Fodor's Expert Review Dampfbad Basel

An urban oasis tucked inside a former train station, this Turkish-style hammam has a quaint and cozy feel. True to the traditional spa experience in the Middle East, guests are invited to relax in one of two steam rooms, cleanse and exfoliate their skin using a bath mitt and mild olive oil soap, and then relax in a warm-water basin. Unlike many Swiss spas, the Dampfbad does not require you to be nude and provides bath sheets to be worn throughout the hammam. The spa is reserved just for women all day Monday and for men on Wednesday after 4 pm. Much-appreciated perks include high-end health and beauty products as well as complimentary herbal tea, fresh fruit, and water in the resting lounge. The Dampfbad offers an extensive menu of excellent massage services, including deep-tissue and reflexology. Reservations are essential.