A trip to Morocco isn’t complete until you’ve stepped into a hammam. More than just a bath, it’s a centuries-old ritual of cleansing, community, and pure relaxation that locals still do every week. Here’s everything you need to know to have an authentic (and amazing) hammam experience.
What Exactly Is a Moroccan Hammam?
- A traditional steam bath combining heat, deep exfoliation with black soap (savon beldi), and a full-body scrub using a kessa glove.
- Usually followed by a ghassoul clay mask and cold-water rinse.
- Two types:
→ Public hammams – neighborhood steam rooms used by locals (very authentic, very cheap)
→ Private/tourist hammams – inside riads, spas, or luxury venues (more comfortable, still traditional)
Top 10 Best Hammams in Morocco (2025 Edition)
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Hammam de la Rose – Marrakech (Most Romantic)
Rose-scented, candlelit, perfect for couples. The signature argan oil massage is life-changing. -
Les Bains de Marrakech – Marrakech (Best Luxury)
Hidden in a 17th-century riad. Choose the “Hammam + 1-hour massage” package – you’ll float out. -
Hammam Mouassine – Marrakech (Most Authentic Public)
Built in 1562, still used by locals. €10 for entry + €10 for scrub. Go early (7–9 AM) for the real vibe. -
Hammam Essalame – Fes (Oldest in Fes)
14th-century masterpiece near Bab Bou Jeloud. Women 7 AM–1 PM, men afternoon/evening. -
Le Bain Bleu – Chefchaouen (Blue Paradise)
The only hammam in the blue city with mountain spring water. Everything is painted blue inside. -
Hammam Dar el-Bacha – Marrakech (Royal Architecture)
The most beautiful public hammam in the country – restored in 2024. Stunning zellige tiles. -
Sultan’s Hammam at La Mamounia – Marrakech (Ultra-Luxury)
The most expensive (€150+) but you bathe under hand-carved cedar ceilings once used by kings. -
Hammam Zest – Essaouira (Ocean Breeze)
Sea-view terrace, argan & orange blossom products. Best post-beach ritual. -
Hammam Lalla Mira – Essaouira (Eco-Friendly)
Solar-powered, organic products, and the friendliest staff on the coast. -
Des 1001 Nights Hammam – Merzouga Desert
After the dunes, nothing beats a traditional scrub under the stars in a Berber tent hammam.
How a Traditional Hammam Works (Step by Step)
- Changing room → wrap yourself in a towel or disposable underwear
- Warm room – sit and sweat for 10–15 min
- Hot room – a hammam attendant covers you in black soap (made from olives)
- Lie on marble slab → vigorous kessa glove scrub (yes, you’ll lose a layer of skin!)
- Bucket rinse with warm water
- Ghassoul clay mask (for hair & body)
- Final cold rinse (shocking but refreshing)
- Relax with mint tea in the cooling room
Duration: 45–90 minutes. Tipping: 20–50 MAD for the attendant.
Public vs Private Hammam – Which One Should You Choose?
| Type | Price | Experience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public | €1–3 | 100 % authentic, locals only | Adventurous travelers |
| Riad/Private | €20–40 | Clean, English-speaking staff | First-timers, couples, women |
| Luxury Spa | €60–200 | Private suite, massage included | Honeymoon, special occasion |
Pro tip: Women – go to a public hammam at least once. It’s surprisingly welcoming and one of the most genuine cultural experiences in Morocco.
Essential Hammam Etiquette
- Bring flip-flops (floors are wet)
- Women keep underwear on (or use disposable ones provided)
- No photos inside public hammams
- Go in the afternoon if you’re shy (fewer locals)
- Drink lots of water before and after
Ready to Experience the Real Morocco?
Add a hammam to every city on your itinerary – your skin (and soul) will thank you.
Want us to pre-book the best hammams + private transfers so you don’t have to search?
📱 WhatsApp: +212 663 752 058
📧 Email: contact@amoroccotour.com
Come dirty. Leave glowing.