Turkish Baths in Instanbul

A recent similar question with a couple of ideas here: https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/turkey/hammams-in-istanbul-97a259bb-19e8-4b5e-bf45-255188ee25f8

The RS Istanbul guidebook also has a chapter on the process and includes recommendations of several places. I loved my experience, but I let go of my modesty and went along for the ride (definitely a ride!)

The last time I went to a hamam in Istanbul was in 2021. The two I would recommend are Hurrem Sultan and Cagloglu, both in Sultanahmet. I went to Cagloglu, which has operated continuously as a hamam since 1741, and I was treated like Ottoman royalty. Hurrem Sultan was designed in the 1500's by Sinan, probably the most famous architects ever in Istanbul. You can't go wrong with either one. Both are pricey but worth every penny. Both require reservations.

Cemberlitas is another historic hamam, but the reviews were mixed the last time I looked. However, that was a few years ago, and things may have changed.

A hamam visit is one of my favorite things to do every time I am in Turkey. I have been to high-end hamams, low-end hamams, hotel hamams, and everything in between. I have always enjoyed it. In Istanbul, though, I would definitely splurge on one of the high-end historic hamams. There is no experience like it anywhere.

Went at Aga Hamami in January, which is about a 10 minute walk from Taksim square. It was reasonably priced, you can reserve your time in English online, and add extra services like massage. It was a fabulous experience and I wouldn't hesitate to go back there again. Super friendly people, and I left feeling amazing.

Here's a post I have on my Turkish bath experience, but it was in Antalya: https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/turkish-bath-in-antalya