Now you know about the history of hamams and Turkey’s public bathing culture, and you’ve read the expat’s guide to hamams. The next step is to choose a hamam and give it a go.
There are numerous hamams in Istanbul, old and new, with different characteristics, services, and ranges of prices. For most places, you won’t need to make a reservation – just walk in. But some of the nicer hamams will expect you to have a booking. To help you make your decisions, I’ve put together an insider’s guide to some of the most popular hamams in Istanbul.
Çemberlitaş Hamam
This may be the most popular historical hamam in the city among tourists. Built by Mimar Sinan in 1584, it is located at the Çemberlitaş tramway stop. You’ll pay about 75 TL for the traditional soap and massage, which includes a shampoo. With this price you’ll also get a kese (scrubbing mitt) and a pair of underwear to wear inside. As the place is often very busy, you may be rushed through by your attendant. After the massage and shampoo, you’ll be directed to a hot pool/ jacuzzi, where you can relax in the warm water as long as you like.
Address: Vezirhan Cad. No: 8, Çemberlitaş
Phone: +90 212 522 79 74 or +90 212 520 18 50
Hürrem Sultan Hamam
This hamam is named after the famous wife of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, Hürrem Sultan, who requested that this hamam be built by Mimar Sinan in 1556. If you’re willing to pay the price for some extra pampering and luxury, this may be the hamam for you. Located directly between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia, the high end Hürrem Sultan Hamam recently reopened to the public after some extensive renovations. The basic package will set you back about 70 Euros. Needless to say, it is best to make a reservation.
Address: Cankurtaran Mahallesi Bab-ı Hümayun Caddesi No:1 Sultanahmet
Phone: +90 212 517 35 35
Süleymaniye Hamam
This may be the only historical hamam (it was also built by Mimar Sinan) in Istanbul that caters to couples and families. Most of the patrons here are tourists and, like Cemberlitas, the massages may be short and sweet as they rush you through to get to the next group. Take a swimsuit with you, or wear the provided shorts and bra top, as this hamam is coed. Prices start at 35 Euros per person. Call ahead or use the form on their website to make a reservation.
Address: Mimar Sinan Caddesi No:20, Süleymaniye
Phone: +90 212 519 55 69
Nez Club
This hamam is not in an historical building, but it is designed in the traditional style and, as it has been my favorite hamam experience so far, I had to include it. Located in Bostancı, Nez Club is for women only. They have cool and warm pools where customers can swim, float around, and lounge under ornate fountains. The attendants are helpful and massages are not rushed or cut short. It’s a bit pricier than some other options, but well worth it in my opinion. The traditional package will set you back about 100 TL. Make a reservation to ensure they’ll get you in.
Address: Balıkçı Yunus Sk. No:12, Bostancı
Phone: +90 216 380 28 81
What is your favorite hamam in Istanbul? Give your recommendations below!
My fouvourite Hamam is at Les Ottomans Les Ottomans. It is pricy but it is worth every penny. For 250TL you have the Hamam to yourself for an hour and will be treated like a queen. there are two treatments to choose from Rose or Lemon / Honey. Goodle it.
Thanks. What about the Galata Saray hamam by istiklal cd.?
And there must be some more nice low key Hamams around too..
Thanks. What about the Galata Saray hamam by istiklal cd.?
And there must be some more nice low key Hamams around too..
My favorite hamam is every hamam except these posh ones.
[…] single space, the camegah (lounge), is used as a waiting space before entering the hamam and a lounge to rest after enjoying it. Before going into the hot room, you are offered a homemade […]