Best Water Parks in Europe

While most water parks are only open during the summer season, there are still a few of them that can be enjoyed 12 months a year. Let's take a closer look at top 5 European aqua parks open year-round.

Another summer has come to an end, and together with it, the beach season in Europe. That said, it doesn't mean there is no way to extend the summer fun. Water parks are not only every child's dream, but can also serve as a relaxing and enjoyable gateway for adults.

The popularity of this type of holiday is growing, and their number has skyrocketed in recent years. Top water parks in the world attract more than 2 mln visitors yearly as more and more people are trying to find a substitute for long-haul travel to chase good weather. Water parks offer a close-to-home alternative to expensive vacation, and are rapidly becoming a number one destination for those who crave active holidays all year long.

Here are top five water parks in Europe to visit in the upcoming winter season.

Taste of the Pacific at Tropical Islands in Brandenburg, Germany
Located just one hour's drive from Berlin, Tropical Islands is an enormous indoor and outdoor resort, taking its visitors for a journey to the South Pacific. While some will enjoy the thrill of its enormous slides, slow thrill-seeking visitors can take care of their health and beauty in the sauna area. The activities are endless, from mini golf to flying in an air balloon. Another option is taking a dip in the turquoise indoor ocean with sandy shores, which will make you question whether you are still in Germany. The air of 40%-60% humidity enables 50,000 plants of 600 different species from all over the world to grow here in the authentic rainforest. Tropical Islands is one of the 20 most attended waterparks in the world.

Aquaworld - modern water temple in Budapest, Hungary
Under Aquaworld's 72-meter round roof, you'll find different types of swimming pools, waves for windsurfing or diving spots, a jumping tower and a total of 11 waterslides of all sizes and shapes. While your little ones are playing and being taken care of by the crew of lifeguards and child-sitters, you can go and enjoy yourself in Aquaworld's saunas and SPA. What makes this place so special is its centrally erected temple, based on the Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia. The idea was to create a modern shrine to aquatic culture, providing a series of memorable adventures to visitors. The sculptures, exotic flora, and suspension bridges make this place both mystical and exceptional. Aquaworld is located on the northern outskirts of Budapest, at the Pest side of Megyeri Bridge, yet close to the town center.

Vital energy source at AquaPark in Druskininkai, Lithuania
Located in a well-known SPA town in southern Lithuania, surrounded by fragrant pine tree forests, Druskininkai AquaPark is the biggest waterpark in the region. It offers fun for the whole family, as well as beauty and wellness treatments. The AquaPark has slides up to 200 meters¬ long, streams, waves, and an impressive children's play area with a sandy beach. For the rest of the family - it's all about healing and relaxation. There are 22 different types of saunas from all over the world ready to be explored, and guests can pamper themselves by choosing from a variety of luxurious treatments, from ecological honey to Black Sea salt. Therapeutic mud treatments, as well as healing mineral waters have made Druskininkai famous in the 18th century, and these traditions are still continued today - so visiting the AquaPark is inseparable from spending some time in the town itself to gain strength and beauty. Those who are in search of more active sports, can spend one hour learning how to scuba dive in the pool of AquaPark, and the other – skiing in the Snow Arena that offers year-round indoor ski slopes.

Luxurious winter experience at Aqua Dome in Längenfeld, Austria
No child could complain while staying in the Aqua Dome, where Noah's Ark Area provides a number of activities with children's care staff, a cinema, and a climbing wall. But this Austrian resort would be mostly recommended for those in search of calmness and relaxation in a spectacular location. While staying in the Alpine valley, the modern and original architecture of Aqua Dome allows to observe the breathtaking Tyrolean landscape through tall glass windows. Take a dip in the resort's thermal baths, located outdoors in the futuristic basin pools that seem to float in the air. The local hot springs have been used for centuries for their healing properties. The scents of Alpine herbs and haute cuisine restaurants give you the feeling of well-earned luxury. Aqua Dome is surrounded by all sorts of hiking and skiing trails, so those who like active holiday will also not be disappointed.

Family quality time at Lalandia in Billund, Denmark
This biggest water park in Scandinavia, Lalandia offers more than just fun in the swimming pools - it is one of the best destinations for family holidays. The accommodation system is a village of private family houses, representing cozy examples of wooden Nordic architecture. The park itself is known for its many slides, big enough to take you and your whole family for a long ride together. It's great fun to explore the waterpark in the heated pools with waves and streams, also featuring activities carefully adapted to its youngest guests. The park's tropical theme comes alive not only in the interiors but also underwater - in the Cave Pool you can dive into the world of coral reef and exotic fishes. Apart from the water activities, Lalandia offers aromatherapy saunas, a large fitness area, bowling, golf and the Monky Tonky indoor playland for children aged 0-12 years. Lalandia is a great alternative to Legoland, as they are both located in the same city.

All the water lovers can rest assured that their winter season can be filled with joy and adventure. The waterpark culture allows everyone to find a suitable way for spending their winter holiday or simply a fun weekend when it gets cold outside.