Choosing the ideal spa destination involves more than selecting a luxury resort; the surrounding region’s activities, natural setting and available treatments shape the overall wellness experience. According to research by SpaSeekers.com using Google search data, 2023 is a standout year for wellness travel, with increasing numbers of people planning spa-focused getaways.
SpaSeekers analyzed global search trends to identify the most sought-after spa destinations for 2023. The top five trending spa destinations are highlighted below, along with notable properties and signature experiences that make each country appealing to wellness travelers.
© Hotel Nantipa
Costa Rica
Leading the list in 2023, Costa Rica sees more than 62,000 Google searches for spas in the country. Its wealth of biodiversity and volcanic landscapes provides unique ingredients and settings for treatments—think rainforest-inspired massages, volcanic mud therapies and hot spring soaks. Top wellness properties include Nayara Tented Camp Costa Rica, Hotel Nantipa, Hotel Belmar, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa and Tierra Magnifica, each offering a mix of nature-led therapies, outdoor treatments and integrative wellness programs.
Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa © Oetker Collection
Germany
Germany’s spa tradition dates back to Roman times, and the country still hosts more than 350 spa towns, many clustered around the Black Forest and other scenic regions. Historic towns such as Baden-Baden remain popular year-round, and classic treatments—like thermal bathing cycles that alternate warm baths with cold plunges—are staples at traditional bathhouses. Renowned properties offering high-quality spa programs include Hotel Das Rübezahl, HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, Hotel de Rome and Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa.
© Maslina Resort
Croatia
Croatia’s coastline and thermal springs support a long wellness tradition, with resort towns and spa centers that often use local resources—such as mineral-rich mud and seawater—in their treatments. Istarske Toplice is noted for its mud therapies, while contemporary resorts like Maslina Resort and Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa combine modern spa facilities with coastal relaxation, offering everything from detox programs to therapeutic sea-based treatments.
Moldova
Moldova is gaining attention for affordable spa options that still deliver authentic traditional experiences. The country has several bathhouse-style facilities and full-service resort spas where visitors can enjoy thermal treatments and restorative therapies without premium price tags. Notable stays include Bernardazzi Grand Hotel & Spa and BERD’s Design Hotel in Chișinău, both offering comfortable accommodations and access to local wellness services.
Cambodia
Cambodia’s spa scene is often integrated with luxury resorts and boutique island retreats, making it easy to combine sightseeing or beach time with first-rate spa care. Many properties emphasize privacy and immersive settings—some spas are even located on private islands—while others focus on traditional Khmer therapies and locally inspired treatments. Prominent options include Song Saa Private Island, Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa and Six Senses Krabey Island, each delivering high-end spa amenities alongside cultural or natural attractions.
Beyond the top five, SpaSeekers’ ranking highlights the next 15 trending spa destinations for 2023: the Maldives, Ecuador, Slovenia, Poland, The Gambia, Vietnam, Bulgaria, Portugal, Oman, New Zealand, Ghana, Romania, Nicaragua, Austria, Latvia and Indonesia. These destinations offer a mix of affordable retreats, historic thermal towns, island sanctuaries and cutting-edge wellness resorts, reflecting the broad, growing interest in diverse spa experiences around the world.