Istanbul: Traditional Turkish Bath with Foam and Oil Massage

History

The Turkish hammam tradition, rooted in the Ottoman Empire, blends Roman and Byzantine bathing rituals with Islamic purification practices, serving as a space for relaxation, cleansing, and socializing for centuries. Originating over 600 years ago, these bathhouses, like the Victory Turkish Bath in Istanbul, have been integral to Turkish culture, offering a serene escape in the heart of the city.

This experience at a 600-year-old bathhouse near Sultanahmet Mosque and the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) immerses you in this historic ritual, combining traditional scrubbing and foam massages with modern spa amenities for a rejuvenating journey into Turkey’s cultural heritage.

Highlights

• Relax in a 600-year-old Turkish bathhouse near Sultanahmet
• Enjoy a traditional steam bath, scrubbing, and foam massage
• Opt for a personalized deep tissue, hot stone, or aromatherapy massage
• Unwind with a tea-drinking session in a serene atmosphere
• Experience premium facilities with a private, exclusive setting

Full Description

Step into the timeless luxury of the Victory Turkish Bath, a 600-year-old hammam located near Istanbul’s iconic Sultanahmet Mosque and Kapalı Çarşı (Grand Bazaar). This 55-185 minute experience, depending on your chosen options, offers a blend of traditional Turkish rituals and modern spa comforts, guided by English, Turkish, Russian, or German-speaking hosts. Unlike crowded tourist spots, the limited guest capacity ensures a peaceful and personalized atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking relaxation.

Your journey begins in the steam room, where heat and humidity relax your muscles and open your pores, followed by a vigorous traditional scrubbing session to exfoliate your skin. Next, enjoy an Ottoman-style foam massage on a heated marble platform, a hallmark of the Turkish hammam experience. Optional upgrades include deep tissue, hot stone, or aromatherapy massages performed by expert Far Eastern female physiotherapists, tailored to your needs. The experience concludes with a soothing tea-drinking session, allowing you to unwind in a tranquil setting. Additional amenities include sauna access, a pool, and a private changing and storage cabin or locker (based on options selected).

The bathhouse’s mixed-gender common areas (sauna, pool, etc.) create an inclusive environment, with all necessary items like towels provided. Located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, this experience offers a rejuvenating escape, combining centuries-old traditions with first-class hospitality for a truly restorative visit.

Why Choose This Experience?

The Victory Turkish Bath offers an authentic and luxurious hammam experience in a historic 600-year-old setting, blending traditional Ottoman rituals with modern spa comforts. Its prime location near Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar makes it an ideal addition to your Istanbul itinerary, while the small guest capacity ensures a serene and exclusive atmosphere.

With personalized massage options, premium facilities, and attentive staff, this experience caters to those seeking relaxation and cultural immersion. Whether you’re detoxing in the steam room or savoring tea post-treatment, this hammam delivers a memorable and rejuvenating escape.

What’s Included

• Access to a 600-year-old Turkish bathhouse
• Steam bath session
• Traditional scrubbing and foam massage
• Tea-drinking session
• Sauna access
• Private changing and storage cabin or locker (based on option selected)
• Optional Turkish massage (deep tissue, hot stone, or aromatherapy, if selected)
• Towels and other necessary amenities

Itinerary

• Arrive at Victory Turkish Bath (Victory Hotel & Spa, 1st Floor)
• Relax in the steam room to open pores
• Experience a traditional scrubbing session
• Enjoy a foam massage on a heated marble platform
• Opt for a deep tissue, hot stone, or aromatherapy massage (if selected)
• Unwind in the sauna and common areas (pool, fitness, etc.)
• Conclude with a tea-drinking session
• Depart feeling refreshed and rejuvenated

Pricing

From $45 per person

Meeting Point

Head to Victory Turkish Bath, located at Victory Hotel & Spa on the 1st floor, near Sultanahmet Mosque and Kapalı Çarşı. The facility is clearly marked with the name “Victory Turkish Bath.” Arrive at the confirmed start time, as no pickup is included. Use public transport (T1 Tram to Sultanahmet stop) or a taxi for easy access, with the location pinned on Google Maps.

How to Get There

• Walk or take a taxi to Victory Turkish Bath at Victory Hotel & Spa, 1st Floor
• Use the T1 Tram to Sultanahmet stop for convenient access
• Check Google Maps for the pinned location to navigate easily
• Arrive at the confirmed start time, as no pickup is provided

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Swimwear for use in the hammam and pool
• Comfortable clothes to change into after the treatment

Know Before You Go

• All masseurs are Far Eastern and female
• Common areas (sauna, pool, fitness) are mixed-gender
• Smoking is not allowed in the facility
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Inform the operator of any health conditions or preferences when booking
• The experience is not recommended for pregnant guests or those with certain health conditions (e.g., heart issues)

Reviews

• This was such an interesting and fun experience! The massage was fantastic, and the Turkish bath was invigorating. The staff were friendly and made us feel welcome. Highly recommend!
• We were well cared for from the moment we arrived, and the entire experience was enjoyable. The only suggestion is to add a sign outside for easier navigation, but it’s definitely worth trying!
• The staff were attentive and welcoming, providing water, tea, and towels. The hammam and massage were super relaxing, and I’d recommend this to anyone wanting to experience a traditional Turkish bath!