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Fill your bag with an exciting mix of textiles, jewelry, ceramics, spices, and more at Istanbul’s street shopping districts. Find out what to buy, where to buy it, and where to rest your head after a day of splurging.
Bargains by the Bosphorus
Every year, scores of globetrotters head to Turkey’s grandest city, drawn not just by its historical allure but also by the exhilarating Istanbul street shopping opportunities. This city is a cultural hot pot where the combination of East and West influences shines brightly in its crafts, faiths, architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Speaking of Turkish crafts, did you know that Turkish artisans have been mastering the skill of rug weaving since the Byzantine Empire era? That’s over a millennium! Turkish rugs are so exquisitely crafted that they can last for centuries and accrue value over time.
Indeed, these decorative textiles are just a glimpse of the cultural riches you’ll stumble upon during your Istanbul street shopping escapade. To help your journey, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 must-see markets and bazaars in the city. We’ve also cherry-picked the finest districts for you to stay in, guaranteeing you’re within easy reach of the lively shopping hotspots on this list.
Brace yourself to explore, haggle, and dig out the unique treasures hidden within Istanbul’s bazaars!
10 Istanbul Street Shopping Markets
The allure of Istanbul street shopping is undeniable. The city’s intricate bazaars and lively markets are the embodiment of its distinctive culture.
Discover the top ten shopping hotspots in this historic city, where you can add an unforgettable flair to your visit:
1. GRAND BAZAAR
Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul
Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul’s biggest and most renowned market, sprawls across 61 streets and accommodates over 4,000 stores offering a diverse array of local goods. From handmade Turkish and Persian carpets to intricate gold jewelry, embellished textiles, decorative lamps, and a medley of spices, the Grand Bazaar provides a colorful sensory journey unlike any other. Remember, bargaining is part of the fun, and asking for a 30%-50% discount on the listed price is a common haggling practice.
2. EGYPTIAN SPICE BAZAAR
Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı Sok. No:92, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul
Open from Monday to Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. & Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
This aromatic sanctuary, also referred to as the Spice Bazaar, invites visitors with the exciting aroma of its many spice stalls. It’s a food enthusiast’s dream, housing over 80 shops selling spices, nuts, dried fruits, herbal teas, and the famous Turkish delight. The bazaar also offers cosmetics, gardening supplies, and even aquarium needs.
If a trip to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar whetted your appetite, you won’t be the first! Check out our guide to Istanbul street food for a preview of the best bites you can eat on the go.
3. ARASTA BAZAAR
Sultan Ahmet, Mimar Mehmet Ağa Cd. No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Open daily 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Situated next to the Blue Mosque, Arasta Bazaar provides a more serene Istanbul street shopping experience. Offering a similar array of items as the Grand Bazaar but in a cleaner, quieter, less crowded, and more family-friendly setting, Arasta Bazaar is a perfect place to snag affordable souvenirs and gifts.
4. BOOK BAZAAR
Mollafenari, No:, Medrese Çk. No:4, 34120 Fatih/İstanbul
Open from Monday to Saturday: 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Also referred to as Sahaflar Carsisi, the Book Bazaar is a labyrinthine treasure trove for bookworms. Here you can explore a vast collection of ancient manuscripts, recent publications, historical maps, affordable second-hand books, stamps, and even gold coins. While most books are in Turkish, some books are also in English, French, and other languages, so keep digging!
If you’ve gotten your fix of books but want more cultural experiences and souvenirs, head on over to our other guide, which lists the must-visit cultural attractions in Istanbul.
5. ÇUKURCUMA CADDESI
Çukurcuma Cd., Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Çukurcuma offers visitors an exclusive opportunity to soak in Istanbul’s culture while shopping. This neighborhood is filled with stores selling antique items, Ottoman-era glassware, 19th-century Baroque furniture, and early 20th-century home décor. It’s an excellent spot for discovering unique and historical items, and it’s within a short walking distance from the Museum of Innocence, an exhibition of artifacts related to the Nobel Prize-winning novelist Orhan Pamuk’s novel.
If you’re on the hunt for historical knickknacks and snapshots, why not read our guide to Istanbul’s historical landmarks?
6. SERDAR-I EKREM – GALATA
Serdar-ı Ekrem Cd., Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Near the iconic Galata Tower, Serdar-i Ekrem is a cobblestone street speckled with independent boutiques. The area has a relaxed ambiance, making it an ideal spot to check out stores like Civan for tailoring, Analog Kültür for vinyl records, and Cafe Mavra for herbal teas.
7. İSTIKLAL CADDESI
İstiklal Cd., Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Istiklal Caddesi, or Istiklal Street, found at the heart of Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, is a center of high-end fashion and mainstream brands. The pedestrian-only street is dotted with art galleries, cafes, nightclubs, and music stores, offering a trendy and youthful vibe. But it’s not all modern; this Istanbul street shopping hub boasts historical charm, with the nostalgic Flower Passage being a prime example.
8. FATIH WOMEN’S BAZAAR
Itfaiye Caddesi, Fatih/İstanbul
Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
A foodie’s paradise, the Women’s Bazaar in the Fatih district offers an assortment of fresh food products and nearby eateries. While it is best known for selling honey, dried fruits, nuts, fresh vegetables, pickles, and olives, this market also caters to meat lovers, with butcher shops selling quality cuts at affordable prices. Be prepared, though, as this Istanbul street shopping spot isn’t for the squeamish, with many butcher shops displaying carcasses and skins out in the open.
9. ORTAKOY THURSDAY MARKET
Zafer, Sarraflar Çarşısı Sk., 68400 Ortaköy/Aksaray
Open every Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Ortakoy is known for its upscale residences and a chic assortment of fashion, textile, and cosmetic shops. Every Thursday, this locale transforms into a market offering inexpensive yet high-quality items from top clothing brands. It’s perfect for shoppers looking for luxury finds at an affordable price point.
And speaking of luxury, we have a guide to Istanbul’s top hammams and spas. We just know this will make a great addition to your treat-yourself-trip in Turkey!
10. KADIKOY TUESDAY MARKET
Rasimpaşa, Uzunçayır Cd., 34716 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Open every Tuesday 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
The Kadikoy Tuesday Market, also known as the Historic Tuesday Market, is a bustling weekly event. Here, shoppers can find everything from fresh fish, veggies, and fruits to clothing and textiles. This market offers not only the typical Turkish bazaar staples like textiles, home goods, and fresh foods but also a various mix of inexpensive second-hand items, oddities, antiques, furniture, books, and vinyl records.
Where to Stay Near Istanbul Street Shopping Markets
With no shortage of lively market scenes and active nightlife spots, Istanbul is sure to make you want to stay awhile! If you aim to soak up the city’s unique charm, booking a hotel or vacation rental near renowned Istanbul street shopping areas is a must.
Here’s a rundown of five districts that are precisely that and more:
FATIH
The Fatih district, which houses the Grand Bazaar and Women’s Bazaar, is abundant with accommodation options. This district also nests historic sites like the Hagia Sophia Museum and the Blue Mosque. Foodies will relish Ottoman cuisine at the Asitane Restaurant and traditional Turkish food at Ziya Sark Sofrası. Amidst all the commotion, the Seyyid Nizam Library, packed with an extensive assortment of books, serves as a serene sanctuary.
BEYOĞLU
Known for being home to İstiklal Caddesi and Serdar-ı Ekrem, the Beyoğlu neighborhood offers a nightlife filled with myriad bars, cafes, and restaurants such as Nevizade Restaurant and Leb-i Derya. During the day, you can delve into the exhibits at the Pera Museum or enjoy a musical escapade at the Babylon concert venue. The locality also showcases a selection of chic boutiques and bookshops.
ORTAKÖY
If you’re a globe trotter looking to combine the lavish Istanbul street shopping experience with a cultural flair, Ortaköy should be your next go-to spot. Known for housing the iconic Ortaköy Mosque and the Ortaköy Thursday Market, this district boasts chic hangouts like House Cafe and fine dining options like Banyan. Art buffs can explore the Elgiz Museum of Contemporary Art, while book lovers will relish the extensive Ortaköy Public Library.
KADIKÖY
Kadiköy stands out as an ideal spot for those who want to lodge near the lively Kadikoy Tuesday Market. A flourishing district with a blend of modern and traditional vibes, it houses numerous bookshops, cafes such as Moda Teras Cafe, and stylish restaurants like Ciya Sofrasi. Visiting the Sureyya Opera House and the Istanbul Toy Museum is an absolute must.
SULTANAHMET
Strategically located within a stone’s throw of the Arasta Bazaar, the Sultanahmet district is a favorite among visitors. In addition to an array of lodging choices, it hosts historical wonders like the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern. Savor local dishes at Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine and unwind in coffee joints like the renowned Sultanahmet Köftecisi.
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The Istanbul street shopping experience chronicles the city’s profound heritage, encapsulating a medley of enticing visuals, sounds, and tastes that narrate the tale of Turkish culture. Each turn along the city’s labyrinthine lanes brings you face-to-face with Istanbul’s marvelous architecture, intricate art, and soul-warming food.
As you gear up for this unique retail trip, let Hotala be your guide! Our platform is a treasure trove of hotel, resort, and vacation rental listings — all conveniently located near IIstanbul’s city center. Choose from a vast range of lodging options and elevate your trip with insights from our curated travel content. Kickstart your Istanbul expedition with Hotala today.
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