The Most Amazing Saunas To Visit Around The World In 2026

Saunas have been part of human life for at least 4,000 years—used for health, spirituality, and community. And today, they’re still a go-to for wellness, relaxation, and social connection. Some places around the world have held on to this tradition more than others (looking at you, Finland, with 3 million saunas for 5.5 million people!).

Some saunas are worth planning an entire trip around. Others are hidden gems—nearby when you’re already exploring, offering a chance to sweat, reflect, and recharge in unforgettable settings.

This list of the most amazing saunas blends tradition with innovation: think historic smoke saunas, luxurious spa escapes, and wild design-forward cabins floating in the fjords. Whether you’re a solo traveler, wellness seeker or architecture nerd, there’s a sauna here with your name on it.

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1. Solar Egg Sauna – Sweden

The Solar Egg Sauna is a work of art designed by Bigert & Bergström – it’s a striking, mobile egg-shaped sauna covered in stainless golden mirror plates that reflect the surrounding landscapes. The interior is made of wood and has a central heart-shaped iron stove. It looks like a spaceship with a set of stairs that visitors use to enter.

This sauna has traveled through Scandinavia, Europe and even the US; in Paris, the Swedish fashion designer Diana Orving even designed special kimonos for visitors to use in the sauna.

2. Schloss Elmau – Bavaria, Germany

This luxurious spa in the Bavarian Alps offers a serene mountain setting with multiple saunas and thermal pools within two luxury hotels. Saunas include the Finnish Sauna, Sole Steambath, Sauna for Ladies, Sole Steambath for Ladies and more.

It’s the perfect escape for solo travelers, with three Luxury Spas including an Onsen, Oriental Hamam, and four outdoor infinity pools reserved exclusively for adults, plus a huge Nature Spa with a pool and a Finnish Sauna. They also offer Yoga, Gaga, Taiji, and Dance retreats, as well as concerts and festivals.

See details and book your stay at Schloss Elmau here.

3. Löyly – Helsinki, Finland

Löyly, a waterfront sauna, is a unique, modern sauna restaurant that Time called “one of the 100 greatest places in the world”. It’s located by the Baltic Sea. There are public saunas that include a traditional smoke sauna and a wood-burning sauna, as well as a private sauna that can fit groups of up to 10 people.

Yoga sessions take place in the saunas, and of course there’s a sauna menu so you can have a meal. After using the sauna, you can cool off by swimming in the sea.

Fun fact: Finland’s sauna culture is listed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, making it one of the best places in the world to visit saunas!

Where to Stay: Clarion Hotel Helsinki (click here to see details and book)

4. Blue Lagoon – Iceland

Known for its surreal milky blue geothermal mineral waters, the Blue Lagoon Spa offers a combination of saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation pools. The sauna and steam room are unique in that the heat comes straight from the earth used to heat the rocks. You have a view of the hot springs from the sauna.

The relaxation pools offer in-water massage, a mask bar and an in-water bar, making this location an experience that extends beyond the sauna as one of Iceland’s must-see attractions.

See details and book your stay at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland here.

5. Kammi-kylä – Finland

Set on a peat bog at Lake Nummijärvi in the Ruuhineva area of Kauhajoki, this rustic and surreal sauna complex offers earthy, artistic experiences with peat baths, smoke saunas, and handcrafted furniture by local legend Erkki Kalliomäki.

The place is described as “weird” – in a good way – and you can even take swamp mud baths and host parties and dances in this truly unique village.

See details and book your stay at Salaisen Puutarhan Majatalo, about a 22 minute drive from Kammi-kylä, here.

6. Oslo Floating Saunas – Oslo, Norway

Oslo’s famous floating saunas offer a perfect fusion of tradition, community and contemporary design. Among the most iconic is KOK Oslo, a sleek, wood-fired sauna cabin that allows guests to alternate between the dry heat and invigorating swims in the fjord.

Also noteworthy is the Skarven Sauna, known for its panoramic windows and architecture inspired by a cormorant’s beak. For a touch of whimsy, the Bademaschinen Saunas add colorful character,

With so many options, Oslo’s floating saunas invite visitors to immerse themselves in the fjord’s beauty while embracing the restorative power of sauna culture.

Where to stay: The Thief features a spa and sauna that are a highlight of people’s stays, so you can continue your wellness journey there, in an amazing location near the water and more places. Click here to read details and book your stay.

7. Rajaportti – Tampere, Finland

As Finland’s oldest public sauna (built in 1906), Rajaportti offers a historic experience with thick walls and some of the best löyly (steam) in the world. It’s an authentic Finnish treasure in Tampere, which has been hailed as the Sauna Capital of Finland.

There is a cafe and masseuse available here, and there are separate areas for men and women.

Where to Stay: Hotel Kauppi has a sauna, pool and spa facilities in a great location. See details and book your stay here.

8. Pust Sauna – Tromsø, Norway

Floating on the fjord, Pust Sauna in Tromsø, Norway offers a unique opportunity to relax under the northern lights or in the midnight sun with a panoramic view of Tromsdalstinden. The architecture, inspired by cod-drying racks is simple but impressive, especially when it’s lit up in colorful lights. It’s constructed with wood and repurposed materials.

After your sauna session, you can dive into the Arctic Ocean for a cold plunge. This location is especially nice for solo travelers looking to connect with others at the Pust Café, just a five-minute walk from the sauna.

Where to Stay: Enter St Elisabeth Suites & Spa has a spa, fitness center and more so you can focus on your wellness journey even more during your stay! Read more details and book your stay here.

9. Ästad Vingård – Tvååker, Sweden

Ästad Vingård, one of Sweden’s largest vineyards located in the midst of a nature reserve, offers a sensory-rich experience with multiple themed saunas, including the world’s only underwater sauna and fire sauna, alongside organic wine tastings. There is also a hotel and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

You can stay at Ästad Vingård in one of their multiple hotel room types, including ones with an in-room steam sauna and in-room dry sauna! See more details and book your stay here.

10. Therme Vals – Switzerland

This minimalist spa complex in the Swiss Alps offers a range of saunas built over thermal springs, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. The complex was designed to be experienced by all the senses, working with the natural landscape to resemble a cave or quarry.

The spa complex is also 7132 Hotel, where you can stay overnight during your time at the saunas. They also have an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, a hammam and hot spring bath, breakfast, nearby outdoor activities and more to enjoy. See all the details and book your stay here.

11. The Bands Sauna – Lofoten Islands, Norway

This unique sauna is part of a folding structure built along a craggy pier next to the water’s edge, designed by architecture students. The design is meant to mimic a fisherman’s cottage, a cod liver oil production building and a cod salting building. It combines saunas, hot and cold tubs, and terraces that echo the wild beauty of the Lofoten Islands.

Where to Stay: Sakrisøy Rorbuer has 18th-century accommodations that have been featured in movies and TV shows, including fishermen’s cabins, rooms and apartments. See all the details and book your stay here.

A secondary option (also highly rated and close to the sauna), if needed, is Toppøy Rorbuer.

12. Björholmens Marina Sauna – Sweden

This seafront sauna on the island of Tjörn offers incredible views of the North Sea and nearby skerries. Visitors can enjoy wood-fired heat and indulge in Swedish seaweed treatments.

The sauna is part of Björholmen Hotell & Restaurang, located on a gorgeous archipelago landscape on Tjörn. See all the details and book your stay here.

13. Yunessun Spa Resort – Japan

Located in Hakone, this resort blends fun with relaxation through its uniquely-themed pools that include a green tea bath, a coffee bath, a wine bath, and unique Japanese sauna experiences.

14. Heit Sørfjorden Sauna – Hardangerfjord, Norway

Heit Sørfjorden Sauna, located about 2.5 hours from Bergen, is a rustic and beautifully-designed wood sauna by the Hardangerfjord with mountain, fjord and glacier views. The sauna has a wood-burning heater, and you can take a break by jumping in the fjord! There is also nearby hiking and a cider company to visit.

Where to Stay: Hotel Ullensvang is a highly rated, waterfront hotel located right on the Hardanger Fjord with a private beach area. They also have a fitness center, hot tub, indoor tennis court, row boats and more amenities. Read all the details and book your stay here.

15. Norway Floating Sauna – Rosendal, Norway

A gift to the Rosendal community, this lantern-like floating sauna, that also lights up when it’s heating, provides stunning fjord views and invites bathers to row or swim to the entrance for a refreshing plunge.

Where to Stay: Rosendal Fjordhotel has restaurant, bar and terrace with panoramic views of the fjord with floor-to-ceiling windows. There are many nearby activities including hiking, fishing, skiing and horseback riding. Read all the details and book your stay here.

16. Mooska Smoke Sauna – Võrumaa, Estonia

Mooska Smoke Sauna is a traditional smoke sauna experience located on a farm, complete with whisking rituals and therapeutic practices involving sauna honey. It’s also located near a pool where you can swim afterwards. The host family will explain this UNESCO-listed cultural tradition that provides deep relaxation and spiritual renewal.

Where to Stay: Kubija Hotel and NatureSpa helps you continue your wellness journey with natural health treatments and wellness procedures, with five saunas and four spa baths available in the spa, plus more amenities. Read more details and book your stay here.

17. Gellért Baths – Budapest, Hungary

A jewel of art nouveau design, this thermal bath complex includes saunas, steam rooms, and pools, making it one of the most beautiful wellness experiences with the most famous Art Nouveau thermal baths in Europe that was founded in 1918.

They also offer massage treatments and a bar. You can go as a guest or stay at the Gellert Hotel, one of the best in Budapest. The Gellert Hotel is currently being renovated, and will reopen as the Mandarin Oriental Gellert.

Where to Stay: Gellért Budapest Suites is a highly rated place to stay in a central location near many sites. Click here to read more about it and to book your stay.

18. Soria Moria Sauna – Dalen, Norway

Built on stilts along the Telemark Canal in Lake Bandak, this sauna combines architecture and folklore. Its distinctive shape, with golden shingles, glitters and reflects the surrounding mountains, offering visitors scenic views and serenity.

Where to Stay: You can visit the sauna on its own or stay at the associated Dalen Hotel with a spa kit, fabulous dining and lounges where you can relax. Read more about Dalen Hotel and book your stay here.

19. Therme Erding – Germany

Therme Erding is Europe’s, and the world’s, largest spa and sauna complex that is as much entertainment and fun as it is relaxing. It features 24 themed saunas including the Alps, traditional Siberian saunas, Tuscany and more. Some of the saunas include the Russian Banja sauna, which can hold up to 100 guests; the Lake Sauna with Panorama Sun Deck, with amazing lake views; the Kelo Sauna, which is made with 250-300-year-old trees from Finland and Russia; and many more.

The saunas are included in the Royal Day Spa, which also features steam baths. There is also an herbal chamber, salt rock chamber and more therapeutic rooms. The complex also features water slides, a wave pool, water slides, a Crazy River and more to enjoy. It’s ideal for visitors who want to mix relaxation with fun activities.

You can stay overnight at Hotel Victory Therme Erding, which is connected to the complex. Read more and book your stay here.

20. Fjord Sauna – Flåm, Norway

Fjord Sauna is located along the Nærøyfjord, ideal for stopping by after a cruise or scenic ride on the Flåmsbana railway and jumping in the fjord after! The Flåm location has two floating saunas near the center of town, but in a quiet area with amazing views. You can choose a private or shared sauna session.

Where to Stay: Svingen Guesthouse with Panoramic Fjord Views in Flåm is highly rated and super close to the Fjord Sauna. It’s also adults only, perfect for solo travelers! Click here to read more details and book your stay.

21. Skårungen Sauna – Lofoten Islands, Norway

Skårungen has a sauna, a hot tub and spa where visitors can soak up the northern lights and panoramic views of the fjord, get Finnish massages and enjoy the midnight sun while being served drinks from the bar, making it perfect for solo travelers looking to meet fellow travelers and locals. Perfect for Arctic explorers.

Skårungen has a hotel, cabins and glamping tents, Vinyasa yoga classes and on-site dining as well as outdoor adventures. See more information and book your stay here.

22. wa_sauna – Seattle, USA

Floating on the waterways of Seattle, wa_sauna offers a peaceful retreat with a wood-fired stove and scenic views of the city’s natural surroundings. Designed by the local architectural firm goCstudio and powered by an electric trolling motor, it allows bathers to drift on the water while alternating between warm sauna sessions and cool dips. Funded by the community, wa_sauna embodies the Pacific Northwest’s blend of urban living and connection to nature.

Where to Stay: citizenM Seattle Pioneer Square is one of the best rated in the city, and it’s in walking distance of downtown. See more information and book your stay here.

23. Fairmont Banff Springs Spa – Canada

Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs Spa offers not only luxurious spa treatments but also an extraordinary sauna experience. The spa’s eucalyptus-infused steam room and dry saunas offer panoramic views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and nature.

After a sauna session, guests can plunge into the hot and cold mineral pools, waterfall plunge pools, enjoy the heated outdoor pool or the meditation lounge, all while being surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It’s a prime destination for those looking to combine wellness with breathtaking natural scenery.

You can book your stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs Spa Resort here.

24. Sky Lagoon and Spa – Iceland

Check out the Golden Circle, Sky Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik from Viator here.

About the tour: A day trip from Reykjavik that includes morning hotel pickup, a luxury spa experience at Sky Lagoon after seeing sites that include the Geysir geyser, Thingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss waterfalls and the Kerid Crater. Book the day tour here.

Sky Lagoon is a geothermal spa located on the coast near downtown Reykjavik, and it’s newer than the Blue Lagoon. There is a huge outdoor infinity geothermal pool, as well as more offerings that include a Skjól Bathing Ritual, in pool bar, café and more. The Skjól Bathing Ritual is a seven-step process that includes contrast therapy with the lagoon, a cold plunge, the sauna, cold mist, body scrub, steam and elixir, all to be done in that order.

Sky Lagoon is often compared to Blue Lagoon, though the two are unique experiences. It has amazing views of the ocean, the turf house looks like it could be in The Hobbit, there’s a man-made waterfall and more things that make the atmosphere relaxing and memorable.

Where to Stay: You can stay overnight at Reykjavik Natura – Berjaya Iceland Hotels, an eco-friendly hotel about a 10-minute drive from Sky Lagoon that has spa facilities, houses the Icelandic Modern Art Exhibition and more to enjoy. Read more details and book your stay here.

🔥 Ready to Explore Even More Sauna Wisdom?

Want to learn more about the ancient roots of sauna culture—and where you can actually experience these rituals today? Check out my full guide to the history and health benefits of saunas, including archaeological sites and present-day locations where you can book sauna experiences and explore ancient wellness traditions for yourself.

Saunas have always been more than heat—they’ve been sacred spaces for rebirth, purification, and spiritual renewal across cultures. If you’re drawn to travel that feeds your body and spirit, spiritual travel might be your next step. It’s about going beyond the checklist and letting each destination change you from the inside out.

Whether you’re planning your next escape or deepening your daily rituals, this is your reminder: healing doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a little sweat.

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