Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam
Situated right between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam dates back to the 16th century. Commissioned by Hürrem Sultan, the wife of Ottoman ruler Süleyman the Magnificent, and constructed by Mimar Sinan, the chief Ottoman imperial architect,
the hamam has undergone extensive renovations in recent years. Today, it remains not only a testament to traditional Ottoman architecture but also an unbeatable place to unwind with a wide range of luxurious massage and treatment options.
Galatasaray Hamam
The oldest hamam on our list, the Galatasaray Hamam was commissioned by Ottoman ruler Bayezid II in 1481. Constructed as part of the Galatasaray complex, which also included a mosque and the present-day Galatasaray High School, the hamam is popular with visitors from around the world who wish to experience traditional Turkish bath rituals and massage treatments.
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Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam
Another 16th-century hamam built by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan is Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam in Karaköy. Commissioned by Kılıç Ali Paşa, the Grand Admiral of the Ottoman fleet, the hamam was originally built as part of a large complex that also included a mosque, a medrese, and a fountain. Today, the hamam welcomes both men and women who seek to relax in its historic ambience.
CASIA SPA
The 3-floor Casia Spa is part of the new Hyatt Centric Levent Istanbul. It is an impressive structure, with a 15-metre indoor pool surrounded by warmed loungers, a Vitality pool with swan-neck fountain, personal Jacuzzi corners, fitness and Pilates areas, male and female relaxing areas, hamam, adventure room, snow room and 11 treatment rooms. Expert therapists perform specialized facials and targeted body treatments using products, such as Elemis, rich in the most powerful natural ingredients. The Spa is open every day from 7am to 10pm.
For more on what to do in Istanbul, visit our Destinations page.