Are Amsterdam Saunas Mixed Gender? Here’s a First-Timer's Guide to Dutch Sauna Etiquette
Are Amsterdam saunas mixed gender? Spoiler: The answer is probably less awkward—and a lot more relaxing—than you're imagining.
Photo Credit: HUUM
Amsterdam is one of our favorite cities in Europe, and every time we visit, we seem to stumble across another hidden gem. While the canals, cafés and museums usually steal the spotlight, some of the city's best experiences are tucked away behind quiet doors—like its incredible saunas, wellness centers and bathhouses.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing spa day or hoping to experience authentic Dutch wellness culture, there's no shortage of places to unwind. Before you book, though, it's worth learning a little Dutch sauna etiquette. And one of the first questions most travelers ask: Are Amsterdam saunas mixed gender?
Read on to learn what to expect and why knowing whether Amsterdam saunas are mixed gender will help you feel much more comfortable before your first visit.
Are Amsterdam saunas mixed gender?
Yes, most traditional Amsterdam saunas and Dutch wellness centers are mixed gender. That means men and women share the sauna rooms, steam rooms, hot tubs, plunge pools and relaxation areas. If you've never visited a Dutch sauna before, this can come as a surprise—especially if you're used to separate facilities back home.
The good news? It's completely normal in the Netherlands. Saunas here are designed as peaceful wellness spaces, not social hangouts. People visit to relax, recharge and disconnect from everyday life. You'll quickly notice that everyone is focused on their own experience rather than anyone else's. For many visitors, the idea sounds far more intimidating than the reality.
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Do you have to be naked in Dutch saunas?
In most traditional Dutch saunas, yes. Nudity is the standard at many wellness centers unless it's a designated swimwear day. While that might feel outside your comfort zone at first, it's simply part of Dutch sauna culture and isn't viewed as unusual.
One of the biggest rules of Dutch sauna etiquette is always sitting or lying on a towel. It's expected for hygiene reasons, and every guest follows the same practice. If you're not quite ready for a textile-free experience, don't worry. Many Amsterdam wellness centers offer swimwear days, allowing guests to wear bathing suits throughout the facilities. These sessions are especially popular with first-time visitors and international travelers.
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Why are Dutch saunas mixed gender?
It all comes down to culture. In the Netherlands, saunas have always been about wellness rather than appearance. Sharing the facilities is considered completely natural, and the focus is on relaxation—not on who's sitting next to you.
For visitors, it may feel unfamiliar at first. But after a few minutes, most people realize the atmosphere is incredibly respectful and surprisingly calming. Once you settle in, you'll probably wonder why you were worried in the first place.
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Are there saunas with swimwear days in Amsterdam?
Yes, and they're a fantastic option if you're feeling a little nervous. Many of the best saunas in Amsterdam schedule dedicated swimwear days or evenings where guests wear bathing suits instead of following the traditional textile-free approach.
Every wellness center has its own schedule, so it's always worth checking the official website before your visit. Policies can change throughout the year, and some locations offer swimwear sessions more frequently than others. If swimwear days don't fit your itinerary, another great alternative is booking a private wellness suite or spa.
The best mixed-gender saunas and bathhouses in Amsterdam
Photo Credit: INTERNATIONISTA (BADHUS AMSTERDAM)
If you're ready to experience Dutch sauna culture for yourself, these are some of the most popular places to visit.
Badhus Amsterdam
If we had to recommend one place to first-time visitors, Badhus Amsterdam would be high on the list. Located in Amsterdam Noord, this modern bathhouse feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a traditional spa, with a welcoming atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.
One of our favorite parts of visiting Badhus was the saunagus sessions. If you've never heard of saunagus before, you're in for a treat. During these guided sauna rituals, a sauna master pours water mixed with essential oils onto the hot stones before using a towel to carefully circulate the heat and fragrance throughout the room. The experience comes in waves of warmth, aromatherapy and fresh air, making it feel far more immersive than simply sitting in a sauna.
It was easily one of the highlights of our visit and something we'd recommend trying at least once if you're curious about Dutch sauna culture.
Zuiver Amsterdam
Located in Amsterdamse Bos on the southern edge of the city, Zuiver is one of the best-known wellness resorts in Amsterdam. It has everything you could want for a relaxing day, including multiple saunas, steam rooms, outdoor pools, hot tubs, relaxation lounges and spa treatments.
If you're visiting for the first time, Zuiver is a great introduction to Dutch wellness culture because of its wide range of facilities. It also offers designated swimwear days throughout the week, making it a popular choice for travelers who prefer wearing a swimsuit.
Sauna Deco
Just a short walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station, Sauna Deco offers a completely different experience. Housed inside a historic building with beautiful Art Deco interiors originally sourced from Paris, it feels intimate, charming and full of character.
If large wellness resorts aren't your style, this is a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy a quieter sauna experience in the heart of the city.
Fort Resort Beemster
If you have a car or don't mind taking a short trip outside Amsterdam, Fort Resort Beemster is absolutely worth the journey. Located around 30 minutes from the city, this luxury wellness resort sits inside a beautifully restored UNESCO World Heritage fortress.
Between the panoramic saunas, outdoor pools, spa treatments and peaceful countryside setting, it feels like a true escape from the city. It's the perfect place to spend an entire day relaxing if you have extra time during your trip.
Whether you're looking for a modern neighborhood bathhouse like Badhus, a full-service wellness resort like Zuiver, or a unique spa experience in a historic fortress, Amsterdam has something for every type of traveler.
What should you know about Dutch sauna etiquette?
Photo Credit: Batuhan Kocabaş
Knowing a few basic etiquette rules before you arrive will make your experience much smoother.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Shower before entering the sauna or pools.
Always sit or lie on a towel.
Keep conversations quiet.
Leave your phone in your locker.
Respect designated quiet areas.
Follow the sauna's rules regarding swimwear days.
Be mindful of other guests' privacy.
Dutch sauna etiquette is refreshingly simple. Everyone is there for the same reason—to relax.
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Is it awkward if it's your first time?
Almost everyone feels a little nervous before visiting their first Dutch sauna. It's natural to wonder if you'll stand out or accidentally break one of the rules.
The reality is that most people are paying absolutely no attention to anyone else. They're reading a book, enjoying a cup of tea, or moving between the different saunas and pools. Within a few minutes, you'll probably find yourself doing exactly the same.
Is visiting an Amsterdam sauna worth it?
Absolutely. While Amsterdam is famous for its canals, nightlife and world-class museums, spending a few hours at a traditional sauna or bathhouse lets you experience another side of the city that many tourists miss.
It's slower, quieter and incredibly relaxing. Whether you visit a neighborhood bathhouse, a luxury wellness resort, or one of the best saunas in Amsterdam, it's an experience you'll remember long after your trip ends.
If you're planning your first visit, learning a little Dutch sauna etiquette—and knowing that Amsterdam saunas are usually mixed gender—is the perfect place to start. Once you know what to expect, you can simply relax and enjoy one of the city's best hidden wellness experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can couples go to Amsterdam saunas together?
Yes. Most traditional Dutch saunas are mixed gender, so couples regularly enjoy the facilities together. Visiting a sauna is a popular activity for couples, friends and even families looking to unwind.
Do tourists have to be naked in Amsterdam saunas?
Usually, yes. Most traditional wellness centers expect guests to be nude inside the sauna areas unless it's a designated swimwear day. Always check the sauna's official website before visiting so you know its specific policy.
What should I bring to a Dutch sauna?
Most wellness centers recommend bringing:
Two large towels
A bathrobe
Flip-flops or sandals
A reusable water bottle
Toiletries for showering afterward
Many Amsterdam saunas also rent towels and bathrobes if you're traveling light.
Can you wear a swimsuit in Amsterdam saunas?
Only if the wellness center allows it. Many locations host designated swimwear days, while others follow the traditional textile-free approach every day. Check the official website before your visit to avoid any surprises.
Is Dutch sauna etiquette different from other countries?
Yes. Dutch sauna etiquette places a strong emphasis on cleanliness, quiet relaxation and respecting other guests. Shower before entering the facilities, always sit on a towel, keep conversations low and follow the sauna's clothing rules. Knowing these basics before your visit will help you feel much more confident.
What's the difference between a sauna, spa and bathhouse in Amsterdam?
Travelers often use these terms interchangeably, but they can mean slightly different things. A sauna usually refers to the heated rooms themselves, a spa often includes treatments like massages and facials alongside wellness facilities and an Amsterdam bathhouse or wellness center typically combines saunas, steam rooms, pools, relaxation areas and spa treatments all in one place. No matter what you call it, you'll find plenty of relaxing options throughout the city.