Türkiye: A Leading Destination for Thermal Health
Natural hot springs have been used since antiquity to prevent illness, reduce stress and enhance wellbeing. Today, Türkiye ranks as one of the leading in thermal resources in the world, offering certified waters for medical treatment, preventive care and relaxation.
With over 200 facilities across more than 1,500 thermal sources, Türkiye welcomes hundreds of thousands of international visitors each year. Treatments are available nearly 300 days a year, and many European insurance providers refer patients here for recovery and wellness therapies.
The Turkish Cities of The European Route of Historic Thermal Towns
The European Route of Historic Thermal Towns brings together 51 spa destinations in 18 counties across Europe, including Türkiye! There, three special spa destinations of Türkiye:
Afyonkarahisar: Türkiye’s Historic Thermal Capital on the European Route
As a proud member of the European Route of Historic Thermal Towns, Afyonkarahisar represents Türkiye’s deep-rooted spa heritage with a unique blend of healing waters, ancient history, and timeless hospitality.
Located in the inner Aegean region beneath the majestic Karahisar Fortress, Afyon has been a crossroads of civilisations for over 5,000 years, from the Hittites and Phrygians to the Seljuks and Ottomans. Today, it is recognised as the thermal capital of Türkiye, where wellness and tradition meet.
The city’s renowned thermal zones, Ömer, Gecek, Gazlıgöl, Hüdai, and Heybeli offer mineral-rich waters known for their therapeutic benefits in:
o Rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions
o Skin disorders, digestive issues, and kidney ailments
o Respiratory problems and nervous system support through inhalation therapies
o Gynaecological and rehabilitation treatments
Infused with sodium bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium, these thermal waters support both internal and external healing, making Afyon not only a wellness destination, but also a living heritage of Anatolian spa culture.
Surrounded by breathtaking nature, traditional architecture, and a gastronomy scene recognised by UNESCO, Afyonkarahisar invites visitors to experience wellness where the curative power of water meets the richness of Turkish civilisation.
Bursa: Thermal Heritage at the Foot of Uludağ
Nestled beneath Mount Uludağ, Bursa is one of Türkiye’s oldest and most celebrated thermal destinations, where healing waters have flowed since Roman and Ottoman times. Known as the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire and once a major Silk Road hub, recognised as part of the European Route of Historic Thermal Towns, the city stands proudly among Europe’s most significant spa heritage sites, blending centuries-old traditions with modern wellness culture.
The city's famous thermal springs, offer thermo-mineral waters rich in magnesium, with temperatures reaching up to 88°C and mineralisation levels around 2,500 mg/lt. These “Silver Waters” are still used today in historic hamams, [SG1] modern luxury spa hotels, and even medical centres, known for treating rheumatic, musculoskeletal, circulatory, and skin conditions.
Bursa is also home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a renowned ski resorts on Mount Uludağ. Beyond its curative waters, Bursa offers a full-spectrum wellness experience, where history, health, and hospitality meet in harmony.
Notable Thermal Centres in Türkiye
The world-leading thermal spa resorts of Türkiye offer a host of treatments and varying temperatures of water. We have compiled a list of all you need to know about these thermal spas and the treatments they provide for any number of illnesses including rheumatism, nervous system disorders and respiratory diseases.
Denizli: The Timeless Thermal Wonder of Pamukkale
Located in southwestern Türkiye, Denizli is world-renowned for Pamukkale, the UNESCO-listed “Cotton Castle” whose gleaming white travertine terraces and thermal pools have attracted wellness seekers for over 2,000 years. These calcium-rich waters, with temperatures around 35–36°C, flow from five main springs and are known to support the treatment of skin conditions, arthritis, and circulatory issues.
Denizli stands among Europe’s most prestigious spa heritage destinations, uniting its ancient healing legacy with modern wellness culture.
Nearby, the Graeco-Roman city of Hierapolis adds a layer of cultural depth, with ancient spa ruins, temples, and a museum that echo the area’s long-standing healing heritage.
Beyond Pamukkale, Denizli is home to other significant thermal centres such as Karahayıt, famous for its red thermal waters and clay therapies, as well as Gölemezli, Babacık, Tekkeköy, Kızıldere, and Boşeli, each offering mineral-rich waters (2,000–3,500 mg/lt) ideal for both preventive and rehabilitative care.
Today, Denizli seamlessly blends its ancient spa tradition with modern medical facilities specialising in physical therapy and rehabilitation, making it a unique destination where natural healing meets clinical expertise. Wellness seekers can complete their journey with Aegean cuisine, detoxifying herbal teas, and the serenity of this extraordinary landscape.
İzmir: Thermal Wellness by the Aegean
With its mild climate and rich thermal heritage, İzmir is among Türkiye’s most treasured spa destinations. From Balçova, Reisdere, and Gülbahçe to the springs of Çeşme, Bayındır, and Nebiler, the region’s mineral-rich waters support musculoskeletal, dermatological, and respiratory health. Blending modern spa facilities with centuries-old traditions, İzmir offers a tranquil escape where healing meets Aegean culture and cuisine.
Balıkesir: Health and Wellbeing City
Between the Aegean and Marmara seas, Balıkesir is a rising wellness haven with famous springs in Gönen, Edremit, and Bigadiç, known for supporting musculoskeletal, respiratory, and skin health. Alongside its thermal heritage, the province offers serene coasts, forested mountains, and eco-friendly retreats. With oxygen-rich air on Mount Ida, olive groves, and therapies from mud baths to acupuncture, Balıkesir blends natural healing with Mediterranean calm.
Ankara: Healing Springs of the Capital
Beyond its political significance, Ankara is home to therapeutic thermal waters renowned for their healing properties. The springs of Ayaş, Beypazarı, Dutlu, Kapullu, Haymana, and Kızılcahamam reach mineralisation levels of up to 12,000 mg/lt. Rich in bicarbonate and acratothermal qualities, these waters are used in the treatment of rheumatic, digestive, skin, and circulatory conditions, offering visitors a revitalising escape in the heart of Türkiye.
Nevşehir: Cappadocia’s Hidden Thermal Haven
Famed for Cappadocia, Nevşehir also boasts Kozaklı Thermal Spring. Its rich geothermal waters are used in the treatment of joint pain and skin conditions, all within a peaceful, lunar-like landscape.
Muğla: Serenity by the Sea
Muğla, nestled along Türkiye’s southwestern coast, is not only a haven for sun and sea but also a rising destination for thermal wellness. The region is home to renowned springs such as Sultaniye and Dalyan, where mineral-rich thermal waters are known for their anti-inflammatory and skin-healing effects. Traditionally used to relieve rheumatic and dermatological conditions, these waters offer natural relaxation amidst the serene beauty of Muğla’s turquoise shores, making it a perfect setting for both rejuvenation and retreat.
Yalova: Thermal Healing by the Marmara Sea
Just a short ferry journey from Istanbul, Yalova is a haven of natural wellness renowned for its historic thermal springs, particularly in the Termal district and the nearby Armutlu area. These spa waters, reaching temperatures of up to 75°C, are classified as thermo-mineral, with a high mineral content of 2,127 mg/lt. For centuries, they have been valued for treating ailments such as rheumatism, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. Whether you’re seeking relief or simply rejuvenation, this thermal gem on the Marmara coast offers healing through heritage.
Manisa: Healing in the Heart of Nature
In western Anatolia, Manisa offers a wealth of thermal springs famed since antiquity for their healing qualities. From the hot mineral waters and mud baths of Kurşunlu in Salihli to the traditional spa culture of Alaşehir, the region is steeped in restorative experiences. Nearby Sart (Sardis), once the capital of Lydia, echoes this legacy with its sacred springs. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, Manisa combines therapeutic waters, cultural heritage, and the gentle rhythms of the Aegean lifestyle.
Kütahya: A City of Ceramics and Hot Springs
Renowned for its ceramic craftsmanship and hot springs, Kütahya is a city where culture and healing meet. The Yoncalı Thermal Springs, used since Ottoman times, offer proven benefits for joint pain and skin issues. The city’s wellness tradition continues today with modern facilities and a peaceful environment.
Bolu: Thermal Retreat in the Mountains
Surrounded by forests and peaks, Bolu is famed for its mineral-rich springs in places like Karacasu, Mudurnu, Seben and Göynük, known for easing rheumatic and skin conditions. With crisp mountain air and peaceful landscapes, it offers a perfect blend of natural healing and relaxation.
Kırşehir: Wellness on the Anatolian Plateau
Located in the heart of Central Anatolia, Kırşehir is known for its thermal springs such as Terme and Karakoç, long valued for their mineral-rich waters that ease rheumatic and dermatological conditions. Blending healing traditions with the tranquillity of the Anatolian steppe, Kırşehir offers visitors a serene setting for rest, recovery, and natural wellness.
Niğde: Naturally Restorative, Quietly Powerful
Tucked away in Central Anatolia, Niğde offers geothermal sources with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving qualities, particularly in Çiftehan. With clean air and minimal noise, the city supports physical and mental recovery in a natural, undisturbed setting ideal for wellness tourism.
Yozgat: Tranquil Thermal Relief in Central Türkiye
Yozgat is quietly making its mark with Boğazlıyan and Sorgun thermal springs, valued for their curative effects on joint and muscle conditions. The city’s unspoiled nature, slow-paced lifestyle, and evolving medical infrastructure make it a rising spot for thermal and medical tourism alike.
Aydın: Thermal Wellness in the Aegean
Blessed with a mild climate and fertile landscapes, Aydın is home to some of Türkiye’s most renowned thermal springs. From the healing waters of Germencik Alangüllü and İmamköy to the coastal spa traditions of Davutlar and the mineral-rich springs of Kızıldere, the region offers diverse wellness experiences. Surrounded by olive groves, citrus orchards, and the gentle rhythm of the Aegean, Aydın invites visitors to relax, rejuvenate, and embrace the harmony of nature and healing.
Eskişehir: Thermal Heritage of Anatolia
Known for its cultural vibrancy and healing springs, Eskişehir offers rich wellness experiences across the region. The mineral waters of Sakarılıca, Kızılinler, and Hamamkarahisar have long been cherished for their therapeutic effects, particularly on rheumatic and dermatological conditions. Blending restorative traditions with the youthful energy of the city and the calm of the Anatolian steppe, Eskişehir provides an ideal setting for relaxation and renewal.
Mersin: Wellness on the Mediterranean Coast
Situated along the warm shores of the eastern Mediterranean, Mersin combines natural beauty with therapeutic resources. The region is home to mineral-rich thermal springs such as Kurttepe, known for their benefits in treating rheumatic and dermatological conditions. Offering year-round sunshine, sea air, and a healthy Mediterranean lifestyle, Mersin provides a tranquil setting for natural healing and restorative wellness experiences.
All Springs: A City-by-City Guide
Çanakkale: Kestanbol, Tuzla, Geyikli
İstanbul: Tuzla
Sivas: Balıklı Kaplıca (Kangal), Sıcak Çermik, Soğuk Çermik
Tunceli: Pertek
Edirne: Kırkpınar, Gülbaba çamuru, Kızıldere
Kırklareli: Dereköy, Ayvalı (Hamam), Şeytandere
Amasya: Terziköy, Hamamözü, Gözlek
Sakarya: Kuzuluk, Akyazı, Taraklı
Düzce: Derdin, Gölyaka
Hatay: Harbiye
Kahramanmaraş: Ekinözü
Tokat: Reşadiye, Niksar, Erbaa
Adıyaman: Besni
Adana: Haruniye, Tekir
Diyarbakır: Çermik
Erzurum: Pasinler, Ilıca
Van: Başkale, Çaldıran
Aksaray: Ziga
Kayseri: Bayramhacı, Tekgöz
Konya: Ilgın, Seydişehir, Emirgazi
Ordu: Çambaşı Plateu
Trabzon: Ayder Plateu
Bitlis: Güroymak
Şanlıurfa: Karaali, Hamam
Ağrı: Diyadin
Erzincan: Erzincan Ilıcası
Innovative Services
For centuries, the thermal springs of Türkiye have been a source of natural healing and relaxation. But today, this ancient tradition is embracing the future.
o Eco-certified resorts combine geothermal energy with sustainable architecture, creating wellness retreats that care for both people and the planet.
o With health tourism packages, insurance collaborations, and multilingual healthcare professionals, Türkiye’s thermal destinations are more accessible than ever before.
From tradition to innovation, Türkiye welcomes the world to experience healing in its most advanced and authentic form.
