When you come to Istanbul, there are many shopping malls you can go to for shopping. However, if you want to get to know the people better and see many products for less, you should visit the city's districts and historical bazaars. There are many Istanbul bazaars set up in different districts every day. Among Istanbul bazaars, some are much more known. People who want to explore Istanbul leave themselves to these stalls that continue along the streets. Everything you are looking for is sold together at a more affordable price. Excellent!
Famous bazaars you can go and shop in Istanbul and their features are here:
Spice Bazaar - Eminönü
It is one of the oldest covered bazaars in the city. Spices, gold and silver jewelry, and herbal teas are found. It is located behind the Yeni Mosque in Eminönü. It attracts attention with its colorful spice benches. The entrance is free and can be visited between 9 am and 9 pm.
Grand Bazaar - Beyazit
It is a big, covered bazaar where various products are sold with interconnecting streets and passages. It is known that he has more than four thousand shops. It is the oldest and largest Istanbul bazaar. It is found in carpets, antiques, various gems and jewelry, handmade goods, clothing, and more. It is quite large with its doors opening to different regions. When you enter inside, you can feel like you are walking in a labyrinth. It has gates leading to Beyazıt, Sultanahmet, and Eminönü regions. Different products are sold on each street. For example, it would be more logical to walk through the passage where jewelers gather for jewelry.
Sultanahmet Arasta Bazaar
It is located behind the Blue Mosque. Its historical name is known as Sipahiler Bazaar. It contains a Mosaic Museum. After a big fire, most of the shops were destroyed. Today, various souvenirs, tile products, and mosaics are sold. Don't forget to visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Obelisk while you're at the Istanbul bazaar.
Beyazıt Historical Coppersmiths' Bazaar
It consists of coppersmiths lined up in the street next to Istanbul University. Copper is an Istanbul bazaar where all kinds of products are sold, and you can find handmade products.
Bookstores Bazaar – Beyazit
It is the most mysterious one among the Istanbul bazaars. It is a bazaar where every corner smells of books. It has an entrance from the university side and Beyazıt Square. It is an area with street travelers, a historical fountain, and lots of books. Many new and old books are available in the shops. It is possible to find historical letters in the second-hand book you bought.
Beyoğlu Fish Market
It is located on the side of Çiçek Pasajı in Taksim. It is a place where you can buy various food products. There are vegetable, fruit, and seafood stalls. You can also find the opportunity to taste street delicacies such as fried mussels and stuffed mussels.
Istanbul Society Bazaars
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Bakırköy Bazaar - Open every Saturday.
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Erenköy Bazaar – open on Thursday.
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Ortaköy (Ulus) Bazaar – Thursday and Sunday
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Kadıköy Historical Tuesday Bazaar - open on Tuesdays and Fridays.
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Beşiktaş High Street Bazaar - open on Saturday.
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Beykoz Sosyete Çarşısı (Çubuklu) – Open every day of the week.
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Bahçeşehir Pazartürk Bazaar – open on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
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Yesilkoy Bazaar- Open on Wednesday.
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Feriköy Antique and Flea Bazaar: It is set up on Sunday. It is possible to find records, cassettes, glasses, and antique products in this market, both original and second-hand. It is a market where there is no food.
Istanbul bazaars generally meet all your needs. You have to visit the whole bazaar to look for the product that you will buy at a cheaper and higher quality. It is established in weekly bazaars in almost every neighborhood in Istanbul. It is possible to stop by the Istanbul bazaars in a neighborhood you randomly enter.
We suggest stopping by all the markets if you have come to Istanbul, starting with the historical bazaars. Because each bazaar draws attention with its unique features, some Istanbul bazaars stand out for their spices, some are known for fabrics, and some are known for brand clothing. That's why it's essential to visit them all. In addition, it is ensured that the bazaars are very active with the rhymes specially adapted for each product. We wish you a pleasant trip
Frequently Asked Question
Who built Istanbul’s grand bazaar?
The grand bazaar was built by order of Mehmet the Conqueror.
What is Turkey famous for shopping?
Turkey is very famous for its silk and leather goods.
What is the oldest bazaar in the world?
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar.
Is Istanbul in Europe or Asia?
Both! Istanbul connects Europe and Asia.
Why is Istanbul famous?
Istanbul is famous and a great tourist attraction because it has both oriental and western qualities.