Thermal baths · Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg
Friedrichsbad
Bathhouse opened in 1877 in the old center, over the ruins of Roman baths. The Roman-Irish bath is a circuit of stations with hot air, steam and thermal pools, and it is traditionally done without clothing and in a mixed environment.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Friedrichsbad
The Friedrichsbad was built between 1869 and 1877 in a Neo-Renaissance style, on the upper part of the old town. During construction, remains of Roman baths were uncovered, confirming that the hot springs of Baden-Baden have been used for almost two thousand years.
The facility is dedicated to the Roman-Irish bath, a station-based circuit performed in a fixed order: thermal water showers, warm and hotter air rooms, steam baths, immersion bath in thermal water, bubble pool, the circular pool under a dome nearly 18 meters high and, at the end, the cold bath. Afterward comes drying with warmed towels, body cream and rest in a quiet room with tea. Brushing and soap scrubs are an additional service.
The rules differ from an ordinary swimming pool. On most weekdays the bath is textile-free, and men and women use the same areas together. On certain days of the week, set by the establishment, swimwear is mandatory. No one under 14 is admitted; ages 14–17 may enter only when accompanied by an adult.
The atmosphere is quiet, with no phones and no photos. The facility provides a sheet, towels, slippers and bath products, and recommends allowing about 3 hours for the circuit and relaxation.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 3 hours for the complete circuit and relaxation, which is the house recommendation.
Best time
Weekday mornings are usually less crowded. If you prefer to enter wearing swimwear, choose one of the days when it is mandatory: check in advance which days each rule applies. The last admission is a few hours before closing.
How to get there
It is located on Römerplatz, in the upper part of the old town. From Leopoldsplatz it's about a 5-minute uphill walk. From the train station, take the city bus to the center.
Tip
Follow the order of the stations indicated at the entrance and respect the suggested time in each, especially in the hotter rooms. Drink water before and after. Those with blood pressure issues, heart problems or who are pregnant should consult a doctor beforehand. Next to the building, under the square, are the ruins of the Roman baths, open part of the year: check before you go.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Friedrichsbad
Is it mandatory to be naked?
On most days, yes: the traditional bathing is nude and in a mixed setting. On certain days of the week, set by the facility, swimwear is required. Check beforehand which rule applies on the day you plan to go.
Are men and women separated?
No. Men and women use the same facilities during the visit.
Can children enter?
Not under 14 years. Ages 14 to 17 are allowed only when accompanied by an adult.
Do I need to bring a towel?
No. The facility provides a sheet, towels, slippers for the hot rooms, shampoo and body lotion.
