Best 12 Massage Parlors in Rome


 

*Originally published by Natalie on November 2019 and Updated by Vanessa R on April 2023 and by Vanessa M in February 2024.

In my previous piece about sports to try when in Rome, I mention how Italians have the most beautiful ability to thoroughly enjoy doing absolutely nothing; something I myself have tried to become better at.

Travelling is exhausting, whether you’re doing nothing or participating in sports you might eventually find yourself in dire need of some R&R in the form of a full body massage.

Where to go in Rome? I’ll tell you…

1. Sunee Thai Massage Center in Rome

There are two branches of Sunee Thai Massage in Rome. I like the one that is just west of Trevi, but the one in the east is equally as good.

Sunee understands the toll that traveling takes on the human body. The many constricted airplane seats, unusual beds that are slept in and the lugging of heavy luggage back & forth until every single muscle is in distress.

They actually target travel stress through Thai massage, slowly working their way through every single part of the body until you’re virtually a new person.

Sunee Thai Massage Center – by Sunee Thai Massage Center – Sourced from their website

Being so close to the Colosseum, one might expect this spot to be constantly full. While there are always people coming and going, I’ve never struggles to get an appointment as I’ve walked in.

If you’ll be in Rome a while, consider taking advantage of their package deals. Instead of paying €50 for one massage, you can pay €120 for three. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday to Sunday — 10am to 9pm
ADDRESS: Vicolo della Cancelleria, 37, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Colosseo

2. Tantra Massage in Rome

Sometimes when both the physical body and mind are in distress, a regular massage isn’t enough to do the job.

Massaging the mind is as important as massaging the body, if one wants to feel truly revitalized and free of whatever they’ve been carrying.

Tantra Massage – by Tantra Massage – Sourced from their Facebook

Tantra Massage, north of the Vatican, understands exactly this. Their entire space is dedicated to massaging of both the body and the mind, & you’ll be acutely aware of this from the minute you walk in.

There are constantly oils and herbs being burnt in the space, with ambient music & optimal hospitality. It’s a holistic massage center where you’re releasing of stress takes place even before you lay down for your actual massage (which is phenomenal, by the way).   

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday to Sunday — 10L:30am to 7:30pm
ADDRESS: Via della Giuliana, 27, 00195 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Ottaviano

3. Tao Thai Massage in Rome

I recommend Tao Thai to anyone in need of a quick fix for their bodily aches.

It’s situated right by the Termini train station in the city center. Whether you’ve just finished up some sight seeing, or are en route to do some, you’ll be able to walk right in and enjoy a 30 minute massage appointment free.

Tao Thai Massage – by Tao Thai Massage – Sourced from their website

They too understand the aches and pains that the body holds while traveling, & most of their clients are returning visitors and businessmen who come to Rome on a regular basis.

This spot is also much more affordable than the massage parlors on the left bank closer to the ancient city.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday to Sunday — 10am to 9pm
ADDRESS: Via Magenta, 14/A, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Castro Pretorio

4. Kami Spa in Rome

I was treated to a day at the Kami Spa by a friend who had just retuned from two weeks of backpacking and desperately needed to have her body brought back into balance. She took me along I can easily say my mind was blown.

Whatever treatment you book at Kami, you’ll be allowed access to the spa for an hour before starting time. This means you get to enjoy the “wet room”; a warm, ambient room where you’ll be served Prosecco, fruits, Thai teas, water, steam rooms and showers.

Kami Spa in Rome – by Kami Spa – Uploaded by them

You’ll also be allowed back in after your massage to “decompress”. It’s another space that recognizes that the mind and body need to be nurtured for a massage to properly take its course.

Hight recommend!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday to Sunday — 10am to 10pm
ADDRESS: Via degli Avignonesi, 11/12, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Repubblica Teatro Opera

5. El Spa in Rome

El Spa is on the left bank, not far from the Vatican walls.

It’s somewhat like a traditional hammam, with a distinct Buddhist temple vibe to the space and facilities.

Here you’ll also be treated to some really wonderful rooms and hospitality before your massage treatment. This spot comes highly recommended to couples looking for a more romantic experience to have together while in Rome.

El Spa in Rome – by El Spa – Uploaded by them

Unsurprisingly, their couples massage is their most popular package, followed by their warm/cold baths.

They will spoil your with drinks, fruits, teas , towels… everything you need. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday to Sunday — 10am to 9pm
ADDRESS: Via Plinio, 15/C, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Lepanto

6. Nora Thai Massage Center in Rome

If you’re in search of a great couples massage on the right bank, then back to the Termini station we must go.

Nora is a beautiful but simple space in the heart of Rome. This is a very low-key parlor, and as a result the prices are very competitive, yet quality is not sacrificed by any means.

Nora Thai Massage Center – by Nora Thai Massage Center – Uploaded by them

Their treatments are all done in Thai style; the staff are really wonderful and professional, going out of their way to connect with the parts of the body that demand the most attention. No booking in advance necessary.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday to Sunday — 10pm to 10am
ADDRESS: Via Torino, 150, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Termini

7. Terme di Trastevere in Rome

At the Terme di Trastevere you’ll find some world class massage treatments, but you’ll absolutely need an appointment.

They operate out of a very small parlor and can’t handle too many people at one time. That being said, their massages are incredible, but you will pay for what you’re getting.

Request access to their hot tub after your session!

Terme di Trastevere – by Terme di Trastevere – Uploaded by them

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Tuesday to Saturday — 10am to 8pm
ADDRESS: Vicolo del Canale, 28, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Circo Massimo

8. QC Terme Roma 

The QC Terme Roma is a famous spa with gardens, pools, and fountains all around the property that provide a warm and relaxing ambience. If you’re looking for a place where you can relieve your stress, and ease out sore muscles or both then you’ll find that this spa’s cutting-edge facilities and staff will give you just what you need.

In order to feel rejuvenated when you return home from your vacation, unwind with a massage accompanied by music and different scents. It’s just a few kilometres southwest of the city’s centre, close to the seaside.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday-Sunday 9am to 12pm
ADDRESS: Via Portuense, 2178, 00100 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Magliana station

9. Centro Benessere a Roma Alhambra Luxury SPA 

Centro Benessere at Roma Alhambra Luxury SPA is a place where you can get beauty treatments, yoga and massages. It is this place where you can easily be made to feel like a king or queen, you can easily get facials, body treatments and other services in different unique ways. The spa has unique features which provide thorough yoga lessons and is located in Ponte, a short distance from the C.So Vittorio Emanuele/Tassoni bus station.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday-Sunday 10am to 9pm
ADDRESS: Via della Madonna dei Monti, 109, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION:Cavour station

10. Argiletum Spa 

Argiletum Spa is modelled after the old Roman baths and offers a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the city. Spa and massage treatments are among the many services offered here that are flexible enough to meet your individual needs. The spa also offers a variety of beauty services that you may get when you visit. Ladies if you’re interested in getting a new hairdo, waxing or a pedicure and manicure then this spa caters for all this. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday-Sunday 10am to 11pm
ADDRESS: Via della Madonna dei Monti, 109, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION:Colosseo station,
 

11. AQVA City Spa 

The massage and sauna services at AQVA City Spa are meant to be enjoyed in a serene atmosphere with soothing vapours, scents, and colours. A sauna, chromotherapy, and possibilities for aromatherapy are all available within this spa.

This spa’s pools are state-of-the-art, and one of them is a saltwater Vitality Pool that is improved by aromatherapy vapours and cosy lighting to stimulate the senses. Turkish bath made of polychrome marble is another feature. It’s all accessible in Ludovisi, which is just a 2-minute drive from the city centre.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday-Sunday 10am to 11pm
ADDRESS: Via Velia, 16, 84125 Salerno SA, Italy
Metro STATION:Salerno train station

12. A.Roma Wellness & SPA 

In addition to massages, an outdoor salt lake, and a wellness area with water and teas, A.Roma Wellness & SPA offers a variety of options for you to enjoy your experience. Of course, there are the normal massages available, but you can also select one with unique lighting or an energy-boosting massage.

A hydromassage in the pool is an option at this spa in addition to body and facial massages. Municipio XII, located about 6 miles southwest of Rome’s central business district, has everything no matter what your preferences are.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Address: Monday-Sunday9:00 am to 9:00 pm
ADDRESS:Via Giorgio Zoega, 59, 00164 Roma RM, Italy
Metro STATION: Cornelia station

Top 10 Facts about the History of Massage Therapy

1. Massage therapy has ancient roots and can be traced to various cultures

Photo by Anna Tarazevich from Pexels

Massage practices date back to 3000 BCE in Egypt, Greece, Rome, and China. Wall paintings in Egypt depicted massage scenes, emphasizing their importance in daily life. The Greeks and Romans incorporated massage into their fitness and medical practices. Hippocrates praised massage for its therapeutic benefits, laying the groundwork for Western medical acceptance.

Tui Na is a therapeutic technique developed by Chinese cultures that combines massage and Traditional Chinese Medicine. These ancient roots highlight the universal recognition of massage’s physical and mental benefits, ensuring its continued role in holistic health throughout history.

2. Egyptian tomb paintings depict massage therapy as a significant part of the Egyptians’ cultural medical practices

Egyptian tomb paintings dating back to 2500 BCE provide glimpses into the ancient practice of massage, depicting people receiving therapeutic touch on their feet and hands. These depictions imply a dual purpose for relaxation and pain relief.

The intricate details on the tomb walls demonstrate the importance of massage in Egyptian society, emphasizing its role in promoting well-being and possibly recognizing its therapeutic benefits.

The artistry captures a timeless connection between massage and human care, serving as historical evidence of ancient civilizations’ continued recognition of touch as a means of physical and emotional healing.

3. Massage therapy gained medical recognition during World War I

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Massage therapy received critical medical recognition during World War I, emerging as an effective treatment for soldiers’ nerve injuries and shell shock. Nurses used massage to relieve pain, reduce tension, and aid in the psychological recovery of injured people. Massage became a standard component of postwar physical therapy and rehabilitation programs due to its effectiveness.

The positive outcomes observed during WWII propelled massage into mainstream medical practice, cementing its role in addressing both physical and mental health concerns. This watershed moment established massage as a well-known and respected therapeutic intervention in the healthcare field.

4. Massage therapy gained popularity in the twentieth century with the rise of spas and wellness centers

Massage became increasingly popular during the twentieth century, coinciding with the rise of spas and wellness centers. It was once associated primarily with medical treatment, but it has since expanded to include relaxation and stress relief. As spas gained popularity, they promoted massage as a key component of holistic well-being.

Massage became a popular indulgence for both physical and mental rejuvenation after it was integrated into these leisure-oriented settings. This cultural shift marked a watershed moment, emphasizing massage as an essential component of self-care and luxury, expanding its appeal beyond therapeutic necessity to become a symbol of relaxation and pampering in today’s wellness landscape.

5. The 20th century also witnessed the establishment of professional standards and regulations for massage therapists

https://pixabay.com/photos/massage-shoulder-human-relaxation-2768832/

The establishment of strong licensing and regulatory frameworks during the twentieth century marked a watershed moment in the massage therapy landscape. Authorities established stringent standards to ensure practitioners’ competence and ethical behavior. This included the implementation of licensing and educational standards for aspiring massage therapists.

These measures aimed to elevate the profession, protect public health, and boost trust in the practice. The structured regulations highlighted massage therapy’s growing recognition as a legitimate and respected healthcare discipline, encouraging accountability, professionalism, and consistent quality in the delivery of therapeutic services.

6. Massage therapy has been increasingly integrated into mainstream healthcare in recent decades

Massage therapy has evolved dramatically over the last few decades, becoming an essential component of mainstream healthcare. Recognized for its overall benefits, it is now widely accepted as a complementary therapy for a variety of medical conditions. The medical community recognizes its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, anxiety, and certain musculoskeletal disorders.

Massage is frequently included in treatment plans alongside conventional medical interventions, emphasizing its importance in promoting overall well-being. This growing acceptance reflects a trend toward a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach to healthcare, with massage therapy serving as an important component in managing a wide range of physical and mental health issues.

7. There are numerous massage modalities today that cater to different needs

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels

Contemporary massage therapy includes a wide range of modalities, each tailored to specific needs and preferences. Deep tissue massage targets underlying muscle layers to relieve chronic tension, whereas sports massage aims to improve athletic performance and recovery. Thai massage uses stretching and yoga-like movements to promote flexibility and energy flow.

Hot stone massage uses heated stones to relax muscles and improve circulation. From aromatherapy to reflexology, each modality provides unique techniques and benefits that address a wide range of physical and mental health concerns. This diversity enables people to tailor their massage experience, fostering a dynamic and inclusive landscape in the field of therapeutic bodywork.

8. Massage therapy is now a global phenomenon

Massage therapy has gained global recognition, with practitioners and schools around the world. The practice, which is based on various cultural influences and traditions, has developed into a rich tapestry of techniques and approaches. This therapy incorporates elements from both Eastern and Western traditions, resulting in a dynamic and inclusive field.

This global phenomenon reflects a widespread recognition of the therapeutic value of touch. Massage therapy, with its rich history rooted in ancient traditions and a promising future shaped by ongoing innovations, exemplifies the enduring and evolving significance of holistic well-being on a global scale.

9. Massage therapy is now a global phenomenon with practitioners and schools everywhere

Photo by Elina Fairytale from Pexels

Massage therapy has a wide range of applications in today’s world. Beyond traditional spa settings, it is now commonplace in hospitals, sports facilities, and wellness centers. Its integration into mainstream healthcare emphasizes its role as a complementary treatment for chronic pain, stress, and musculoskeletal issues.

Massage therapists work with medical professionals to improve patient’s well-being and contribute to holistic healthcare approaches. Massage therapy’s adaptability to diverse needs and environments reflects its status as a valuable therapeutic tool, bridging the gap between relaxation and medical intervention in the pursuit of overall health and wellness.

10. Many celebrities and athletes have publicly supported massage therapy

Numerous celebrities and athletes have openly supported massage therapy, citing its transformative effects on both physical and mental health. High-profile individuals such as actors, musicians, and professional athletes frequently endorse the practice for its ability to reduce stress, aid in muscle recovery, and improve overall performance.

These endorsements not only highlight the therapeutic benefits but also help to popularize massage as a part of daily self-care routines. Celebrity advocacy helps to de-stigmatize and promote massage therapy, fostering a broader societal recognition of its positive impact on holistic health and reinforcing its status as a mainstream wellness practice.

Massage therapy has a fascinating history, dating back to ancient civilizations and continuing into modern-day global healthcare. Massage has evolved into a multifaceted discipline with various modalities, beginning in diverse cultures and gaining recognition during World War I. As it gains acceptance in mainstream healthcare and celebrity endorsements, the practice’s rich history and diverse applications cement its reputation as a timeless, holistic, and universally valued approach to physical and mental well-being.

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