Starting in Istanbul’s Old Town, we’ll visit the Grand and Spice Bazaars to do some shopping, just like many locals. We’ll then make our way to Karaköy – one of the oldest districts in the city. It was a centre for tradesmen, merchants and sailors during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Today, it’s a trendy place for shopping, eating out and partying.
Once we’re done shopping, we’ll visit one of the oldest hamams in Karaköy, founded in 1580, to relax and take part in the hamam tradition.
The hamam has separate opening hours for men (men-only hours: 16:30–23:30) and women (women-only hours: 08:00–16:00), so take this into account when booking. You’ll be provided with everything you need (towel, slippers and shampoo), but I suggest you bring spare underwear or a bikini/bathing suit.
If you take medication, are sunburnt or have any skin lesions, it’s not recommended to bath in the hamam.
Note: The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Instead, we’ll go to the Galata area.