Krakow Wellness and Spas

Krakow, a city known for its historic charm and vibrant cultural life, is also a perfect place to enjoy moments of relaxation and wellness. After a day spent wandering its cobbled streets and discovering its monuments, what better plan than to treat yourself to an experience that soothes body and mind? From urban spas to escapes to thermal baths surrounded by nature, Krakow offers a wide variety of options to disconnect and recharge your batteries. Here are the best wellness activities you can enjoy in and around the city.

Less than two hours from Kraków, the Chochołów thermal baths are a must-see destination for wellness lovers. Surrounded by mountains and green landscapes, this resort is perfect for a relaxing day in the open air. The thermal waters of Chochołów are rich in minerals, which makes them a natural ally for relieving stress and revitalising the body.

The resort has indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and whirlpool areas to suit all seasons. In addition, its natural surroundings make it the perfect place to combine relaxation with spectacular views of the Podhale mountain region.

If you visit Kraków in winter, you can enjoy an activity that combines adventure and wellness: a skiing and hot springs tour. Many of these organised trips take you to nearby ski resorts, such as Zakopane, where you can enjoy the slopes and the alpine atmosphere.

After an active day on the slopes, there is nothing better than relaxing in one of the thermal baths in the area, such as the aforementioned Chochołów or Bukovina. This plan is perfect for those who want to enjoy both adrenaline and the pleasure of a spa session surrounded by mountains.

Krakow is home to a wide selection of luxury urban spas where you can enjoy relaxing treatments without leaving the centre. These oases of tranquillity, located in high-end hotels or renovated historic buildings, offer services such as massages, saunas, steam baths and jacuzzis.

Most of these spas combine modern techniques with touches of Polish tradition, such as local herbal treatments or salt scrubs from nearby mines. Many have intimate and cosy atmospheres that will make you forget all about the hustle and bustle of the city.

Wellness in Poland is deeply rooted in traditions that combine the use of natural ingredients and ancient rituals. In Krakow, some urban spas offer treatments that include honey scrubs, massages with herbal oils or mud wraps. These treatments are not only effective, but also connect with the country's rich cultural heritage.

A highlight of the experience are the Polish saunas, known as 'banias'. Although similar to traditional saunas, this ritual includes hot and cold phases that revitalise the body and improve circulation.

Some of the most relaxing experiences in Kraków take place by the Vistula River, where you can find spas with spectacular views. Here, you can enjoy massages while watching the water flow by, adding an extra touch of serenity to your day of wellness.

Many of these venues also offer combo packages that include healthy dining or yoga sessions, making your experience a complete plan to pamper both body and mind.

For those looking for something different, Krakow has several centres specialising in Thai massages and oriental treatments. These places, known for their attention to detail and Zen atmosphere, are ideal for relieving muscle tension and achieving a state of deep relaxation.

Thai massages combine pressure, stretching and techniques that balance the body's energy. You can also opt for gentler treatments such as hot oil massages or reflexology, perfect for relaxing body and mind after a day exploring the city.

In addition to the Chochołów thermal baths, the surroundings of Kraków offer other wellness options in the middle of nature. Small spa resorts surrounded by forests or on the shores of lakes are the perfect place to disconnect from the pace of the city and enjoy a relaxing day in a more intimate setting.

These getaways often include access to saunas, hot tubs and treatments using local natural products, such as salt from the Wieliczka mines or local herbs. If you are looking for a more personalised experience away from mass tourism, this may be your best option.

Just a few kilometres from Kraków, the Wieliczka salt mines offer more than just a cultural visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a unique wellness centre where you can enjoy treatments and activities in an underground environment.

Wieliczka salt, known for its therapeutic properties, is used in saunas, inhalations and scrubs to revitalise the skin and aid breathing. If you are looking for a spa experience with a difference, this is the perfect place to combine history and relaxation.