Lost in Istanbul?! Not to worry, this would be the most exciting and unforgettable adventure that can happen to you! Extensive and delightful, full of historical sites and picturesque streets – that is Istanbul. A big madhouse filled with different people and nationalities. A metropolis, which at a first glance might seem like a big mess, yet will always stay in your hearts as a favorite destination to visit. And with each visit, you will fall more and more in love with this amazing place! So which are some of the best places to go shopping in Istanbul ?
Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarşı)
World’s oldest and biggest covered market, which is thought to be one of the first ever shopping malls of the world. Built in the 15th century, the bazaar is almost 55,000 square meters and houses over 3000 shops and stalls. You can find everything here: authentic leather merchandise, carpets, jewelleries, scarves, souvenirs and more. The most important and funny thing you should know about the Grand Bazaar (which applies for all bazaars in Turkey) is that, if you are good at bargaining, you are very lucky, because you can buy everything at a very good price. People there just love to haggle!
There are also a lot of streets inside of the bazaar, actually more than 60! Every street goes to a different place so it is quite possible to get lost inside or leave from an exit, that will take you to a completely different street.
That’s why we advise you to take a picture of the street that you enter from. However, even if you find yourself on another street do not worry, people there are helpful. If you ask someone they will help you find the nearest station.
The bazaar is open from Monday to Saturday – 08:30 am – 7 pm.
Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
After Grand Bazaar, this is the most visited and famous bazaar in Instanbul. So if you go to Istanbul, visiting Spice Bazaar is a must. Here you can find top-quality spices, sweets, dried fruits, nuts and a range of other country-specific food. Thousands of delicious things you can eat, scents and lovely people. Stallholders are happy to share their wares, so stop by and try, sniff and admire the myriad of delicacies on display! They also sell leather products and souvenirs. So if you don’t have the time to visit Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar is an excellent alternative. Inside the bazaar you’ll find the famous Pandeli Turkish restaurant. It has been serving excellent food since 1901 and is definitely worth a visit. Once being there the feeling is priceless, believe us.
Opening hours and days of the Bazaar:
It is located close to Eminönü port, which is one of the most crowded streets in Istanbul. Which is also where you can easily catch a bus, train, metro or taxi.
Working hours: Mon-Fri: 8 am-7.30pm; Sat: 08am – 8pm; Sun: 9:30am – 7pm
Istiklal Caddesi
This street, running from Taksim Square all the way to Tünel, is one of the city’s main shopping streets and is always crowded. You’ll find every brand imaginable, from local to international names. İstiklal also has some very interesting side streets and small arcades, so when you see something interesting make sure you take a detour. You should definitely check out the Beyoğlu Balık Pazarı (open air market) for some serious food shopping, and then wander a few more steps to the famous Çiçek Pasajı, a famous historic arcade opened in 1876. If you get tired of walking, you can take the historic red tramway that runs up and down the street.
Serdar-I Ekrem
This little cobble-stoned street near the historic Galata Tower is probably one of Istanbul’s coolest shopping streets. You definitely won’t see any big name brands, because this street is known for its cool boutiques and souvenirs. Once you’re done strolling around, take a seat at Mavra for some coffee and delicious homemade chocolate cake. If you happen to be wandering around a cocktail-friendly hour, definitely drop by the terrace of Georges Hotel for a sweet drink with a great view of the city.
Abdi Ipekci Caddesi
The Nişantaşı neighborhood is known for its luxury, whether it’s the atelier and showroom of a local designer or the boutique of a world famous brand. On Abdi İpekçi Caddesi you’ll find everything from Prada to Louis Vuitton, as well as Vakko and Beymen, Turkey’s premier luxury brands. If you’re a bit more conscious about your spending, then you can walk to Teşvikiye Caddesi, where you can find moderately priced stores such as Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Scotch & Soda. You can also visit the City’s Shopping Center for more store options, including imports like Banana Republic and GAP.
Original post by Beyond the Wonders