Experience the best Turkish Baths in Istanbul

Step into Istanbul’s rich past with a Turkish bath experience

Once the favored retreat of Sultans, hammams were bustling communal spaces that captured the essence of Ottoman life. Today, these architectural masterpieces offer everything from time-honored cleansing rituals to indulgent spa-like treatments. Whether you’re looking for some ‘me-time,’ a cultural deep dive, or a blend of both, an Istanbul hammam promises an unforgettable escape.

Things to know before booking Turkish bath experiences

• Stay near Sultanahmet , a historic neighborhood with iconic hammams like Cemberlitas, Hurrem Sultan, and Cagaloglu, offering a mix of ‘classic’ rituals and luxurious spa treatments, just minutes away from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
• Pick historic hammams like Cemberlitas and Cagaloglu for an authentic Ottoman experience or opt for modern options like Taksim Hammam and Spa and Sisli Hammam for a spa-like ambiance, complete with personal treatments and sauna facilities.
• Enjoy traditional Turkish treatments with exfoliation, foam massages, and extras like extended sessions, Turkish tea, and homemade sherbets.
• All hammams provide essentials like lockers, changing rooms, and pestemals (light cotton towels) to ensure your comfort.
• Most Turkish hammams, including Cemberlitas and Hurrem Sultan, have separate sections for men and women with gender-matching therapists to ensure privacy.
• The Acemoglu Historical Hammam is perfect for couples or families, offering mixed-gender sessions to enjoy the experience together without compromising on tradition or comfort.
• Most traditional hammams, especially the ones housed in historic buildings like Cemberlitas, Hurrem Sultan, and Gedikpasa are not wheelchair accessible. Some recently-renovated bathhouses like Taksim Spa and Sisli Hammam offer accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible changing rooms.
• If you are pregnant or have health conditions like heart issues, it’s best to consult with your doctor before visiting a hammam. Hammams are also not ideal for toddlers, with most recommending a minimum age of 12 to ensure comfort and safety.

Best Turkish Baths in Istanbul

Your guide to Turkish baths | Tips, etiquette, and essentials 

• After the hot room and foam massage session, spend a few minutes in the cooling room to allow your body to adjust. Be sure to drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids from the steam and heat.
• It is recommended to moisturize your skin thoroughly after a Turkish bath. All hammams offer natural oils or moisturizers. Olive oil and redbud-based products are popular choices.
• Most Turkish bathhouses provide essentials like towels, non-slip slippers, shampoo, and shower gel. If you prefer, you are welcome to bring your own products.
• If you are unsure of participating in any aspect of the bathing ritual, make sure to inform your attendants.
• If you have a few hours on hand, treat yourself to longer spa sessions for the full therapeutic benefits.