Culture & Travel
3 February 2025With its rich history spanning countless civilizations, İstanbul is renowned for its cultural diversity. One of the finest reflections of this diversity is the city’s hammam tradition. This Ottoman ritual, which forms the foundation of today’s modern spa culture, remains especially popular during the winter months.
Stretching out on the heated marble göbek taşı and feeling the soothing effects of steam, unwinding with an invigorating kese (exfoliation) and foam massage, followed by sipping freshly brewed herbal tea or traditional Ottoman şerbet... Doesn’t that sound amazing?

The Hammam Ritual: The Magic of Steam and Marble
A traditional hammam experience is a three-step purification ritual. Here’s what to expect:
- Warming Up and Preparation: First, you lie on the heated marble platform, known as the göbek taşı, allowing your body to relax and adjust to the warmth. The steam opens your pores, preparing your skin for deep cleansing.
- Exfoliation and Foam Massage: The highlight of the hammam experience is the kese, an exfoliation treatment that removes layers of dead skin. A skilled tellak (male masseur) or natır (female masseuse) scrubs your skin with a special mitt, followed by a luxurious foam massage to leave your body thoroughly cleansed.
- Cooling Down and Relaxation: After the treatment, you rinse off with warm water and move to the relaxation area, where you can unwind with a cup of herbal tea, Ottoman şerbet, or freshly squeezed fruit juice.
In the Ottoman era, hammams were more than just places for cleansing; they were vibrant social hubs where people sang songs, held celebrations, and even arranged marriages. Experiencing a historic hammam today is like stepping back in time.
The Best Historic Hammams in İstanbul
With its deep-rooted Ottoman heritage, İstanbul offers some of the most authentic hammam experiences. Each hammam has its own unique architecture, story, and atmosphere. Here are some must-visit historic hammams in the city:
1. Çemberlitaş Hammam (1584) – A Jewel of Classical Ottoman Architecture
📍 Location: Çemberlitaş, Fatih
One of the oldest and best-preserved hammams in İstanbul, Çemberlitaş Hammam was commissioned in 1584 by Nurbanu Sultan, the mother of Sultan Murad III. Designed by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, it stands as one of the finest examples of classical Ottoman hammam architecture.
With its grand dome, spacious hot room, and high ceilings, Çemberlitaş Hammam transports visitors to the past the moment they step inside. A traditional kese and foam massage here offers an authentic hammam experience.

2. Cağaloğlu Hammam (1741) – The Last Great Ottoman Hammam
📍 Location: Cağaloğlu, Fatih
As one of the last large hammams built during the Ottoman era, Cağaloğlu Hammam was constructed in 1741 by Sultan Mahmud I. Unlike classical Ottoman designs, it incorporates elements of the Baroque style.
With its elegant arches, high ceilings, and intricate stonework, Cağaloğlu Hammam offers a captivating atmosphere. Over the years, it has attracted many world-famous figures and was even featured in The New York Times' “100 Places to See Before You Die” list. It adds a touch of luxury to the traditional hammam experience with its premium kese and massage services.

3. Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam (1580) – Built for Ottoman Sailors
📍 Location: Tophane, Beyoğlu
Commissioned by the legendary Ottoman admiral Kılıç Ali Paşa and designed by Mimar Sinan, this hammam was originally built to serve the navy’s sailors. One of its most striking features is its massive dome, spanning 14 meters in diameter—one of the largest in İstanbul.
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam is a stunning example of Ottoman hammam architecture, offering warm marble interiors, a serene ambiance, and high-quality services, making it an ideal choice for those who want to immerse themselves in history.

4. Hürrem Sultan Hammam (1556) – A Hammam Fit for a Sultan
📍 Location: Ayasofya Square, Fatih
Hürrem Sultan, one of the most powerful women in Ottoman history, had this hammam built in her honor. Its elegant design reflects the grandeur of palace baths, making it a truly regal experience.
Located near Topkapı Palace, Hürrem Sultan Hammam blends traditional Ottoman hammam rituals with a modern spa concept. If you’re looking for an extra-special and refined hammam experience, this is the place to visit.
5. Süleymaniye Hammam (1557) – A Masterpiece by Mimar Sinan
📍 Location: Süleymaniye, Fatih
Part of the magnificent Süleymaniye Complex built for Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, this hammam is one of Mimar Sinan’s greatest works. One of its most remarkable aspects is that it has continuously functioned as a hammam since its construction.
At Süleymaniye Hammam, you can enjoy a traditional Ottoman hammam experience while admiring its original architecture. Its large dome, warm marble interiors, and play of light on the göbek taşı create a truly mesmerizing ambiance.

An Unforgettable Experience in Historic Hammams
Each of these hammams represents a vital piece of İstanbul’s history, carrying the legacy of the Ottoman era into the present day. Experiencing a historic hammam in İstanbul is not just about relaxation—it’s also about connecting with the past.
If you’re looking for a cozy winter escape, İstanbul’s historic hammams are the perfect choice. No matter which one you choose, you’ll find yourself enveloped in steam, indulging in centuries-old traditions, and embracing the essence of Ottoman culture.