Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City
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Duration 1.5 HoursAvailable daily
Professional attendantsExperienced tellak & natir
A complimentary guide with your booking
About Cemberlitas Hammam
Discover the timeless elegance of Cemberlitas Hammam, a historical treasure nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City. Dating back to the 16th century, this magnificent bath offers a unique glimpse into the luxurious world of Ottoman bathing culture, blending historical grandeur with modern comforts.
Cemberlitas Hammam is thoughtfully divided into separate sections for men and women, each a mirror image of the other, ensuring privacy and comfort. This arrangement not only respects traditional customs but also offers a personalized experience tailored to the needs of every guest.
Your journey begins in the warm room, where you will acclimate to the relaxing ambiance of the hamam. Next, you’ll move into the hot room, the heart of the hamam experience. Recline on the heated central marble platform, known as the ‘Göbektaşı,’ where the heat penetrates your muscles, easing tension and opening your pores.
Skilled therapists, matching the gender of the guests, will provide you with an authentic Ottoman bathing experience. Male therapists expertly perform the traditional kese (scrubbing) and massage for men, while female therapists offer the same meticulous care in the women’s section.
After your scrub and massage, you can retreat to the cool room. This final stage allows your body to gradually adjust to normal temperatures.
A Brief History of Cemberlitas Hammam
Cemberlitas Hammam was built in 1584 for Nurbanu Sultan — wife of Sultan Selim II and mother of Murad III — by the team of court architects working under Mimar Sinan. A classic double bath of stone and brick, it has welcomed bathers for more than four centuries. The men’s entrance still carries a period inscription which, in the historical record, was “written by the poet Sa’i-i Da’i” in praise of its founder. Source: Cemberlitas Hamami, historical record.
Highlights
- Built in 1584 by the great architect Mimar Sinan
- Separate male/female sections with same-gender therapists
- Iconic domed architecture with natural light from star-shaped skylights
- Located steps away from the Grand Bazaar and Column of Constantine
- One of the most photographed hammams in the world
What's Included
Hot room rest on heated marble stone (göbek taşı)
Kese exfoliating scrub with one-use glove
Bubble bath with foam massage
Oil massage in private room (select packages)
Turkish tea and sherbet
Turkish delight
Linden shampoo, hair cream, body lotion
100% olive oil soap
One-use slippers, towels, and breechcloth
Not Included
Tip
Know Before You Go
- All guests receive shampoo, soap, slippers, towels, and breechcloth
- Not suitable for pregnant women
- Not recommended for people with heart disease, diabetes, or asthma
- Children under 6 years not permitted
- No luggage or large bags allowed
- Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Cemberlitas Hammam located?
Cemberlitas Hammam is located on Vezirhan Caddesi No:8, right next to the Column of Constantine (Çemberlitaş column), just a few steps from the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul's Old City.
Who built Cemberlitas Hammam?
Cemberlitas Hammam was built in 1584 by the legendary Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, commissioned by Nurbanu Sultan, mother of Sultan Murad III.
Are there separate sections for men and women?
Yes, there are completely separate sections for men and women with gender-matching therapists.
What are the operating hours?
Cemberlitas Hammam is open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
How close is it to the Grand Bazaar?
Just a 2-minute walk away from the Grand Bazaar entrance.
Location
Vezirhan Cd. No:8, Çemberlitaş, Fatih, Istanbul
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Richard –
A rejuvenating ritual
The hammam was a rejuvenating ritual that I will always remember. The steam, scrub and massage were deeply relaxing and left me feeling completely relaxed and revitalised.
Krissy –
A perfect way to pamper yourself
Visiting the hammam is the perfect way to pamper yourself. The traditional treatments, combined with the luxurious surroundings, provided an experience that left me feeling pampered, relaxed and completely rejuvenated.
Ronald Lehtonen –
Tranquillity in a hammam.
As soon as I entered the hammam, I was struck by its tranquil atmosphere. The rituals, from the steam bath to the washing, were carried out with such precision and care. It is the best way to relax after a long day.
Rory –
An unforgettable experience in the hammam.
The luxurious marble interiors and the knowledgeable staff made my visit to the hammam unforgettable. I could feel the stress leave my body as I enjoyed the traditional treatments.
Rufus Lehtinen –
A cultural and relaxing pleasure.
The hammam was not just a spa visit; it was a cultural immersion. The combination of steam, soap and traditional music in the background made it a holistic experience.
Russell Saarinen –
The perfect way to pamper yourself’
The hammam provided the perfect balance of relaxation and rejuvenation. The exfoliation treatment left my skin glowing and the steam bath helped me relax completely.
Rex Salminen –
A Turkish delight you must try.
Experiencing a traditional Turkish hammam was like stepping into a historical story. The combination of warmth, cleanliness and expert care was simply divine.
Stew –
The service was excellent, I felt like a king
Seth Heinonen –
Amazing atmosphere and traditional ambience.
Shaw –
A perfect combination of relaxation and cleanliness