Çemberlitaş Hamam: a 16th-century Sinan hamam on Divanyolu
- Historic hamams
- Çemberlitaş, Fatih
- Paid
Family hotels closest to Çemberlitaş Hamam
Visitor information
| Type | Ottoman double hamam (working hamam today) |
|---|---|
| Built | 1584 |
| Commissioned by / architect | Mimar Sinan (for Nurbanu Sultan) |
| Neighbourhood | Çemberlitaş, Fatih |
| Opening hours | Daily from morning until late at night |
| Admission | Paid; the price depends on the package you choose (scrub, foam wash, massage). Contact the hamam for current prices and bookings. |
| Time needed | 1–1.5 hours |
| Getting there | T1 Çemberlitaş stop, 1 min walk |
| From Sultanahmet Square | About 10 min walk (710 m) |
| Pushchair / stroller | Partly suitable. The entrance is flat; the bathing area is wet and slippery |
| Best time | After visiting the Grand Bazaar |
Opening hours and prices can change; check the official website before you go. Map links open in Google Maps.
History of the hamam
The hamam was built so that its income would support Nurbanu Sultan’s Atik Valide complex in Üsküdar. It is one of Mimar Sinan’s late works. It is a classic double hamam, with women’s and men’s sections built side by side, each made up of a changing hall, a warm room and a hot room. The star-shaped skylights (“elephant eyes”) in the domes of the hot rooms give the interior a dim, striking light.
Visitor information
The hamam offers different packages, from washing yourself to a scrub and foam wash with an attendant. The women’s and men’s sections are separate, and women are attended by female staff. The peştemal wrap, towel and slippers are provided by the hamam. You will find detailed information about women-only sections and privacy in our guide hamams and pools for women.
What is nearby?
Right in front of the hamam is the Column of Constantine, and on the opposite pavement the Tomb of Mahmud II. The Nuruosmaniye Gate of the Grand Bazaar is a few minutes’ walk away; relaxing at the hamam after a bazaar visit is a classic Istanbul day.
Visiting tips
- To go after the Grand Bazaar, choose the late afternoon.
- Book in advance in busy periods.
- Rest for a while after the hamam and drink plenty of water; do not start a long walk right away.
Our family hotels near Çemberlitaş Hamam
Walking times are approximate and measured from the hotel door; where the hotel gives its own time, we show that.
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Seven Roses Apart Hotel
Çemberlitaş Hamam: 10 min walk (710 m) Walking route
Apartments with kitchens in Küçük Ayasofya, with roomy options for larger families
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Emirhan Inn Hotel
Çemberlitaş Hamam: 10 min walk (730 m) Walking route
A budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast in Küçük Ayasofya
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Sareban Hotel
Çemberlitaş Hamam: 11 min walk (750 m) Walking route
An alcohol-free family hotel in Küçük Ayasofya, looking out to the Marmara
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Green Life Apart Hotel
Çemberlitaş Hamam: 11 min walk (750 m) Walking route
Family-run apartments with kitchenettes and a sea-view roof terrace in Küçük Ayasofya
Frequently asked questions
Is there a women’s section at the Çemberlitaş Hamam?
Yes. The Çemberlitaş Hamam is a double hamam; the women’s and men’s sections are separate and women are attended by female staff.
Who built the Çemberlitaş Hamam?
Mimar Sinan built the hamam in 1584 in the name of Nurbanu Sultan.
