Discover the Oldest and Best Turkish Baths in Istanbul
Istanbul, with its rich history, is home to some of the oldest and most iconic Turkish baths (hamams). These baths were once essential for personal hygiene, but today they offer a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, steeped in centuries-old traditions.
Though many baths have fallen into decline, Istanbul preserves some of the finest examples, including those that date back over 500 years. These establishments are often more than just places for bathing – they’re havens where history and culture intertwine.
Key Attractions:
Cemberlitas Hamami:
Built-in 1584 by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, this historic bath is situated near the Grand Bazaar. It remains heated by a traditional furnace system that burns wood chips, producing steam that fills the space.
Cagaloglu Hamami:
Opened in 1741, Cağaloğlu is one of the last grand hammams built during the Ottoman era. It has been continuously operational for centuries and is listed as one of the “1000 Places to See Before You Die” by the New York Times.
What to Expect from a Traditional Turkish Bath:
A typical Turkish bath experience involves being wrapped in a peshtemal (a cloth worn in the bath), enjoying a relaxing massage, and cleansing your skin with exfoliation. Many modern-day baths also provide special treatments, including luxurious massages, teas, and snacks, all designed to soothe your body and mind.
In the traditional setting, the experience is divided by gender, with separate areas for men and women, each guided by professional attendants who ensure a relaxing atmosphere. It’s also essential to remember that in more tourist-heavy baths, the prices may be higher, and the atmosphere more sanitized.
Come experience the timeless luxury of Istanbul’s oldest Turkish baths and immerse yourself in a tradition that has spanned generations.
Turkish bath Hamam kits:
The bath kits typically include a “peshtemal,” which is a traditional plaid loincloth, usually in red or blue. Along with the peshtemal, the kits may consist of soap, a pumice stone, and sometimes traditional Turkish bath shoes, known as “takunya,” which can be made of wood or embellished with gold or silver.
Gift box “Turkish baths” (Turkish hammam):
Turkish Hamams: a real pleasure, an Absolute Relaxation
A “peshtemal” is loaned to you at the entrance of the Turkish baths (Turkish hamam) to be able to stroll in all tranquillity:
Letting go in the hamams in Istanbul:
At Sultan Ahmet between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, a magical place where history is omnipresent.
With a little imagination we are back in the time of the sultans, do not you see Hürrem Sultan crossing the gardens with his maids?
I see them go together to a Turkish hammam, wearing takounya, those of Hürrem is silver, those of his servants and slaves are wooden. They wear peshtemals and they have soap on their hands.
Turkish hamam of Hürrem Sultan makes a new skin. Closed for 100 years, they were rehabilitated identically in an Ottoman atmosphere.
The Oldest and Best Turkish Baths & Hamams in Istanbul
One of the oldest Turkish baths in Istanbul is Cemberlitas Hamami, located close to the Grand Bazaar. Built in 1584 by the Ottomans’ most celebrated architect, Mimar Sinan, the Hamam is still heated in a time-honoured way, by a furnace that burns wood chips, producing steam that warms the entire structure.
Another most important hammam to visit is Cagaloglu Hamami. Cağaloğlu is the last big Hamam built in the Ottoman era and was put in the list of 1000 must-see places before you die by the New York Times! The Hamam has been in continuous operation since it opened in 1741.
Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami: Built in the 16th century by Mimar Sinan, this hamam stands as an architectural masterpiece in the Karaköy district. Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami offers an elegant, peaceful escape from the bustling city, with both traditional services and modern amenities.
Beyazit Hamami: One of the oldest in Istanbul, Beyazit Hamami dates back to 1481 and is located near Beyazit Square. This traditional bathhouse offers a quintessential Ottoman bathing experience, with a grand interior and a rich sense of history. However, it operates as a museum. Open Days: It is open for visits on weekdays from 09:00 to 16:30.
II. Bayezid Türk Hamam Kültürü Müzesi
Entrance is free for all adults, local and foreign.
An Experience of Luxury:
Imagine a day of indulgence, set within the historic walls of a Turkish hamam. Picture the elegance of the Sultan’s era as you enjoy a moment of pampering with aromatic oils, soft massages, and the tranquil sound of water flowing in the background. Whether you are looking to relax, detox, or simply immerse yourself in local culture, these baths offer a transformative experience.