Bazaar In Istanbul

Istanbul, the city where East meets West, is home to the most historic and vibrant bazaars in the world. These bazaars are a staple of the city for centuries. They offer a unique shopping experience for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the most famous bazaars in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar. Being in the heart of the city, the Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 60 streets and 4,000 shops, the bazaar is a maze of color and sound, offering everything from traditional Turkish textiles and ceramics to modern jewelry and souvenirs.

What to buy in Istanbul grand bazaars?

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide variety of traditional Turkish goods. Some popular items to buy in the bazaar include:

Turkish carpets and kilims: The Grand Bazaar is famous for its carpets and kilims, handwoven using traditional techniques. These carpets and kilims make great souvenirs and you can use as decorative items in your home. Carpets and kilims are not unique to Istanbul because you can also find carpets in Cappadocia.

Turkish ceramics and pottery: The bazaar is also known for its ceramics and pottery, which are famous for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. These traditional ceramics are perfect for decorating your home or as a gift.

Jewelry: The bazaar offers a wide variety of jewelry, including traditional Turkish designs made from gold and silver. You can find traditional Ottoman-style jewelry and also contemporary designs.

Textiles: The Grand Bazaar is also a great place to buy traditional Turkish textiles, such as silk scarves, shawls, and fabric. These textiles make great souvenirs and you can use to decorate your home.

Leather goods: The bazaar is home to many shops that sell traditional Turkish leather goods, such as bags, wallets, and belts. These leather goods are of high quality and are known for their durability.

Ottoman-style lamps: Traditional Ottoman-style lamps can be found throughout the bazaar, and they make great decorative items for your home.

Hookahs and Smoking accessories: You can find a wide variety of Hookahs and smoking accessories like pipes, charcoal, and natural flavors.

Please keep in mind that haggling is common practice in the Grand Bazaar, so make sure to negotiate prices with the vendors to get the best deal.

Spice bazaar in istanbul

Another popular bazaar in Istanbul is the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. This bazaar, located on the Golden Horn, is famous for its spices, herbs, and teas. Visitors can find a wide variety of spices from all over the world, including saffron, cumin, and turmeric. The bazaar also offers a variety of traditional Turkish sweets and dried fruits.

For those interested in traditional Turkish handicrafts, the Kapali Carsi is a must-see. This bazaar, located in the Beyazit district, is famous for its leather goods, pottery, and glassware. The bazaar is also home to several traditional Ottoman-style workshops, where visitors can watch artisans at work.

Lastly, for those looking for a more contemporary shopping experience, Istiklal Street is a trendy and fashionable avenue, that have a lot of shops, cafes and restaurants. It is one of the most famous street in Istanbul and offers a wide variety of clothing, accessories, and home decor stores.

In conclusion, Istanbul’s bazaars are a must-see for any visitor to the city. They offer a unique shopping experience and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul. From the Grand Bazaar to the Spice Bazaar, each bazaar has its own unique character and charm, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

How Old Is Grand Bazaar In Istanbul?

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Historians estimate that they established the grand bazaar in the 15th century, during the reign of the Ottoman Empire.

The exact date of the foundation of the Grand Bazaar is not certain. However, the estimate is that it was built in the 15th century, during the reign of Sultan Mehmed II. Mehmed the Conqueror, conquered Constantinople (Istanbul) in 1453. The bazaar was built to provide a place for merchants and artisans to sell their goods. It quickly became an important commercial center in the city.

The Grand Bazaar has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries. However, much of the original architecture and layout remains intact. Today, the bazaar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It draws millions of visitors each year.

You can click here to reach Istanbul Tourist board.