Our Lykkers know that few experiences can match the sheer pleasure of soaking in a hot spring surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Thermal baths have long been cherished for their soothing, mineral-rich waters that ease stress, soothe muscles, and bring balance to body and mind.
For those planning a rejuvenating European escape, here are three top thermal destinations worth the journey.
Széchenyi Thermal Baths – Budapest, Hungary
Location
Located in the heart of Budapest's City Park, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths are one of Europe's largest and most iconic thermal bath complexes. The impressive Neo-Baroque building houses both indoor and outdoor pools, all fed by natural hot springs beneath the city.
What to Expect
Expect an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The outdoor pools remain warm even in winter, creating magical scenes with rising steam. Indoor areas offer thermal pools at various temperatures, saunas, steam rooms, and spa treatments.
What to See and Do
Beyond soaking in the mineral waters, visitors can enjoy chess games played on floating boards, wellness treatments, and even night-time spa parties on special dates.
Opening Hours and Tickets
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. A full-day ticket costs approximately €23, with discounts for early or late entry. Spa services such as massages come at an extra cost.
How to Get There
Reachable by metro line M1 (stop: Széchenyi Fürdő), bus, or a short walk from nearby city attractions. It's easy to include in a Budapest city break.
Accommodation and Costs
Budapest offers a wide range of options. Budget stays start around €40 per night for a private room, while mid-range hotels average €80–120 per night. Many hotels near City Park offer spa packages.
Blue Lagoon – Grindavík, Iceland
Location
The Blue Lagoon is located in a lava field near Grindavík, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík and 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport.
What to Expect
The water here glows a surreal, milky blue against a backdrop of volcanic rocks. Heated by geothermal energy, the lagoon maintains a consistent temperature of 37–39°C year-round.
What to See and Do
Besides floating in the mineral-rich water, visitors can enjoy silica mud masks, massage waterfalls, saunas, and relaxation areas. The spa's natural elements are renowned for their skincare benefits.
Opening Hours and Tickets
Open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Prices vary by season and time, starting from around €55 per person. Booking in advance is highly recommended due to high demand.
How to Get There
Accessible by rental car, bus transfers from Reykjavík, or direct shuttles from the airport. Many visitors choose it as a first or last stop on their Icelandic itinerary.
Accommodation and Costs
On-site accommodations such as The Retreat and Silica Hotel offer luxurious stays with private lagoon access, starting from €300 per night. Budget-friendly stays in nearby towns average €80–130 per night.
Terme di Saturnia – Tuscany, Italy
Location
Found in southern Tuscany near the town of Manciano, the Terme di Saturnia are naturally formed hot springs flowing from underground volcanic activity.
What to Expect
The main attraction is the Cascate del Mulino, a series of terraced pools created by mineral-rich water that flows at a constant 37.5°C. These pools are free, natural, and open-air, surrounded by rural Tuscan beauty.
What to See and Do
Soaking in the pools is a must, but nearby hiking trails, scenic drives, and charming villages like Pitigliano and Montemerano make it worth staying a few days. Spa resorts also offer mud treatments, massages, and beauty services.
Opening Hours and Tickets
The natural pools are open 24/7 and free to the public. The adjacent spa resort offers day passes starting from €30 for access to wellness facilities.
How to Get There
The springs are easiest to reach by car. The closest major airports are in Rome and Florence, each around 2–3 hours away. Public transport is limited in the area.
Accommodation and Costs
Agriturismos and countryside hotels offer cozy stays starting from €70 per night. Luxury spa resorts near the springs range from €180 to over €300 per night.
To Summarize
These three stunning thermal destinations offer a perfect mix of relaxation, natural beauty, and wellness. From the grandeur of Budapest's thermal complexes to the surreal landscape of Iceland's Blue Lagoon and the rustic charm of Saturnia's pools, each place has something unique to offer Lykkers in search of serenity.
With options for every budget and season, a thermal escape in Europe is always within reach—soaking in the warmth has never looked so inviting.
