The Most Beautiful Hammams of Istanbul

This content was last updated on 27.02.2024 22:28

Baths, known for their healing properties and cultural significance due to providing cleanliness and hygiene, hold a special place in Turkey's culture. Moreover, many baths in Turkey have a historical background. Let's embark on a journey to be enchanted by the historical texture of the baths. The feeling of cleanliness they offer is, of course, an added bonus. Let's explore together the most beautiful baths in Istanbul.

Istanbul European Side Baths

Çemberlitaş Hamamı

If you're seeking the experience of a traditional Turkish bath, head towards the Historical Peninsula. Çemberlitaş Hamamı has been a prominent name in history for many years, hosting important statesmen from sultans to pashas. Built by Mimar Sinan during the reign of Ottoman Sultan III. Murat in 1584, Çemberlitaş Hamamı has preserved its grandeur over the centuries. Back then, baths were not only used for personal hygiene but also served as social and cultural interaction centers.

The exterior of Çemberlitaş Hamamı is adorned with cut stones and marbles, common in Ottoman architecture. Once inside, you're greeted with breathtaking beauty – grand domes, embellishments, and the finest examples of marble craftsmanship. Despite the passage of time, Çemberlitaş Hamamı continues to offer its services at the same location, opening its doors every day at 6:00 AM and serving until midnight.

Address: Mollafenari, Vezirhan Street, No: 8, 34440, Fatih / İstanbul

— Advertisement —

Hürrem Sultan Hamamı

Situated on the European side, Hürrem Sultan Hamamı is dedicated to Hürrem Sultan, the sole love of Sultan Kanuni Süleyman, a well-known figure in Ottoman history. Built by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, the hamam reflects the architectural features of that era. Every corner is adorned with special embellishments. The entrance is protected by a large door adorned with patterns.

The interior design follows the traditional Ottoman bath design, featuring richly decorated domes, hot and cold rooms, elegant marble work, tile embellishments, and mosaics. The healing waters of Hürrem Sultan Hamamı come from the underground water sources of Istanbul. It's the perfect destination for those seeking a historical and luxurious experience.

Address: Cankurtaran, Ayasofya Square No:2, 34122, Fatih / İstanbul

Cağaloğlu Hamamı

Another gem on our list is Cağaloğlu Hamamı. Its construction dates back to 1741, making it the last bath built during the Ottoman era. Located in the historic Eminönü district of Istanbul, the hamam is a masterpiece designed to align with the cultural fabric of that time. Various renowned architects, from Süleyman Ağa to Abdullah Ağa, contributed to the beauty of Cağaloğlu Hamamı.

The classical muqarnas-headed marble columns surrounding both entrances add to the mesmerizing beauty of the hamam. 

Address: Alemdar, Prof. Kazım İsmail Gürkan Street, No: 24, 34110, Fatih / İstanbul

Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı

Commissioned by Kılıç Ali Paşa, known for his significant contributions to the Ottoman navy, this hamam is among the most beautiful in Istanbul. Designed by Mimar Sinan, the hamam's plan is stunningly symmetrical and aesthetic. Divided into two main sections, the "cold" area is where clothes are removed and preparations are made, while the other part is the actual hamam with a large stone platform where heat and humidity are high. The interior decoration of Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı features impressive tile work, adorned with blue and white designs.

Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Hamam Street, No: 1, 34425, Beyoğlu / İstanbul

Galatasaray Hamamı

Dating back to 1481, Galatasaray Hamamı is associated with an interesting story involving Sultan II. Beyazıt. The hamam, located within the Galatasaray Complex, successfully combines the traditional Turkish bath experience with modern luxury. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Turkish bath services like foam massage and skincare treatments.

Address: Kuloğlu, Turnacıbaşı Street, No: 8, 34433, Beyoğlu / İstanbul

Çırağan Palace Kempinski Sanitas Spa

One of the entries on the list is Çırağan Palace Kempinski. The Sanitas Spa inside offers a Turkish bath experience amid an opulent setting. The hamam is open to innovative approaches such as special lotions and water therapies, attracting visitors from around the world. Among the spa treatments, the Turkish bath ritual, Sanitas signature massage, global massages, Far East treatments, Indian treatments, and physiotherapy stand out.

Address: Yıldız Çırağan Street, Çırağan Palace Kempinski, No: 32, 34349, Beşiktaş / İstanbul

Istanbul Anatolian Side Baths

Çinili Hamam

Let's take a look at the baths on the Anatolian side of Istanbul. The first address on our list is Çinili Hamam. Located in Üsküdar, this hamam, built in 1640 by the order of Sultan IV. Mehmet, derives its name from its tilework. Despite several restorations, the hamam still reflects the art of the Ottoman period with its tilework starting from the entrance door and extending into the interiors.

Address: Çavuşdere Street, Çinili Hamam Sokak, No: 6, 34664, Üsküdar / İstanbul

Valide-i Atik Hamamı

Situated within the Valide-i Atik Complex, Valide-i Atik Hamamı was commissioned by Nurbanu Sultan, the wife of Sultan II. Selim and the mother of III. Murad, between 1577-1583. Like many structures in Istanbul, Mimar Sinan is the architect of Valide-i Atik Hamamı. Initially used as a carpentry workshop for many years, the hamam was later repurposed as a trade complex in a restoration project in 1977. By 1985, the hamam was restored while preserving its original structure. Although the new additions slightly compromised the hamam's original architectural features, Valide-i Atik Hamamı stands tall. The hamam features an octagonal central platform. Still in service today, Valide-i Atik Hamamı is a recommended spot for a serene bath experience.

Address: Valide Atik Neighborhood, Eski Toptaşı Street, No:98/A, 34664, Üsküdar / İstanbul

Beylerbeyi Hamamı

An example of Ottoman bath architecture, Beylerbeyi Hamamı was commissioned by Rabia Sultan in 1778. Designed by Mehmet Tahir Ağa, a prominent figure of the time, the hamam is located south of Beylerbeyi Mosque of the same name. Beylerbeyi Hamamı, featured on our list of Istanbul's most beautiful hamams, is open to both local and foreign visitors, offering a sight to behold.

Address: Beylerbeyi, Yalıboyu Street, No:70, 34676, Üsküdar / İstanbul

You may also be interested in these contents

Istanbul Travel Guide

Magnificent Mosques You Must See in Istanbul