Istanbul: Historic Sifa Turkish Bath in Sultanahmet Square
Fatih, Istanbul
Built in 1777, this historic Ottoman hammam is just steps from Sultanahmet Square. Experience a traditional Turkish bath with steam, scrub, and foam massage in an authentic Old City setting.
Sifa Hamam is an authentic 18th-century Ottoman mixed-gender hammam located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, suitable for couples, solo travelers, and small groups.
Highlights
- Authentic 18th-century Ottoman hammam built in 1777
- Mixed-gender facility with gender-matching therapists
- Located in Istanbul’s Old City, Sultanahmet
- Suitable for couples, solo travelers, and small groups
Description
Sifa Hamam has been operating continuously since 1777, offering a traditional Turkish bath experience in the historic core of Sultanahmet. This late Ottoman-period hammam allows men and women to enjoy the bath ritual together in a shared space while receiving treatments from gender-matching therapists—female therapists for women and male therapists for men.
The experience begins in the warm room, where steam relaxes muscles and opens pores. It continues with exfoliation using a kese mitt, followed by a rich foam massage on a heated marble platform. The session concludes in the cool room with a choice of herbal tea or homemade sherbet.
Sifa Hamam provides a traditional yet inclusive Turkish bath option, conveniently located near major landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapı Palace.
Includes
- 30-minute access to the warm marble hammam room
- Peeling application with a single-use kese mitt
- Traditional foam massage
- Aromatherapy oil massage (optional)
- Foot massage and face mask (optional)
- Use of towels, slippers, and peştemal (breechcloth)
- Olive oil soap, linden shampoo, hair cream, body lotion
- Tea served after treatment
- Locker and secure storage
Excludes
- Food and meals
- Transportation to the hammam
- Gratuities (optional)
Important Information
- Mixed-gender hammam with shared areas
- All guests receive linden shampoo, single-use slippers, and towels
- Pregnant guests are not permitted
- Not recommended for guests with heart disease, diabetes, or asthma
- Use is not advised for guests who have recently consumed alcohol or are famished/full
- Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book in advance and bring a swimsuit or change of clothes. Morning visits are quieter and cooler. Arrive 10 minutes early to prepare and leave valuables in provided lockers.
