The Cukurcuma Hamam, built in the 1830s by Naqshidil Valide Sultan, the wife of Abdulhamid I and the spiritual mother of Mahmud II, is a historic Turkish bath located in the vibrant Beyoğlu district of Istanbul. Known for its rich history and architectural splendor, the hammam has served as a social and cultural hub for over a century. Recently restored and reopened in 2018, it now offers a blend of traditional Turkish bath rituals and modern spa treatments.
The hammam operated until 1910, later serving as temporary housing for prisoners when Sultanahmet Prison was overcrowded. It was first restored between 1957-1958 and functioned as a carpet exhibition hall until 2007.
Built in the classical Ottoman bath style, the Hurrem Sultan Hammam innovated Turkish bath architecture by aligning the men’s and women’s sections as mirror images along the same axis.
Cukurcuma Hamam is renowned for its architectural features, including a wide dome, a central heated marble platform (Göbektaşı), and bright, spacious sweating cabins (Halvet). The hammam has been frequented by notable figures such as the poet Constantine Cavafy in the 1880s and was featured in the film „Hamam“ by Ferzan Özpetek in 1997. It stands as a testament to the luxurious and intricate design of Ottoman-era bathhouses.
Cukurcuma Hamam offers a variety of services that combine traditional practices with contemporary luxury. Here are some highlighted services:
• Price: 70 €
• Details: This service includes a steam bath, a traditional kese (exfoliating glove) treatment, and a foam bath. Guests can also enjoy herbal tea, dried fruits, and detox water in the lounge area.
• Price: 85 €
• Details: This package includes a 40-minute steam bath, traditional kese treatment, hand and foot exfoliation, a relaxing foam massage, and refreshments in a private lounge area.
• Price: 140 €
• Details: This luxurious experience offers a 40-minute steam bath, traditional kese treatment, hand and foot exfoliation, a foam massage, and a 40-minute full-body massage with organic oils. Refreshments are served in a private lounge.
• Relaxing Massage: 30 minutes, 65 €
• Aromatherapy Massage: 50 minutes, 80 €
• Sports Massage: 50 minutes, 90 €.
The Cukurcuma Hamam is open daily from 09:00 to 22:00. Here are some tips on the best times to visit:
Weekday Mornings: For a quieter experience, visit in the mornings from Monday to Thursday.
Avoid Weekends: Weekends tend to be busier with both locals and tourists.
Early Evening: Late afternoons to early evenings (around 16:00 to 18:00) are also good times to visit, especially if you prefer to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Seasonal Considerations: Visiting during off-peak seasons (late autumn, winter, early spring) generally means fewer tourists, making for a more serene visit.
Cukurcuma Hamami is situated in the Beyoglu district, close to several other historical landmarks like the Galata Tower and the Taksim Square.
Address: Firuzağa, Çukur Cuma Cd. NO : 43, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
• By Tram: Take the T1 tram line to Tophane stop.
• By Metro: Take the M2 metro line to Sishane, then a short walk to the hammam.
• By Bus: Various bus routes service the area around Tophane and Beyoğlu.
• By Ferry: From the Asian side, take a ferry to Karakoy, then a tram or short walk to the hammam.
Everyday from 09:00-22:00
The Cukurcuma Hamam is a historic Turkish bath built in the 1830s by Naqshidil Valide Sultan, offering traditional Turkish bath rituals and modern spa treatments.
The Cukurcuma Hamam is located in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, Turkey.
You can reach the Cukurcuma Hamam by taking the T1 tram line to Tophane stop, the M2 metro line to Sishane, or various bus routes. Ferries to Karakoy also provide easy access.
The Cukurcuma Hamam is open daily from 09:00 to 22:00.
Services include traditional Turkish bath rituals, kese treatments, foam baths, and various massages. Prices range from 70 € to 140 €.
Yes, the hammam provides services to both male and female guests, served by female staff.
For a quieter experience, it is best to visit on weekday mornings from Monday to Thursday. Late afternoons to early evenings are also good times, while weekends are busier.
Before visiting, note that services are not available for children under 12 years, pregnant women, or individuals with specific health conditions. Swimwear is required for all guests.
The Cukurcuma Hamam, built in the 1830s, features Ottoman architectural elements and has been a significant cultural site for over a century. It has been frequented by notable figures and was featured in the film „Hamam.“
Nearby attractions include the Galata Tower, Istanbul Modern, Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue, and the Pera Museum.