Massage Types
We have gathered the 13 massage types people ask about most in Istanbul. On each type's page you can find a description, the typical session length, who it suits and what happens in a session. The health information on these pages is general; if you have a health condition, talk to your doctor before a massage.
All Massage Types
Classic Massage
A medium-pressure, flowing massage with oil for general relaxation. A comfortable start for people new to massage.
Detailed Page →Swedish Massage
Long strokes, kneading and light pressure: the method at the base of many massage schools.
Detailed Page →Thai Massage
An active massage done without oil, in clothing, with pressure points and yoga-like stretches.
Detailed Page →Sports Massage
Massage for people who exercise regularly, focused on specific muscle groups before or after training.
Detailed Page →Aromatherapy Massage
A calm, gentle-touch relaxation session done with the scent of essential oils.
Detailed Page →Deep Tissue Massage
Massage that uses slow movements and firm pressure to focus on the deeper layers of muscle.
Detailed Page →Reflexology
A session done without undressing, with rhythmic pressure on points of the feet, hands and ears.
Detailed Page →Shiatsu
A calm-paced massage of Japanese origin based on finger and palm pressure.
Detailed Page →Medical Massage
A name used for work focused on a particular area; it is not a health service or clinical care.
Detailed Page →Prenatal Massage
A light-pressure massage adapted to pregnancy; talk to your doctor before starting.
Detailed Page →Hot Stone Massage
Heated stones warm the muscles, then massage is done by hand; an enveloping session.
Detailed Page →Lomi Lomi Massage
Of Hawaiian origin; long, uninterrupted forearm movements stand out.
Detailed Page →Bali Massage
A massage with a traditional feel that combines kneading, pressure and long strokes with aromatic oils.
Detailed Page →
Which massage suits you?
The right choice depends on what you expect, how much pressure you prefer and your health. The points below are only a starting idea.
If you want general relaxation
Classic or Swedish massage offers a flowing, medium-pressure session. Aromatherapy and Bali massage are also calm options done with oil.
For Muscle Tension or Sports
Deep tissue and sports massage use firmer pressure. Adjust the pressure with your therapist and tell them about your health beforehand.
For a session without oil, in clothing
Thai massage, shiatsu and reflexology are usually done without oil and in clothing. Stretching stands out in Thai massage.
Special Situations
If you are pregnant or have a health condition, talk to your doctor first. The prenatal and medical massage pages have detailed safety notes.
Massage at Home
Some therapists work at your place. How massage at home works, how to prepare and what to watch for is explained on a separate page.
Go to the Massage at Home page →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between massage types?
- The differences are in the technique, the firmness of pressure and how the session is done. Classic and Swedish massage rely on flowing movements with oil, Thai massage and shiatsu on oil-free pressure and stretching, and deep tissue and sports massage on firmer pressure. Because therapists can combine techniques, it helps to ask how the session will go before you book.
How long does a massage session last?
- Most sessions are between 30 and 90 minutes; Cleveland Clinic gives about 50 minutes as a typical massage session. The lengths a therapist offers are listed on each profile.
Do I need to talk to a doctor before a massage?
- If you have a health condition, take blood thinners, have a history of leg clots or osteoporosis, are pregnant or had recent surgery, talk to your doctor first (Cleveland Clinic, NCCIH). If you are unsure, asking your doctor is always a sound step.