A Guide to the Best Body to Body Massage in Amsterdam
You walk into a quiet street in De Pijp after a long day, tired from meetings, commuting, and the usual Amsterdam rain. You just want to feel human again-not just another face in the crowd. That’s when you think about body to body massage. Not just a massage. Not just relaxation. But something deeper. Something that melts stress into the floorboards and leaves you breathing again.
Amsterdam has no shortage of massage places. But not all body to body massages are made the same. Some are spa experiences with soft lighting and lavender oil. Others? They’re intimate, intentional, and designed to reconnect you with your own body. This guide cuts through the noise. No fluff. Just what actually works in Amsterdam right now.
What Exactly Is Body to Body Massage?
Body to body massage means the therapist uses their own body-forearms, elbows, hips, even feet-to apply pressure and glide over yours. It’s not about touching in a sexual way. It’s about using the natural warmth and weight of another human to create deep, flowing pressure. Think of it like a warm wave moving over you, not fingers poking at knots.
This style comes from ancient traditions in Thailand and India, but today’s Amsterdam version blends those roots with modern sensuality and boundaries. You lie on a heated table, wrapped in towels. The therapist, wearing light clothing, uses oil to move smoothly across your skin. The pressure is firm but never painful. The rhythm is slow. The room is quiet. And for the first time in weeks, you forget your to-do list.
Why Try It in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam isn’t just canals and bikes. It’s one of the most open-minded cities in Europe when it comes to bodywork. People here don’t shy away from touch as therapy. There’s a reason why body to body massage has grown so fast here: it works.
After a 60-minute session, most clients report:
- Deep muscle release-especially in the back, shoulders, and hips
- Lower cortisol levels (stress hormone) within hours
- Improved sleep for 3-4 nights straight
- Emotional release-some cry. Some laugh. Some just lie still, stunned by how calm they feel
One client, Martine, 42, a graphic designer from Oud-West, told me: “I came in for back pain. Left feeling like I’d been hugged by the ocean.” That’s not marketing. That’s real.
Types of Body to Body Massage in Amsterdam
Not all body to body sessions are alike. Here’s what you’ll actually find in Amsterdam:
- Classic Body to Body - Focus on deep tissue and slow, rhythmic strokes. Best for stress relief and muscle tension. Uses coconut or almond oil.
- Tantra-Inspired Body to Body - Slower, more meditative. Includes breathwork and energy flow. Often includes eye contact and silence. For those seeking emotional release, not just physical.
- Hot Stone Body to Body - Warm stones are placed along the spine and moved with the therapist’s body. Perfect for winter months or chronic stiffness.
- Custom Sensual Flow - Not erotic, but highly intimate. Designed for people who feel disconnected from their bodies. Uses warm oils and gentle pressure to rebuild body awareness.
Most places offer 60, 90, or 120-minute sessions. Stick to 90 minutes if it’s your first time. Anything shorter won’t let the deep relaxation kick in.
Where to Find the Best Body to Body Massage in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has hundreds of massage studios. But only a handful do body to body right. Here’s where locals go:
- Harmony Studio (De Pijp) - Quiet, minimalist space. Therapists are trained in Thai and Tantra. No photos online. You book by phone. Worth the wait.
- Stillness Collective (Jordaan) - Focuses on emotional healing. Sessions include a 10-minute quiet chat before and after. Great if you’re feeling emotionally drained.
- Waves Bodywork (Oud-Zuid) - Uses organic oils and heated tables. Offers hot stone body to body. Popular with athletes and nurses.
- The Lotus Room (Amsterdam North) - More affordable, no frills. Good for first-timers. Therapists are all certified in bodywork, not just massage.
Pro tip: Avoid places that advertise “erotic” or “adult” services. Real body to body massage is about connection, not stimulation. If the website looks like a dating app, walk away.
What to Expect During Your First Session
You’ll arrive in street clothes. The therapist will show you to a private room with soft lighting, a heated table, and calming music. You’ll undress to your comfort level-most people keep underwear on. You’ll be covered with towels the whole time.
The therapist will leave while you get settled. When you’re ready, you’ll ring a bell. They’ll come in quietly, oil their hands, and begin. No talking. No questions. Just movement.
The pressure starts light, then deepens. You might feel a strange warmth spreading through your shoulders. Or a sudden release in your lower back. Some people fall asleep. Others stay wide awake, surprised by how present they feel.
Afterward, you’ll have time to rest. Tea is offered. No rush. The therapist might ask how you felt-but only if you want to talk. Most people just nod, smile, and leave quietly.
Pricing and How to Book
Prices in Amsterdam vary by location and therapist experience:
- 60 minutes: €80-€110
- 90 minutes: €120-€160
- 120 minutes: €180-€240
Most places require a deposit (usually €30-€50) to book. Cancellations under 24 hours? You pay the full fee. That’s standard. It’s not about profit-it’s about respecting the therapist’s time and the space they hold for you.
Booking: Call or email. Most studios don’t have online booking. Why? Because this isn’t a haircut. It’s a personal experience. They want to talk to you first, even if it’s just for 5 minutes.
Safety Tips: What You Need to Know
Body to body massage is safe when done right. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Always choose a certified therapist. Ask if they’re trained in bodywork, not just massage.
- Never feel pressured to remove more clothing than you’re comfortable with.
- If the therapist initiates any sexual contact-leave. Immediately. Report it.
- Check reviews on Google or Trustpilot. Look for phrases like “professional,” “respectful,” “no pressure.”
- Don’t go if you’re pregnant, have open wounds, or are recovering from surgery. Ask your doctor first.
Amsterdam has strict laws around bodywork. Legitimate studios follow them. If something feels off, trust your gut. You’re not being rude-you’re protecting your energy.
Body to Body Massage vs. Traditional Massage in Amsterdam
| Feature | Body to Body Massage | Traditional Massage |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Therapist’s body (arms, elbows, hips) glides over yours | Hands and fingers only |
| Pressure | Deeper, more even, fluid | Can be patchy or too light |
| Oil Used | Warm, natural oils (coconut, almond, sesame) | Often synthetic or lighter oils |
| Duration to Relax | Usually 30+ minutes to fully melt | May need 60+ minutes |
| Emotional Impact | Often profound-clients report feeling “seen” | Usually just physical relief |
| Best For | Stress, trauma, chronic tension, emotional disconnect | General relaxation, sore muscles, quick reset |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is body to body massage legal in Amsterdam?
Yes, absolutely. As long as it’s performed by a certified bodywork therapist in a licensed studio, it’s completely legal. Amsterdam has clear guidelines: no sexual activity, no nudity, no pressure. Studios must follow the Dutch Code of Conduct for Bodywork. Always ask if they’re registered with the Dutch Association of Bodywork Professionals (NABP).
Do I need to be naked?
No. You’ll be covered with towels the entire time. Most people keep their underwear on. The therapist works around the towels. If you’re uncomfortable, say so. A good therapist will adjust without hesitation.
Can men get body to body massage too?
Yes. In fact, more men are booking these sessions now than ever before. Men often carry tension in their shoulders and lower back-and body to body works better than traditional massage for that. Many studios have male therapists available. Just ask when booking.
How often should I get it?
Once a month is ideal for most people. If you’re under high stress or recovering from injury, every 2-3 weeks helps. But don’t overdo it. Your body needs time to integrate the release. Think of it like therapy-you don’t go every day.
What if I feel awkward or embarrassed?
That’s normal. Almost everyone feels it the first time. The therapist knows. They’ve seen it a hundred times. The room is quiet. The lights are low. You’re not being judged. Focus on your breath. Let go. The awkwardness fades within 10 minutes.
Can I combine it with other therapies?
Yes. Many people pair it with cryotherapy, float tanks, or acupuncture. Some studios offer packages: body to body + herbal steam, or + sound healing. Ask if they have combo options. Just avoid scheduling it right after intense exercise or alcohol.
Ready to feel like yourself again? Don’t wait for the next vacation. Don’t wait until you’re completely burnt out. Book your session this week. Your body remembers how to relax. It just needs someone to help you remember.
