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Cemberlitas Hammam

Cemberlitas HammamCemberlitas Hammam

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Experience tradition and luxury at Cemberlitas Baths

Looking for a bath that’s more than just bubbles? Commissioned by Nurbanu Sultan in the 16th century, the Cemberlitas Hammam brings centuries-old Turkish bathing traditions to life. Relax in the steamy marble chambers, indulge in a revitalizing scrub, and let a luxurious foam massage whisk you back to the elegance of the Ottoman era. It’s not just a bath, it’s a time-traveling spa day!

Why Cemberlitas Hammam is the best choice for your Turkish bath experience?

Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
Why visit the Cemberlitas Hammam?
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A historic landmark with timeless charm

Built in 1584 by the legendary Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, Cemberlitas Hammam is a timeless treasure. Its striking domes, elegant marble interiors, and intricate design offer a fascinating window into the splendor of Ottoman architecture. Whether you are a history buff or just curious about Turkish culture, this historic hammam is an experience you won’t want to miss.

An authentic Turkish bath experience

Cemberlitas Baths is unrivaled when it comes to its ‘classic’ Turkish bathing rituals. The centuries-old customs, starting with a warm-up in the steamy marble room, followed by a scrubbing session, foam massage, and rinsing, allow visitors to fully embrace the time-honored customs of a Turkish hammam.

Prime location

The hammam’s central location in the Old City makes it an excellent addition to your itinerary. Just steps away from iconic attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar, you can easily fit in a pampering session while exploring Istanbul’s historic landmarks.

Perfect for all travelers

Whether you are looking for a quick refresh or a luxurious pampering session, Cemberlitas Baths has something for everyone. From traditional Turkish rituals like kese scrubbing and foam massages to full-body peeling treatments, manicures, and pedicures, there’s an experience to suit your preferences and budget. The hammam’s services are available for both men and women in separate sections, ensuring privacy and comfort for all guests.

Unlimited stay inside

One of the most appealing aspects of this hammam is the freedom to linger. With no time restrictions, you can unwind at your own pace and soak in the ambiance for as long as you want.

Blends tradition with modern comforts

Cemberlitas provides an all-inclusive bathing experience. From towels and slippers to soap, shampoo, and a personal locker, everything you need is thoughtfully prepared for your convenience. Beyond the baths, the hammam also offers a serene environment with cooling rooms and relaxation areas.

Ancient secrets for lasting wellness

A hammam experience is more than an indulgence—it’s a rejuvenating ritual for both body and mind. The soothing steam opens your pores and boosts circulation, while the exfoliation clears away dead skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed. You will leave with softer, healthier skin and a lasting sense of calm that stays with you long after your visit.

A must-visit cultural experience

For centuries, hammams have been central to daily life, offering a place not only for cleansing and relaxation but also for socializing. The rituals, from the steamy marble chambers to the traditional scrubs and soaps, have been passed down through generations, offering a window into Turkey’s rich cultural heritage.

Hear from our guests

A visual journey through the Cemberlitas Hammam

traditional Turkish bath and massage experience in Sisli, Istanbul.

Dome in turkish bath
Cemberlitas Hammam interiors
Cemberlitas Hammam interiors
Cemberlitas Hammam interiors
Cemberlitas Hammam interiors
See all photos

The hammam experience at Cemberlitas

  • As you enter the centuries-old Cemberlitas, the domed roof and marble interiors immediately set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
  • Your journey begins in a locker room, thoughtfully equipped with every modern convenience—a hairdryer, bed, mirror, and a secure key to keep your belongings safe. Wrap yourself in a soft, traditional pestemal (towel) and feel the first wave of relaxation wash over you.
  • Next, you step into the hammam’s heart—a warm, marble-clad bathing area where the gentle steam wraps around you like a comforting embrace. The air, thick with a soothing mist, opens your pores and prepares your skin for the indulgence to come.
  • A skilled attendant begins the ritual with a traditional exfoliating scrub using a kese (mitt). With expert precision, they remove impurities and rejuvenate your skin.
  • Next, you are enveloped in a soft, cloudy foam, and a masseur begins easing the knots on your back. The gentle, firm strokes ease your muscles, while the foam cleanses your skin, leaving it feeling renewed and supple.
  • The experience continues with a peeling treatment to enhance your skin’s natural glow, followed by a full-body massage. Expert hands knead away the remaining tension, leaving you in a state of utter bliss.
  • Complete your bathing ritual with a manicure and a pedicure. Though not part of traditional hammam culture, these modern additions elevate the experience into a true spa-like indulgence.
  • As you step out of Cemberlitas and into the vibrant streets near the Grand Bazaar, you will feel refreshed and utterly transformed—a radiant glow on your skin and a renewed spring in your step.

Plan your visit to Cemberlitas

Opening hours
Getting there
What to bring
Rules & etiquette
Visitor tips
Turkish bath interior with marble basins and towels in Taksim, Istanbul.
  • Daily: 7:30am to 10:30pm
  • Duration of visit: 1.5 to 2 hours

Best time to visit: Visiting early, between 7:30am and 8am is ideal, for the hammam is less crowded and you can enjoy the rituals without feeling rushed. You can also visit Cemberlitas late in the evening. Around 8pm to 10pm, the crowds thin out, and you can unwind after a day of exploring Istanbul.

Note: Unlike many spas or wellness centers with strict time slots, the Cemberlitas Hammam offers an unlimited stay inside. Linger in the steamy, marble chamber, and let the treatments work their magic.

Address: Molla Fenari, Vezirhan Cd. No:8, 34440 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
Find on maps

  • By tram: Line T1 (Bagcilar to Kabastas)
  • Nearest stop: Cemberlitas station
  • By bus: 28 (Besiktas to Fatih), 28T (Besiktas to Topkapi), 30D (Ortakoy to Yenikapi), 36V (Veznegiler to Sultangazi), 77A (Sisli to Vezneciler), 93T (Zeytinburnu to Taksim), and EM1 (Emniyettepe to Vezniciler)
  • Nearest stop: Cemberlitas or Beyazit Square
  • By metro: Line M2 (Yenikapi to Haciosman)
  • Nearest station: Vezneciler station
  • By foot: If you are walking around the Sultanahmet area, the Cemberlitas Hammam is situated near the entrance of the Grand Bazaar, a short while away from the Hagia Sophia.
Turkish bath interior with ornate tiles and domed ceiling in Istanbul.
  • A change of clothes, preferably something easy to slip on
  • Swimsuit (optional)
  • Towel (optional)
  • Any preferred toiletries or skin-care products
  • Flip-flops
  • A small bag for valuables
  • Cash (Turkish Lira)
Traditional Turkish bath with massages in istanbul, featuring marble interiors and relaxing spa treatments.
  • Shower before entering the hammam: It is recommended to rinse yourself off before starting the bath or scrubbing process.
  • Follow the bathing ritual: Hammam rituals follow a specific sequence: warming up in the hot room, scrubbing, washing, and finally resting in a cooler area. Following this process allows you to fully enjoy its therapeutic benefits. 
  • Communicate with the attendants: Turkish bath massages involve lots of physical contact. If you are uncomfortable at any point, please tell your attendants. 
  • Don’t bring outside food or drinks: While outside food is not allowed, you can help yourself to Turkish delights and homemade sherbets inside the hammam. 
  • Keep the space clean: Avoid leaving towels, soap, or other items scattered around.
  • Keep noise to a minimum: Turkish hammams are a place for relaxation. Keep conversations quiet and avoid loud or disruptive behavior.
Woman drinking water
  • Be prepared for tipping requests: Service professionals may request a tip after your bath. It’s a good idea to carry some cash, but you can decline politely as well.
  • Clarify service details: Confirm the duration and nature of the treatments before the session begins. If you prefer a gentler scrub or massage, communicate this to your attendant beforehand.
  • Hydrate before and after: The heat and steam can be dehydrating. Drink water before and after your session to stay hydrated.
  • Health considerations: If you have any heart conditions, it’s best to consult your doctor before enjoying a hammam experience. Pregnant women are also advised to avoid Turkish baths, as the high sauna temperatures can pose risks during the early and late stages of pregnancy.
  • Book in advance: While walk-ins are welcome, it is best to book your tickets a few weeks in advance, especially during peak summer months between June and August, to secure your preferred time slot.

A living piece of Ottoman history

interior view of hamam bath historic building
  • The Cemberlitas Hammam has been a cornerstone of Istanbul’s cultural heritage since its completion in 1584. Commissioned by Nurbanu Sultan, the mother of Sultan Murad III, it reflects the era’s architectural brilliance. 
  • The legendary Ottoman architect, Mimar Sinan, infused the bathhouse with iconic domed ceilings, marble interiors, and a central heated stone (gobek tasi). 
  • For centuries, Cemberlitas has been a living testament to Ottoman bathing traditions. Brides-to-be would visit the hammam with friends and family as part of wedding preparations, while mothers brought newborns for purification and blessing rituals.
  • The hammam has also witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from the Ottoman era to the modern Turkish Republic. 
  • Despite urbanization and evolving lifestyles, it has preserved its traditional charm, drawing both locals and tourists eager to experience its historical allure.

Must-visit attractions near Cemberlitas

Grand Bazaar Istanbul Turkey with vibrant market stalls and shoppers exploring traditional goods.

Grand Bazaar

Distance: 400 meters away

One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar features over 4,000 shops selling Turkish carpets, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs.

Sultanahmet Square fountain with the iconic Hagia Sophia in the background, Istanbul

Sultanahmet Square

Distance: 600 meters away

This historic square was the social center of the Byzantine Empire. Today, it is home to iconic landmarks like the German Fountain and the Serpent Column.

Tourists capturing the Basilica Cistern on an Old City Walking tour, Blue Mosque and Bosphorus Cruise visible.

Basilica Cistern

Distance: 700 meters away

Built in the 6th century, this underground water reservoir showcases 336 dimly-lit columns and upturned Medusa Head columns.

Basilica Cistern tickets
Hagia Sophia interior view with visitors in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

Distance: 800 meters away

A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has served as a cathedral, and a mosque, and is now a museum.

Hagia Sophia tickets

Frequently asked questions about the Cemberlitas Hammam

Why is the Cemberlitas Hammam popular?

Built in the 16th century, the Cemberlitas Hammam is one of the most famous hammams in Istanbul, offering an authentic, ‘classic’ Turkish bath experience. Its central location and intricate interiors make it a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

What services are available at Cemberlitas?

The Cemberlitas Baths offers a range of services, including traditional scrubbing with a kese mitt, heated stone massages, foam massages, peeling treatments, and full-body massages.

Is there a dress code at the hammam?

There is no strict dress code, but modesty is a part of the tradition. The hammam provides a pestamal (traditional towel) at the start of the bathing ritual to wrap yourself in. Depending on your comfort, you can also wear a swimsuit.

Is the hammam wheelchair accessible?

The Cemberlitas Hammam is not accessible to visitors in wheelchairs due to its 16th-century design. Much of the building includes stairs, narrow passageways, and uneven surfaces, which can make navigation challenging for those with mobility needs.

Does Cemberlitas offer lockers or storage facilities?

Yes, the Cemberlitas offers personal lockers secured with a key, so you can safely store your belongings while enjoying the bath and other services.

Can I bring children to the hammam?

The Cemberlitas Hammam does not allow children aged 11 and under, as the high temperatures in the steam rooms and hot surfaces can be uncomfortable and potentially unsafe for younger children.