Turkish Baths in Istanbul: A Wellness Guide to a Timeless Tradition

Istanbul – once known as Constantinople – has a habit of making even the most casual of visitors feel regal. Perhaps it’s the way the Bosphorus sparkles at sunset, the rich, fragrant cuisine, or the inviting spirit of its old Sufi quarters. Either way, this city knows how to cast a spell.
 

But no visit is complete without stepping into one of the enchanting Turkish baths in Istanbul. More than just a place to soak, the Turkish bath (or hammam) is an enduring part of Ottoman culture that’s been cleansing bodies and spirits for centuries.

These steam-filled sanctuaries are embedded in Egyptian, Roman, and Moroccan traditions. In fact, the word “hammam” means bath in Arabic. Rooted in Islamic heritage, the hammam has long served as a space for physical and spiritual cleansing, reflecting the importance of cleanliness in Islam, where Muslims are required to perform wudu, or ritual washing, before each of their five daily prayers.
 

Today, the ancient rituals of steam, scrub, and serenity are still very much alive inside the mesmerising Turkish baths in Istanbul. Across Turkey and North Africa, hammams are places where neighbours gossip, families gather (in gender-separated sessions, of course), and everyone emerges a little lighter, inside and out. 
 

If you’re planning a quick break in the city or even a longer escape, base yourself in the heart of it all at Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus. Set in the historical Karaköy district, the hotel offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus that might just make you want to extend your stay. 

With colourful street art, buzzing cafés, and irresistible eateries, Karaköy is a vibe all on its own. From here, you're perfectly placed to explore Istanbul’s best sights: the Galata Tower or Topkapı Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.

Don’t miss the iconic and ever-fragrant Spice Bazaar, or Mısır Çarşısı, which translates to Egyptian Bazaar. This bustling market overflows with fragrant spices, handmade soaps, and gleaming gold and silver jewellery, offering a nostalgic tribute to the historical connection between the Ottoman Empire and Egypt.

Back to the invigorating Turkish hammams in Istanbul. We’re all about indulging in self-care (with a lot of steam), so to help you unwind and truly savour Turkish baths in Istanbul, we’ve pulled together everything you need to know about your visit, including a handpicked list of the city’s finest bathhouses.

Discover where centuries of tradition meet total relaxation at some of the best Turkish baths in Istanbul.

Turkish baths in Istanbul are where you go to wash away the stress of life, quite literally. This time-honoured ritual offers a full-body scrub and rejuvenation. But we're not just talking about a mild sugar scrub that you buy at your local beauty store.
 

At every Turkish hammam in Istanbul, an experienced wellness attendant will use an exfoliating bath mitt to scrub away layers of dead skin – weeks, months, perhaps even years in the making – allowing a new you to emerge. The entire process is necessary to keep your skin clear and stimulate blood flow.
 

A hammam session does more than cleanse the body. It invites you to pause, breathe, and refresh. It’s a gentle mental reset, perfect for any short stay focused on wellness or self-care. This is why more and more people today are embracing traditional practices and holistic self-care methods like hammam experiences to support their well-being.

From ornate Ottoman-era Turkish baths in Istanbul to upscale wellness centres with added spa treatments, here are some of the best places to indulge. All are equally blissful, it just depends on your preference. 

While spa trends may come and go, Turkish baths in Istanbul remain a cornerstone of self-care and relaxation, with many dating back to the 1500s. One of the most iconic Turkish hammams in Istanbul is Çatma Mescit Hammam, built in 1533 by the celebrated Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. Nearly five centuries later, it still enchants visitors with its grandiose architecture and serene atmosphere. 
 

When you step inside, you’ll find beautifully preserved Ottoman tiles with ornate blue, white, and crimson colours, a grand chandelier in the main hall, and a tranquil fountain. After your traditional scrub, unwind in one of the private massage rooms or retreat to the seating area, where men and women can relax separately while sipping fragrant Turkish apple tea and sampling sweet Turkish delights. With its striking Ottoman elegance, Çatma Mescit feels like a serene escape into the world of sultans.

When you step into this sanctuary that was once built for a queen, you’ll first notice the scent of rosewater that lingers in the air. Soft steam rises in the central chambers as golden light shines  through the domed marble ceilings. It’s not an exaggeration when we say each corner whispers of Ottoman luxury.
 

Located right next to the Hagia Sophia Mosque – one of Istanbul’s key landmarks – Hurrem Sultan Hammam gives you the option to choose from various luxurious experiences, including a bubble washing ritual, a massage, a traditional scrub, or all of the above. We recommend going for the complete package for an immersive experience.
 

Minar Sinan, the same chief architect who built the Çatma Mescit, also designed and built the grand Hurrem Sultan Hammam in the 16th century for Sultana Roxelana, Sultan Suleiman's wife. The hammam stands where the ancient public baths of Zeuxippus were once located. The area is also believed to be the site where the Temple of Zeus once stood. 

For travellers who like their Turkish hammam in Istanbul just a few steps from their minibar, Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus has you covered.

The hotel features its own traditional bath, sauna, steam room, and fitness centre. This experience is for those of us who love slipping into a hotel robe, ordering room service, and stretching out on the luxurious hotel bed after a deeply relaxing spa session.

Inside the hammam, traditional tiles and smooth marble stone create an authentic space that’s pleasing for the eyes and the senses.

The smell of lavender and eucalyptus fills the air. There's also a serene indoor pool for a refreshing dip, along with a full menu of treatments including cleansing facials, relaxing massages, and signature hammam rituals, all available without leaving the comfort of your hotel. If you ask us, this is self-care at its finest.

Cağaloğlu Hammam, dating back to 1741, stands as a magnificent testament to Ottoman heritage and architectural grandeur. It’s the last hammam to be built after a long period during the Ottoman Empire. Inside, the space unfolds with exquisite Iznik tiles, gracefully arched domes adorned with delicate skylights, and polished marble basins that reflect centuries of tradition.
 

It’s also set in the historic Cağaloğlu district of Istanbul, near the popular Sultanahmet area, very close to landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. So you can enjoy a day of sightseeing and head over to renew your mind, body, and soul.
 

The wellness rituals here are deeply rooted in history, offering a timeless blend of steam, exfoliation, and massage. In this serene setting, the experience transcends mere cleansing – it becomes a passage into the elegant rituals of the Ottoman era. 

When heading out to enjoy a Turkish hammam in Istanbul, remember a few simple tips: be sure to tip your wellness associate to show appreciation for their care, whisper quietly if you’re sharing the experience with a friend or family member to maintain the peaceful atmosphere, and don’t hesitate to let your attendant know if you prefer a gentler or firmer scrub.
 

You should also book your treatment ahead of time. With a little preparation and an open mind, your hammam session will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed, and deeply connected to a centuries-old cultural tradition.