Updated Date : 28.02.2024
Historical Hammams & Turkish Baths in Istanbul
One of the unique traditions of Turkey is, of course, Turkish Baths. In Turkish, it is called 'Hammam.' there are some basics that every traveler needs to know before going to a bath, but what is precisely a Turkish Bath? A Turkish bath would have three sections.
The first section you would see is where you would be given room to change your costumes. After changing your outfits, you would wear the towels provided by the bath to be able to enter the second section.
The second section is called the middle section. This name is given because the temperature here is a little low to prepare you for the heat before the hottest section of the bath.
The third section is the hottest section even the locals call this section hell. This is the section where you would lay on a marble platform and have your massage. A little warning, Turkish massage is a little intense compared to Asian-style massages. If you don't like strong massages, you can inform the masseur beforehand.
There is no need to bring soap, shampoo, or towels as everything would be provided by the bath. The only thing that you may take with you is new clothes to wear after the bath. For your own experience, here are some of the best Turkish Baths in Istanbul.
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Sultan Suleyman Hammam
Discover the essence of Ottoman luxury with Istanbul E-pass's discounted access to Sultan Suleyman Hammam. Enjoy an exclusive, private bath experience with a variety of packages to choose from, including Traditional Turkish Hammam, Sultan Suleyman Hammam (VIP and Deluxe options available). For added convenience, Sultan Suleyman Hammam provides pick-up and drop-off services from centrally located hotels. Experience a retreat of relaxation and cultural indulgence, where the rich tapestry of history seamlessly blends with modern comfort. Click here to book and explore the diverse packages, also treat yourself to a spa escape like no other.
Cemberlitas Turkish Bath
Located within walking distance of most of the hotels in the old city, Cemberlitas Turkish Bath is one of the oldest in Istanbul. Opened in the 16th century by the Sultan's wife, this bath is the most talented architect of the Ottomans, Sinan. This bath is a double-domed bath meaning men and women can use the bath simultaneously in different sections.
How to get Cemberlitas Turkish Bath
From Taksim to Cemberlitas Turkish Bath: Take a funicular (F1) to Kabatas station and change to a T1 tram to Bagcilar direction and get off at Cemberlitas station.
Opening Hours: Cemberlitas Turkish Bath is open every day from 06:00 to 00:00
Kilic Ali Pasa Turkish Bath
Located near the Tophane T1 tram station, Kilic Ali Pasa Bath is recently renovated and opened for the public once more. It is constructed initially in the 16th century by one of the navy admirals of the Sultan, who is also the one giving the order for the mosque just next to the bath. Kilic Ali Pasa Bath is a single-domed bath meaning men and women use the same section at different times of the day.
How to get Kilic Ali Pasa Turkish Bath
From Sultanahmet to Kilic Ali Pasa Turkish Bath: Take the T1 tram to Kabatas direction from Sultanahmet station and get off at Tophane Station
From Taksim to Kilic Ali Pasa Turkish Bath: Take the funicular from Taksim square to Kabatas station and change to the T1 tram, get off at Tophane station.
Opening hours: For men every day from 08:00 to 16:00
For women every day from 16:30 to 23:30
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Galatasaray Turkish Bath
Located in the new city, Taksim, Galatasaray Turkish Bath is the oldest bath in Istanbul, with a construction date of 1491. It is still an active Turkish bath with a different section for men and women.
How to get Galatasaray Turkish Bath
From Sultanahmet to Galatasaray Turkish Bath: Take the T1 tram to Kabatas station, change to the F1 funicular and get off Taksim station and walk around 10 minutes to Galatasaray Turkish Bath through Istiklal Street
Opening hours: Every day from 09:00 to 21:00
Suleymaniye Turkish Bath
Located on the side of the biggest mosque complex in Istanbul, Suleymaniye Mosque, Suleymaniye Turkish Bath is constructed in the 16th century by architect Sinan. The bath is the only Turkish bath in Istanbul as mixed. Therefore, only couples can make a reservation and use the bath simultaneously in separate bath areas.
How to get Suleymaniye Turkish Bath
From Sultanahmet to Suleymaniye Turkish Bath: There are three options. First, one is to walk around 30 minutes to Suleymaniye Turkish Bath. The second option is tram T1 Tram from Sultanahmet station to Laleli station and walk around 10-15 minutes. The last option is, to take the T1 tram from Sultanahmet station to Eminonu and walk for around 20 minutes.
From Taksim to Suleymaniye Turkish Bath: There are two options. The first one is to take a funicular from Taksim square to Kabatas station and change to the T1 tram to Eminonu station and walk for around 20 minutes. The second option is to take the metro M1 from Taksim to Vezneciler station and walk around 10-15 minutes to Suleymaniye Turkish Bath.
Opening hours: Every day from 10:00 to 22:00
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Haseki Hurrem Turkish Bath
It was constructed for the most powerful woman of the Ottomans and the wife of Suleyman the Magnificent, Hurrem Sultan; Hurrem Sultan Bath is located conveniently between Hagia Sophia Mosque and Blue Mosque. It is the work of the famous architect Sinan from the 16th century. It had many different historical functions and opened recently as a Turkish bath after a successful renovation program. Without question, the most luxurious bath in Istanbul with silk towels and gold-plated water taps. It has separate sections for men and women.
How to get to the Haseki Hurrem Turkish Bath
From Taksim to Haseki Hurrem Turkish Bath: Take a Funicular (F1) from Taksim Square to Kabatas station and change to tram line (T1) to Sultanahmet station
Opening hours: 08:00 to 22:00
Cagaloglu Turkish Bath
Located in the center of the old city, Sultanahmet, Cagaloglu Turkish Bath is a functioning Turkish bath from the 18th century. It has separate sections for men and women. The most important feature of the bath is that this bath is in the book "1001 Things You Must Do Before You Die ". It had many visitors in its history for more than 300 years, including Hollywood stars, famous diplomats, football players, etc.
How to get Cagaloglu Turkish Bath
From Taksim to the Cagaloglu Turkish Bath: Take a Funicular (F1) from Taksim Square to Kabatas station and change to tram line (T1) to Sultanahmet station
Opening hours: 09:00 - 22:00 | Monday - Thursday
09:00 - 23:00 | Friday - Saturday - Sunday
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The Final Word
In summary, Istanbul boasts numerous hammams, and with an Istanbul E-pass, you gain access to one of the most exceptional ones – Sultan Suleyman Hammam. Offering both pick-up and drop-off services, as well as a private experience, this hammam ensures you feel truly valued throughout your visit. The Istanbul E-pass provides an opportunity to elevate your hammam experience, making it not just a bath but a personalized and precious indulgence.