Cistern Hammam and Spa Experience
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
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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Narco –
I’ve tried spas all over the world, but nothing compares to a Turkish hammam
Cliff –
The combination of steam, heat and expert care was indescribable!
George –
A perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and recharge
Harvey –
The massage was the highlight: skillfully performed and incredibly relaxing.
Harold –
An experience that felt both ancient and modern, simply unforgettable.
Hardy Costa –
The staff’s attention to detail made all the difference – they were wonderful
Herbert Vasiliauskas –
A real escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life; highly recommended
Hector Horváth –
The Hamam was an unforgettable cultural experience. The ritual begins with the steam room, where the heat helps to open the pores and prepare the skin for exfoliation. The exfoliation is intense, but also incredibly satisfying. The attendants were knowledgeable and attentive, making sure every detail was perfect. The marble surroundings, the warmth of the water and the soft music create an atmosphere that is both relaxing and luxurious. By the end of the session, I felt deeply relaxed and rejuvenated
Herman Clark –
The Hamam is a beautiful combination of history and luxury. Entering the warm, smoky atmosphere is like entering a different world, a place where relaxation is the only priority. The exfoliation was intense, but left my skin completely cleansed and revitalised. The staff’s attention to detail made the experience personal and special. The whole process, from the steam room to the massage, is designed to make you feel relaxed, rejuvenated and at peace. It is an experience that everyone should try when visiting Turkey.
Davin Greco –
The Turkish Hammam is more than just a bath: it is a complete sensory experience. From the soft music to the aromatic oils, every detail is designed to transport you to another world