Travel with Kids

Spa and Pool Experiences with Kids in Europe

We enjoy the spa and pool experiences with kids, we love to head to the pool as much as any other family.  Water has a way of both calming and wearing out kids, and I always find a day after water activities to be so satisfying with kids!  We’ve visited hot springs and pools around the world during our full-time travels, from hot springs in Taiwan to famous baths in Budapest to river beaches in Portugal.

We’ve found that spa and pool cultures are a bit different outside the US, which can be handy to understand as you travel internationally with kids.  You shouldn’t stop getting massages and swimming just because you are in a new place, but a little preparation can go a long way!

Pool Expectations Outside the USA

We’ve been traveling for a while, so we have learned a few things about pool rules, etiquette and do’s and dont’s. Here are a few tips you should consider when visiting European pools, spas and even thermal waters!

Showering Before Swimming

You know how, as Americans, we see the shower by the pool and breeze right on by?  Not the case everywhere else!  Showering before you enter a pool is 1000 percent the norm and fully expected.  You might even get stopped or prevented from entering the pool if you don’t do this.  It makes sense, right!  Everyone wants that pool water to stay as clean as possible.  

While it might be slightly uncomfortable and chilly for a few seconds before you get in, hit the shower for real before you get in.  This usually will be in a locker room or right next to the pool itself.  At our local gym, as you exit the locker rooms and head to the pool, a shower automatically falls on you!

The exception to this is swimming outside in nature.  Of course, no one showers before entering the ocean, lakes or river beaches, like the river beaches in Portugal.  Many beaches have a shower option, but the majority do not.

Swim Caps in Pools

Another taboo item in the US that is normal culture in Europe and Asia: swim caps.  They are not attractive in any way, but I will say I’ve come to love that I’m not getting long strands of hair wrapped around my toes in the pool like sometimes happens in the US.  All swimming in Europe that is in a pool basically requires a swim cap, especially if it is inside.  We’ve learned to pack them in our swimming bags.  Even my husband, who is bald, gets asked to wear one!  His beard hair is longer than his head hair.  It’s not entirely logical at times.

Thankfully, most venues are going to sell these in case you don’t have your own.  Most hotels are going to sell these for about €1.  Be sure to keep track of it for all the days you are staying! I’ve got several in my gym bag at this point and rely on it to get into spas as well.  I just went with a friend to this amazing spa in Cascais, and we had to wear them to soak in the pool before our massages.

Footwear for the Pool

Don’t forget the flip flops when you plan to swim in Europe!  You’ll be surprised at this strong culture also.  Footwear is often mandatory, like in Budapest baths, where you can be refused without them!  From locker rooms to pools, sandals of some kind are a strong expectation or requirement.  Most hotels are not going to turn you away for not having sandals, but you will feel really awkward without them.

Spa Expectations in Europe

I’m a big fan of massages and am working my way through several spas in Portugal, where we live.  I have yet to find one that exactly matches my American expectations, but I’ve enjoyed many of them.  Let’s talk about the spa norms in Europe.

Disposable Underwear for Massages

Europe and Asia both will expect you to wear some disposable underwear (thong) during your massage.  This doesn’t mean you won’t get the massage you are used to—most massage therapists are going to move it around to get your lower back, for example, but it is a bit weird for me to use it.  

Massage Tables in Europe

So far, I’ve not found the plushy massage tables I love in the US.  I’m not sure if this is due to Europe being a little more simple and clean lined in design over the US (which is all about max features) or that they are not available in Europe, but the massage tables are a bit different.  They don’t usually have the removable head piece, but a hole in the table itself. 

While the table might not be as comfortable, I’ve found the massage therapist skills to be great and on par with the US massages I’ve gotten.  One of our favorite places for massage was Bali!  We would walk just a few steps from our Airbnb and get a full body massage for about $3.  Amazing.  That is a culture that allows you to enjoy massages!

Top 5 Family-Friendly Spas and Thermal Baths in Europe

1.Therme Erding: Located in Germany, it’s actually known as the largest thermal bath complex in Europe!  And it looks so much fun.  They have over 40 pools, a kids club, more than 28 slides and offer massages and facials.  You won’t have to worry about having your kids entertained, as this place is filled with fun activities for everyone!

You can choose to visit by staying in one of the hotels they have at the complex or by choosing a one day visit.  The price for a visit varies depending on the hours you’d like to visit and the ages of your crew.
2.Blue Lagoon: Chances are, you’ve already seen pictures of this iconic place in Iceland, and we’ve already been there!  We had so much fun at the Blue Lagoon, it’s one of the largest natural thermal pools in Iceland and offers stunning views while you relax.

When you get there, you’re offered a towel, a mud mask made out of the volcanic mud and a free drink!  If you’re wondering about your kids, don’t worry.  Kids under two years are not allowed, but we had no problem with our older kids.  They had a blast.

3. Széchenyi Thermal Bath: This is the most famous spa in Budapest, and no wonder why.  What I found interesting about this one is how it kind of looks as though you were in the middle of the street because of the style of the building and floors.

It’s the largest thermal spring bath complex in Budapest, offering three outdoor and 15 indoor pools.  Just be mindful that children ages three to 13 are only allowed in the outdoor pools and should always be under adult supervision.

4.  Therme Bucharest: Located in Romania, this is one of the largest wellness spas in Europe.  If you and your family are big fans of spas, then you may want to go, as it features a range of mineral pools, waterslides, saunas and even an indoor botanical garden!  All perfect for a fun day with the kids.

There are different areas depending on if you want to stay with your family or relax.  For example, you’ll find lots of pools, saunas and water slides as well as wellness and spa treatments and special kids areas.  You and your crew will probably love this place!

5. Aqua Dome: These thermal waters in Austria are something to die for!  With stunning views into the Ötztal Alps, they are a perfect way to unwind and relax after a couple of travel days.  Here you will find a thermal spa, saunas inspired by the earth, wind, fire,\ and water elements, spa with amenities and even a fitness center.

However, it is more geared towards adults than kids, but you will be able to find a fun kids area where they will be taken care of so that you can retreat and relax for a full day.

Beach Etiquette in Portugal

We haven’t really experienced a lot of beaches in Europe outside of Portugal, so I can only offer with certainty what I’ve found to be true in Portugal.  However, a few things to know before you hit the beach:

• It’s quite relaxed in Portugal and probably most of the Mediterranean.  While it’s not polite to blare music, some might still do that.  Dogs might be off leash and get in your business, but try to just relax and go with the flow.
  
• Beach days are loooong.  When locals head to the beach, it’s often for 10+ hours.  They are settling in for an entire day.
  
• Often there are restaurants on site.  You can pack a cooler, of course, but you’ll usually find a cafe or restaurant to enjoy as well.  Meals are long in Europe (two hours is normal), so relax and take it in!  Sometimes restaurants will even have beach chairs on the beach itself and serve you there!

• Vendors have to be licensed and are limited.  You’ll get some illegal solicitation, but it’s pretty low pressure here compared to other spots, which is nice.  This does limit what is offered on the beach, but I’ll take it for the lower pressure.
  
  • Be sure to try a Bolo de Belim in Portugal!  These fluffy donuts are sold on the beach and can be filled with egg custard or chocolate creme (like Nutella).  Most of us prefer chocolate or plain.  Have some Euros handy!  They usually run about €2 each, so I keep some euros in our beach bag.
    
• I like to freeze water bottles and use them for both drinking and refrigeration in our beach bag!  Just be aware of the condensation on the bottle.
  
• Beaches can be super crowded in the summer.  Parking can be hard, so public transport is best, and you might get some grumpy looks if you cozy up too close to someone else.  However, just keep in mind you have every right to be there too!  Pay attention to the tide and if it is coming in or out.  You might have to move quickly!
  
• Kids can often play with others no matter the language.  Enjoy this part of the trip!  

Packing List for Spa and Pool Days in Europe with Kids

Most spas in Europe offer towels, slippers and have food and locker areas. However, some of them don’t.  Which is why, it is important to do some research before heading out, so you know exactly what to bring (and also what is allowed or what is not). Here are some things you should consider bringing: 

• Towels: A lot of packages for spas include a towel per person.  But if this is not the case, bring a light towel that will not take too much space and dries quickly!  This will help as you won’t carry wet towels on your way back to the hotel.
  
• Sunscreen: Most spas or thermal waters are indoors, however, there are stil a lot outdoors.  So, make sure to pack a sunscreen suitable for all your family members and reply every few hours.
   
• Swimsuits: If you’re not only going to get a massage and plan on swimming in jacuzzis or thermal waters, make sure to pack a swimsuit for you, your husband and your kids (boys and girls).
  
• Sandals or slippers: Some places do offer a pair of slippers, mostly the ones that have spas.  However, make sure to bring yours, specially for when you use shower areas!
  
• Sun Hats: This is not an essential, but just in case you spend too much time outdoors, consider bringing a hat to avoid sun fatigue.

• Water Bottles: Again, not something you must pack always, as most of these places have restaurants or offer drinks.  But just in case, and if allowed, pack some water and remember to stay hydrated!
  
• Snacks: There are some places, as mentioned above, that have restaurants or shops.  However, if they don’t offer food options, pack some snacks to stay energized and keep the little ones happy!
  
• Floaties: If your kids can’t swim, chances are most pools and thermal waters will allow for them to swim with floaties.  Don’t forget to pack some and avoid accidents!
  
• First aid kit: This is also not a must, as many places are equipped to help if there’s an accident.  However, pack the medicines your kids are used to and the ones you think are essential for your trips like bandaids, allergy relief or pain medicines.

Additional Readings

Visiting Germany’s Largest Amusement and Water Park with Kids: Europa Park Tips

23 Hidden Gems of Portugal for Families + Bonus Spots

Enjoying Ljubljana with Kids: 18 Ideas to Explore