Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam, Istanbul

WHAT TO EXPECT: from a scrub: men and women have separated entrances and spaces. You will be led to a private booth to change into mesh/paper(?) black underwear. Not sure if there’s a top for women. Then you’ll be led into a grand marble room where you’re doused repeatedly with water from a beautiful bowl and fountain. Be careful to take deep breaths before they get your face! You’ll then continue to douse yourself for a few minutes and then be scrubbed down and exfoliated. Seeing swirls of skin come off is disgustingly delightful. Then you’ll be guided to a large marble slab and lay down - it’s more comfortable than it sounds - and covered in magnificently thick blankets of bubbles. You’ll be scrubbed down and washed off. Others may be in the same room but everyone is so busy closing their eyes to avoid water that you’ll hardly notice them. When it’s over you’re led into the entry area and invited to lounge in a chaise with fresh Turkish delight (the first time I’ve enjoyed it) and yea or coffee, and juice! What a fantastic experience and a way to feel transported back in time!

This place never fails to impress me. This is my 2nd time in Ayasofya Hamam (4 years away from the 1st time) and the service maintains its excellent level of luxurious treatment. Treated like a sultana in a 400 year old Hamam is something. Their products are also very nice. I have bought the conditioner that was used in my Hamam session and perfume. You can find all the products that are used during your Hamam. They're all amazing.

This is an amazing place. It is not a bath... it is an incredible time for you. For me it was like a return to the childhood, when my mom love and care me. All staff is incredibly friendly. The place is very atmospheric and beautiful. The treats are very tasty. Massage and Spa treatments are incredibly pleasant and relaxing. Special thanks for Semra who served me. And hostes Fatima.

I had the most amazing experience! Absolutely loved being in a real hamam and thinking about all the history while relaxing and being pampered. My therapist name was maybe Ayesha. She was amazing. I did the royal treatment including massage. She was very talented. Staff lovely.

Great experience! Can’t go back to showering normally again😂, you definitely come out rejuvenated and feeling relaxed. Enjoyed the Turkish coffee and tea at the very end as well. A great way to end a vacation in Istanbul.