Sight · Downtown Manhattan (Downtown)
Russian & Turkish Baths
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Russian & Turkish Baths, located on East 10th Street in Manhattan's East Village, is a venerable institution that has been offering traditional bathing experiences since 1892. This no-frills establishment provides a range of steam rooms, dry saunas, and cold plunge pools, following the customs of Russian and Turkish bathhouses. Visitors can enjoy a vigorous platza (leaf whisking) treatment, relax in the tiled steam room, or cool off in the icy pool. The atmosphere is communal and rustic, with tiled walls, wooden benches, and a sense of history. What makes it distinctive is its authenticity and longevity, it's one of the oldest continuously operating bathhouses in New York City. You'll see a mix of locals and tourists, all embracing the ritual of heat, cold, and relaxation. The experience is both invigorating and social, with a café serving traditional snacks like blintzes and borscht.
Don't miss
- Experience the Russian steam room and Turkish bath
- Try a platza treatment with oak leaves
- Plunge into the cold pool for a refreshing shock
- Relax in the communal lounges and chat with fellow bathers
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Russian & Turkish Baths
You can visit on your own (paid entry; check official site for current pricing and hours. book online to skip lines on weekends). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inCentral Park Bicycle Rentals New York City4.9★ · 118 travelers1–24 hoursFree cancellationFrom$6 per personSee dates →
Most bookedRoman Baths and Bath City Walking Tour4.7★ · 1,014 travelers~2 hoursFrom$35 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Tour in Ephesus and Traditional Turkish Bath from Port5★ · 724 travelers4–5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$42 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Bring flip-flops, a towel, and a robe; lockers are available for rent.
- Stay hydrated; drink water between sessions.
- Shower before entering pools and steam rooms.
- No cell phones in bathing areas; respect privacy.
A bit of history
Opened in 1892 by Russian immigrants, the baths have served generations of New Yorkers as a place for cleansing and community. They survived the Great Depression and urban changes, maintaining their original character and traditions.
Common questions
Do I need to bring my own toiletries?
Yes, bring soap and shampoo; towels can be rented if you forget.
Is the bathhouse co-ed?
Yes, it's co-ed; swimsuits are required in all areas.
What is a platza treatment?
A vigorous body scrub and massage using oak leaves, performed by an attendant in the steam room.
Are children allowed?
Children are welcome but must be supervised; check age restrictions on the official site.
Can I eat at the café without using the baths?
No, the café is for bathers only.
Is there parking nearby?
Limited street parking; public garages are available but expensive.
More attractions in New York City



