Madrid – Plaza Mayor: bath, kessa, and relaxing massage

Exploring Madrid offers so many highlights, but finding moments of pure relaxation can be surprisingly tricky amidst its bustling streets. That’s where this unique bath, kessa cleansing, and massage experience at Hammam Al Ándalus in Plaza Mayor comes in—an oasis of calm right in the heart of the Spanish capital. With a 90-minute session that combines thermal baths, traditional cleansing rituals, and soothing massages, it promises a genuine taste of Andalusian hammam tradition.

One of the things we love most about this experience is how it gracefully blends historic ambiance with modern comfort. The location in a building over three centuries old adds a layer of authenticity, making you feel like you’re stepping into a piece of Madrid’s layered past. However, a potential consideration is the requirement to bring your own swimwear or purchase one—something to plan ahead for if you prefer not to rent on-site.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking total relaxation, those interested in cultural traditions, or anyone needing a break from sightseeing. It’s particularly well-suited for visitors who appreciate a tranquil, authentic experience amid the city’s lively vibe. Whether you want to indulge in a calming routine or simply treat yourself to a peaceful moment, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic Andalusian Tradition: Experience the ancient ritual of Arab baths, a centuries-old relaxation practice.
• Thermal Variety: Enjoy soaking in hot, warm, and cold pools, plus a steam room for full sensory immersion.
• Cleansing Rituals: Benefit from the black soap and cotton fiber glove (kessa) to leave your skin feeling refreshed.
• Flexible Massage Options: Choose between a 15- or 30-minute massage to customize your relaxation.
• Location and Setting: Situated in a historic building near Plaza Mayor, with easy 5-minute access from key city spots.
• Affordable Luxury: For $88, you get a comprehensive, culturally rich spa experience with unlimited herbal teas.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location and Atmosphere

Hammam Al Ándalus Madrid is tucked into a building with a history spanning over 300 years, lending a palpable sense of tradition. Located just a short 5-minute walk from Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, it’s perfectly positioned for visitors exploring Madrid’s lively central district. The interior strikes a balance between historic charm and modern comfort, with clean, well-maintained facilities designed to foster relaxation.

Arriving a little before your scheduled time is recommended, as any delay means some of your session time might be lost, which is worth noting especially if you’re trying to maximize your experience. The ambiance inside is peaceful, with quiet music and soft lighting encouraging you to leave the city’s hustle behind.

The Thermal Baths and Steam Room

Once you’re inside, you’ll step into a thermal paradise. The hot, warm, and cold pools are the core of this experience, each offering different sensations and benefits. The hot pools help relax muscles, while the cold plunge invigorates and boosts circulation—a balance that helps you feel both soothed and revitalized.

The steam room adds a layer of deep cleansing, opening pores and preparing your skin for the subsequent kessa treatment. Visitors report that the variety of temperatures keeps the experience engaging and enjoyable, and that the facilities are exceptionally clean. As one reviewer noted, “The pools are great, and I loved how they alternated between different temperatures,” which helps explain the appeal.

The Kessa Cleansing Ritual

Following the baths, you’ll participate in the kessa, a traditional cleansing ritual involving black soap and a cotton glove (kessa). This part is often highlighted as a highlight—an authentic, skin-purifying experience that leaves your skin smooth and refreshed.

Rebecca, who visited in August 2025, described it as “very relaxing,” and appreciated the purifying cleanliness she felt afterward. The use of black soap and gloves effectively exfoliates the skin—an aspect appreciated by those who enjoy a bit of pampering.

The Massages

The optional massage segment can be either 15 or 30 minutes long, and it’s designed to complement the heat and cleansing with deep relaxation. While the specific techniques aren’t detailed, the inclusion of this massage adds significant value, especially since it’s included in the 90-minute total duration.

Many reviewers find this is the perfect way to unwind completely. One, who called their experience “amazing,” said the massage was “very relaxing,” and another highlighted that the combination of baths and massage provides a “perfect escape from city sightseeing.”

Refreshments and Comfort

Throughout your session, you can enjoy unlimited mint tea or rooibos with orange, which help hydrate and refresh you. The facility provides towels, and toiletries like shampoo and moisturizer, so you don’t need to bring much beyond your swimwear.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Swimsuits are mandatory; you can bring your own or purchase one at reception for €30.
• The experience is mixed (male and female), but changing rooms are separated.
• No cameras, cellphones, or large bags are allowed inside, ensuring a peaceful environment.
• Arrive early to maximize your time, as sessions cannot be extended once started.

Value and Pricing

At $88 per person for a comprehensive 90-minute session, this experience offers exceptional value. When you consider the inclusion of multiple pools, a cleansing ritual, a massage, and unlimited herbal teas, it’s a rich package that rivals many spa treatments priced much higher elsewhere.

Compared with typical spa visits or massages in Madrid, this holistic experience combines traditional cultural rituals with modern comfort, making it a unique treat rather than just a routine massage. Those who value authentic experiences and culture will find this particularly rewarding.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for relaxation seekers, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a break from sightseeing. It’s perfect if you want to indulge in a traditional Moroccan-style hammam without leaving Madrid, especially given the convenient location in the heart of the city.

It’s also well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. However, it might not be ideal for children under six, people with mobility issues, or those with claustrophobia or high blood pressure due to the nature of the facilities.

The Sum Up

This bath, kessa, and massage experience at Hammam Al Ándalus offers a wonderfully authentic and calming escape in Madrid’s vibrant center. The combination of traditional practices, relaxing pools, and a soothing massage makes it a perfect way to unwind after busy days exploring the city.

For those who appreciate cultural rituals, historical ambiance, and holistic relaxation, this tour presents a compelling value. It’s an experience that nurtures both body and mind, leaving you feeling refreshed, cleansed, and ready to face Madrid’s lively streets once more.

If you’re seeking a genuine taste of Andalusian heritage while indulging in some well-deserved pampering, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is the hammam experience suitable for everyone?
Not everyone; it’s not recommended for children under 6, people with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or high blood pressure. It’s a shared environment, so those sensitive to enclosed spaces should consider this.

Do I need to bring my own swimwear?
Yes, swimwear is required. You can bring your own or buy one at the reception for €30.

What should I expect during the session?
You’ll enjoy thermal pools at different temperatures, a steam room, a 15- or 30-minute massage (depending on your choice), and a 15-minute kessa cleansing with black soap and a cotton glove.

Is the experience all indoors?
Yes, the entire spa experience takes place indoors within a historic building in Madrid’s city center.

How long in advance should I arrive?
Arriving a little earlier than your scheduled time is advisable to make the most of your session, as late arrivals can lose time.

Are there any restrictions on photography or recording?
Yes, cameras, cellphones, and video recording are not permitted inside to maintain a peaceful environment.

This authentic Madrid experience offers a peaceful pause, blending cultural tradition with modern comfort—ideal for travelers wanting to indulge in relaxation and tradition alike.