Wellness and beauty in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a wonderful city to pamper yourself in. Whether you're in the mood for a quick workout, an entire day of relaxing treatments or several days of secluded pampering, Amsterdam offers a wide range of wellness and beauty centres. With so much choice, you’re bound to leave the city with a healthy glow and spring in your step!
Many of Amsterdam’s upper-end hotels have impressive spa areas with a wide-range of beauty treatments available, and most are open to day visitors. But this being Amsterdam, there are also some one-of-a-kind places you can head to for some sublime relaxation.
Saunas and spas
Eclectic Amsterdam boasts a variety of saunas ranging from the luxurious Sauna Deco, styled with historic Art Deco pieces, to a very affordable sauna run by volunteers within a squatter’s complex called Sauna Fenomeen. For massages, Jacuzzis, rain showers and "relaxation zones", visit one of Amsterdam’s excellent spas. Sento Spa sports a roof terrace with panoramic views over the historic centre. Recently refurbished Spa Zuiver arguably takes the prize for the most idyllic location, surrounded by the city's lovely forested park Amsterdamse Bos.
Water-based relaxation
If gently submerging yourself in warm salt water sounds like heaven to you, then head to Koan Float in the city centre. Or how about taking a dip at swimming pool De Mirandabad - complete with palm trees and a wave machine - or calm art deco-inspired paddling at Zuiderbad swimming pool. Just 25 minutes outside of Amsterdam, you'll find some eye-catching options - treat yourself to the thermal baths at Ridderrode or relax under the hydromassage at the Spaarnwoude Resort.
Go fishing
This might sound a bit fishy, but Amsterdam’s Dr. Fish is the newest trend in wellness treatments. The feeling of fish nibbling at your hands and feet may feel a little strange at first, but you’ll soon discover just how relaxing it is. It's the ultimate treatment for clean, soft hands. And to round off the pampering, you are served a delightful glass of bubbly in the lounge afterwards. They also offer facials, body massages and manicures.
Beauty
A quick grooming does wonders! And that doesn’t just apply to the ladies. S.Y.U. is a grooming salon especially for men. Gents can go in for a haircut and shave, but can also indulge in a facial or a great hair style. Or how about getting your new look while enjoying a sneak preview of what's new in the art scene? Galerie de Salon in the Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes) is a barber shop and art gallery all in one!
No jacket required
Amsterdam spas and saunas can be a bit of an eye-opener for some visitors. Most of them have a no-clothes policy and many are mixed-gender. If this makes you feel a little uncomfortable about visiting, ask about “bathing suit day” or if they have special “ladies only” times.
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