Always an amazing experience as an American who’s been going here regularly for almost 3 years now. But, you need to go in knowing a few things up front. The negative reviews you see here are mostly from people who didn’t have the right expectations. All that’s needed is some expectation management, so here goes:

1. Naked only, except for textile day first Saturday of every month. You’ll see everybody here from old to young, thin to fat. All are at home here! Most folks do wrap a towel or bathrobe around them when walking around outside the sauna / steam rooms and pools.
2. Bring EVERYTHING you’ll need. You can rent or buy all this in a pinch, but best bring your own. Bring sandals/flip flops. Bring bottled water or sports drink. Bring two towels, bigger is better. Bring bathrobe if you want, but that is very optional and gets cumbersome. Bring a book if you want. Leave jewelry at home.
3. Get tickets online before you arrive. I’ve never had issues getting them same-day, it’s just easier if you arrive with the QR code. You might start with a short ticket (2hrs) but a regular like me will typically spend 4-5 hrs per visit.
4. When you arrive, look at the map and take a walk around the whole winding facility. It is massive. Familiarize yourself. Then work your way up to doing an Aufguss….don’t be shy to sit low/near the door, and to leave early, if you get uncomfortable. Take break for a beer and German food at the restaurant inside the facility (just wearing your towel).
5. It’s most crowded on wet/cold weekends. A rainy winter Sunday will see the biggest crowds. But, especially if you’re not used to nude German saunas, crowded = good! You get lost in the mass of people and the age/gender diversity is at its highest. I’m most comfortable in a crowded sauna or pool, rather than with just another person or two.
6. The staff is exceedingly helpful and all I’ve encountered have spoken English. Ask them anything! In short, if you sort of know what to expect, SchwabenQuellen is among the most relaxing experiences you can have on Earth. Don’t miss out!! If it’s your first time, watch a video or 2 on YouTube about German saunas and etiquette, and you’ll do great.