People relaxing in a German public sauna ()
“1. Figure out the lingo ”
A sauna is a dry or wet heated room used for specific health benefits. In Germany, the word sauna is casually used to mean an entire facility devoted to wellness. At such facilities, the space is officially called the wellness area, or spa if there are services like massage. If that facility uses natural mineral waters, it will be called a therme, whereas a hot tub is also called a spa.
“2. Know the dress code ”
Saunas are co-ed. While nudity is required, there is a conservative aspect to it. Most people wear robes when walking around, and its perfectly OK to wrap your towel around yourself in the dry saunas. There will be signs and separate entrances for the ‘textilfrei’ (textile-free) wellness area.
“3. Bring the basics ”
Bring a towel and flip-flops. I also highly recommend a robe. Phones and electronics must remain in lockers, but books and water bottles are welcome. It is polite to secure long hair in a braid or bun.
“4. Pay your fee ”
For a large therme, book ahead online. Otherwise, pay your entry fee at the door. Be sure to specify that you are paying for the wellness area if it is co-located with a swimming pool. You will be given a wristband that allows purchases. Pay the tab on your way out.
“5. Enter the wellness area ”
Locker rooms are co-ed but have changing cubicles. Undress completely, then put on your robe and flip-flops. Grab your towel, book and water bottle. Store all other items in your locker. Enter the wellness area. At some facilities, this may be through the public pool. Once inside, it’s normal to wear your robe or towel when walking around or lounging. Stash your book and water bottle in cubbies near the entrance. Explore the whole space, even outside!
“6. Relax in a sauna ”
Choose a sauna to enter and hang your robe near the door. Take off your flip-flops. If it is a dry sauna, bring your towel. Inside, place your towel on the wooden bench and sit or lie on it. Don’t bring your towel in a wet sauna. Instead, find the small hose and rinse off the tiled seat before and after use.
Sauna clerk fans customers during an aufguss session ()
“7. Participate in an Aufguss”
The Aufguss, or infusion treatment, schedule will be near the entrance. Find the correct sauna and claim a spot 5-10 minutes early. Do not walk in late or interrupt a session. I suggest sitting on a low bench where the heat is less extreme. An employee will place the infusion on the heat source via water, ice or plants so it can permeate the sauna. Then they waft the hot air around using a towel or huge fan. You will sweat and may feel burnt. Breathe deeply. There are usually three rounds and the entire ritual lasts 15-20 minutes.
“8. Try some extras ”
All saunas will have a small café or restaurant. Wear your robe when eating and use your wristband to pay. Big saunas expect that you will want to stay all day, so you can often reserve private daybeds online or at the entrance. Treatments like massages are not the typical reason to visit a German sauna, but they may be available and must be booked in advance.
