Neptunbad is one of my absolute favorite spots in Cologne and I definitely recommend it to everyone who loves the sauna. For me, some hours in Neptunbad mean a perfect getaway from the daily routine.

The spa is located in a spectacular art nouveau building that’s been listed as a historical monument since 1986. It’s hosted municipal baths from 1912 to 1994 and re-opened as a gym and spa in 2002.

The former swimming hall is now part of the private health club and is accessible for members only. But the sauna section also welcomes visitors!

The latter is divided into an art nouveau area (with a sauna, a steam bath, an amazing pool under a glass dome and a restaurant) and a more extended sauna world inspired by Japanese interior design. I love both – the beautiful art nouveau tiles as well as the sparingly designed dry sauna area and zen roof garden. You can switch between various saunas and there is an infusion every hour either indoors or in one of the rooftop saunas.

If you wish to indulge even more, you should book a massage or treatment by the very welcoming staff, or take a break from the sauna and swimming and have a drink or snack in the art nouveau restaurant.

Neptunbad is nice every season of the year: in summertime you can chill on the ample rooftop right between Buddha statues and Bonsai trees. During winter season, it’s the perfect place to escape from the cold outside.