Turkish Bath with Massage & VIP Package Option f/City of Side

If you’re wandering through Side and considering a traditional Turkish bath, you’re probably wondering what to expect from this kind of experience. This review looks at a popular option—a 1.5-hour Turkish Bath that includes a sauna, body scrub, foam massage, aromatherapy oil massage, and optional VIP packages. While we haven’t personally tried it (after all, we’re here to share what we learn), we’ve gone through the details, reviews, and what’s on offer to give you a clear picture.

What we like about this experience is its affordability and convenience—at just around $28 per person, you get a full package that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it pretty hassle-free. We also appreciate that it’s quite family-friendly, with many travelers mentioning that everyone, including kids, enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere.

On the flip side, a few reviews hint at some potential hiccups, like communication issues and pushy sales tactics. It’s not a perfect experience for everyone, especially if you’re expecting luxury service or highly trained staff, but it offers a good value for those seeking an authentic, fun, and relaxing day in Side. Overall, if relaxation with a taste of Turkish tradition sounds appealing—and you’re okay with the occasional busy or rushed moment—you’ll find this tour might just hit the spot.

Key Points

• Great value for money with a comprehensive package that includes transport and multiple treatments
• Family-friendly, suitable for most travelers looking for a relaxing experience
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby
• Mixed reviews on service quality and sales tactics, so manage expectations accordingly
• Duration of about 1.5 hours means it’s a quick, yet satisfying experience, but not overly indulgent
• Optional VIP upgrades like face masks or doctor fish can enhance the visit if you choose

What to Expect from the Turkish Bath Experience

This experience is designed to give you a taste of the Turkish hamam tradition—an age-old ritual meant for cleaning and relaxation. The typical day starts with pickup from your hotel in Side, which is a real plus for convenience. Once there, you’ll be introduced to a traditional setting—think marble features, warm steam, and calming aromas—setting the scene for a soothing escape from your busy travel schedule.

The package covers access to the sauna and steam room, which are great for warming up your muscles before the scrubbing. Expect a body peel or peeling, which is usually done with a coarse cloth or scrub glove, and can feel a little vigorous. We’ve read comments from travelers who found the scrub to be “hardhanding,” so if you’re sensitive, mention that in advance.

Following the scrub, you’ll enjoy the foam massage—an oddly fun and frothy experience that’s uniquely Turkish. Many describe this part as a highlight, with the bubbles gently massaging your body. Then comes the aromatherapy oil massage, which is perfect for unwinding and melting away tension. Some options also include face masks or even doctor fish, which are designed to nibble away dead skin—if you opt for these extras, your experience can become even more rejuvenating.

All along, the staff aim to keep the atmosphere relaxed, but a common theme in reviews is that communication isn’t always perfect—English isn’t widely spoken, so it helps to go with a flexible attitude. The entire procedure lasts about an hour and a half, so it’s a quick but effective break from sightseeing.

The Value of the Package

This tour is priced around $27.87 per person, which we think is pretty reasonable considering the inclusions. For that price, you get access to a sauna, steam room, body scrub, foam massage, and aromatherapy oil massage, along with hotel transfers. When you compare it to standalone massages or spa treatments outside of a tour setting, the overall cost is quite competitive.

Travelers who booked the VIP package usually enjoyed additional treatments like face masks or doctor fish, which can add a fun twist. Several reviews highlight how much they appreciated the value, especially when the staff was friendly and accommodating. However, some mention that certain staff members tried to upsell or push expensive “medical massages,” so it’s smart to stay clear of that if you’re not interested.

The Experience—In Practice

From the moment you’re picked up, the experience aims to feel seamless. We’ve seen reviews praising the smooth transfer process and friendly staff, with some noting that the pickup can be a little slow if your hotel isn’t in a central location. Because the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, it feels relatively intimate, avoiding overly crowded spa settings.

Once at the hamam, you’ll be given a towel and shown around the facilities. The environment is typically traditional, with marble floors and warm lighting. The treatment begins with access to the sauna and steam room, where you can relax and sweat out toxins. The steam helps open your pores, making the scrubbing and massage more effective.

The actual scrub can be invigorating—some travelers found it a bit vigorous, but most appreciated the deep-cleaning effect. Following that, the foam bath is fun and surprisingly relaxing, especially when paired with gentle music or aromatherapy. The oil massage is usually the final step and is generally well-received, leaving many feeling calm and refreshed.

If you added extras like face masks or doctor fish, you’ll be guided through those treatments too. The fish pedicure, if included, is a playful addition that some travelers really enjoyed, although it’s not universally loved.

Reviews and Real Traveler Opinions

The mixed reviews paint a balanced picture. On the positive side, many travelers report “very good experience” and “excellent value”, especially those who go for the VIP package. One person praised the “friendly, helpful staff” and called the overall experience “worth every penny.” Another raved about the “best massage” they ever had, describing it as “very relaxing” and “a bargain.”

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some found the service to be rushed, with one traveler describing that the entire spa treatment was completed in just 45 minutes—less than half the expected time. A few mention issues with staff who tried to sell expensive “medical massages” or other extras, which can feel intrusive if you’re not interested.

Communication issues are also noted, with some travelers suggesting that staff don’t speak much English, making it trickier to understand what’s happening or what options are available. One reviewer pointed out that they felt pressured into buying additional treatments they didn’t need, which can detract from the relaxing vibe.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Manage expectations about communication—some staff may not speak fluent English. Staying patient and polite helps.
• Decide beforehand if you want any extras like face masks or doctor fish, especially if offered during the treatment.
• Bring cash in TL if you want to tip or pay for extras, as some reviews mention issues with change.
• Plan your pickup time carefully, especially if your hotel is off the beaten path, to avoid rushing.
• Be prepared for a vigorous scrub if you’re sensitive—mention this if needed.
• Book in advance—the experience is popular, and most travelers book about 9 days ahead.
• Consider the VIP options if you want a more pampered experience, but remember they come at an extra cost.
• Use the included transportation to save the hassle of finding the spot on your own.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This Turkish bath tour is ideal for travelers who want a taste of traditional Turkish spa culture without spending a fortune. It’s a good fit if you’re seeking a relaxing, quick escape from sightseeing, especially if you’re in Side for a short stay.

Families and groups who enjoy fun, communal experiences tend to find it enjoyable, and the hotel pickup reduces the stress of navigating local transportation. It’s also suitable if you’re curious about the Turkish hamam ritual but don’t want to commit to a full-day spa.

However, if you’re very particular about service quality or expecting ultra-luxurious treatment, you might find some limitations here. Likewise, if you’re sensitive to pushy sales tactics or communication barriers, it’s worth considering carefully.

Final Thoughts

This Turkish bath experience offers a strong value for travelers looking to indulge in Turkish traditions without breaking the bank. The inclusions of sauna, scrub, foam bath, and massage provide a well-rounded, relaxing package. Thanks to hotel pickup and limited group sizes, it feels convenient and personable—if a bit busy at times.

While the experience isn’t flawless—some reviews highlight rushed treatments and sales pitches—the overall vibe is warm, welcoming, and fun. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a cultural experience, a brief spa session, and a taste of authentic Side hospitality. If you’re open to minor imperfections and want to enjoy some well-priced pampering, this tour could be just right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it quite convenient whether you’re staying in or near Side.

How long does the tour last?
The typical experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including transportation.

Are extras like face masks or doctor fish included?
Extras such as face masks and doctor fish are available as options if you select the VIP package or add-ons.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, so it’s relatively intimate.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Many reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, with children often enjoying the fun aspects like foam baths and fish pedicures.

What are some common complaints?
Some travelers report rushed treatments, pushy sales tactics, and language barriers.

Is the price good for what I get?
Considering the inclusions and transportation, most agree it’s good value—especially if you opt for the VIP package.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Optional extras like extra massages or treatments will cost more, and tips are appreciated but not mandatory.

Whether you’re after a culture, a fun spa day, or just a relaxing break in Side, this Turkish bath tour offers a practical, budget-friendly way to enjoy Turkish tradition. Just go in with an open mind, manage your expectations, and you’ll likely leave feeling clean, relaxed, and with a smile.