While a visit to the hammam—where one bathes with the help of a tellak (male attendant) or natır (female attendant)—is no longer a regular part of daily life for most modern Turks, these steamy bathhouses remain deeply symbolic in Turkish culture. With their kurna (marble basins), heated göbek taşı (central massage stone), wooden clogs, copper bowls, peştemals (bath wraps), and exfoliating mitts, hammams carry the essence of a tradition stretching back to Roman times. Under the Ottomans, however, they evolved into uniquely Turkish spaces—so much so that they’re now internationally recognized as “Turkish baths.”
Though their numbers have dwindled, a select few hammams continue to operate today, preserving age-old rituals in spectacular historical settings. Here are eight of the most iconic and beautiful hammams in Turkey:
1. Çemberlitaş Hammam (Istanbul)
Commissioned by Nurbanu Sultan and built by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan in the late 16th century, Çemberlitaş Hammam is a classic çifte hamam—a dual bathhouse with separate sections for men and women. Though it was used as a restaurant and carpet showroom for a time, the building was restored to its original purpose in 1988 and now serves as one of Istanbul’s most famous traditional hammams.
2. Kılıç Ali Pasha Hammam (Istanbul)
Another masterpiece by Mimar Sinan from the 16th century, this hammam was built for the Ottoman admiral Kılıç Ali Pasha and is located in the Tophane neighborhood near Karaköy. The structure’s elegant architecture and serene atmosphere draw admiration from both locals and international visitors, especially architecture enthusiasts.
3. Sekiz Direkli Hammam (Trabzon)
Situated in the heart of Trabzon, this unique hammam was built during the Seljuk attempts to take control of the city. Its name, meaning “Eight-Columned Bath,” refers to the eight pillars that support its octagonal dome. The interior design is said to resemble a nomadic tent, offering a distinct aesthetic and historical value.
4. Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Hammam (Edirne)
Commissioned by Grand Vizier Sokullu Mehmet Pasha and designed by Mimar Sinan, this Edirne hammam is one of the largest in Turkey. It’s one of only three historical hammams remaining in the city and is renowned for its impressive architecture and intricate craftsmanship.
5. Kervansaray Hammam (Bursa)
Nestled within a historic thermal complex in Bursa, this hammam dates back to the Roman era but was restored during Ottoman times. With separate areas for men and women, it continues to offer a traditional bathing experience. Fun fact: the word hamam derives from the Arabic root “ḥamma,” meaning “to heat.”
6. Cağaloğlu Hammam (Istanbul)
With its stunning Baroque-style architecture, Cağaloğlu Hammam made it onto the New York Times’ list of “1000 Places to See Before You Die.” Possibly the most famous Turkish bath, it has hosted notable guests including composer Franz Liszt and actor Tony Curtis.
7. Hürrem Sultan Hammam (Istanbul)
Built by Mimar Sinan at the request of Hürrem Sultan (Roxelana), the influential wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, this hammam was constructed atop the ruins of the ancient Zeuksippos Baths, near Hagia Sophia. After serving as a warehouse, carpet store, and even a prison throughout the 20th century, it has since been restored and now operates once again as a fully functioning hammam.
8. Galatasaray Hammam (Istanbul)
Commissioned by Sultan Bayezid II at the request of the Bektashi dervish Gül Baba, Galatasaray Hammam has long been a favorite of the Ottoman elite. In more recent years, it even attracted Hollywood star John Travolta. Today, it’s open to the public and offers a refined hammam experience in the heart of Istanbul.
