Benefits
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Stress Relief
Flowing, rhythmic strokes help the body settle
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Circulation
Warm oil and steady strokes support circulation
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Muscle Release
Gentle pressure eases everyday tension
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Mental Rest
The slow tempo gives the mind room to rest
About
Classic Swedish massage is the foundation of the most widely practised massage technique in the world, and it is usually what people mean by a "classic massage". Long, flowing strokes (effleurage), kneading (petrissage) and friction are combined with soft to medium pressure. The aim is not to work hard on a single spot but to relax the whole body and ease the tiredness that builds up through the day.
What happens during the session?
- A short consultation: You tell your therapist where you feel tense and how much pressure you prefer.
- Warm-up: Starting at the back and shoulders with warmed aromatic oil, broad, slow strokes warm the muscles.
- Full body: The back, shoulders, neck, arms and legs are worked in turn. The 70-minute option adds a foot and head massage.
- Closing: The pace gradually slows and the session ends with long, calming strokes, followed by herbal tea.
The pressure is soft to medium and can be adjusted at any time. Only the area being worked on is uncovered; the rest of your body stays draped with a towel.
Who is it for?
If this is your first massage, it is the best place to start: the pressure is gentle, the pace is calm and your body gets used to massage. It also suits anyone looking for all-over relaxation after a demanding week, long hours at a desk or a tiring journey, and those with mild muscle tension.
If the tension is deep and settled in one area, Deep Tissue Massage is a more targeted choice.
When to be careful
If any of the following applies to you, let us know before your appointment and, where needed, consult your doctor:
- Pregnancy
- Recent surgery, a fracture or a new injury
- Varicose veins, a clotting disorder or blood-thinning medication
- Fever or an acute illness
- A known sensitivity to massage oils or fragrances
Classic Swedish or another massage?
- Aromatherapy Massage: the same Swedish technique with an essential oil blend you choose, so scent becomes part of the experience.
- Deep Tissue Massage: a slower pace and firm pressure for chronic tension in the deeper muscle layers.
- Spot Massage: a short 30-minute session given to one area — the back and shoulders, the neck and head, or the legs — instead of the whole body.
- Harmony Massage: our 70-minute signature ritual combining Swedish, Balinese and Ayurvedic techniques.
After your session
- Rest for a few minutes and get up slowly.
- Drink plenty of water through the day.
- Choose a light walk over strenuous exercise on the same day.
About Classic Swedish Massage
Is Swedish massage the same as classic massage?
Usually, yes. "Classic massage" generally refers to the Swedish technique of long strokes, kneading and friction. At Aqua Plus it is offered as Classic Swedish Massage, in 50- or 70-minute sessions.
What is the difference between the 50- and 70-minute sessions?
The 50-minute session covers the back, shoulders, neck, arms and legs. The 70-minute option adds a foot and head massage at a slower pace. For a first massage, 50 minutes is plenty; for a complete unwind, we recommend 70 minutes.
Does Swedish massage hurt?
No. The pressure is soft to medium and the aim is relaxation. You may feel slightly firmer pressure on tense areas; just tell your therapist if you would like it lighter or firmer.
How should I prepare for a massage?
Avoid a heavy meal right before your session; a light meal one to two hours earlier is best. Arriving a few minutes early gives you a calm start. If you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or take regular medication, let your therapist know beforehand.
How long does a Classic Swedish Massage session take?
A Classic Swedish Massage session takes 50 or 70 minutes in Istanbul and 50 minutes in Izmir. Choose your branch on the booking form to see its duration options.
Who is Classic Swedish Massage suitable for?
Classic Swedish Massage is suitable for stressed professionals, those new to massage, guests seeking general relaxation and those with mild muscle tension. Please let us know before your appointment if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have a chronic condition.
Which areas does Classic Swedish Massage focus on?
The treatment focuses on back, shoulders, neck, arms and legs. You can agree your priority areas with your therapist at the start of the session.
What is included in a Classic Swedish Massage session?
The session includes aromatic oil, warm towels and herbal tea ceremony.
Where in Istanbul and Izmir can I book Classic Swedish Massage?
Classic Swedish Massage is available at the Aqua Plus branches in Bagcilar, Fatih, Sisli, Zeytinburnu, Pendik and Bayrakli. All branches are open seven days a week (10:00 – 22:00 / 23:00); choose the branch nearest to you when booking.
What are the benefits of Classic Swedish Massage?
Key effects: stress relief, circulation, muscle release and mental rest. How long the effect lasts varies by person and with regular treatment.
How do I book Classic Swedish Massage?
You can book online by selecting a branch, date and time slot, or contact the branch directly by phone or WhatsApp. We recommend booking ahead to avoid waiting at peak times.
Where to Get Classic Swedish Massage
Classic Swedish Massage is available at all six Aqua Plus branches. Choose the one closest to you; the booking form opens with the branch and service already selected.
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ISTANBUL · BAğCıLAR
Classic Swedish Massage in Bağcılar
Near: Güneşli, Kirazlı, Yenibosna
M1B metro line (Bağcılar–Kirazlı), the Mahmutbey–Bağcılar axis and the Basın Ekspres connection; metrobus via Yenibosna/Şirinevler.
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ISTANBUL · FATIH
Classic Swedish Massage in Fatih
Near: Çapa, Aksaray, Vatan
Reachable via the T1 Kabataş–Bağcılar tram (Fındıkzade / Çapa–Şehremini stops) and the M1A metro line (Aksaray).
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ISTANBUL · ŞIşLI
Classic Swedish Massage in Şişli
Near: Mecidiyeköy, Gayrettepe, Esentepe
The M2 metro (Şişli–Mecidiyeköy), M7 metro (Mecidiyeköy–Mahmutbey) and the Mecidiyeköy metrobus stop are within walking distance.
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ISTANBUL · ZEYTINBURNU
Classic Swedish Massage in Zeytinburnu
Near: Cevizlibağ, Topkapı, Maltepe Mahallesi
Reachable via the Zeytinburnu M1A metro / T1 tram interchange, the Cevizlibağ metrobus stop and the E-5 highway.
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ISTANBUL · PENDIK
Classic Swedish Massage in Pendik
Near: Kaynarca, Sapanbağları, Kurtköy
Reachable via the M4 metro line (Kaynarca–Pendik), the Marmaray Pendik station and the D-100 / coastal road.
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IZMIR · BAYRAKLı
Classic Swedish Massage in Bayraklı
Near: Adalet, Mansuroğlu, Manavkuyu
