Bulgaria among top 10 most popular spa destinations in 2024

For many, the start of the year brings a new set of annual vacation days, providing a wonderful opportunity to plan a getaway, dreaming of summer sun on cold winter days. For those seeking the ultimate relaxing getaway and serious self-care time in 2024, a spa retreat might be just what the doctor ordered.

As part of its annual 2024 Spa Trends Report, the online booking site SpaSeekers.com identified the most popular spa destinations worldwide based on Google search data growth. The results reveal the most promising spa vacation destinations for the coming year. These are certainly worth considering when planning any vacation—from destinations with mineral and thermal springs to vast jungle paradises.

According to research, Romania will be the most popular spa destination in 2024, with searches for spa trips worldwide up 2,331+ searches. Home to numerous thermal and mineral springs, the country is sure to be the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. France follows in second place, with a 1,201+ search increase. Whether a luxurious spa on the Côte d'Azur calls to you or a cozy sauna and hot tub in a mountain chalet is more your speed, there are plenty of options to choose from. Qatar and Vietnam share third place (up 851+ searches) for those seeking a more exotic destination, while China and Montenegro share fifth place (up 841+ searches).

Bulgaria entered the top 10

Bulgaria and Poland continue the European trend in the top ten destinations, with both offering spa-lovers affordable luxury vacations. European countries also make up more than half of the top 20, with Malta, Austria, Latvia, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands offering options for those seeking a European spa holiday. From Asia, popular destinations like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand are joined by some more unusual options in the form of China and Nepal. Tunisia ranks 10th, tied with the African nation of Morocco at 13th. In both North African countries, the hammam tradition is a must for any spa-lover visiting the continent.

The 20 Most Popular Spa Destinations for 2024

1. Romania: +233% queries

Romania is known primarily for its snow-capped mountains, green hills and forests, vineyards, and beautiful sandy beaches on the Black Sea, rather than its resorts—but this landscape is also ideal for a relaxing spa getaway. More than a third of Europe's mineral and thermal springs are located in Romania, so there are numerous thermal spas to discover for any luxury lover.

2. France: +120% search queries

France is often considered the birthplace of many things associated with luxury: haute couture, exquisite fragrances, and exquisite wines—and this is no different when it comes to wellness. Spa lovers don't have to travel far to find a place to relax and unwind: the French Riviera boasts numerous exquisite spas for the rich and famous. The Alps also boast numerous spas and saunas, perfect for unwinding after a long day of skiing. Alternatively, those looking to step back in time might want to consider visiting Vichy, the "Queen of Spas" and France's most prestigious resort town.

3. Qatar: +85% search queries

Qatar is home to many world-class facilities, and this is no exception when it comes to spa holidays: there are numerous high-end resorts to choose from, designed to soothe away all your worries. For those who enjoy trying different treatments, the country's wide range of spa services provides plenty of opportunities to discover new spa experiences.

4. Vietnam: +85% queries

Vietnam was also named Asia's top spa destination for 2023. The country topped the list of Asian countries by search interest in 2024. With beautiful beaches and tropical jungles, Vietnam's exotic landscapes allow spa lovers to truly escape the mundane and worries of their daily lives. Visitors to Vietnam can look forward to a variety of therapeutic and relaxation programs, from mediation to thermal springs, Vietnamese massage, and herbal baths.

5. China: +84% queries

While countries like Thailand and Vietnam may be the first to come to mind when thinking of Asian spa destinations, China also boasts an impressive array of wellness centers. Thanks to the country's many holistic traditions and ancient medicines ingrained in its culture, these practices, combined with cutting-edge treatments and technologies, offer a truly unique healing landscape.

6. Montenegro: +84% queries

Montenegro, a promising European destination, offers the perfect setting for those seeking a coastal getaway. Two regions of Montenegro – Herceg Novi and Ulcinj – have long been considered to have beaches with therapeutic properties. Igalo in Herceg Novi is a popular destination for wellness tourism, and the mud beach at the Dr. Simo Milošević Institute is a popular spot where the mud is said to have healing properties that can alleviate the symptoms of rheumatic diseases, joint and muscle problems, and neurological disorders. As an alternative for women, the Women's Beach in Ulcinj is said to have a positive effect on reproductive function due to its high levels of hydrogen sulfide.

7. Canada: +83% queries

The thought of Canada's beautiful landscapes is enough to relax anyone, and a trip to this stunning country is sure to not disappoint. It's the perfect destination for wellness tourism, with options for everyone, from active recreation to saunas tucked away in hidden coves.

8. Bulgaria: +82% requests

Bulgaria, one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, offers a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a relaxing getaway. Boasting over 700 hot springs, the country is a popular destination for spas dating back to the Roman era. Why not visit Sapareva Banya to enjoy a natural hot spring, or Hisarya, where you can bathe in the hot springs amid impressive ruins. Or Devin, where the fresh mountain air is sure to leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.

9. Nepal: +69% search queries

Nepal and the Himalayas, often associated with yoga practice, are closely linked to health and should be on many self-care travel lists. Numerous yoga retreats are available here, but the country also has a history of Ayurvedic medicine, so Ayurvedic massages and hot stone massages are often offered, which can improve circulation and detoxify the body.

=10. Poland: +60% search queries

Thanks to Poland's potent natural mineral springs, tourists visiting the spa are sure to appreciate the acidic springs, sulfur springs, saline springs, and thermal waters. Each offers various health benefits and is a delightful natural wonder to admire. Another unique wellness experience that spa enthusiasts can enjoy in Poland is the salt caves, the most famous of which is the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of treatments and all the health benefits salt is said to offer, including treatments for asthma, allergies, and skin problems.

=10. Tunisia: +60% search queries

Tunisia is another country with a long history of spas and baths, again influenced by the Roman era. Any hammam enthusiast will be in for a treat in Tunisia. Thalassotherapy has recently become another popular choice. Treatments based on water and seaweed are designed to soothe and revitalize the skin and body.

The remaining 11-20 most popular spa destinations

12. Argentina: +56% queries

=13. Cambodia: +52% queries

=13. Malta: +52% search queries

=13. Morocco: +52% search queries

=16. Croatia: +51% queries

=16. Egypt: +51% queries

=18. Austria: +50% search queries

=18. Latvia: +50% search queries

=18. Luxembourg: +50% search queries

=18. Netherlands: +50% queries

=18. Thailand: +50% search queries