Top Rated Hammams to Experience in Paris

Both women and men in North Africa and Turkey have long enjoyed the ritual steambath or hammam: a term which now designates not only the hot steam room itself, but the calming complex that also generally includes cold and tepid pools, a separate area for sloughing of dead skin with the aid of a rough mitt and black soap, and a dimly lit room filled with cushions where you can take a nap or sip a refreshing, soothing cup of mint tea after bathing.

In part due to France’s former colonial presence in North Africa, the hammam tradition has since become a genuine staple of French urban “bien être” (well-being). These are among the best spas Paris has to offer; therefore, head to one of these relaxing spots whenever you’re in need of some major de-stressing. It’s like taking a trip from Paris to Marrakesh with just a short metro ride.

2. Hammam Medina Center

Address: 43 Rue Petit, 75019 Paris, France

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Phone: +33 1 42 02 31 05

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This hammam may not be the most luxurious, but it tops the list for its remarkable ambiance, quality service, and exceptional price-to-value ratio. In an up-and-coming neighborhood in Paris, the Hammam Medina Center is both unassuming and welcoming. The colorful tile mosaics, alluring scents of argan oil, oud (a North African, scented amber), and fresh mint tea will transport you into a realm of relaxation. Indulge in their steambath, dry sauna, swim in the pool, enjoy exfoliating treatments, and savor Middle-Eastern pastries like baklava. The facility is clean, spacious, and friendly, allowing you to stay as long as you wish.

• Metro: Ourcq
• Open: Mon-Fri 11 a.m.- 10 p.m., Sun 9 a.m.- 7 p.m. (women-only); men and women Sat 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. (bathing suit required)

3. Hammam Pacha

Address: 17 Rue Mayet, 75006 Paris, France

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Phone: +33 1 43 06 55 55

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The Hammam Pacha was previously popular in the northern suburb of Saint-Denis, and due to its success, the owner opened a new location near Montparnasse in Paris. Colette Davidson and I enjoyed a luxurious afternoon at this newer address, which offers an excellent retreat from daily stresses, albeit at a slightly higher price than Hammam Medina. Since it’s women-only, men seeking hammam experiences nearby will need to explore other options.

4. Hammam at the Mosquée de Paris

Address: 39 Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire, 2 Rue Daubenton, 75005 Paris, France

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Phone: +33 1 43 31 38 20

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The hammam at the Mosquée de Paris is perhaps the most well-known in the city and offers facilities for both women and men (at different times). It features exquisite tile mosaics, marble structures, and a beautifully designed fountain. The bright and airy adjoining tearoom is often visited by birds, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Prices are reasonable, and you have the flexibility to stay for as long as you desire. However, this location offers fewer frills than both Medina and Pacha, making it ideal for a quick refreshment during a busy day.

• Metro: Gare d’Austerlitz
• Open: Women: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sat, 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Men: Tues 2 p.m.- 9 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.

5. L’Escale Orientale

Address: 94 Rue Saint-Lazare, 75009 Paris, France

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This elegant sanctuary is tucked away in a courtyard off the bustling Rue St. Lazare, near Paris’ department stores. L’Escale Orientale is perfect for couples or friends desiring a shared relaxation experience. Decorated in teal and aubergine, it offers several high-end treatments. If you prefer a more intimate and peaceful hammam experience compared to the larger public options, this is a fantastic choice, which has maintained a reputation for excellence since its establishment in 2007.

• Metro: St Lazare
• Tel: +33 (0) 148 78 20 69
• Open: By appointment only