Relaxation and fitness Istanbul

Built in 1580, this magical place has reopened its doors after 7 years of renovation. Everything has been rebuilt according to the original plans with identical materials. The result is splendid. Everything here is stone, marble and woodwork. As soon as you enter, the atmosphere is dedicated to calm and pleasure. The ritual lasts about two hours. At the reception, a drink is offered to you, then passage to the shower before going to lie down on the hot marble for a good half hour. A real letting go to make a new skin in a sublime setting. To discover.

It is the tourist hammam par excellence! And for good reason, the building looks great. Articles about it abound, but it is deplorable that this success has led to a dizzying and abusive increase in rates. Some think it dates back to the mid-18th century, but the reference is still the 19th century. It looks a little dustier than the first address, which has undergone several maintenance works. Possibility to take a refreshment at the exit.

This hammam dates from 1640, it was built under the orders of Sultan Kösem. Çini in Turkish means earthenware, they are its specificity. The hammam is frequented by people from the neighbourhood, although lately more and more foreigners are beginning to be seen. Here no manners, we adapt. The reception is friendly. As far as massage is concerned, there is no such thing as the rule in tourist addresses that you should limit the duration of your massage: you let yourself be rubbed and massaged according to your mood.

Close to Taksim Square, this sauna open 24 hours a day is above all a relaxation area with, unlike hammams, dry heat. This area is reserved for men, there is a Jacuzzi, a swimming pool, a hammam and a sauna as well as a fitness area with some machines. Several massage packages are available. A bar is also at your disposal. It's not explicitly stated, but this place is mostly frequented by gays. If you are looking for a moment of well-being at any time of the day or night, this is the place for you.

For absolute privacy, choose the spa nestled in the Byzantium Hotel, it is open to all. The treatment is personalised and you will love the special care that is given to you. The complex is a total of 3,000 square meters including a semi-Olympic swimming pool, a fitness area with all the equipment for exercise and cardio. Two Turkish hammams are available, in addition to a sauna, massage room, etc.

The prices include the "kese and massage" package, which lasts about 20 minutes. In addition, you can ask them to pick you up because they have a shuttle system that provides a return trip (included in the price). There is no separation between men and women: it is mixed, an exception in Istanbul. Drinks such as tea, Turkish coffee or sparkling water are also available. As for the building, it is part of the entire mosque, which dates back to the 16th century.