Turkish Bath Outfit Guide: Side Hamam Attire
What to wear to a Turkish bath? We walk you through swimwear, peshtemal, slippers and what to bring for your hamam experience in Side, step by step.
Short answer to "What to wear to a Turkish bath": Wear your swimsuit or bikini under your clothes, and you'll usually keep it on in the hamam. You'll generally be wrapped in a peshtemal. Bring non-slip slippers, a hair tie, and a light cover-up to put on after. Hamam programs in Side last about 1.5 hours and often include hotel transfer.
What do you wear in a Turkish hamam?
The hamam is a hot, humid environment. Your body comes into contact with water during the kese and foam massage. That's why your clothing choice should be practical.
- Women: Bikini bottoms or a one-piece swimsuit. You may wear the top too if the facility allows it. Rules on tops can vary by facility, so follow staff guidance.
- Men: Swim trunks style swimwear or board shorts you'll feel comfortable in inside the hamam.
- Peshtemal: Hamams usually provide a thin cotton peshtemal. Ask your agency when booking whether you need to bring your own.
Don't enter the hamam in regular underwear. It becomes uncomfortable when wet and is hard to dry. A swimsuit is the most suitable choice for this.
What should I bring with me?
Most things are available at the facility, but this short list will keep you comfortable:
- Spare underwear and dry clothes: You won't want to step out in a wet swimsuit.
- Slippers: Floors can be wet and slippery. If the facility doesn't provide them, bring your own.
- Hair tie or clip: Long hair easily loosens in heat and water.
- Light scarf or thin cardigan: Useful in months like October when evenings cool down, after leaving the hot hamam.
- Water: Drinking water in the heat of the hamam feels good. The facility may offer water, but still keep a small bottle with you.
What's better to leave behind when going to the hamam?
- Valuable jewelry: Hot metal can feel uncomfortable on your skin. It's also easy to lose in a wet environment. Leave rings, necklaces and earrings at your hotel.
- Phone and camera: Moisture and steam aren't good for electronic devices. For privacy reasons too, taking photos inside the hamam is generally not welcome.
- Heavy makeup and strong perfume: Unnecessary, since you'll sweat and come into contact with water.
- Freshly shaved or waxed, sensitive skin: Your skin may be sensitive during the kese. If you feel any discomfort, let your attendant know.
How does the hamam experience in Side unfold?
The kese and foam massage hamam program with transfer in Side Side: Turkish Hamam with Kese Peeling, Foam Massage and Transfer lasts about 1.5 hours. The experience begins with the sauna, followed by kese peeling and foam massage. This gives you a short, well-rounded program that's ideal for slowing down after a day spent in the heat.
Don't eat a heavy meal before the hamam. An empty stomach isn't good either, so a light snack is enough. If you feel dizzy in the heat, tell your attendant and rest. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, or are pregnant, it's a good idea to consult your doctor before taking part.
What options are there if you're staying in Alanya?
If you're staying in Alanya, a bit farther from Side, these two programs are also suitable:
- Women-only hamam: Alanya: Turkish Bath for Womenonly with Scrub and Foam Massage A women-only program in Alanya of about 2.5 hours. It includes kese and foam massage. If you don't want to feel uncomfortable wearing a swimsuit or bikini, and you're looking for a calm, private setting, this program suits you.
- Hamam and spa experience: Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer A program of about 2 hours with transfer. Suited to those who want to combine the classic hamam ritual with spa treatments.
If you think you won't feel comfortable in a mixed hamam, be sure to confirm with your agency how the sections are separated before booking.
What to wear and do after the hamam?
When you leave the hamam, your body will be warm and relaxed. So choose comfortable, breathable clothing. Linen trousers, a cotton T-shirt or a light dress work well. In October, days in Side can still be mild, but you may feel a chill in the evenings. Check the weather forecast before you travel.
Drink some water when you leave, and don't go straight out into the cool air with wet hair. Finishing your plan with a calm dinner or a short walk after the hamam is a lovely way to end the day. It's best not to schedule anything strenuous after the hamam.
How do you book?
Choose the program on TurB2C, then enter the date and number of people. When you enter your hotel name, the details are passed on to the agency for transfer arrangements. Times and content may change, so check up-to-date information before your visit. If you have questions about what to wear, you can ask the local agency when booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do you enter a Turkish hamam naked?
No. In most tourist hamams, people wear a swimsuit or bikini and wrap a peshtemal over it. Practices can vary by facility, so follow staff guidance.
Should I bring my own towel to the hamam?
Usually the peshtemal and towel are provided by the facility. Confirm with your agency when booking for exact details.
Should I eat before the hamam?
Avoid a heavy meal, but don't go on an empty stomach either. Eating something light and drinking enough water is best.
Can I use glasses, contact lenses and a phone in the hamam?
Because of the heat and humidity, it's more practical to leave glasses and your phone in the changing area. If you wear contact lenses, decide based on whether you'll be comfortable with them.
