Countries all over Europe have their own unique wellness culture – Budapest has its historic thermal baths, and Finland has its saunas, Türkiye has its hammams and the Mediterranean diet is considered a branch of wellness in itself.
Across the rest of the planet there’s Thai massage, India’s ayurveda, an ancient practice of holistic medicine and jjimjilbang, traditional Korean bathhouses, but where in the world is the best for health and wellness? Well, according to the ITB Health Tourism Awards 2025, it’s Lithuania!
Yes, we’re a little surprised too, but according to Olga Gončarova, General Manager at Lithuania Travel, the country ‘not only competes successfully with Europe’s most famous resorts and rehabilitation centres but [has also become] one of the world’s leading innovators in the health segment.’
So what does Lithuania have to offer? Well, the country’s wellness sector is a historic one, and the oldest spa town is Druskininkai, which has been a renowned health resort since 1794. It’s surrounded by pine forests and lakes, and people flock here to enjoy its healing springs.
Birštonas has a nineteenth-century mineral water treatment complex, unique because of its high concentration of calcium, magnesium and sulphates which have traditionally been used to relieve stress, sore skin and allergies.
Then there’s the country’s history of sauna usage and the established traditions with herbal medicine: bees are considered sacred in Lithuanian mythology, and bee-based products are used widely in its wellness spaces.
This win, paired with the extension of the Michelin guide to the country last summer, means it’s a brilliant time to visit Lithuania. Have a read of all the most underrated European destinations here.
Did you see that this underrated country has been named the world’s best adventure destination for 2025?
Plus: Are German beaches really enforcing nudity?
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.