We will tell you what bazaars in Istanbul are worth visiting and what to buy there.
Istanbul is one of the world's largest cities and is rightfully considered a trading capital. Its entire territory is divided into 39 municipal districts, each of which hosts bazaars that span entire blocks and thousands of square meters.
The markets of Istanbul are the reason why millions of people, traders, and ordinary tourists have been visiting this historic city for centuries. No one can resist the luxury of Eastern aromas, colours, and abundance. It's a unique world where you can find everything your heart desires and your wallet allows.
Kapalıçarşı or Grand Bazaar
A huge covered market, was founded in 1461. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is truly a work of art, it has long become one of the most popular sights of the city. Inside the market, there are 61 streets, 4400 shops, as well as a huge number of ateliers, schools, mosques and fountains.
What to buy at the Grand Bazaar
Every day, the Grand Bazaar is visited by around half a million tourists. The locals no longer do their shopping here, as it has become more tourist-oriented. Thanks to the abundance of gold jewelry, it is often referred to as the Golden Bazaar of Istanbul.
On Kapala Charshi you will find:
jewelry;
ceramics;
shawls;
carpets;
fabrics.
Travel Tips
Be sure to haggle in this market, because the initial price can be up to 50% higher;
It is advisable to take shoppinglira and ask for prices in local currency. Of course, you can pay in euros and dollars, but at a very illiquid rate.
Where is it
The Grand Bazaar is located in the heart of Istanbul, on Bayazid Square. How to get there: by tram T1. And if you are staying in the Laleli or Sultanahmet area, you can walk.
How does the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul work?
Working hours:
Monday-Saturday - from 08:30 to 19:30.
The day off is Sunday, as well as public holidays.
Egyptian Bazaar, or Spice Market
The Egyptian Bazaar, or the Spice Market, is an indoor pavilion housing around 100 shops. It is the second-largest market in Istanbul. Its history dates back to the 17th century, and over time, the market has undergone several reconstructions after fires and earthquakes. On the second floor of the Egyptian Bazaar, you'll find the exquisite Pandeli restaurant, where you can taste Turkish cuisine.
What to buy
People come to the Egyptian market not only for spices, but there are a great many of them. The malls are full of souvenir shops and a variety of colourful delicacies, including the following goods:
dried fruits;
aromatic oils;
Turkish coffee and tea;
Oriental delicacies;
tobacco and hookahs.
Advice for tourists
If you're purchasing spices, ask for them to be packed in special vacuum packaging. This will help your spices retain their aroma for a longer time.
Where is it
The Egyptian Bazaar is located in the old part of Istanbul, Eminönü district. If you're taking the tram, get off at the Eminönü stop and head towards the New Mosque.
Work Schedule
Monday-Saturday - from 8:00 to 19:00;
Sunday - from 9:30 to 19:00.
Inebolu Market, or Farmers' Market
The Inebolu Market, also known as the Farmers' Market, got its name from the goods brought here by the residents of the Inebolu village. In Istanbul, the Farmers' Market is primarily frequented by local residents, and it is not heavily advertised among tourists. Products are sold here without intermediaries and excessive markups.
What to buy
In this market, you will always find exceptionally fresh and high-quality products from Turkish farmers:
meat and poultry of different varieties;
dairy and sour-milk products;
real Anatolian bread;
a huge selection of greenery;
spices and herbs;
nuts;
salts.
Our advice
If you decide to visit this bazaar, you should arrive early. The goods are quickly sold out, and often by 12:00, the stalls are already empty.
Where is it
The farmer's market is located on the European side of Istanbul, in the Kasimpasa quarter, Beygolu district. You can get here by bus, you need to get off at the Toprak Tabya Sokak stop.
Work Schedule
Sunday - from 6:00 to 14:00.
Karakoy Fish Market
Since the 19th century, the Karaköy district has been one of the most prestigious areas in Istanbul. It was home to banks and insurance company offices. Later, trade and manufacturing companies, as well as the largest port in Istanbul, were established here.
What to buy
The Karaköy Market in Istanbul is right next to the sea, and therefore full of fishermen. They always have on sale:
freshest fish;
shrimp;
mussels;
crayfish;
Oysters.
There are also fishermen who not only sell, slice, and clean their catch but can also grill it for you right here and now.
Useful Tips
If you're going to go to this market, you'll have to get up early as all trading is over by noon.
Where is it
The market is situated in the European part of the city. The Fish Market and the Egyptian Bazaar are separated by the Golden Horn Bay. The Galata Bridge serves as a landmark.
Opening hours
Monday-Saturday - from 06:00 to 19:00;
Sunday is a day off.
Laleli Market
It got its name in the mid-90s of the 20th century, when marketers from the countries of the former USSR bought wholesale goods here.
Feature
The main characteristic of the LaleliBazaar in Istanbul is that the more items you purchase, the greater the discount on each subsequent purchase. This is particularly advantageous for wholesale buyers. Moreover, the market has porters with carts to assist with carrying your purchases.
What to buy
In this bazaar you can always find a huge selection of goods:
Clothes from Turkish manufacturers;
shoes;
accessories;
handmade carpets;
artistic paintings;
antiques;
jewellery and bijouterie.
Our advice
If you are traveling specifically to buy in bulk, the best times are December and May. It's sale season and most items are 50%-70% off.
Where is it
Laleli is located in the central part of Istanbul, and you can get here by any means of transport. You need to get off at the Laleli stop.
Opening hours
Monday-Sunday - from 07:00 to 19:00.
Arasta Bazaar
This market was founded in the 18th century. IInitially, Arasta Bazaar sold supplies for the Ottoman Empire's army. However, in the early 20th century, it was completely destroyed by a severe fire. It was rebuilt only in the 1970s. Today, Arasta Bazaar features trade pavilions, souvenir shops, cafes, and the Mosaic Museum.
What to buy
Like other markets in Istanbul, the pavilions of Arasta Bazaar offer products:
carpets;
textile;
brand items and their good replicas;
oriental sweets;
souvenirs;
ceramic products;
colorful scarves;
jewellery and bijouterie.
Travel Tips
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You can have a great time at Arasta Bazaar in Istanbul. There are no crowds here; it's quiet and peaceful. However, you'll find charming restaurants with Turkish cuisine. Remember to haggle, as prices can sometimes be higher than at the Grand Bazaar.
Don't forget to bargain, otherwise the prices here are sometimes higher than at the Grand Bazaar.
How to get there
Located in the center of Istanbul, at the T1 Sultanahmet tram stop, behind the Blue Mosque.
Opening hours
Monday-Sunday - from 09:00 to 17:00.
European or Mirror Passage
It's hard to call it a market. It's more of a covered alley with rows of shops on both sides, with exits to neighbouring streets. It is called Mirror Passage because there are large mirrors placed between the stalls.
What to buy
In this market, you can purchase:
antiques;
antiques;
brands;
souvenirs;
Retro postcards.
How to get there
Mirror Passage is located near Taksim Square. The exact address is Istiklal Street, Beyoglu District. You can get there by the following modes of transport:
Speed tram T2, stop - Galatasaray;
Speed tram T1, then transfer to the funicular or historic tram;
Ferry - goes from the Asian side of Istanbul to the Kabatas pier, then transfer to the funicular.
Throughout history, Istanbul has been a trading city. Its rich history and strategic location have attracted traders from far and wide. The wealth of the Turkish land, combined with its culture, has fueled curiosity among merchants. Even today, Istanbul's markets offer a wide range of goods, both Turkish-made products and popular European brands. From mass-produced clothing and footwear to antique and rare items, you can find almost anything. Turkey is known for its sweets and spices, which are sure to surprise you. And of course, the vibrant atmosphere is something you can't resist and will make you fall in love with this country.
