Turkish-style thermal baths, or hammams, are known in Spanish as baños arabes (Arab baths) and as Banys Arabs in Catalan. They are especially common in the south, with most of Andalusia's main cities having one, while there is also one in Madrid too.
Note that they aren't all still in use! Some are in ruins and are only of archeological interest. The thermal baths on this page are the ones that are still functioning.
Unlike in some countries, such as Hungary, thermal baths in Spain are generally unisex. Massages and other services associated with spas are available, usually at a reduced cost.
1. Medina Mayrit Arabic Baths in Madrid
Very central Turkish-style thermal baths in Madrid, five minutes' walk from Sol on c/Atocha (the road that leads to the main train station).The baths are in three rooms with varying temperatures and entry includes a message.
2. Hammam Baños Árabes in Granada
Seconds' walk from Plaza Nueva, the main square in Granada, a session at the Granada Hammam is an ideal way to finish your day at the Alhambra. In fact, you can book a Alhambra Tour with Arab Bath Visit to combine the two. And you should always Book Your Alhambra Tickets in advance...3. Aire de Sevilla Baths in Seville
Recently restored thermal baths on the site of a 16th century hammam in the picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, the Aire de Sevilla offers a number of beauty treatments, some I've heard of (geotherapy) some I haven't (fangotherapy, anyone?). They also have a tea room and shop.4. El Hammam in Malaga
There isn't a great deal to do in Malaga, so a stop here will sooth your wandering feet and wile away the hours until your bus out of town. This bath offers massages with essential oils as well as soap-and-water massages in the bath area.El Hammam is not far from Plaza de la Merced in central Malaga.
