The Best Spas in Istanbul: A Guide to Hammams, Luxury Spas, and Wellness Centers in Turkey's Largest City
Istanbul, Turkey. [Photo credit: Daniel Burka]
Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city and cultural heartbeat, is a captivating blend of history and culture with a unique international atmosphere. Once the capital of three great empires—Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman—this city has roots stretching back to its founding as Byzantium in the 7th century BCE and its later transformation into Constantinople.
Known as the "City of Seven Hills" and the "Bridge Between Continents," Istanbul uniquely straddles Europe and Asia, offering an unparalleled experience of East and West. The population of over 15 million includes Turks, Kurds, Arabs, and immigrants from all over the world. The people reflect their secular identity—welcoming and proud of their heritage. With modern art galleries, incredible international cuisine, and a vibrant nightlife, this metropolis is where ancient traditions coexist peacefully with contemporary life.
Visitors to Istanbul are greeted with a sensory feast: the call to prayer echoing from towering minarets, the aroma of freshly brewed Turkish tea wafting through crowded bazaars, the sight of fishermen casting their lines off the Galata Bridge, and the taste of iconic dishes like simit, kebabs, and baklava.
The city's landmarks are equally iconic: the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the historic marketplace known as the Grand Bazaar transport travelers to another time. Navigating Istanbul is simple thanks to its extensive public transportation system, including trams, ferries, buses, and metro lines, making exploring every corner of this dynamic city easy.
Among Istanbul's most unique and cherished traditions are its spas and hammams, or Turkish baths, which serve as places for cleansing, socializing, and spiritual renewal. (The variations—hamam, hammam, and hamami—reflect differences in transliteration from Turkish, Arabic, and other languages, all referring to the same tradition.) These historic bathhouses, often housed in centuries-old buildings with stunning Ottoman architecture, provide more than just relaxation—they offer a way to fully embrace Turkïye’s cultural heritage.
The hammam tradition flourished under the Ottomans and Mimar Sinan was the chief Ottoman architect, engineer, and mathematician for sultans Suleiman the Magnificent, Selim II, and Murad III. He’s considered one of the era’s most brilliant minds, with his work laying the foundation of Ottoman architecture, and his buildings found throughout Istanbul. Sinan's appreciation for structural elegance and domed designs is evident in mosques, schools, hospitals, and of course, the impressive bathhouses he designed.
Hammams often feature star-shaped ceiling apertures that filter sunlight, creating dramatic lighting effects that reflect off marble surfaces and evoke an ethereal atmosphere. His interiors harmoniously blended functionality with beauty, offering a serene and peaceful space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Today, visiting a hammam is an essential Istanbul experience. Guests can indulge in the same rituals that have been around for centuries. A typical experience includes a vigorous scrub on a heated marble slab and soothing foam massages. These timeless practices, combined with modern spa treatments, make Istanbul's hammams and wellness centers a perfect blend of old and new, offering visitors a rejuvenating escape that is uniquely tied to the city’s identity.
[Photo credit: Modern Pools]
A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Hammam Experience in Istanbul
More than just a bath—the hammam ritual is believed to heal the body, nourish the skin, and calm the mind. To fully appreciate the experience—as you plan your next spa vacation to Istanbul—it helps to understand the key terms that will guide you. Although each hammam has its unique flow and customs, the core elements are shared across all of them. Be sure to book ahead by a couple of days so you don’t miss out.
Once you arrive at the hammam, you’ll be shown to a dressing area and directed to change into the provided disposable undergarments, a peştemal (a traditional woven towel) and nalins (wooden clogs)—or a robe and slippers. Throughout the experience, hammam attendants—known as natir for women and tellak for men—guide you through each step.
Begin in the sıcaklık—the hot room—a steamy, marble-finished space where the heat opens your pores and softens your skin. At its center is the göbektaşı, a large, heated marble platform. Once relaxed, you’ll receive a vigorous scrubbing with a kese—an exfoliating mitt that removes layers of dead skin.
Afterward, one of the most luxurious parts of the ritual is the fayton, where the hammam attendant uses çöven sabunu or Aleppo soap to create an abundance of frothy bubbles—seemingly out of thin air, like a magician. Known universally as the “bubble massage,” guests are immersed from head to toe in the soft foam and massaged, A hair wash ritual is also performed if desired. If more privacy is desired, some hamams have a halvet room—”halvet” is the Turkish word for “solitude” or “seclusion.”
The Growing Wellness Trend of Hammams
After the cleansing, you'll be rinsed off and taken to the iliklik—the warm room—where your body begins to cool and dry. From there, you'll transition to the soğukluk or vestiary—the cold room—a serene space to rest and rehydrate. Here, you’ll be served tea, sherbet, fresh fruit, and, if you’re lucky, some Turkish delight, a sweet, chewy candy.
The experience is calming and refreshing, designed to alleviate stress, promote well-being, and leave you feeling cleaner and more renewed than ever. Beyond relaxation, the hammam treatments offer significant benefits, including improved circulation, detoxification, and stress relief.
An intriguing and noteworthy fact: Istanbul is a popular destination for both wellness and medical tourism. In addition to the traditional hamams that attract visitors seeking relaxation and a unique cultural experience, many visitors come for hair transplants due to Istanbul’s world-class clinics offering affordable treatments.
Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best spas and hammams in Istanbul. From luxurious spas in beautifully restored historic buildings to traditional Turkish bath rituals cherished for centuries, Istanbul offers a wide range of unique and rejuvenating wellness experiences rooted in local culture and mindfulness practices.
Planning a trip to Istanbul? Find the best flight deals for your next international adventure, and don’t forget to include a spa or hammam day in your itinerary—it’s an essential part of experiencing the city’s rich heritage and unparalleled relaxation.
Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hammam
Cankurtaran, Ayasofya Meydanı No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-517-35-35
The Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hammam, designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in 1556, was commissioned by Hürrem Sultan, the wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Strategically built in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district near the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) and the Blue Mosque, it was meant to be a symbol of the powerful consorts' status and legacy.
This “double bath” hammam was meticulously designed to accommodate men and women separately, with identical layouts for each section. This was a rare feature as most of the traditional Ottoman hammams had shared spaces with designated hours for men and women. The grandeur of the Ottoman era was reflected in the impressive domes and the intricately carved details mixed in with the sophisticated and elegant white marble. Although the hammam fell into disrepair, it underwent an extensive restoration completed in 2011, transforming it into a luxurious spa experience while preserving its historical essence.
This opulent setting is where guests can enjoy a variety of luxurious treatments that blend traditional Turkish bathing rituals with modern spa therapies. In addition to traditional body scrub and foam massage, their signature treatments include a full-body clay mask, aromatherapy massage, anti-stress massage, facial massage, and foot massage.
Couples may experience the hammam ritual at the same time; albeit on different sides of the hammam walls. After a day at Topkapi Palace, Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hammam is just steps away and is a welcome respite.
Cağaloğlu Hamami
Alemdar, Prof. Kazım İsmail Gürkan Cd. No:24, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-522-24-24
Cağaloğlu Hamami is one of Istanbul's most iconic and historic bathhouses. Built in 1741, it holds the distinction of being the last hammam constructed during the Ottoman Empire. Embodying centuries-old Turkish culture and tradition, it blends history, architecture, and a touch of celebrity allure. Notable visitors include Florence Nightingale, Kaiser Wilhelm II, and modern-day stars like Harrison Ford, Cameron Diaz, John Travolta, and Kate Moss.
Beyond its status as a celeb-favored destination, it’s a UNESCO-recognized landmark celebrated for its majestic domes, intricately carved marble fountains, and noble archways. This sense of grandeur and timeless beauty elevates the entire experience.
The traditional hammam ritual begins in a warm halvet room, where guests acclimate to the heat and prepare their bodies for the treatment. After the full-body exfoliation and luxurious foam massage with traditional olive oil soap, the ritual concludes with a refreshing cool-water rinse, leaving guests revitalized and glowing. For those seeking more tailored experiences, Cağaloğlu Hamami offers moisturizing treatments, full-body clay masks, aromatherapy massages, hand and foot massages, and custom packages to meet individual preferences.
What sets Cağaloğlu Hamami apart is its commitment to sustainability and natural wellness, focusing on eco-friendly practices and the use of natural resources. The treatments feature locally sourced, organic ingredients, including handmade kese mitts and olive oil soap infused with essential oils—jasmine for women and coconut for men.
After the hammam session, guests can further relax with Turkish tea, homemade sherbet, and Turkish delights, enriching the sensory journey with regional flavors. Additionally, Turkish cologne, towels, hammam soaps, and cosmetics are offered as gifts with some packages.
Cağaloğlu Hamami does not have a couples service option; however, bridal and group parties are welcome. They also offer private experiences and bespoke packages, making it a sought-after retreat for those desiring an enriching Turkish hammam experience.
Çemberlitaş Hamamı
Molla Fenari, Vezirhan Cd. No:8, 34440 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-522-79-74
The oldest hammam in Istanbul, Çemberlitaş Hamamı—built in 1584 by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan—is one of the city's most authentic and storied bathhouses. Located in the historic Sultanahmet district, the hamam was commissioned by Nurbanu Sultan, the wife of Selim II and mother of Murad III, shortly before her passing. Despite centuries of change and events that could have led to its demise, Çemberlitaş Hamamı has remarkably endured, becoming a treasured sanctuary of relaxation and tradition through the ages.
Like most hammams, the spacious hot room is where guests sweat out toxins before enjoying traditional Turkish bath treatments. Nurturing attendants perform each ritual skillfully, preserving techniques passed down through generations.
Çemberlitaş Hamamı maintains its traditions by offering separate bathing areas for men and women. It also provides contemporary services, such as aromatherapy massages and clay masks, to cater to diverse preferences. High-quality, natural materials, including olive oil soaps and handmade kese mitts, enhance the luxurious yet grounded experience.
Steeped in cultural significance, Çemberlitaş Hamamı is an ideal stop for those exploring nearby landmarks such as the Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque, both within walking distance. A visit to Çemberlitaş Hamamı offers a connection to a centuries-old Ottoman ritual cherished by locals and visitors from around the world.
Çeşme Hamamı
Arap Cami, Bankalar Cd. No:21, 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 535-361-25-07
The Çeşme Hamamı—also known as the Tarihi (historical) Çeşme Hamamı—is located within the 5-star Galata Istanbul Hotel - MGallery, a former bank building. The 300-year-old Turkish bathhouse in Istanbul's affluent Beyoğlu district was built during the Ottoman Empire's Tulip Era by the Grand Admiral Kaymak Mustafa Pasha. Carefully restored in 2017, the hammam maintains its historic elegance while providing all the conveniences of contemporary luxury.
Just a short stroll from iconic landmarks like the Galata Tower and Karaköy tram stop, this tranquil retreat offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in centuries-old rituals within a historic and intimate setting. With time-specific reservations ensuring exclusive use of the facilities, guests enjoy a private experience from the moment they arrive.
Access to the hammam is via an elevator descending below the hotel, leading to a private changing room. As guests move through the space and ascend to the domed areas of the sıcaklık, they’ll discover glimpses of ancient ruins preserved behind glass, seamlessly integrated into the restored architecture—a fascinating blend of old and new.
The traditional rituals include exfoliation, a luxurious foam massage, and hair washing. After a warm rinsing, the attendant asks if you’d like an invigorating cold-water splash. If you dare, it’s a refreshing finish that revitalizes the senses. After your treatment, unwind in the cushioned, tranquil rest area with complimentary refreshments, including pomegranate tea, Turkish coffee, sherbet, fresh fruits, and Turkish delights.
Tarihi Çeşme Hamamı offers a variety of packages to cater to every preference. From a rose-scented foam massage to energy-balancing hand and foot treatments or premium treatments like an aromatherapy massage and sea salt peeling, it’s an indulgent experience. Couples and VIPs have access to a private room complete with an aromatic jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room.
Çinili Hamam Zeyrek
Zeyrek, İtfaiye Cd. No:44, 34083 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-521-22-21
[Photo credit: İbrahim Özbunar]
The Çinili Hamam in Istanbul’s Zeyrek district is a 16th-century Ottoman-era hammam that recently reopened in 2024 after a meticulous 13-year restoration by The Marmara Group. A landmark heritage site designed by renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, the hamam was originally commissioned by Hayreddin Barbarossa, the famed admiral of the Ottoman Navy.
A unique fusion of tradition and contemporary design, the hammam features collaborations with prominent artists, including installations by Turkish and international artists like Elif Uras and Ayça Telgeren. Fashion designer Hussein Chalayan has crafted bespoke attire for both guests and staff, while Athens-based artist Theodore Psychoyos designed marble massage units that enhance the spa experience. Custom ceramics by Santimetre Studio add elegance to the service of traditional refreshments.
The restoration uncovered a wealth of archaeological artifacts, including Iznik tiles, intricate wall paintings, and hidden Byzantine cisterns from the fifth century AD. These discoveries have been preserved in an on-site museum, open to guests eager to learn about the hamam’s rich history. The conservation work also restored many original architectural features, creating a stunning balance between the historic and modern elements.
Zeyrek Çinili Hamam still retains its “double bath” design with separate sections for men and women. Access rotates between the two, allowing visitors to experience the unique architectural features of each space. Signature experiences include The Original, a traditional ritual featuring warm marble therapy, personalized scrubbing, foam massages, and hair-washing under a starry dome, and Total Reset, a complete renewal experience with foot massages and face masks. Private and corporate events can also be hosted in the expansive outdoor spaces, offering breathtaking views of the domes and interiors.
A family-friendly touch allows children up to the age of 5 to enjoy the hammam experience for free with their parents, while kids older than five can indulge in the Little Bubbles treatment—a fun introduction to traditional hammam rituals. To end the experience, guests can savor sweet and savory cookies, perfectly paired with aromatic Turkish tea.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Zeyrek Çinili Hamam beautifully merges history, art, family, and wellness into an unforgettable experience.
Historical Vezneciler Turkish Bath
Bozdoğan Kemeri Road. No: 2, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-526-74-58
The Historical Vezneciler Turkish Bath in Istanbul once hosted important statesmen and pashas—high-ranking Turkish officers—and continues to preserve traditional Turkish bath culture, with an emphasis on wellness. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Fatih district, it is the first and only bath built on a second floor, offering a quintessential hamam experience.
A testament to Istanbul's heritage, the bathhouse—built in 1481—reflects Ottoman-era architecture with elegant domes, marble interiors, and intricate details that transport visitors to a bygone era. Before renovations in 1950, it was known to have a double bath with separate entrances for both sexes, though that feature is no longer in place today. The warm, serene atmosphere is a refuge from the bustling streets of Istanbul, inviting locals and travelers to immerse themselves in the authentic Turkish bath tradition, where curative waters heal all that ails.
Upon entering the Vezneciler Turkish Bath, guests are welcomed and introduced to the cultural significance of the hamam. In the private changing rooms, guests are given an overview of the products and rituals. The experience starts with a rest period on the heated central marble platform. The navel stone, heated to about 40 to 50 degrees Celsius, allows the body to relax and sweat for 20 to 30 minutes in preparation for the treatments. This initial phase soothes muscles and promotes detoxification by opening pores and releasing impurities.
Like most hammams, the Vezneciler experience includes the traditional scrubbing and foaming process. Expert attendants exfoliate to reveal a refreshed and rejuvenated complexion. After, luxurious clouds of foam from aromatic, locally sourced natural soaps envelop the body. The experience is deeply therapeutic, combining relaxation with tangible health benefits; blood circulation is enhanced, moisture levels balanced, and overall well-being is promoted.
In addition to traditional treatments, the Historical Vezneciler Turkish Bath offers curated packages for special occasions or group experiences, such as a unique mixed-gender experience for couples. Semi-private and private sessions and special bath packages for individuals and groups are available. The bath’s commitment to authenticity and sustainability offers guests a luxurious yet conscientious spa experience. Visiting the Historical Vezneciler Turkish Bath beautifully captures the essence of Turkish heritage and hospitality.
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam
Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Hamam Sk. No:1, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-393-80-10
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı, located in Istanbul's Tophane district, offers a timeless connection to Turkish culture with its 16th-century Ottoman-era wellness traditions. Another design by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan, the hamam is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, featuring lead-clad domes, natural stone interiors, and intricate marble details that create a serene yet social ambiance, perfect for groups.
The rituals at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı are deeply traditional. Attendants guide guests through every step of the experience, from adjusting water temperature to customizing massage pressure, ensuring a personalized and comfortable session. The hammam’s communal atmosphere encourages a sense of shared relaxation and offers wellness benefits such as detoxification, improved circulation, and softer, healthier skin.
With separate sessions for women in the morning and men in the afternoon and evening, the hamam stays true to its roots, fostering a vibrant group experience. While it does not offer private appointments, it welcomes special occasions like bridal parties, making it an ideal place for a memorable and immersive cultural escape.
Raffles Spa at Raffles Istanbul
Levazım Mahallesi, Koru Sokağı Zorlu Center, 34340 Beşiktaş, Istanbul; (+90) 212-924-0320
The five-star Raffles Istanbul, located in the Beşiktaş district, is home to Raffles Spa, a sanctuary blending modern design with Turkish tradition. Spanning 3,000 square meters, the spa features seven luxurious suites—including two couples' suites—and three hammams, offering a variety of treatments and wellness experiences.
Signature treatments like the Anatolian Grace Hamam Journey, which combines steam, exfoliation, and massage, and the Biologique Recherche Integral Face and Body Module, a personalized facial and body treatment, offer ultimate relaxation. Other options include Balinese Massage, Hot Stone Massage, and Rescue and Release Deep Tissue for muscular stress relief.
Guests can indulge in unique hammam experiences such as Aegean Purity (foam massage and exfoliation) and the Purification Ceremony (with facial care and rose-scented products). Additional treatments include a 60-minute Couple Hamam, The Traveller’s Palm for travel fatigue, and The Body Sculpt for cellulite and fluid retention.
In addition to treatments, guests can unwind in tranquil relaxation lounges, enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools, or rejuvenate in the steam rooms and saunas. Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the state-of-the-art gym, while those seeking a holistic approach can enjoy yoga or meditation. Every detail, from the serene ambiance to the attentive service, reflects Raffles' commitment to excellence—making it one of Istanbul’s premier wellness destinations.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul
Turkcell Kurucesme Arena; Kuruçeşme, Muallim Naci Cd. No: 62, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-349-88-88
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul is a luxury wellness retreat blending ancient traditions with modern practices. From the moment guests arrive, they're welcomed with green tea and warm towels in an ambiance enhanced by natural materials, geometric patterns, and Turkish influences. A backlit onyx ceiling, eucalyptus wood accents, and intricate hammam spaces create a tranquil and soothing atmosphere.
Signature treatments like Time Rituals, Oriental Qi, and Inner Strength offer transformative experiences, while offerings like the Digital Wellness Escape help guests disconnect and realign their bodies with natural rhythms. Treatments are tailored to individual needs for a personalized and authentic experience.
Traditional hammam treatments, including the Oriental Traditional Hammam, Sultan Hammam, and Traditional Hammam, use locally-inspired products such as olive oil, honey, and herbs, providing detoxification and rejuvenation. Guests can also combine these experiences with massages or skin care treatments. The Traveller’s Essentials treatments are ideal for curing jet-lag.
The spa also offers traditional massages, combining Eastern and Western techniques, such as the Oriental Essence for tension relief and Hot Stone massage. Exfoliating Oriental Body Scrubs and detoxifying Algae Wraps leave skin glowing, while facials range from anti-aging to instant glow. Body treatments like the Slimming Algae Anti-Cellulite and the cutting-edge MLX i³Dome Detox provide further rejuvenation.
For couples, the Sultan Suite Experience offers a luxurious three-hour journey, blending Ting Quan therapy, an aromatic Jacuzzi, an aromatherapy massage, and a bespoke facial. With eco-conscious practices and organic products, wellness and sustainability are central to every detail. For a transformative spa journey, consider the Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus.
Spa Soul at The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Harbiye, Süzer Plaza, Elmadağ, Asker Ocağı Cd. No:6 K:4, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye; (+90) 212-334-43-53
Spa Soul at The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul offers centuries-old hammam rituals designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Recognized for its eco-friendly practices and commitment to sustainability, Spa Soul has earned the ISA International Sustainable Award, eliminating plastic and using sustainable product lines like Farmacia di Santa Maria Novella.
Each hammam experience begins with steam, followed by exfoliation and foam massage using traditional copper tools. The white marble hammam creates an atmosphere that blends sophistication with Istanbul’s cultural heritage. First-time guests are guided through the process, with modesty respected through towels or sarongs, and hydration is provided with refreshing Turkish gazoz, a carbonated drink made with soda water and fruit juices.
Signature treatments like Argan Release, Pure Hammam, and Full Moon combine natural ingredients such as black soap, Ghassoul clay, and essential oils to detoxify, improve circulation, and nourish the skin. Complementary services like massages and skincare further enhance the experience.
With private hammam suites, seasonal packages, and customizable treatments, Spa Soul creates a personalized wellness journey where every detail, from the signature White Tea scent to the warm hospitality, ensures guests feel deeply renewed.
[Photos courtesy of spas and hotels]
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Chanin Victor is an LA-based travel writer, photographer, content creator and strategist who focuses on inspiring family travel and promoting cultural connection. With a degree in Art History from UCLA, she has lived across the U.S. and abroad, including summers in Monaco, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, and studying at the Sorbonne. Chanin writes the monthly "Travel Trends" column for a local newspaper and contributes to several online and national publications. When she’s not exploring new destinations, she enjoys time with her daughter and their adorable Shepsky, and is a strong advocate for wellness as a foundation for a balanced life. Follow her travel and lifestyle adventures on Instagram @chaninvictor.