Top 10 Thermal Spas in Turkey for Relaxation and Wellness

15.08.2025 - 10:59

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for thermal tourism thanks to its unique geography, mineral-rich hot springs and thousands of years of spa tradition. Used since ancient times for both healing and relaxation, today's spas offer a multifaceted holiday experience with modern facilities. These unique destinations, which come to mind when one thinks of ‘Turkish spas,’ are not only a major attraction for health tourism but also those seeking a cultural and natural experience. So, if you are looking to experience nature's healing effects, here are Turkey's top 10 hot springs. Each one is detailed with its location, natural features, mineral composition of the water, health benefits, and nearby attractions.

1. Pamukkale – Denizli

Pamukkale, one of the most iconic spa regions in Turkey and even the world, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its pure white travertines. This natural wonder, with its 17 thermal pools of varying temperatures, offers both a visual feast and healing properties thanks to its calcium carbonate-rich waters. The water temperatures range from 35 to 100 °C. The ancient city of Hierapolis, dating back to the Roman period, enhances the region's historical value, while swimming in the famous Cleopatra Pool feels like a journey through time. Pamukkale supports the treatment of conditions such as rheumatism, skin diseases, and circulatory disorders, while also offering a breathtaking landscape for photography enthusiasts.

2. Yalova Thermal Baths

The jewel of the Marmara Region, Yalova Thermal Baths are particularly popular for weekend getaways due to their proximity to Istanbul, just a short ferry ride away. The thermal waters, which have been used since Ottoman times, are rich in sodium bicarbonate, sulphate, calcium and magnesium. With an average temperature of 57-60 °C, these waters are beneficial for a wide range of issues, from digestive problems to rheumatic conditions. The thermal spring area is surrounded by lush forests, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy both a thermal and a nature holiday at the same time. Modern spa centres, massage services, and traditional Turkish baths provide a holistic relaxation experience.

Source: Yakab

3. Oylat Thermal Springs – Bursa

Oylat Thermal Springs, located in the İnegöl district of Bursa, is a thermal destination steeped in legend and surrounded by nature. The waters, which emerge from underground at around 40 °C and are rich in sulphur, bicarbonate and calcium, are beneficial for rheumatic diseases, neuralgia, gynaecological disorders and metabolic disorders. The lush forests surrounding the hot springs and Oylat Cave offer visitors not only health benefits but also opportunities for nature tourism. During your stay here, you will experience both physical and spiritual rejuvenation accompanied by the sounds of birds.

Source: Otel Fiyat

4. Çekirge Hot Springs – Bursa

Located in the city centre of Bursa, Çekirge Hot Springs is one of Turkey's oldest and most established hot spring regions. Known as ‘Silver Waters,’ these healing waters have a temperature of around 47 °C and, thanks to their bicarbonate and sodium minerals, are particularly beneficial for rheumatic disorders, osteoarthritis and muscle pain. In this region, where historic Ottoman bathhouses are still in active use, visitors can enjoy the thermal bath experience in a historic atmosphere. Its central location in the city not only makes transportation convenient but also offers visitors the opportunity to explore Bursa's other tourist attractions.

Source: Kültür Portalı

5. Afyonkapı (Gazlıgöl / Sandıklı) Hot Springs – Afyonkarahisar

Known as Turkey's ‘thermal capital,’ Afyonkarahisar is famous for its numerous hot springs and thermal hotels. Gazlıgöl Hot Springs are particularly known for their waters rich in carbon dioxide and bicarbonate. These waters, with temperatures ranging from 40 to 60 °C, are beneficial for rheumatism, skin diseases, circulatory disorders and certain metabolic problems. Sandıklı Hot Springs, with temperatures between 42 and 53 °C, are famous for their mud baths. This region offers thermal holidays, health treatments and luxury hotel services all in one place.

Source: Tatil Dükkanı

6. Ayder Hot Springs – Rize

Located in the middle of the lush green plateaus of the Black Sea, Ayder Hot Springs are known for their oxygen-rich air, peaceful atmosphere, and healing waters. The waters, rich in sodium sulphate and with a temperature of 55 °C, are beneficial for rheumatic diseases, skin problems and certain internal organ disorders. The region's natural beauty offers visitors a unique visual feast, especially during the spring and summer months. After visiting the hot springs, you can take a walk in Ayder Plateau and sample the flavours of the local Black Sea cuisine.

Source: Mençuna Konakları

7. Bolu–Göynük Hot Springs

Located in the Göynük district of Bolu, these hot springs are known for their calcium bicarbonate-rich waters. With an average temperature of 37-40 °C, these waters are effective in alleviating sciatica, joint pain, rheumatism and stress-related disorders. The region also offers spa centres, massage parlours and jacuzzi facilities. Göynük's peaceful and tranquil atmosphere creates a truly relaxing environment for those seeking a thermal holiday.

Source: Tavsiyemiz

8. Kızılcahamam Hot Springs – Ankara

Located about an hour away from Ankara, Kızılcahamam Hot Springs are known for their hot water sources reaching 47 °C and rich minerals. The calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate in the waters provide benefits for a wide range of conditions, from digestive system problems to circulatory disorders, rheumatism, and metabolic disorders. The hot spring hotels in the region are quite popular for both health and nature tourism.

Source: Ankara Konak

9. Kozaklı Hot Springs – Nevşehir

The hot springs in the Kozaklı district of Nevşehir are rich in sodium, calcium, and chlorine, and have positive effects on rheumatism, skin diseases, intestinal problems, obesity, and women's health issues. With an average temperature of up to 93°C, it is one of the hottest thermal waters in Turkey. The hotels surrounding the hot springs are typically equipped with modern health centres and spa facilities.

Source: Kaplıcalar

10. Karacasu Hot Springs – Bolu

Bolu, one of the cities famous for its natural beauty in the Black Sea Region, is also a notable destination for thermal tourism. Located just 5 kilometres from the city centre, Karacasu Hot Springs welcomes guests with its healing thermal waters in the middle of lush green forests. The region is also home to a Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Hospital affiliated with the Ministry of Health, which is why the number of visitors coming for both treatment and relaxation is quite high.

The thermal spring waters have a temperature of 42-44 °C and, thanks to their thermomineral properties, are used not only for bathing but also as a drinking cure for various ailments. Due to its soft and pleasant taste, this water is bottled and sold. Since its taste remains unchanged for a long time, you can also choose to take some home with you when you leave.

Source: Turkuaz Holiday