This is what first-timers most want to know and least often ask. The short answer: you do not have to be naked, and there is a cover at every stage.
In the hammam
At mixed facilities swimwear or shorts are compulsory: a bikini or swimsuit for women, swim shorts for men.
Where women and men use separate sections or come on separate days, the rule is more relaxed. Traditionally a peshtemal is enough. Even so, going in wearing underwear is common and nobody will mind — the choice is yours.
There is always a peshtemal. You are given one at the entrance and keep it on in the wet area. We explain how to tie it separately.
During the kese and foam wash
The peshtemal stays on; the attendant uncovers only the area being worked on and keeps the rest covered. When your back is being worked on, your back is uncovered; when it is your legs, your legs. You are never fully uncovered.
If anything makes you uncomfortable, say so. This is normal and the staff are used to it.
In the sauna and steam room
- In mixed areas: swimwear
- In separate areas: a peshtemal is usually enough
- In all cases: a towel to sit on
Sauna rules vary from venue to venue; read the sign at the entrance.
During a massage
This is the part that confuses people most, yet the answer is actually clear: the draping rule.
When you lie on the massage table, a sheet or towel covers you. The therapist uncovers only the area being worked on, and everything else stays covered. When your legs are being worked on, your torso is covered; when your back is being worked on, your legs are covered.
About underwear:
- Most venues provide disposable underwear
- You can keep your own underwear on — choose an old pair, as oil may get on it
- Taking it off completely is not required
Just say which option you prefer. There is nothing embarrassing about asking; therapists answer this every day.
Choosing your therapist
Asking for a female or male therapist is completely normal, and most venues will arrange it. Say so when booking — telling them in advance rather than on arrival lets the venue arrange the right person.
If privacy matters to you
Venues in Turkey follow three different models here:
- Women-only / men-only venues — one sex all day
- Separate sections — separate areas in the same venue, open at the same time
- Separate days or hours — the same area at different times
On Spa Deneyimi you can filter venues by usage policy; women-only venues and venues with separate sections are marked separately.
Ask before your appointment
- Is it mixed, separate sections or separate days?
- Is swimwear compulsory?
- Is disposable underwear provided?
- Can I choose a female/male therapist?
This article was written by the Spa Deneyimi editors. Rankings and verification badges cannot be bought.
