Massage Amsterdam: Your Ticket to Total Relaxation
You’ve had a long week. Your shoulders are tight, your mind won’t shut off, and the canal-side breeze outside your window isn’t doing much to calm you down. What if you could press pause on all of it-just for an hour-and let someone else take care of the tension you didn’t even realize you were carrying? That’s what a good massage in Amsterdam does. It doesn’t just rub your back. It resets you.
Key Takeaways
- A massage in Amsterdam isn’t just a luxury-it’s a practical tool for stress relief, better sleep, and pain management.
- You’ve got options: Swedish, deep tissue, Thai, hot stone, and even tantric sessions, all within walking distance of the city center.
- Prices range from €40 for a basic 60-minute session to €120+ for premium spa experiences with added therapies.
- Book ahead, especially on weekends. The best therapists fill up fast.
- Always check reviews and ask about the therapist’s training. Not all "massage" is created equal.
Why Massage in Amsterdam Works
Amsterdam isn’t just about tulips and bicycles. It’s a city where people take their well-being seriously. After a long day of walking cobblestones, standing at a desk, or navigating the chaos of the Jordaan, your body is screaming for release. That’s where massage comes in.
Studies show that regular massage reduces cortisol-the stress hormone-by up to 31%. It also increases serotonin and dopamine, the chemicals your brain uses to feel calm and happy. In Amsterdam, where winters are long and daylight is scarce, this isn’t just nice to have. It’s essential.
Think of it like hitting the reset button on your nervous system. No caffeine. No scrolling. Just hands, oil, and quiet.
What Types of Massage Can You Find in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam offers more than just a basic rubdown. Here’s what’s actually available:
- Swedish Massage: Gentle, flowing strokes. Perfect if you’re new to massage or just want to unwind. Great for circulation and light tension relief.
- Deep Tissue Massage: Targets chronic knots and stiff muscles. Ideal if you’re a cyclist, runner, or spend hours hunched over a laptop. This isn’t a "pain is gain" session-it’s precise, controlled pressure that works beneath the surface.
- Thai Massage: Done fully clothed on a mat. The therapist uses their hands, elbows, and even feet to stretch and compress your body. It feels like yoga with a human guide. Popular in De Pijp and the Red Light District.
- Hot Stone Massage: Smooth, heated basalt stones are placed along your spine and moved over tense areas. The warmth melts tightness in a way fingers alone can’t. Often paired with aromatherapy.
- Tantra Massage: Not what you think. This isn’t about sex-it’s about energy flow, breath, and mindful touch. Many find it deeply emotional and grounding. Best for those open to a more spiritual experience.
- Foot Massage: Often overlooked, but a 30-minute foot session can relieve tension from head to toe. Your feet carry you through Amsterdam’s endless walking paths-they deserve love too.
Where to Find the Best Massage Services in Amsterdam
You don’t need to search far. The best spots are tucked into quiet side streets, not flashy billboards.
- De Pijp: Home to several small, owner-run studios. Look for Amsterdam Wellness Studio or The Quiet Room. Both have 5-star reviews for their calm vibe and skilled therapists.
- Jordaan: Cozy, intimate spaces here. Amsterdam Massage & Spa offers Swedish and hot stone sessions with organic oils. The owner, Marleen, has trained in Sweden and knows exactly how much pressure to apply.
- Amsterdam Zuid: For a full spa experience, try Spa Zuid. It’s pricier but includes access to saunas, steam rooms, and herbal teas after your session.
- Canal Belt: Many luxury hotels offer massage services to non-guests. The Hotel de l’Europe has a highly rated therapist who specializes in deep tissue and sports recovery.
- Online Booking Platforms: Sites like SpaFinder and BookSpa let you filter by type, price, and availability. Check reviews for mentions of "therapist listened to me" or "didn’t rush me." Those are the ones to book.
What to Expect During Your First Session
It’s normal to feel a little nervous if it’s your first time. Here’s what actually happens:
- You’ll fill out a quick form-ask about injuries, pregnancy, or sensitive areas. Be honest. This isn’t just paperwork-it’s safety.
- You’ll be shown to a private room with soft lighting and calming music. The room smells like lavender or eucalyptus. You’ll be given a towel and privacy to undress.
- The therapist will knock before entering. They’ll ask if you prefer light, medium, or firm pressure. Say what feels right. No one expects you to be a hero.
- You’ll lie face down. They’ll start with your back, then move to legs, arms, neck. If you’re doing a head massage, they’ll focus on your scalp and temples.
- You’ll be covered at all times. Only the area being worked on is exposed. If you feel cold, say so. They’ll adjust the blanket.
- At the end, they’ll leave the room so you can get dressed. Then they’ll offer water and ask how you felt.
Most sessions last 60 or 90 minutes. Don’t rush out. Sit for five minutes after. Your body is still adjusting. That’s when the real relaxation kicks in.
How Much Does It Cost?
Amsterdam’s massage prices are fair, but they vary by location and expertise.
| Massage Type | 60 Minutes | 90 Minutes | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swedish | €45-€65 | €70-€95 | Most common for beginners |
| Deep Tissue | €60-€85 | €90-€120 | Therapist should have medical or sports training |
| Thai Massage | €50-€75 | €80-€110 | Done on floor mat, fully clothed |
| Hot Stone | €70-€95 | €100-€130 | Includes aromatherapy |
| Tantra Massage | €80-€120 | €120-€160 | Often includes guided breathing and energy work |
Some places offer package deals-buy 5 sessions, get the 6th free. If you’re serious about stress relief, it’s worth it.
What to Avoid
Not every place with "massage" in the name is legit. Watch out for:
- Places that don’t list therapist qualifications. Anyone can call themselves a masseur. Look for certifications from Swedish Massage Institute, Thai Traditional Massage Association, or Nederlandse Vereniging voor Massage.
- Studios with no reviews online. Google Maps and Trustpilot are your friends. Read the 1-star reviews-they tell you the truth.
- Too-good-to-be-true prices. €20 for 90 minutes? That’s not a bargain. That’s a red flag.
- Pressure to tip. In Amsterdam, tipping isn’t expected. A thank-you note is enough.
Massage vs. Spa: What’s the Difference?
People often confuse massage with spa treatments. Here’s the real difference:
| Feature | Massage | Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Relieving muscle tension, improving mobility | Overall relaxation, pampering, luxury experience |
| Duration | 30-90 minutes | 2-4 hours (includes sauna, steam, facial, etc.) |
| Cost | €40-€120 | €150-€400+ |
| Best For | Chronic pain, stress, recovery | Treat yourself, special occasions, detox |
| Therapist Skill | Highly trained in anatomy and technique | May be trained in beauty or wellness, not necessarily massage therapy |
If you’re dealing with back pain or tight shoulders, go for massage. If you want to feel like a VIP for a day, book a spa. Both are great-but they serve different needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to get a massage in Amsterdam?
Yes, absolutely. Amsterdam has strict hygiene standards. Reputable studios use disposable linens, clean tables after each client, and require therapists to be certified. Always choose places with visible reviews and clear pricing. Avoid places that don’t let you see the therapist’s credentials.
Can I get a massage if I’m pregnant?
Yes, but only with a therapist trained in prenatal massage. Many studios in Amsterdam offer this specifically. Avoid deep pressure on the abdomen and lower back. Prenatal massage can reduce swelling, ease sciatic pain, and improve sleep. Always tell the therapist you’re pregnant before they start.
How often should I get a massage?
If you’re stressed or active, once every 2-4 weeks works well. For chronic pain or injury recovery, weekly for 4-6 weeks, then taper off. Think of it like exercise-you don’t need to do it every day, but consistency matters. Many locals schedule monthly sessions like they do dentist visits.
Do I need to tip my massage therapist in Amsterdam?
No, tipping isn’t expected. The price you see is the price you pay. If you want to show appreciation, leave a Google review or tell your friends. Some therapists even appreciate a handwritten note more than cash.
What should I wear during a massage?
You’ll be fully covered with towels. Most people undress to their underwear. If you’re uncomfortable, wear shorts and a tank top. The therapist will work around it. The goal is your comfort, not modesty rules.
Can I bring my own oil or scent?
Some studios allow it, but only if it’s natural and non-irritating. Most use organic, unscented, or lavender-based oils. If you have allergies, mention it upfront. Don’t assume they’ll know.
Ready to Relax?
You don’t need to wait for a vacation to feel good. Amsterdam has everything you need right now-quiet rooms, skilled hands, and a culture that understands rest isn’t lazy. It’s necessary.
Book your session this week. Pick a time when you won’t be rushing afterward. Turn off your phone. Let the oil warm on your skin. Breathe.
That’s not a luxury. That’s how you keep going.
Hanna Holmberg
November 17, 2025 AT 16:52Amsterdam’s massage scene is a game-changer-seriously, if you’re carrying stress like a backpack full of bricks, this is your sign to drop it. I’ve done Swedish, Thai, and even tantric here-and yes, tantric isn’t what the movies show. It’s like your nervous system finally takes a deep breath after holding it for years. The therapists? Trained like surgeons for relaxation. And the oils? Organic, never synthetic. I don’t just go for a massage-I go for a reset.
Pro tip: Book early. The best ones, like Marleen in Jordaan, fill up weeks ahead. And don’t be shy about pressure. Medium isn’t a suggestion-it’s your right. I once had a therapist assume I wanted ‘firm’ because I’m tall. I had to say, ‘No, I want *my* body to feel safe, not crushed.’ She apologized and adjusted. That’s the difference.