Imagine dipping yourself into nature’s jacuzzi and feeling the physical tension melt away. It becomes more therapeutic as you are surrounded by picturesque vistas. Nothing matches the relaxing sensation after a dip in natural geothermal springs. So, let’s embark on a rejuvenating escape to the best hot springs in the world. From natural streams in verdant wilderness to luscious manmade pools, these places allow you to feel total relaxation!
Best Hot Spring Destinations in the World – Summary
- Blue Lagoon, Iceland
- Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, the UK
- Szechenyi Baths, Budapest, Hungary
- Pamukkale, Turkey
- Sao Miguel, the Azores
- Terme di Saturnia, Italy
- Benja Thermal Baths, Albania
- Kheerganga, India
- Banjar Hot Springs, Bali
- Hakone, Japan
- South Island, New Zealand
- Travertine, California, USA
- Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada, USA
- Idaho, USA
Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Dip yourself into the mineral-rich water of this world-famous lagoon, while seeing a breathtaking landscape of winding mountains. Blue Lagoon offers a therapeutic getaway for everyone who visits. At a glance, it looks captivating with light blue colors and soft vapors rising from the surface. The colors represent the abundance of minerals, especially silica and salt. Blue Lagoon has a temperature of 37-39°C, which is perfect for any time of the year. The rich mineral and warm waters of Blue Lagoon have shown beneficial properties for health and beauty, including improving skin condition. Therefore, it is one of the best hot springs to visit.
Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, the UK
Situated in the historical town of Bath, Thermae offers more than hot springs. It features the impressive history of the Roman Empire and the Georgian period. Thus, the spa comes from natural hot springs that were founded around 8,000 B.C. Thermae Bath Spa offers different kinds of pools, from the Roman-themed steam baths to the rooftop pool. You can enjoy a sumptuous view of Bath’s series of historical buildings. Also, you can take a peek at the Roman Baths. With all it has to offer, Thermae Bath Spa is one of the best hot springs in the world.
Szechenyi Baths, Budapest, Hungary
If we talk about Budapest, we won’t leave out the thermal baths. The stunning baths stay on the list of top things to do in Budapest. Set in an impressive Neo-Baroque-style plaza, Szechenyi Baths stands out the most. The baths attract travelers with its large pools, relaxing waters, and Instagrammable Baroque-styled building. Moreover, Szechenyi Baths has 18 pools, both indoor and outdoor, various spa facilities, and wellness treatments. In a nutshell, this world-famous bath can be defined as a wellness center. Therefore, it is one of the best hot springs in the world for you to visit.
Pamukkale, Turkey
This hot spring in Turkey looks otherworldly. White limestone walls – travertines – create an asymmetric ladder-like structure. They are filled with mineral-rich hot waters, colored in beautiful iridescent blue. ‘Cotton Castle’ – that is the nickname for these snow-white travertines. Besides being beautiful, Pamukkale waters are rich in calcium which is good for muscle and skin health. There are 17 thermal pools in the area, with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 100°C. Dip yourself into the pool and feel your body relax in the comfortable heat. Also, enjoy a breathtaking scene of Pamukkale’s meadowed mountains and a mini-sized historic town from the pools.
Sao Miguel, the Azores
Dotted with sizzling volcanoes, it is no surprise that the Azores are blessed with terrific geothermal sources. Travel to Sao Miguel, where an abundace of hot springs await your visit. Volcano vents heat the springs and pools of Sao Miguel, yielding mineral-rich body of waters. Dip yourself in the steaming hot springs while being surrounded by green vegetation and small waterfalls. Looking forward to this experience? Head to Furnas, a village that houses some of the best hot springs in the world. Forest-veiled pools, like Parque Terra Nosta, welcome you for a relaxing getaway.
Terme di Saturnia, Italy
The region of Tuscany is nothing less than spectacular. Home to scrumptious wine, delicious food, and magnificent culture. However, not many traveler know that Tuscany has brilliant geothermal springs. Terme di Saturnia is one of them. This southern Tuscany hot spring captivates visitors with its picturesque, bright-blue travertines. Not only it is beautiful, but also beneficial for health and wellness. Terme di Saturnia’s temperatures hover around 37.5 °C. Also, it is rich in sulphur and calcium carbonite. Furthermore, the hot spring is part of the luxurious Terme di Saturnia Resort, which welcomes you for a relaxing vacation in Italy.
Benja Thermal Baths, Albania
Nestled between the outstanding mountain series of Albania, Benja Thermal Baths or Llixhat e Bënjës is a true European gem. The mineral-rich pools vapors at the temperature of 30℃, while impressing visitors with its turquoise-blue waters. While enjoying the hot bath, you can see an extravagant scene of winding mountains and lush forests. For that reason, it is one of the best hot spring in the world, especially for the natural beauty. It is no surprise that Benja Thermal Baths has been well-loved since the reign of the Ottoman Empire!
Kheerganga, India
A region adorned with towering mountains and lush valleys, Kheerganga is a beautiful hidden gem in India. It is popular among locals for the fantastic hiking trails, untouched nature, and hot springs. Experience the healing power of the Himalayan Mountains in the region’s exquisite hot springs. Although you need 3-4 hours hike to reach the hot springs, the journey will be worth it. Feel your muscle aches and tiredness melt into the hot waters of Kheerganga’s hot springs. Therefore, it is one of the best hot springs in the world for you to visit.
Banjar Hot Springs, Bali
We all know that Bali is an awesome wellness getaway and water springs have been a big deal. But do you know that Bali also houses great thermal baths? Head to the Buleleng Regency and find the Banjar Hot Springs. The milky-aquamarine waters sizzle at the temperature of 38℃. They are bordered with manmade pools, while hot water streams out from dragon statues on the pool walls. Moreover, the springs are rich in sulfur and frequently used for traditional healing practices. Therefore, it is one of the best hot springs in Asia that you must visit.
Hakone, Japan
Who can say no to Japanese onsen? If you are looking for some of the best onsens, travel to Hakone. The prefecture boasts stunning natural landscapes, a great choice of theme parks, and of course – fantastic hot springs. Whether you want to experience an open-air onsen or dip into hot pools in ryokans, Hakone has everything you need. Moreover, Hakone has an array of luxurious hot spring resorts that are ready to spoil you with the best experience. Furthermore, Hakone is home to some of the best hot springs in the world.
South Island, New Zealand
Sitting on the Australian fault line, New Zealand is blessed with terrific volcanoes and amazing hot springs. The South Island houses a great lineup of the best hot springs in the world. Geothermal power heats the springs and pools in the South Island, creating relaxing thermal pools. Moreover, many of South Island’s geothermal baths come with an exquisite view of towering mountains, meadowed valleys, and verdant forests. Imagine dipping yourself into the steaming waters while seeing the stunning view – so fabulous! Some of the best South Island’s hot springs are Hammer Springs, Tekapo Springs, and Onsen Queenstown.
Travertine, California, USA
The USA never runs out of incredible hot springs, but Travertine in California is an icon. Situated off the Jack Sawyer Road, Travertine defines ‘quaint’ very well. It is a well-loved spot for road trippers to rejuvenate themselves after a long drive. The spot is free and pretty accessible. Travertine features a bunch of small pools surrounded by jagged rocks. Geothermal heated waters fill the pools, offering a soothing sensation for anyone who dips. Therefore, it is one of the best hot springs in the US, as well as in the world.
Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada, USA
Tucked in the quaint wilderness of Nevada, Spencer Hot Springs provides an unceasing getaway. The baths feature tub-like pools constructed from metal cattle troughs. They are filled with steaming water from Nevada’s springs. Imagine soaking yourself in a hot spring at a scorching hot desert – sounds extreme? For that reason, it is recommended to come in the morning or evening for more pleasant temperatures. Moreover, Spencer Hot Springs welcome visitors to kick away their sore muscles at any time of the year. However, take note that you might need to pay extra attention to find the springs, as it is a bit hard to spot in map!
Idaho, USA
Where is the best hot spring destination in the US? – you might ask. We will answer Idaho. Home to a wide range of pristine landscapes, Idaho’s springs are beautiful and therapeutic. From sizzling natural streams to fabulous manmade spas, the hot springs in Idaho will make you fall in love. Moreover, they are great to visit at any time of the year, from the breezy spring to frozen winter. Some of the best hot springs in Idaho are Miracle Hot Springs, Kirkham Hot Springs, and Boat Box Hot Springs.
Are you looking for relaxing getaways that can soothe your mind and body? Or has hot spring vacations been on your mind? Well, we got you! JoinMyTrip has fantastic group trips all over the world, led by experienced TripLeaders. They will happily take you to epic geothermal baths all around the world, from Budapest to Japan!