Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City

★★★★★ 4.99 (626 ratings) Best Seller ✓ 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

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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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Customer Reviews

626 reviews for Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City

  1. Myron Thomas –

    ‘An unforgettable experience! The traditional hamam left me feeling refreshed and completely stress free.

  2. Nigel –

    ‘The atmosphere was soothing and the detailed stonework made me feel like I was in another world.’

  3. Nigel –

    I didn’t know what to expect, but the soothing heat, gentle exfoliation and foam massage were pure bliss’.

  4. Eren S –

    Great Hamam in Istanbul

    The Hamam is very fascinating and very beautiful. I felt like I had stepped into history. It was a very relaxing place…

    (Review of Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City, originally published on TripAdvisor)

  5. Gamze E –

    A magnificent bathhouse

    It enchanted us with both its historical texture and the quality of service we received. a place you should come to istanbul and experience is cemberlitas bathhouse. I definitely recommend it.

    (Review of Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City, originally published on TripAdvisor)

  6. Timur Toraman –

    It is a very beautiful bathhouse, its history is great, the service is perfect, thank you for your service….🔥🔥🔥….

    It is a very beautiful bathhouse, its history is great, the service is perfect, thank you for your service…………

    (Review of Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City, originally published on TripAdvisor)

  7. Cüneyt E –

    Historic escape

    Experiencing the Çemberlitaş Hamamı was amazing, combining history with relaxation. Its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul.

    (Review of Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City, originally published on TripAdvisor)

  8. Selin Vardar –

    Wonderful Hammam Experience

    We had a wonderful hammam experience. We not only had fun, but also felt deeply cleansed after the “kese” massage. The atmosphere of the place took us on a historical journey, transporting us back to antiquity times.

    (Review of Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City, originally published on TripAdvisor)

  9. Nicolaj M –

    Extraordinary hamam experience!

    The visit at the historic hamam was a very special experience. My family and I really enjoyed the place and the special treatments we got. The service was excellent and the place clean and comfortable. We’ll definitely return….

    (Review of Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City, originally published on TripAdvisor)

  10. David Olsen –

    Total Relaxation

    I recently visited Çemberlitaş Hammam with my friends, and we all had an incredible time! The historic atmosphere and stunning architecture really stood out, giving us an authentic taste of Turkish culture. We tried the traditional body scrub and foam massage, and it was so relaxing—my skin felt amazing afterward.The staff was friendly and helpful, and the whole place was clean and well-maintained. It was a perfect way to unwind after exploring Istanbul. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, rejuvenating experience!

    (Review of Historical Cemberlitas Hammam in Old City, originally published on TripAdvisor)

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