Hammam Bern — Oktogon

The Hammam Bern is situated in the Marzili district, below the Bundesterrasse, on the foundations of Bern’s first gasworks, dating from the 19th century. The octagonal building — the ‘Oktogon’ — gave the venue its name. It is operated by Aqua-Spa-Resorts AG, which also owns the Hürlimannbad in Zurich.

At its heart is the traditional hammam ritual spread over four floors: for around two hours, guests alternate between warm steam rooms, two exfoliation sessions using a coarse glove and soap foam, and a bath beneath the 13-metre-high dome. To finish, you relax on the warm belly stones. A pestemal, exfoliating glove and tea in the bistro are included in the admission price.

No bookings are taken for the ritual, but the number of guests is limited — anyone who books a treatment is guaranteed entry. You can complement your visit with soap-foam and oil massages, a rhassoul wrap or a day-spa package, which is also available for couples. Mondays are designated as ‘Days of Silence’ and are intended to be particularly peaceful.