Turkish hammams have a traditional importance in the culture of Turkish people. Many traditional hammams that have been built during the Ottoman Period took their part as one of the major components of the daily culture. People went to hammams for centuries not just for taking a bath, but also for social gatherings and fun. Today, hammams continue to keep their historical importance attracting many locals as well as tourists who want to experience this healthy tradition. That is also why hammam renovation and management is one of the highly demanded areas for investing in Istanbul. There are many spa services offered by hotels, but if you want experience a real tradition with a great architecture to explore, then you should definitely visit one of the best Ottoman hammams of Istanbul. You will take your share of physical and spiritual purification with continuous hot water, spa and massage. There are separate rooms for men and women, where you can enjoy your session very comfortably. Here are the best Ottoman hammams of Istanbul listed for you.
The Çemberlitaş Hammam; Çemberlitaş
Çemberlitaş Hammam is one of the oldest and most beautiful hammams constructed by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century for NurBanu Sultan. It has a gorgeous architecture with its dome and glass apertures. This bath is one the most recommended public baths and is totally worth the experience whether you prefer self-service or take a special treatment of oil-massage. Çemberlitaş is also home to famous ancient Byzantine monuments; therefore don’t miss to explore the area.
The Cağaloğlu Hammam; Cağaloğlu
Cağaloğlu Hammam was built by the order of Sultan Mahmut I. in 18. century, to provide revenue for his library. Different styles of Ottoman architecture were combined during its construction. Cağaloğlu is one the most beautiful places of Istanbul to discover with its amazing market, authentic streets to stroll through. The bath is also very close to the Basilica Cistern, the famous subterranean structure of the Byzantine Empire. It is definitely an unmissable experience!
The Haseki Hürrem Turkish Hammam (Ayasofya Hammam); Sultanahmet
The Haseki Hürrem Hammam was also built by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century. It has two symmetrical separate sections for males and females with a magnificent dome. You can make your reservation for private sessions for a unique experience designed for you to experience real Ottoman style. With its very central location at the heart of Sultanahmet, don’t miss the opportunity to visit here, as Sultanahmet is also the center for many historical sites as well as a trending place for luxury real estates.
The Kılıç Ali Paşa Istanbul Hammam, Tophane
Constructed by Mimar Sinan in the 16th Century in the name of Kılıç Ali Paşa, the famous Ottoman Admiral, this hammam served the marine forces in the navy for many years. This is one of the historical buildings in Tophane with its elegant design and architectural lines. It is very close to Karaköy, where those who want to invest in Istanbul are rushing to grab a piece of Turkish property in the area. Don’t miss the opportunity to have coffee or dinner in the very cute restaurants and cafes of the neighborhood after your bath.
The Galatasaray Hammam; Taksim
Located at the very center of city in Taksim, the Galatasaray hammam was built in the 18th century as a public bath, with a classical architectural design. With its proximity to the historical Pera neighbourhood and Cihangir, you will have the unique opportunity to visit the most popular places for touristic attractions, cafes and restaurants, shopping centers as well as exploring opportunities for real estate investment in Istanbul.