Wellness tourism is the latest trend overtaking the travel space, and the powerhouse shows no signs of slowing down.
In 2024, the Global Wellness Institute found that the global wellness economy grew by nearly 6% from 2019 to 2023, reaching a total value of over $6.3 trillion. Based on these figures, the wellness market outpaced other major global industries, such as sports and information technology.
The tourism sector, in particular, is experiencing significant growth within the global wellness economy. The wellness tourism market, valued at $830 billion in 2023, is projected to reach over $1.3 trillion by 2028.
World’s 10 Best Countries for Wellness Tourism
These are the top countries around the world for tourists seeking a holiday health reset.
1. United States of America
BookRetreats.com ranked the United States as the top wellness destination worldwide in its 2025 Global Relaxation Index. According to the study, there are over 10,000 unique experiences to discover from coast to coast.
For ultimate tranquility, Travel + Leisure lists luxurious resorts, such as a desert getaway to Mii Amo in Arizona and a bikini beach trip at Sensei Lanai in Hawaii, among the nation’s best. Here, tourists can enjoy a refreshing holiday with activities such as Thai aqua therapy, sound baths, meditation, and more.
2. Japan
With a wide array of traditional wellness offerings, including therapeutic hot springs and ancient healing rituals, Japan is a prime vacation spot for health-minded tourists. Grand View Research reports that the country’s wellness tourism industry generated over $26 billion in 2022 and projects the market will reach a value of $74.5 billion by 2030.
Amanemu, an upscale onsen resort in the coastal city of Shima, is a must-visit for travelers. Well-being is at the forefront of this understated property, named Japan’s Best Wellness Retreat in 2024 by the World Spa Awards. Highlights include swimming in the mineral-rich thermal pools and indulging in seasonal spa services with local ingredients such as pearl powder and seaweed.
3. Bali
Many escapes promote rejuvenation and relaxation throughout the Indonesian province of Bali. Consider Hotel Sages, a picturesque sanctuary in Canggu. The peaceful hotel regularly hosts retreats centered on guided yoga practices, sound baths, journaling sessions, and more, leaving guests feeling rejuvenated.
Savina Briggs, Co-Owner, Hotel Sages, comments on the rising demand for wellness tourism: ”In a world filled with uncertainty, constant stimulation, and burnout, we saw a desire for people to slow down and truly breathe. Every element in our wellness retreats is designed to help guests disconnect from the noise and reconnect with themselves. The response has been profoundly moving—people are seeking more than just traditional vacations; they’re seeking healing, intention, and a return to self.”
4. France
If you’re craving a restorative getaway, France could be the ideal setting. Many travelers flock to the European country for its chic spas and outdoor adventures. From isolated mountain resorts to thalassotherapy centers on the coast, France offers a wealth of calming activities for tourists to enjoy.
La Réserve Ramatuelle, situated near Saint-Tropez, is a premier destination for prioritizing both your physical and mental well-being. Named one of South France’s best wellness resorts by Robb Report, the luxurious hotel has an array of multi-day programs. These experiences aim to leave guests revitalized from the inside out through movement, nutrition, and advanced healing treatments.
5. Italy
With a plethora of renowned wellness excursions, Italy should be at the top of your vacation bucket list. Head to the rolling hills of Tuscany for an indulgent spa resort adventure, or treat yourself to a hydrotherapy session on the picturesque island of Sardinia.
Forbes recommends Preidlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort in the Dolomites for a refreshing escape like no other. The high-end hotel promises a transformative stay through guided nature walks, yoga classes, meditation workshops, and more.
6. Mexico
A trip to Mexico is the perfect opportunity to jumpstart your health and fitness journey. The country boasts an impressive variety of luxury resorts and wellness activities for travelers seeking a restorative holiday.
Properties like Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos, operated by TAFER Hotels & Resorts, are a fantastic choice. Every year, TAFER hosts a jam-packed Wellness Month at select hotels in Mexico, including Garza Blanca’s three locations.
“Our annual Wellness Month program was created in response to travelers’ growing desire for vacations that go beyond relaxation—focusing on self-care, movement, mindfulness, and overall well-being,” explains Sasa Milojevic, President of TAFER Hotels & Resorts.
“We’ve seen an overwhelmingly positive response, with many guests returning to reconnect with nature and the local community through guided beach meditations, immersive cooking classes, morning yoga overlooking the ocean, and other enriching activities that celebrate the destination and Mexico’s rich culture,” Milojevic says.
7. Australia
Australia’s booming wellness tourism industry and stunning natural landscapes make it the ideal destination for a health reset. Big Red Group reports that bookings for wellness experiences nationwide increased by over 228% in 2024.
Departures Magazine highlights Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat as one of the best wellness resorts in Australia. Visitors spend anywhere from two to seven nights focusing on specific areas of interest, including ayurvedic cooking, women’s empowerment, and more.
8. India
For decades, India has been a top travel destination for tourists seeking to prioritize their health. The country is best known for its Ayurvedic practices and yoga retreats, but it also offers many other ways to unwind.
Architectural Digest India ranks Ananda in the Himalayas among the country’s eight best wellness retreats for its luxurious atmosphere and immersive programs. At Ananda, guests can learn how to address concerns such as hormonal imbalances and poor sleep with strategies like meditation and fitness.
9. Spain
Spain has emerged as a popular wellness locale thanks to its unique blend of centuries-old and modern treatments. The Travel Daily cites Spain’s Mediterranean climate and over 300 annual days of sunshine as reasons to make the country your next getaway.
In 2024, SHA Spain in Alicante made Goop’s list of the best destination spas and wellness retreats worldwide. The sophisticated center specializes in multi-day excursions, such as Advanced Longevity for anti-aging and Leader’s Performance for stress relief. With activities including hyperbaric chamber treatments and personal training sessions, visitors will leave SHA Spain feeling completely renewed.
10. Germany
Make your health and fitness travel dreams a reality with a trip to Germany. According to the German National Tourist Board, there are over 350 German wellness spas and resorts for tourists to explore.
Lanserhof Sylt in List auf Sylt is a top choice featured in Vogue’s 2024 and 2025 guides to the 100 best spas in the world. It offers programs for everyone, regardless of whether your goal is to improve sleep, physical strength, or overall health. These packages boast tailored services, ranging from massage therapy to educational lectures, to provide guests with a transformative stay.
