Be scrubbed like an Ottoman sultan

Talk of the town: It was originally the Bathhouse of Roxelana, known locally as Hürrem, the slave who became the powerful wife of Süleyman the Magnificent. It is still referred to by this name at times.

For years the domed structure between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque was a carpet shop. Now after a multi-million dollar restoration this beautiful marble space, built in 1556, is once again a Turkish bath, with separate areas for men and women.

There are cheaper hamams in Istanbul but here the changing rooms, scrubbing areas and steam rooms are spotlessly clean and infused with aromatic vapours. You’ll feel like new after you’ve been exfoliated, washed with soap suds, massaged and lounged in the relaxation room. You’ll also get to keep a set of the lotions and potions that were used in the treatment.