The best spa destinations in the world for 2026 - and the unlikely country that tops the list
What's better than kicking back on holiday, soaking in a steamy bath, getting massages, and fully rejuvenating in nature?
Spa and wellness travel has seen a huge boom in recent years, with no signs of slowing down.
But where to go?
Spaseekers.com has compiled a list of the top trending spa destinations for 2026, and it shows spa lovers are keen for far-flung experiences that combine wellness with a unique backdrop.
The Spa Trends Report analysed over 40 million Google searches to reveal the destinations spiking in interest - read on to see which nation topped the list.
15. Japan
Japan has long been a hotspot for wellness tourism, so it's no surprise to see the country on this list.
It's famous especially for its onsen - natural geothermal hot springs found across the country.
Heated by volcanic activity, the mineral-rich waters offer therapeutic benefits like improved circulation and muscle relief.
14. Ireland
Think rugged coastal wellness and cozy, high-end estate retreats.
The popular Monart Destination Spa is often considered one of the world's best.
Seaweed therapy is a popular treatment there - over 500 kinds of seaweed can be found along the coast of Ireland.
13. Sweden
Cold plunges are a cornerstone of spa and wellness travel - so where better to go than Scandinavia?
The Arctic Bath in Lapland is a particularly special spot, with floating cabins and a cold plunge pool, perfect for Northern Lights viewing.
12. Maldives
Always a classic honeymoon spot, the Maldives is also growing in the realm of spa travel.
Huvafen Fushi remains iconic for its underwater spa, while Joali Being (the region's first dedicated wellness island) is introducing new "Four Pillars" programs for 2026, focusing on the microbiome and energy.
11. Morocco
Ancient steam rituals and sensory immersion are the cornerstone of spas in Morocco, which embrace the region's traditional Hammam culture.
No matter where it is, from desert oases and vibrant cities to Atlantic coastlines, spas are integrated into beautiful landscapes.
10. Laos
Though it's not a classic holiday spot, Laos is considered the capital of "slow travel" in Southeast Asia.
Sleep tourism is a huge theme among spas here, with boutique retreats in Luang Prabang offering circadian rhythm optimisation.
9. Nepal
Mountainous Nepal offers a gorgeous backdrop for a relaxing spa holiday. A spiritual reset in the Himalayas simply can't be beat.
Expect deep meditation, sound healing, and high-altitude rejuvenation.
8. Vietnam
Across the country, there has been a shift to focus on the growing trend of wellness tourism - from large-scale resort chains to boutique spa hotels.
New thermal retreats are opening in Quang Ninh and Hoi An, focusing on "integrated wellness journeys" that combine locally inspired cuisine with Zen meditation.
7. China
China's viral 24-hour spas are catching the attention of wellness lovers.
These massive entertainment complexes have pools, saunas, buffets with endless food, gaming rooms, sleeping pods, movie theatres, and more.
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