Cistern Hammam and Spa Experience

★★★★★ 5 (503 ratings) ✓ Free Cancel
Free cancellationUp to 24 hours before departure
Secure online paymentPay by credit card at checkout
Duration 1.5 HoursAvailable daily
Professional attendantsExperienced tellak & natir

A complimentary guide with your booking

Localada Istanbul travel guide, free with every Istanbul Hamam booking

About Cistern Hammam & Spa

Upon entering, guests are enveloped by the epitome of Turkish hospitality, now enhanced by the luxurious standards Hilton is renowned for. The spa’s interiors, featuring stunning marble and intricate tile work, create a serene atmosphere of elegance and calm.

Your journey of rejuvenation begins in the warm embrace of the sauna, where the soft heat prepares you for the unique experience of bathing beside an ancient cistern, under a sky of softly lit ambiance. The transition to the hot room, where heated marble platforms await, is an experience that soothes muscles and calms the mind.

Professional therapists elevate the traditional hammam experience, offering a variety of massage therapies, including scrubs with the classic kese and massages that relax and restore you.

Nestled just behind Hagia Sophia, on the famous Ottoman Street that leads directly to the Topkapi Palace, the Historical Cistern Hammam & Spa’s location is unparalleled.

Highlights

  • Unique spa experience inside a historic Ottoman cistern
  • Modern luxury blended with historical authenticity
  • Located behind Hagia Sophia on Ottoman Street
  • Private hammam with professional female therapists
  • Cistern pool access and sauna sessions included

What's Included

Sauna session
Cistern pool access
Swedish massage (basic package)
Traditional Turkish kese scrub and soap massage (select packages)
Sultan massage with four hands (premium package)
Aromatherapy massage (couple package)
Linden shampoo, hair cream, body lotion
100% olive oil soap
One-use slippers and towels

Not Included

Tip

Know Before You Go

  • All guests receive linden shampoo, hair cream, body lotion, and olive oil soap
  • Not suitable for pregnant women
  • Not recommended for people with heart conditions or diabetes
  • Children under 6 years not permitted
  • No luggage or large bags allowed
  • Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Cistern Hammam located?

Cistern Hammam is located right behind Hagia Sophia on Ottoman Street, in the heart of Istanbul's Old City, just a 2-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square and 1-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.

Is it a real Ottoman cistern?

Yes, the hammam is housed within a cistern dating back to the Ottoman period, creating a unique and atmospheric bathing experience.

Are there packages for couples?

Yes, the Couple Romance package is designed specifically for couples, including aromatherapy massage in a private setting.

What are the operating hours?

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Location

Cankurtaran, Ottoman St., Sultanahmet, Fatih, Istanbul

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Customer Reviews

503 reviews for Cistern Hammam and Spa Experience

  1. Ann Berger

    The Hamam experience was a journey into Turkish tradition. The marble interior, the steam and the wash made me feel like a new person. It’s not just a bath; it’s a cultural experience that everyone should try at least once. I left feeling clean, relaxed and refreshed!’ ✨🛁

  2. Annemarie Fuchs

    ‘I had a wonderful time at the Hamam. The traditional ambience was beautiful and the staff were incredibly professional. The exfoliation and massage were fantastic, leaving my skin feeling soft and revitalised. It was the perfect way to end my day in Istanbul!’ 🏛️💆‍♀️

  3. Babs Eder

    ‘The Turkish hammam was a fantastic experience. The steam room was very relaxing and the marble benches were warm and comforting. The scrub and foam massage were wonderful, leaving me feeling completely rejuvenated. It’s an absolute must try when you’re in Turkey!’ 🌊✨

  4. Beatrix Fischer

    Completely relaxing from start to finish.

  5. Bernadette Schmid

    The steam room was the highlight of my day!

  6. Bianca Winkler

    Perfect balance between luxury and tradition.

  7. Cameli Weber

    I felt lighter and more energised.

  8. Candace Schwarz

    Amazing service, the staff were very welcoming.

  9. Luke

    I was blown away by how refreshing and rejuvenating the Turkish hamam was! The whole experience was like a deep cleanse for both my body and mind. The steam room was relaxing, the scrub was thorough yet gentle and the foam massage was the perfect finishing touch. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to relax and refresh!

  10. Luther

    Visiting a traditional hamam is an unforgettable experience. From the stunning marble interiors to the deep exfoliation, every moment felt so pleasurable. I loved the tranquil atmosphere and the warm steam was perfect for relaxing. It’s a unique experience that really made my trip to Istanbul special.

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