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Best Hammam in Marrakech for Couples & What to Expect!

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I’d read that no visit to Marrakech is complete without experiencing a traditional hammam—but the idea of a naked public bath is just not for us! So, how could we do this?

Spa days and massages aren’t typically our thing, but the idea of this ancient cleansing ritual—with steamy rooms, aromatic oils and that exfoliation just sounded strangely compelling. However, compelling or not, I was not about to get naked in public.

So, I searched for a solution that kept our modesty intact and I found it!  A private couples’ hammam in the heart of the medina, offering all the traditions you’d expect without the awkwardness.

But did it live up to our expectations? Did we leave feeling rejuvenated or regretful? Keep reading to find out!

What Is A Moroccan Hammam : A First Timer’s Guide

A Moroccan hammam is not just a bathhouse—it’s an ancient ritual of cleansing, relaxation, and renewal. You’ll step into steamy, tile-lined rooms where locals gather, buckets of hot water are poured over your skin, and a vigorous (very vigorous) scrub removes every trace of dead skin.

For centuries, hammams were a necessity, not a luxury. With no plumbing at home, people visited public bathhouses to wash, socialise, and prepare for prayer. Over time, these communal spaces became a key part of Moroccan life—places for social connection, purification, and rejuvenation.

Public Hammams

These are the traditional, no-frills bathhouses where locals go for a deep cleanse. Expect separate areas for men and women, minimal tourist-friendly guidance, and a raw, authentic (and intense) scrubbing experience—you’ll often need to bring your own essentials.

If you’re adventurous and comfortable stripping down, this is the most culturally immersive way to experience a Moroccan hammam.

Private Hammams & Spas (With Options for Couples)

If you prefer a more relaxing, private experience, private hammams offer luxurious settings, personal treatment rooms, and even couples’ options.

These spas blend Moroccan traditions with modern spa comforts, allowing you to enjoy the hammam ritual without the crowds—and with a lot more privacy.

While traditional hammams still exist in Marrakech’s bustling medina, many private hammams now cater to visitors looking for a more intimate, stress-free experience.

Can You Find a Private Couples Hammam in Marrakech?

Absolutely! Many private hammams cater to couples, offering a private, stress-free version of the traditional  Moroccan ritual.

Since we’re both shy and wanted to experience this together (or maybe we were both too nervous to go alone!), I searched for the perfect private hammam in the medina.

Did we find the right one? Well here’s what happened…

Our Private Hammam Experience : First Thoughts

When I first told Gerry we were going to experience a Moroccan hammam, his reaction was less than enthusiastic.

Fair questions. Since neither of us had ever done anything remotely like this, I knew we’d need a private couples’ hammam as there was no way Gerry would be going solo!

I spent hours researching, looking for somewhere that would feel authentic but also comfortable for first-timers. That’s when I found a gorgeous riad in the heart of the medina offering private hammam experiences for couples with great reviews.

The Riad : An Authentic Spa in The Heart Of The Medina

From the outside, the ochre-colored walls of the medina reveal very little of what lay ahead. We entered through an ancient wooden door and stepped into a different world where comfortable chairs lined a small pool, framed by bougainvillea creeping up the courtyard walls.

Expect low lighting, the lightest touch of incense, and the gentle sound of water. The steam rooms and pools, made from Moroccan marble and vibrant Zéliges tiles, of emerald and turquoise shades.

What Happens in a Moroccan Hammam? (Our step-by-step guide)

We were greeted at the reception by staff who spoke excellent English and French. The booking confirmation process was easy. They walked us through the treatments and asked a few simple questions:

Each step was carefully explained and thankfully, no prior hammam knowledge was needed.

The Changing Rooms

We were handed freshly laundered robes and slippers and led to a small private room to change. The attendant gently reassured us that underwear was mandatory for men and optional for women.

It would be fair to say that we had no idea what to expect and both felt a little anxious; I’d go so far as to say embarrassed; this entire process was a first for us both.

Gerry had an old pair of speedos (nice) and I, on the other hand, came prepared with an old one-piece swimsuit, thinking I’d cracked the modesty dilemma.

Once ready we placed our clothes in a locker and went in search of our steam room!

Glorious Hot Steam and Hot Water

The room had subdued lighting and exuded relaxation from the outset.  The attendant (a lady) took control from the start. Madame… she said as she gestured to my swimsuit, before promptly pulling it down to my waist. Well, that escalated quickly!

Lesson learned: One-piece swimsuits are NOT your friend in a hammam. Just wear underwear or a bikini bottom. And rest assured, those undergarments remained in place for the entire experience!

The steam bath was less of a bath—there was no water to soak in and no tub. Instead, we were led to a warm marble slab, its surface heated just enough to melt away any concerns. The air was thick with steam, and smelt divine – a subtle fragrance and not at all overpowering.

There was very little talking—not out of awkwardness, but because words weren’t needed. Our attendants didn’t speak English, but their movements were deliberate and confident, guiding us through each step.

And silence felt easy. There was something incredibly calming about the rhythm of this experience—the water, the soap, the methodical scrubbing.  And the scent and the warm marble.

We very quickly understood why this is a timeless ritual- I already didn’t want it to end and writing this I really want to go again!

Traditional Moroccan Black Soap

A thin layer of Moroccan black soap was smoothed over our skin and we were left to rest, letting the soap soak in and work its magic. After a few moments, the attendants returned, rinsing us in a cycle of hot, warm, and cool water.

Crafted from olive oil and macerated olives, Moroccan black soap is an essential part of the hammam ritual. I expected it to have a strong scent—but it was surprisingly mild. A faint hint of amber that lingered in the steam, whatever it was it was calming.  At this point all nerves had disappeared.

So, why is black soap so revered in Moroccan culture? It’s not just about cleansing—it’s about reviving the skin.

Enough relaxing!  Our attendants slipped on kessa gloves—coarse, textured mitts designed to scrub away layers of dead skin. And scrub, they did. Vigorously.

The intensity of the scrubbing left us tingling all over—somewhere between exhilaration and mild shock.  And wishing to return to the gentle washing!

Moroccan Rhassoul Clay Mask

Just as the scrubbing ended another layer of treatment began.

A fresh round of soap, oil, rinsing, and waiting followed by a cool layer of Rhassoul clay, smoothing over our skin in a purifying mask.

This natural mineral clay has been sourced from the Atlas Mountains for centuries. Favoured for its detoxifying, exfoliating, and nourishing properties, it’s packed with Silica, Magnesium, and Calcium and is esteemed worldwide for skin care.

We were left alone to let the clay work its magic. The warmth of the hammam, the stream, the perfume, it was so relaxing I could have easily fallen asleep.

Until the rinsing started again.

Scrub Scrub Scrub and Rinse

Buckets of warm water poured over us, washing away every last trace of the clay. A gentle hair wash, a soothing head massage, and one final deep scrub and cleanse later—we were scrubbed, polished, and purified.

Expect this process to last around 45 minutes—never uncomfortable, and always deeply relaxing.

Although, judging by Gerry’s chuckles as my swimsuit was yanked down again, I suspect he found parts of it slightly more amusing than I did! But that aside the whole experience was much better than I expected.

The Massage And The Scented Oils

After the steam, soap, and final rinse, we wrapped ourselves in robes and were led into another dimly lit, incense-infused room. The candles flickered and while I’m usually not a fan of incense this was subtle—just enough to set the mood.

I’m not a massage fan usually. The idea of someone kneading my back usually fills me with more anxiety than relaxation. But since it was part of the package, I decided to go with the flow.

And within minutes? I didn’t want it to end.

Warm essential oils gliding over our skin, our attendants worked from fingertips to toes, releasing  every last bit of tension. And when they finished and left us alone in our candlelit cocoon.

I had expected that we’d laugh at the experience, we very often giggle like children.

Instead? We both fell into a blissful silence, lost in the post-hammam haze. It was glorious. 

Moroccan Mint Tea – The Perfect Ending

All too soon, it was over.

We drifted back to the changing room, wrapped in that post-hammam bliss. Once dressed, we returned to the central courtyard, where a glass of fresh Moroccan mint tea awaited us.

We had developed a real love for this tea during our time in Morocco, but this cup tasted even better.

There we sat, beside the pool- In the height of summer, I imagine the cool water would be the perfect. But today, we were content to just sit, sip, and enjoy the moment.

It was the perfect ending.

Was This the Best Moroccan Hammam in Marrakech?

Is this the best hammam in Marrakech? We can’t say for sure.

I’ll admit—before we went, I had doubts. We’re both pretty down-to-earth, and I’d read a few online accounts that made me wonder if we’d made a mistake. Would it be too awkward? However, from the moment we stepped inside, those worries disappeared.

A Moroccan hammam is more than a spa treatment—it’s an authentic cultural experience. And yes, you have to leave your modesty at the door. But the attendants are professional, the atmosphere calming, that it’s easy to relax and enjoy the ritual.

Book Your Couples Hammam in Marrakech!

If we’d had more time in Marrakech, I’d have absolutely booked a second visit. Just writing this makes me yearn to return!

For anyone worried about the undressing aspect, don’t be. The lighting is subtle, the staff are respectful, and you’ll never feel as clean as you do after a traditional hammam.

Our couples’ hammam more than exceeded our expectations and if you’re visiting Marrakech, book your hammam experience now because the couples rooms are limited—and then prepare for a few hours of pure, tranquil escape.

Spas Offering Couples Hammam

There are a few private spas and hammam in the Medina offering a mixed-gender experience. I know that in ours (Al Ksar & Spa) had just one room available so you would need to book ahead to ensure availability. And also do mention when booking that you would like the Hammam together.

Hammam FAQ – Your Top Questions Answered

We went into our hammam experience unsure of what to expect—and came out hooked. If you’re on the fence, trust us, it’s worth it.

Still have questions? Here are the answers to some of the most common ones—and a few more reasons why you should book your own hammam experience.

How much does a hammam session cost in Marrakech?

Hammam prices vary depending on whether you choose a public or private experience and which treatments you add.

Luxury spas may charge more, especially for extras like argan oil massages.

Are there any special rules or etiquette to follow in a hammam?

Yes! Moroccan hammams have some etiquette rules, so keep these in mind:

What should I take to the hammam in Marrakech?

If visiting a private hammam, they’ll provide everything—you only need swimwear, or some old undies and fresh underwear for after.

In a public hammam you may be expected to bring :

What do you wear In a private hammam?

You can choose your comfort and privacy level, but most hammams have rules:

Top Tip: Never go fully naked in a public hammam—it’s not the norm in Morocco!

How long does a typical hammam session last?

A hammam session usually lasts 45 minutes to an hour—but time flies!

We booked a 45-minute hammam and a 30-minute massage, and honestly, I wish I’d gone for longer! If you love spa treatments, opt for the extended experience.

What are the benefits of going to a hammam?

Beyond feeling incredibly clean, hammams are known for:

Regular hammam visits are a key part of Moroccan wellness culture, and after experiencing one, it’s easy to see why.

How Common Are Couples’ Hammams in Marrakech?

While hammams are a big part of Moroccan culture, most aren’t designed for couples. Many traditional hammams have separate areas for men and women, making a shared experience difficult to find.

Even private hammams, which are more flexible, often have only one couples’ room, meaning availability is limited. If you’re set on experiencing a hammam together, book in advance—especially in peak season!

Top Tip: When booking, specifically ask if they offer a couples’ hammam—some are listed as private hammams but still separate men and women.

Finally : Is it Worth Taking A Traditional Hammam in Marrakech?

For us? Absolutely.

This was an experience completely outside our comfort zone, but we loved every second of it. Would I brave a public hammam alone? Maybe not (yet!), but if I went with a friend or booked a guided tour, I’d definitely maybe consider it.

If you’re looking for something uniquely Moroccan, something that immerses you in local culture while leaving you completely refreshed, then don’t hesitate.

The real test of a great experience is simple: Would we go again? And would we recommend this to a friend?

Yes. Without hesitation.

More Inspiration for Your Marrakech Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, there’s so much to see beyond the main squares and souks. Whether you’re dreaming of ancient kasbahs, learning to cook the perfect tagine, or escaping into the Atlas Mountains, we’ve written about it!

Check out these guides to make the most of your time in Morocco :

Which experience are you most excited about? Maybe visit me on Facebook or Instagram and let me know!