Marrakech Hammam public vs luxury
Marrakech Hammam public vs luxury
Hammam in Marrakesh city is a must-do activity if you have a free day in the Red City. Most tourists want to try it because it helps them relax and feel more comfortable during their holiday in Morocco. However, there are two hammam options: a public hammam, where locals usually go, and a luxury hammam that offers a more private and comfortable experience. In this blog, we will explain the differences between these two options below.
1. Public Hammam in Marrakech (Authentic Experience)
This option is where locals usually go, offering a truly authentic Moroccan experience. However, please keep in mind that you need to bring your own towel, shampoo, and other personal items. The space is shared with other people, as it is a traditional public bathhouse. If you forget to bring anything, you can usually buy the necessary items from small shops located next to the hammam.
Before starting the hammam, you should leave your bag and personal belongings at the reception. After you finish your session, you can collect them again before leaving. The average price for a public hammam in Marrakech ranges between 40 and 70 Moroccan dirhams, which is approximately 7 euros, making it an affordable and authentic local experience.
2. Luxury Hammam in Marrakech (Comfortable Tourist Experience)
The luxury hammam is the option preferred by many tourists who want to enjoy the traditional Moroccan bath in a more comfortable and private setting. Unlike the public hammam, luxury hammams usually offer private or semi-private rooms, professional staff, and additional spa treatments such as massages, argan oil treatments, and body scrubs with black soap.
However, the heat in luxury hammams is usually less intense compared to traditional public hammams, as they are designed to be more comfortable for international visitors who may not be used to very high temperatures.
Luxury hammams can be found almost everywhere in Marrakech, especially inside riads, hotels, and spa centers. Many accommodations offer this experience directly to their guests. The average price generally ranges between 250 and 600 Moroccan dirhams (around 25–60 euros) depending on the services included.
Even though there are many luxury hammams available, it is important to check reviews or ask for recommendations before booking. Some places are not hot enough and may feel more like a regular shower rather than a traditional Moroccan hammam experience. Choosing a well-recommended place will help ensure you enjoy the authentic ritual in a comfortable environment.
What Happens During a Hammam Session ?
The authentic hammam session usually starts with relaxing in a warm steam room to open the pores. After a 10 minutes, the skin is cleaned using black soap (Savon Beldi). Then the body is scrubbed with a special exfoliating glove called Kessa to remove dead skin. Finally, you rinse with warm water and sometimes finish with shampoo or argan oil treatment.
Separate Areas for Men and Women
Tourists often wonder about this:
In traditional public hammams, men and women use separate areas or different time schedules. This ensures privacy and comfort for everyone.
The Best Time to Visit a Hammam
Helpful travel advice:
The best time to visit a hammam is after a long travel day, a desert tour, or a day exploring the medina, as it helps relax the muscles and refresh the body.
Tourists love cultural tips:
The hammam is an important part of Moroccan culture and has been used for centuries as both a cleansing ritual and a social gathering place.