Summer is on the way, so prep your skin for that ultimate sun-kissed glow with a visit to one of the best traditional Turkish baths. Turks have embraced a spa and wellness culture for centuries, and a trip to a local hamam is a timeless tradition most will enjoy.

The History of Turkish Baths

It isn’t easy to pinpoint when and where Turkish baths originated. What is known is that bathhouses existed throughout the Middle East, Türkiye and Europe during the Ottoman Empire, and Roman and Byzantine bathing practices were probably the inspiration.

Turkish baths were seen as far more than simply a place to get pampered. They were where communities gathered not only to cleanse but also to enjoy each other’s company. Turkish baths were the place to go before entering the mosque, and throughout Türkiye, some of the best traditional Turkish baths are located near the main mosques.

About Traditional Turkish Baths

Turkish baths differ from Russian baths and Moroccan hammams. The fancy new wave Turkish baths in high-end resorts and hotels generally accept both sexes into the main room, but traditionally men and women would bathe separately, and the heat is dry rather than steam-room wet.

On entry, you are greeted by your male or female attendant who guides you through the experience. Several treatments are offered, including the chance to wash alone or with same-sex friends, but most enjoy a full Turkish bath, including the famous wash, pillowcase of bubbles, scrub and massage. The attire differs from place to place, and a traditional pestemal (fringed towel) is provided, but most feel comfortable wearing swimwear.

Traditional Turkish baths start by building up a sweat for around 15 minutes in the dry heat room. You are then taken to a larger marble room with tall ceilings, often with small traditional skylights, and a large circular marble platform in the centre. Metal or copper bowls are placed next to the ornate sinks that line the room’s walls, and you are left to relax on the warm central slab until the attendant arrives.

The wash and scrub is a real highlight. The best traditional Turkish baths use specially trained masseurs who cover you in a glorious soft pillowcase of soap suds while you lie on the heated slab. They then use repetitive motions to gently exfoliate the skin and rub the dirt and dead cells from the body with a traditional mitt. Following the scrub comes a gentle massage to kneed out any kinks before cold water is used to close the pores and freshen the skin. You can opt to continue with a deep and healing full body massage or additional treatments, or simply relax with a cool drink or traditional soda before returning to the yacht feeling incredible and cleaner than you ever have before.

The Best Turkish Baths in Istanbul.

There are many fabulous traditional Turkish baths in Istanbul and along the coast, ASK 360 YACHTING to arrange a private guide to take you to one of the best during your travels. In the meantime, here are a few to consider:

Photo Credit: Cağaloğlu Hamam

Cagaloglu Hamam, Istanbul

Constructed in 1741, Cağaloğlu Hamam was built during the Ottoman Empire and is one of the most famous traditional Turkish baths in the country. The building was initially a çifte public hamam and a source of income for the library of Sultan Mahmut, and it was the last of its kind to be built in the city. You may be familiar with the building as a section of it is also home to the gourmet restaurant Lokanta 1741, which we featured in our post on great restaurants in Istanbul.

Cağaloğlu Hamam offers several fantastic treatments, some traditional and others with a modern twist. The Ottoman Luxury Service is perhaps the most popular and a head to toe pampering that includes 15 minutes of hot room rest, 10 minutes of rubbing, and 35 minutes of bubble massage. It is topped off with a relaxing 45-minute aromatherapy massage using linden oil and ends with traditional refreshments, Turkish delight, appetizers, and fruit. Another recommended treatment is the Hamam Special Service combining a traditional Turkish bath with an oriental massage. CONTACT US for more details. (cagalogluhamami.com.tr)

Photo Credit: Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam

Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami, Istanbul

Another famous hamam located in Istanbul’s harbour district is Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam. It was originally part of a mosque and school complex built between 1578 and 1583 to serve the marine forces of the Ottoman navy. It is known for its majestic dome and architectural features. The hamam offers a fabulous traditional Turkish bath in a very authentic and historical setting, plus the optional massage treatments following the bath have received excellent reviews from guests. GET IN TOUCH to arrange a visit. (kilicalipasahamami.com)

Photo Credit: Cağaloğlu Hamam