarkable mixture of old and new, conservative and alive, makes Budapest a city that welcomes you with open arms and where you will feel good.

Spa in the capital of Hungary >>

Vichy, France

In the heart of France, in the Auvergne region, from which the French royal family of Bourbons originates, lies the most famous French spa, Vichy. The mineral springs in Vichy are exceptional in their origin in the volcanic bedrock. There are thirty springs in the area, which, however, are very different from each other. Vichy, which today has less than eighty thousand inhabitants, is proud not only of its famous spa tradition but also of the turbulent history of the whole of France. It is nicknamed the “Queen of the French Baths”

Healing water in the heart of France >>

Baden – Baden, Germany

Baden – Baden is a world-famous spa town located in the Baden-Württemberg region of Germany. It is one of the most important German spas founded by the Romans. The local hot salt springs offer treatment of the musculoskeletal and joint system, rheumatic diseases, as well as diseases of cardiovascular, respiratory, gynecological, nervous, and post-traumatic or post-operative conditions

Visitors also love the city thanks to other things that the city has to offer. Here you will find several festivals that are held here regularly, the famous casino, the Greek Chapel, the Old and New Castles, perfect opportunities for sports and cultural activities, including golf and tennis courts, horseback riding, horse racing, or hot air balloon trips.

Visit the thermal baths in Germany >>

Montecatini Terme, Italy

The Tuscan province of Pistoia is home to the important luxury spa Montecatini Terme. They are located at the foot of the Apennines in the Val di Nevole. The spa is surrounded by beautiful nature, which attracts walks and hikers. Also in the town you can walk through maintained natural parks, where thermal springs spring up. The unique natural wealth gave rise to the spa, where today you can indulge in many healing procedures. Lovers of architecture can enjoy the beautiful Art Nouveau spa houses. 

In addition to the spa, Montecatini Terme is also known for its luxury shops and entertainment, it lives here until late at night. The main attractions are clothing boutiques, where you will find quality fashion brands. Every year in April, the city even hosts “Fashion Week”, a special event dedicated to the latest trends, attended by leading Italian designers.

Discover the classic Roman baths in Italy >>

Spa, Belgium

In the 18th century, the spa became so famous that its name began to be used for any spa. The town of Spa is also sometimes called the pearl of the Ardennes, located in a wooded valley. The first casino in the world was established here (or so the locals claim). The birthplace of the fictional Hercule Poirot enchants you. Emperor Joseph II, Casanova, or Victor Hugo also enjoyed relaxation in this spa.

 Today, the modern spa at the Spa Resort is located above the city center. They are beautiful, with fountains and beautiful trees, and magnificent architecture that you can discover in the quiet hills of the Ardennes. 

The city itself is full of great cafes and restaurants. There are several galleries and museums (Cavered Leopold II Gallery, Laundry Museum, Arboretum and more). We cannot forget about many music festivals and on the outskirts of the city is the Spa-Francorchamps racing circuit, where the Formula 1 World Championship races take place.

Visit the place where the word “spa” originated >>

Baden bei Wien, Austria

About 30 km from Vienna lies the famous spa town of Baden bei Wien. The local healing sulfur springs have been known to people for a long time and have helped make the city a popular tourist destination. The territory in which the present city is located was sought after by its ancient Romans for its sources. However, for centuries, the town also attracted a number of wealthy nobles and artists. Ludwig van Beethoven stayed here, composing his Ninth Symphony.

Today, many people come to Baden mainly for the great swimming, you will find pools with normal and thermal water. Near the place where the Romans built their baths in the past, today is the modern Roman baths of Römertherme, which provide all services related to health and relaxation. You can go for massages, cosmetics, a hairdresser or work out in the gym. In the Thermalstrandbad complex, you will feel like by the sea, because at the bottom of the pools there is fine sand imported directly from the sea. This spa was built in the Art Nouveau style and is Austria’s largest outdoor spa with a sandy beach and many other attractions.

Discover Beethoven’s favorite place >>