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Cláudia Lopes

published in 21 de Novembro de 2025 | 8 reading time

"Discover the best massages in Porto"

If you are looking for the best massages in Porto, this guide helps you decide with clear criteria. Instead of talking about a single service, we analyse massage types by objective, explain benefits and contraindications, and show you where to book at TOPSPA’s Mandalay Spa units in Porto.

This way you avoid trial and error and walk into the treatment room with the right expectations. For greater transparency, we also detail what to expect during your visit, how to choose the right pressure, and when to postpone a session for safety reasons. The goal is simple: to give you useful, practical and straightforward information so you can book with confidence.

 

Therapist applies heated herbal pouches on a client’s back at Mandalay Spa, during a relaxation session included among the best massages in Porto.
Deep relaxation with warm, soothing Thai herbal pouches.

Best massages in Porto by goal

Relax and reduce stress

A safe choice to ease body tension and improve sleep quality. The touch is continuous, the pace is gentle, and the atmosphere remains calm, helping to soothe both body and mind. An ideal option for your first spa experience.

Ideal for: stress, mental fatigue, mild stiffness.
What to expect: deep relaxation, easier breathing, feeling of lightness in the body.
Pressure: light to medium, adjusted to your comfort.
Duration: confirm when booking. Longer sessions deepen the effect.
Where to try it: Mandalay Spa Altis Porto and Mandalay Spa Flores.

Quick tips: arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to slow down, avoid coffee in the two hours before your treatment and silence your phone. If it is your first time, ask for guidance on the best pressure for you. To maintain the benefits throughout the week, schedule a few deep breaths before bed and keep well hydrated on the day of your session.

Recover from training and prevent injuries

Recommended for those who train or repeat efforts in the shoulders and back. Tok Sen technique applies precise rhythmic stimuli and targeted work on myofascial chains to release overloaded areas.

Ideal for: regular exercisers, repetitive work, stiffness in back and shoulders.
What to expect: post-workout comfort, better range of motion and a feeling of lightness around the shoulder girdle.
Pressure: medium to firm, with active communication about intensity.
Duration: check availability at each spa.
Where to try it: Mandalay Spa Altis Porto and Mandalay Spa Flores.

Quick tips: ideal 24 to 48 hours after an intense workout. Tell your therapist about sensitive areas, previous injuries and specific goals (mobility, recovery, race preparation). Combine with gentle stretching in the following 48 hours and avoid maximum loads on the day of the massage to support recovery.

Relieve localised pain

A fully tailored session focused on neck, shoulders, lower back or another specific area. It combines deep tissue techniques and gentle mobilisations for functional comfort. It does not replace medical follow-up when needed.

Ideal for: muscle knots, trigger points, localised stiffness.
What to expect: relief from discomfort and greater ease in day-to-day movements.
Pressure: adjusted to each area and to your individual tolerance.
Duration: ideal when you need targeted attention on one or two areas.
Where to try it: Mandalay Spa Altis Porto and Mandalay Spa Flores.

Quick tips: describe your routine (hours at the computer, driving, posture) and your discomfort level. If you feel sharp pain, unexplained bruising or persistent tingling, postpone and seek medical advice. After the session, apply moderate local heat and perform gentle movements within your comfort zone.

Detox and purifying

A sensory reset that combines massage touch with mineral exfoliation. It removes dead skin cells, activates superficial microcirculation and leaves the skin smoother and more radiant. Expect a feeling of freshness and lightness.

Ideal for: dull skin, feeling of heaviness, change of season or pre-event care.
What to expect: soft, even skin and a pleasant purifying sense of wellbeing.
Pressure: light to medium, focused on comfort.
Duration: check timings and logistics when booking.
Where to try it: Mandalay Spa Altis Porto and Mandalay Spa Flores.

Quick tips: the day before, avoid DIY scrubs and prolonged sun exposure. After the session, apply plenty of moisturiser and drink water. Do not use the sauna or very hot baths in the following hours if your skin is sensitive.

Experience for two

Two people in the same room, synchronised touch and a harmonious atmosphere. Ideal to celebrate, surprise someone or introduce a loved one to the spa world.

Ideal for: couples, friends, special dates.
What to expect: shared relaxation and a positive memory together.
Booking: limited availability. Advance booking is recommended.
Where to try it: check availability at both units.

Quick tips: align expectations with the other person (pressure, scent preferences, silence during the session). Consider adding extra rest time after the massage to extend the experience, especially on celebration days.

Safety note: postpone the massage in case of fever, active infections, open wounds, known thrombosis or recent fracture. In high-risk pregnancy, post-surgery or unstable medical conditions, request prior medical guidance. This content is informative and does not replace medical advice.

Two therapists perform a couples massage with warm pouches for a couple, in one of the best massage experiences in Porto.
Shared wellbeing: couples massage in the heart of Porto.

How to choose the best massage for you

  • Clear objective: relax, recover from training, relieve pain or care for your skin. The more specific you are, the better the treatment can be personalised.
    Relevant history: recent surgeries, varicose veins, pregnancy or cardiovascular conditions should always be communicated. Bring the names of any medications that may affect sensitivity or circulation.
    Preferred pressure: light, medium or firm. Tell your therapist at the beginning and ask for adjustments during the session whenever needed.
    Time available: 50 minutes is ideal for regular maintenance. 80 minutes allows extra areas to be treated and deepens the effect. If you need focus on one area, 50 minutes may be enough.
    Sensory profile: sensitive skin benefits from gentle techniques and warmed oil. If you prefer a neutral environment, ask for subtle aromas or no fragrance at all.
    Context: for celebrations, choose a couples experience. For routine care, book a relaxation, personalised or Tok Sen massage according to your goal.
    Logistics: choose the most convenient spa unit to reduce stress before and after. Confirm parking, metro access and travel time.

Who should avoid or postpone even the best massage in Porto

Postpone your massage in case of fever, active infections, open wounds, known thrombosis or recent fracture. In high-risk pregnancy, post-surgery or unstable medical conditions, you should obtain medical authorisation and inform the team before booking.

If you have an active skin condition, contact allergies, uncontrolled hypertension or vascular changes, mention it at check-in so the session can be adapted. In cases of sudden, intense pain, loss of strength or numbness, seek clinical assessment first. Safety is the priority and the team will always advise postponing when they detect warning signs.

 

Close-up of a therapist massaging a client’s shoulder, eyes closed, during one of the best massages in Porto at Mandalay Spa Altis Porto.
Relaxing massage at Mandalay Spa Altis Porto: tension-free shoulders.

What to expect at TOPSPA with the best massage in Porto

  • Streamlined booking by phone, WhatsApp, email or online. Quick confirmation and clear information about duration and prices.
  • Reception and a short intake form to adapt the session to your goal, with questions about medical history, sensitivity and preferred pressure.
  • Updated hygiene protocols and privacy throughout the entire journey, from changing room to treatment room. Disposable materials where indicated and cleaning between sessions.
  • Personalised session with a pressure check halfway through and open communication. The therapist adapts pace, focus and technique to your response.
  • Practical post-session advice to maintain results during the week: hydration, gentle stretching and active breaks at work.
  • Facilities: where available, water features and relaxation areas help prepare the body and extend comfort; check rules and usage times at your chosen spa.

TOPSPA differentials and satisfaction guarantee with the best massage in Porto

  • Certified team with ongoing training and protocol supervision to guarantee technical consistency.
  • Aligned protocols across the Mandalay Spa units in Porto, so that your experience feels familiar regardless of the location.
  • Ethical and safe approach with no clinical promises; focus on wellbeing, comfort and perceived results.
  • Follow-up after your first visit to optimise future sessions, adjusting pressure, duration and focus according to your feedback.
  • Commitment to satisfaction with active listening and adjustments in a future booking when necessary.
  • Premium, tranquil environment designed to minimise distractions: soft lighting, discreet music and transition time between sessions so you are not rushed out.

 

Mandalay Spa Flores therapist applies Tok Sen technique on a client’s back using a wooden hammer and wedge, as part of an integrated experience among the best massages in Porto.
Tok Sen: focus on back and shoulders.

Real testimonial

"We loved the experience. Hotel and spa with a refined atmosphere. From the scents, to the ritual, to the tea, everything is taken care of down to the smallest detail. Each client is treated with great care and gentleness. We will return and highly recommend Mandalay Spa." — Luís Marinho

Conclusion and next steps

The best massages in Porto are those that align technique, safety and your personal goal. Define your priority, choose the corresponding technique and book the best massage in Porto at the Mandalay Spa units for a consistent and transparent experience. Your break begins the moment you decide to take care of yourself.

Cláudia Lopes

Passionate about the wellness field from an early age, since 2016 Cláudia has directed her efforts towards promoting and sharing knowledge in this area. Her direct experience interacting with both national and international audiences in various spas, coupled with her background in Marketing and Communication, has made Cláudia our senior marketing specialist.

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