Review of Beyoğlu Hamam Banyo & Sauna in Istanbul
If you’re going to Istanbul, it’s hard to resist trying a Turkish bath. I described how it works in this article.
You have two options:
- Either choose a touristy hammam in a beautiful setting, with a luxurious experience and the prices to match.
- Or choose a more rustic “local” hammam. This option can be a bit of an adventure, but it will be cheaper and much more authentic.
I like the first option, but since I particularly enjoy Turkish baths, I always look for a local spot so I can go regularly without emptying my bank account.
During our stay in Istanbul in July 2023, I found one a 10-minute walk from our accommodation: the “Beyoğlu Hamam Banyo & Sauna” (Google Maps link).
This one is reserved for men until 10 PM, after which it becomes mixed.
The staff speaks a few words of English, enough to make themselves understood, and seem delighted to welcome tourists. I went there 4 times during my stay, and I was always the only foreigner present.
The prices are particularly gentle:
- 140 TL for hammam access
- 60 TL for the scrub
- 60 TL for the foam wash
- 140 TL for a 30-minute oil massage
You can just get hammam access, but I always chose the “full package” which comes to 400 TL, barely 14 € at the exchange rate at the time. The price is unbeatable!
At that price, don’t expect a luxurious experience; the hammam is in the basement, it’s fairly rustic, and you’ll have to share the tiny changing room.
Despite that, I really enjoy the experience. You have a locker secured with a padlock to protect your belongings. The staff is very friendly and the treatments are of good quality.
Quite rare for a Turkish bath: in addition to the classic hot marble slab where you lie down, this hammam has a “real” sauna (Finnish-style). Since I like really hot saunas to sweat in, that was a real plus!
After each session, I felt like a new man.
You’ve got it, I recommend this hammam; don’t hesitate to visit it if you want an authentic experience!
After your session, you can head to the street right next door, which offers a wide choice of street food.
