Where to Experience a Traditional Hammam in Istanbul – Travel Dudes
Hammam, also called Turkish Bath, is a traditional bath culture dating back to the Ottoman Empire. It was a very important ritual that represents the cleanness, relaxation and social life.
The Hammam, Turkish Bath, is still enjoyed by many today. And there are many ways to enjoy the Hammam in Istanbul. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your experience when you visit Istanbul, Turkey.
First and foremost, it’s important to relax and take your time in the Hammam. This is not a rushed process – it should be slow and relaxed for you to get the full benefit of the experience.
Once you have entered the steam room, find a comfortable spot where you can sit or recline. Allow yourself to sweat and detoxify for at least 20 minutes before moving on to washing your body.
Now it’s time to start scrubbing! You can use either a loofah or washcloth with soap (preferably black soap) to scrub your skin from head-to-toe. Be sure to focus on any areas that feel especially dry or rough. Usually you can book a package, where the scrubbing is included and where it’s done by a staff member (here’s a great package to book that includes scrubbing and foaming).
Once you have exfoliated your entire body, rinse off with cool water then return to relaxing in the steam room for another 10 minutes or so.
Finally, finish up by applying moisturizer all over your newly refreshed skin.
An extra option is to add a wellness – relax massage. After this one you will feel ready to explore more of Istanbul.
If you’re looking for another activity to enjoy in Istanbul, check out the Grand Bazaar.
How to choose a /Turkish hammam in Istanbul
There are a few things to consider when choosing a Turkish hammam in Istanbul. The first is the price. Many of the more well-known hammams will be more expensive, but they will also offer more services and amenities. If you’re looking for a more basic experience, there are many less expensive options available.
The second thing to consider is the location. Many of the more popular hammams are located in the more touristy areas of Istanbul, which means they can be quite crowded. If you want a more authentic experience, you may want to choose a hammam that is located in a less touristy area.
The third thing to consider is what type of services you want. Some hammams offer basic services such as soap and massage, while others offer more elaborate treatments such as body scrubs and mud baths. Choose a hammam based on the type of services you are interested in.
Finally, keep in mind that some hammams may have age or gender restrictions. Make sure to check before you book to avoid any surprises.
See also: The Moroccan Hammam: Why Every Traveler Should Step Outside Their Comfort Zone
The best Turkish hammams in Istanbul
Nowadays, there are many different hammams in Istanbul offering different services and treatments.
There are a few great Turkish hammams in Istanbul that stand out above the rest. The Aya Sofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam is one of the most beautiful and luxurious hammams in the city. It’s perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Another great option is the Cagaloglu Hamam, which has been around for centuries and is a true Istanbul institution.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Süleymaniye Hamam is a great choice that won’t disappoint.
Whichever hammam you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable experience!
Here are some of the best hammams that you can visit during your stay in Istanbul
Aya Sofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam
Aya Sofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam is a Turkish bathhouse in Istanbul, Turkey. The bathhouse was built in 1556 by the order of Suleiman the Magnificent for his wife, Hürrem Sultan. It is one of the largest and oldest surviving Ottoman baths in Istanbul.
The Aya Sofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam is located in the courtyard of the Aya Sofya Mosque. The building is octagonal in shape and has two stories. The upper story contains the main bathing area, while the lower story contains the dressing rooms and other service areas.
The main bathing area is decorated with marble, mother-of-pearl, and stained glass. The ceiling is domed, and there are four large marble columns supporting the roof. There are three marble pools in the room, each with a different temperature.
The hottest pool is in the center of the room, while the coolest pool is at the edge of the room. After bathing, bathers would traditionally relax in one of the several lounge areas or have a massage.
The Aya Sofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam also had a coffeehouse where patrons could socialize and enjoy refreshments. The Aya Sofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam continued to be used as a bathhouse until 1955 when it was closed to the public. In 2005, the bathhouse underwent a major restoration and reopened to the public as a museum.
Address: Cankurtaran, Ayasofya Meydanı No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul – on the map
Cagaloglu Hamam
Cagaloglu Hamam is one of the oldest Turkish baths in Istanbul. It was built in 1741 during the Ottoman Empire, and is a popular tourist attraction today.
The Cagaloglu hamam is traditional in design, with three main areas: a cooling room, a washing room, and a steam room. Visitors can purchase a package that includes all three services, or just choose one.
The cooling room is the first stop, where you can relax on a marble bench and enjoy the cool air. This is followed by the washing room, where you can enjoy a traditional Turkish bath. The steam room is the last stop, and is used to relax your muscles and improve circulation.
Address: Alemdar, Prof. Kazım İsmail Gürkan Cd. No:24, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul – on the map
Süleymaniye Hammam
Süleymaniye Hammam, this hammam is located inside the Süleymaniye Mosque complex and it was built by the great Ottoman architect Sinan. It is one of the biggest and most beautiful hammams in Istanbul.
The main hall is decorated with beautiful Iznik tiles and has a huge dome. There are also two smaller halls, one for men and one for women.
The Süleymaniye Hammam is open every day from 6am to 10pm and the entrance fee is 20 TL.
Address: Süleymaniye, Mimar Sinan Cd. No:20, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul – on the map
Çemberlitaş Hammamı
Çemberlitaş Hammamı, this hammam is located in the heart of the Old City and is one of the oldest and most famous hammams in Istanbul. It is located in the old city center and it was built in 1584 by order of Sultan Murad III.
The Çemberlitaş Hammamı is as well one of the oldest surviving Turkish baths in Istanbul. The interior is very simple, but still beautiful. The main hall has a large dome and there are two smaller halls for men and women.
Here is an admission ticket to the Cemberlitas Hamam, including a scrub and foam.
Address: Mollafenari, Vezirhan Cd. No:8, 34440 Fatih/İstanbul – on the map
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam; it is located in Beyoğlu district and it was built in 1580 by order of Kılıç Ali Paşa, one of the most powerful men of Ottoman Empire.
The Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam is one of the most beautiful and largest hammams in Istanbul. It is also one of the few historical ones that are still operational. Even though many years have passed, it’s still regarded as one of the biggest and finest hammams not only in Istanbul but also across Turkey. If you’re looking to experience a traditional Turkish bath while visiting Turkey, then this should be on your list.
Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Hamam Sk. No:1, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul – on the map
Ağa Hammam
Ağa Hammam; you’ll find the hammam located in Eminönü district and it was built in 1741 by order of Ağa, the chief black eunuch of Ottoman Empire.
The Ağa Hammam was the largest and most magnificent hammam of its time. Ağa Hammam is one of the most interesting places in Eminönü district. It was built in 1741 by order of Ağa, the chief black eunuch of Ottoman Empire. The hammam is located on a busy street and it was the largest and most magnificent hammam of its time. Today, it is still one of the biggest hammams in Istanbul with two different sides for men and women.
Address: Kuloğlu, Turnacıbaşı Cd. No:48, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul – on the map
Dolmabahçe Hammam
This hammam is located inside the Dolmabahçe Palace and it was built in 1856 by order of Sultan Abdülmecid I.
It is one of the last examples of a classical Turkish hammam in Istanbul. The Dolmabahçe Hammam is one of the most beautiful and serene places in Istanbul.
The interior of the hammam is decorated with intricate mosaics and marble panels, and its heated pools are perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring Istanbul. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, make sure to visit the Dolmabahçe Hammam during your stay in Istanbul!
Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul – on the map
Costs of hammams in Istanbul
The hammams in Istanbul are some of the most expensive in the world. A single session cost around $70 and can cost upwards of $150, and a package of 10 sessions can cost over $1,000. This is due to the high demand for these services and the limited number of hammams in Istanbul.
Here is an admission ticket to the Cemberlitas Hamam, including a scrub and foam.
Benefits of steam rooms or saunas
Saunas and steam rooms offer a variety of health benefits, from improved circulation to better skin. If you’re new to using a sauna or steam room, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to get the most out of your experience.
- First, when you enter the sauna or steam room, take a seat and allow your body to slowly adjust to the heat. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded at any point, be sure to step out and cool down for a bit before returning.
- Next, be sure to drink plenty of fluids before and after your time in the sauna or steam room, as this will help prevent dehydration.
- And finally, don’t forget to moisturize. The heat can strip your skin of moisture, so apply lotion all over once you’re done.
Credit: Where to Experience a Traditional Hammam in Istanbul – Travel Dudes
