Many remnants of the glory days of Al-Andalus are still present in modern Seville. One of the most iconic symbols of Moorish Spain might just be the ancient Arab bath. With its age-old relaxation and cleansing rituals, the hammam has remained an icon for centuries, and everything from the Arab-style bathhouses to the modern, state-of-the-art spa facilities in Seville today draw inspiration from these spaces.
If relaxing in a luxurious spa or hammam in Seville sounds like your kind of thing, read on for our top recommendations.
Las Termas de Hispalis
“Hispalis” is one of the most ancient names that was used for Seville, bestowed upon the city by the Romans centuries ago. The name of Las Termas de Hispalis is a nod to the city’s importance in ancient Andalusia, an environment that the hammam strives to recreate.
Here, ancient Arabic and Roman bathing rituals come together under one roof in Seville’s historic old Jewish quarter to create a sensual experience unlike any other. Its soothing candle lit rooms, decorated by extravagant tiled murals, play host to a wealth of luxurious treatments, from the traditional thermal circuit to aromatherapy sessions to salt-water flotariums.
AIRE Ancient Baths
Housed in a breathtaking Mudéjar-style palace just a few blocks away from the cathedral, an experience at AIRE Ancient Baths will transport you far from the worries and stresses of everyday life into a world of luxurious R&R.
Despite its Arabic influences, the essence of Spain is the star of the show here, with top-quality Spanish products being used in many treatments (from olive oil facials to wine baths).
In the mood for a massage? Go the traditional route, or up the ante with some argan oil. No matter which of their indulgent experiences you decide to treat yourself to, don’t leave without checking out the stunning rooftop pool with views of the cathedral and Giralda.
Spa Gran Meliá Colón
Stepping away from the traditional Arabic baths, the spa at the Gran Meliá Colón hotel offers an experience that skews towards the contemporary, but is no less luxurious.
Each experience is tailor-made to fit your needs and desires, so no two guests will ever have exactly the same treatment.
Their expertly trained, caring staff uses specially developed plant-based products in nearly all spa rituals, and even provides recommendations for how to continue your treatment long after you’ve left the spa itself. Their modern take on relaxation, health and beauty is an experience that’s worth every cent.
Agua y Salud
Just steps away from the colorful Triana neighborhood in the laid-back Los Remedios district, Agua y Salud’s off-the-beaten-path location is just the first element in a relaxation ritual unlike any other. As Seville’s premier urban spa, this place prides itself on the use of the latest and greatest technology to create a bespoke, streamlined experience that’s sure to leave you refreshed and revitalized.
Intimate massage facilities, a traditional Finnish-style sauna, and a thermal circuit that includes a saltwater pool kept at a constant 36º Celsius (97º Fahrenheit) are just a few of the offerings that await you at this renowned facility.
They even make celebrating a special occasion easier than ever, with special packages designed for couples, bachelorette getaways, and more.
Bodyna Las Casas del Rey de Baeza
A stunning massage and beauty treatment center plus a rooftop pool atop a hotel housed in a magnificent 18th-century building? Count us in.
The location on the rooftop of the Las Casas del Rey de Baeza hotel isn’t just the only thing we love about Bodyna, though. Their next-level treatments and friendly, professional staff help take the experience from “fabulous” to “simply unforgettable.”
Ready for a perfect day of R&R complete with the passionate sevillano essence you know and love? Indulge in one of their massages or beauty rituals, then head to the pool or solarium to sip on a healthy, fresh fruit juice courtesy of the hotel rooftop bar. It all comes with breathtaking views of the city that, more than likely, captured your heart at first glance.
Masajes con Karma
Looking for a relaxing massage? Look no further than Masajes con Karma. This small spa ideally located on Calle Feria is a true hidden gem, a relaxing oasis in a bustling part of the city.
Specializing in a variety of massage types, from reiki, to kobido, from craniosacral therapy to chiromassage, the experts here can completely personalize your treatment to leave you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to face the world anew. The tranquil ambiance, combined with the skilled hands of experienced therapists, ensures that your visit is a deeply restorative experience.
Whether you’re seeking relief from stress, muscle tension, or simply looking to indulge in some self-care, Masajes con Karma provides a sanctuary where your well-being is the top priority.
EME M Spa
While many head to the EME hotel for unparalleled views of the cathedral from their rooftop terrace, their ground floor provides a sanctuary away from the hubbub outside. Relax in the recently installed spa, featuring a fully equipped hammam in Seville with a thermal circuit and cervical cascade, you will feel like a new person once your experience is complete.
Once you are finished with the circuit, why not take advantage of one of the luxurious treatments on offer, each one adapted to your unique needs.
Want to continue the experience? Head up to the rooftop to enjoy a cocktail or two while taking in the breathtaking unobstructed view of the cathedral due to its envious location directly opposite this world heritage site.
Ancient baths
It would be remiss not to mention where you can see some of the ancient baths that are still standing in the city.
Though no longer in use as hammams, you can still take in the atmosphere and be transported back to ancient Seville and a time where the emirs ruled the city.
Cervecería Giralda
Step back in time as you enter this recently rediscovered treasure. During renovations to Cervecería Giralda in 2020, underneath the previous 1920s era decor, an extremely well preserved 12th century hammam came to light.
As you enter, look up at the ceiling where you will see the original dome that covered the baths and the recesses that once allowed in natural light for the bathers.
Take note also of the decorative plasterwork which has survived for centuries hidden from view. This restaurant also features views of its namesake tower from its terrace. Well worth a visit for any hungry history buff.
San Marco Santa Cruz
San Marco Santa Cruz is located within another 12th century hammam, and it retains the sense of tranquility and luxury that would have been present in the original baths.
We recommend trying their exquisite tasting menu for a taste of what they are all about.
They also have a very good variety for vegetarians and gluten free diners so whatever your dietary requirement, you will be guaranteed to have a fantastic experience in an unforgettable location.
Alcazar
The baths of Doña María de Padilla under the Alcazar are easy to miss if you aren’t looking for them. Hidden under the Patio del Cruzero, the stunning baths offer cooling respite from the blazing summer sun.
Fans of Game of Thrones will also recognize this location as one of the rooms in the palace of Sunspear in Dorne.
These baths, named after the mistress of King Peter the Cruel, have a very long and interesting history. Want to find out more? Enjoy VIP access to this amazing building – and experience it with an expert guide – on our Alone in the Alcazar Tour!
Update Notice: This post was updated on June 24, 2024.
