The 3 Things to Know to Fully Embrace the Authentic Hamam Experience in Turkey (which one is the best?)

Traveling to Turkey without experiencing a Hamam is like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower.

Inherited from the model of the Roman thermae, the Turkish Bath is a unique experience once you are in Istanbul.

Before private plumbing, Hamams served as cleansing facilities; however, they were also gathering places.

Today, Hamams work like this?

1- You take off your clothes and secure them in a locker.

2- You end up only with a special type of thin fabric towel called peştamal that you will keep until the very end.

3- Proceed into a hot room and get ready to perspire. Now it’s time for exfoliation.

You will be washed by male or female staff (matching the gender of the visitor) using soap and vigorous rubbing called “kese” before ending by washing yourself in warm water.

The process takes about an hour.

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Which one to visit?

There are many Hamams, but I recommend Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.

5 — Important information before you go:

1- The Hamam will provide the materials you will need, such as peştamal, slippers, towels, and shampoo. However, you can wear a bathing suit if you feel more comfortable.

2- You cannot have a bath naked.

3- Keep your valuables in the safety boxes behind the reception.

4- You may take your time to relax in the camegah (lounge) after your treatment and order some refreshments.

5- If you are taking medication, or sunscreen, or have any skin lesions, it is not recommended to bathe in the Hamam.