Are you familiar with a hammam? It's a Turkish bath that's sort of like a public steam room. And contrary to what you might think, these relaxing spas aren't just found in Turkey. There are plenty of them around the world. Even in the bustling French capital. In fact, the hammams in Paris tend to be pretty popular during the colder seasons Specifically notable ones like Les Bains du Marais, Les Cents Ciels, Hammam Medina, and even Mosquée de Paris. From the gentlest autumn breezes to the harshest winter spells, these hammams provide the warmth you need in such a busy metropolis like Paris.
Mosquée de Paris
Let's start this list with the Grand Mosque of Paris. Located on Place du Puits de l'Ermite in the 5th arrondissement, it's the biggest place of worship for the Muslim community in the French capital. In fact, it's even the biggest mosque in all of France. As a central spot for Islam in the country, it's almost weird to think that there's a hammam here. But there is and it's open to the public! For only €18.00, you can enjoy the Grand Mosque's relaxing Turkish baths. They even offer massages and waxing services too!
Source: La Grande Mosquée De Paris/Officielle مسجد باريس الكبير الصفحة الرسمية Facebook Page
Les Bains du Marais
In terms of the finest hammam in Paris, many locals would agree that Les Bains du Marais is a good contender. Not only is it one of the most famous
spas in Paris, but it's even a pretty popular restaurant as well. With so much to offer, it's no wonder that both locals and tourists alike have many good things to say about the place. But as for its hammam, the ambient lighting yet open space allows for maximum relaxation no matter how many people are in there. Even when you're feeling shy about exposing your body, you have very little to worry about in this establishment!
Source: Les Bains du Marais Facebook Page
Les Cents Ciels
The hammam at Les Cents Ciels on the
11th arrondissement's Rue de Nemours offers even more intimate lighting. It's not so dark that you can't find your way around here, but it's also not so bright that you're completely exposed. With the lighted candles and burgundy tiles, the atmosphere is just right. Some would say that it even feels romantic, which makes going here on Saturdays perfect. Why? Because this hammam is open to both men and women during the weekend. You and your special someone can enjoy this hammam together on the weekend! What's not to love?
Source: Hammam Les Cent Ciels République Facebook Page
O’Kari Hammam
Speaking of gendered hammams in Paris, this is what separates the O’Kari Hammam from the rest of its kind in the city. Located on Rue Dussoubs in the
2nd arrondissement, O’Kari Hammam is only for women. Members of the “
fairer sex” can walk around in the nude for as much as they want and they won't be in any danger of peeping toms. Rest assured that the spa is well-protected, given its nature. And as for the hammam here, women can dip in the hot Turkish bath and completely immerse themselves in such relaxing warm waters.
Source: O’Kari Hammam
Hammam Pacha
Similarly, Hammam Pacha is another of the very few spas in Paris for women only. With two locations in different
neighborhoods of Paris—one in the Saint-Denis suburbs and another in
Montparnasse—you can bet that many ladies will want to experience the hammam here. Despite being a tad more expensive than many of the hotspots on this list, its relaxing services still make every cent worth it. The hammam itself is pretty neat. It's spacious, airy, and surprisingly bright. It's a far cry from the more intimately-lit hammams on this list. And that's not necessarily a bad thing!
Source: Hammam Pacha Facebook Page
Hammam Medina
It's not far-fetched to say that Hammam Medina on Rue Petit is the quintessential hammam in Paris. The scents of argan oil, mint tea, and oud linger in the air, specifically within the colorfully-tiled Turkish baths of this beloved establishment. And as you sit and enjoy its relaxing properties, you also have the option of taking a steambath, getting a massage, a scrub down, or swimming in the pool afterward. With so much on offer, you'd expect that this place will cost a lot, wouldn't you? but it won't! It'll only cost you around €49.00 to €129.00 per person. Not bad, right?
Source: Hammam Medina
L'Escale Orientale
And finally, there's L'Escale Orientale on Rue St Lazare in the
9th arrondissement. This is yet another perfect hammam in Paris since it's near many popular hotspots. You won't have trouble finding it. And when you do, get ready for a day of ultimate relaxation! The hammam here may be comparatively smaller than all the others on this list, but that is its charm! You don't have to worry about big crowds when you want to sit back and relax here. With very few people around you, you can just unwind in peace and serenity.
Source: L'Escale Orientale Facebook Page
When the autumn or winter seasons get a little too much in the French capital, it's time to retreat to the finest hammams in Paris. They'll warm you up unlike any other! Even more so than the coziest fireplace in your luxury home!