The captivating Ottoman civilization in Turkey is varied and worth experiencing. One of the most prominent cultural traditions is the Turkish Hammam which reflects the history of the Ottoman. This fantastic experience attracts tourists worldwide seeking relaxation, all-out cleaning, and massage in a unique environment. If you don't know the Turkish Hammam in this article we will explore everything related to this unique experience, including the best places to enjoy a Turkish bath and tips for your first visit.

What is a Turkish Hammam?

The Turkish Hammam is considered one of the most important tourist attractions. Essentially a Roman bath organized according to Islamic rules, it is one of the ancient traditions in Turkish culture and offers a unique experience that combines relaxation and personal hygiene. The Turkish Hammam consists of several sections, starting with a warm room called the "Sogukluk," where the person relaxes to acclimate to the heat. Then, they move to a hot room called the "Hararet," where they lie on a hot marble slab called "Göbek taşı" and begin the steaming and sweating process. After that, the body is cleaned using natural olive oil soap and a special massage called "Kese," a rough mitt to remove dead skin. Following these steps, the person moves to a cool room to cool down, at the last, this is followed by an aromatic oil massage sometimes. This experience aims to provide physical and mental relaxation, rejuvenating both body and mind.

The Most Renowned Turkish Hammams

There are many Turkish baths that tourists can visit, which stand among the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. However, if you are looking for a unique experience, you should head to the following places.

Hagia Sophia Hurrem Sultan Hammam(Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami)

There are many Turkish Hammam that tourists can visit, which are among the most famous tourist attractions in Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia Hurrem Sultan Hamam. Located in one of the city's most renowned tourist areas between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, the Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam enjoys an ideal and strategic location.

Built in the 15th century by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan for Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent's wife, Hurrem Sultan, the Hurrem Sultan Hamam is considered one of the most beautiful baths in Istanbul. It is ranked among the best baths in Istanbul and stands as a testament to the rich history of the Ottoman civilization.

Of course, prices for Turkish Hammam located in the heart of tourist attractions are significantly higher than in other places. Prices at Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam range from 50 euros for basic services to 80 euros including massage. For those seeking a luxurious experience, the comprehensive package Ab-i Hayat, comes with a price tag of up to 185 euros.

 Cagaloglu Hammam(Cagaloglu Hamami)

Cagaloglu Hamami is located on Yerebatan Street, dating back to 1741. It has hosted famous guests such as the German Emperor Wilhelm and the renowned actor Omar Sharif. The bath is a short walk from iconic Sultan Ahmed hotels and the White House Hotel, the Sura Hotel, and the Adamar Hotel. It is situated at the beginning of Nuruosmaniye Street, which leads to the Grand Bazaar. Service costs range from 30€ to50 € depending on whether it's self-service or includes amenities.

 Cemberlitas Hammam(Cemberlitas Hamami)

Cemberlitas Hamami is one of the Turkish Hammam near the Sultan Ahmed area. It is next to the Cemberlitas tram station at the right, just a 5-minute walk from Sultan Ahmed tram station. It is very close to the Grand Bazaar. Cemberlitas Hamami was built in 1584 by Nurbanu Sultan, wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The bathing cost there is reasonable, ranging up to 50 euros.

Suleymaniye Hammam(Suleymaniye Hamamı)

Suleymaniye Hammam was built in the 1550s as part of the Suleymaniye Mosque complex, renowned as the most beautiful mosque in Istanbul. Designed by the architect Sinan, one of the foremost engineers of the Ottoman Empire, it stands as a prominent architectural masterpiece.

Suleymaniye Hammam is recognized as one of the best baths for couples in Istanbul, allowing visitors to attend together—a rare exception in traditional Turkish baths. The bathing fee at the hamam is approximately 40 euros, making it one of the reasonably priced Turkish baths in the historic area of Istanbul. Located near popular accommodation areas such as Beyazit, Laleli, and Aksaray in the old city, it offers convenient access for visitors.

 Aga Hammam( Aga Hamami)

Aga Hammam, the oldest Turkish Hamma in Istanbul, was created in 1454. It is located in the Cihangir area of Beyoglu, very close to boutique hotels in the adjacent area.

For a traditional Turkish Hammam experience at Aga Hammam, the cost is 40 euros. Aga Hammam has been rated as the best Turkish bath in Taksim.

More Turkish Hammam

  • Kılıç Ali Pasha Hammam(Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı‬)

  • ‪Cukurcuma Hammam(‪Cukurcuma Hamami)

  • ‪Catma Mescit Hammam(‪Catma Mescit Hamami‬)

  • Historical Cashiers Turkish Bath(‪Historical Vezneciler Türkısh Hamami)

Types of Services in Turkish Hammam 

There are two options the first is self-service - You bathe yourself and bring your soap, shampoo, and towel, which is an economical choice but not recommended for first-time Turkish Hammam visitors. The second option includes an attendant who stays with you for 15 minutes and provides all necessary services. There may also be additional options such as oil baths, but it's important to ensure the Hammam offers them.

Tips for visiting a Turkish bath

  • The steam room can be so hot, so if you feel uncomfortable, it is advisable to leave.

  • If you choose to be followed by an attendant, be aware they may be a bit rough.

  • In the bath, men wear a traditional wrap around their waist and remove their underwear. As for women, they should keep their underwear on, although removing the bra is acceptable as the wrap covers you at all times.

  • Bring extra underwear. If you don't use the underwear they provide or if none is provided. The pair you wear may get wet in the bath, so it's better to wear dry clothes.

  • It's better not to be completely naked.

  • If you pay for the service, the bath attendant will scrub you with soap and water from head to toe and after that guide, you to a small basin and then rinse you with cold water.

 

In conclusion, visiting a Turkish bath can be a memorable experience steeped in tradition and relaxation. Remember to familiarize yourself with the different services offered, consider your comfort level with heat in the steam room, and be prepared with additional undergarments if needed. Whether opting for self-service or assisted cleaner, embracing the cultural nuances of the Turkish bath adds a unique dimension to your journey. Enjoy the rejuvenating benefits and the sense of tradition that these baths have preserved through centuries.

Turkish Hammam Antalya Hammam