This hamam, located in Sultanahmet near Hagia Sophia and the Yerebatan Sarnıcı, is a popular choice with tourists. The hamam, built for Sultan Mahmut I in 1741 to help pay for the upkeep of his library in the Hagia Sophia, showcases some of the most magnificent Baroque styles.  The hararets, or steam rooms, are especially beautiful: they are characterized by open cruciform chambers with windowed domes that are supported on a circle of columns.

Unlike smaller hamams, in which men and women bathe at different times of day, Cağaloğlu Hamamı features separate facilities for men and women.  There is a pleasant little courtyard on the premises where you can relax and drink a glass of tea.  There is also a shop onsite that sells quality olive-oil soap and other hamam accessories.  Famous guests of the past include Edward VIII of England, Kaiser Wilhelm, Franz Liszt, Florence Nightingale, and Tony Curtis; the hamam has served as a backdrop for numerous television films and commercials.