Historic Markets in Istanbul
These are Istanbul's oldest and most famous marketplaces, and they are a must-see for any visitor. These historic, colourful, architecturally stunning markets have been there for millennia, and it's simple to see why they're so popular with travellers. However, there is still enough local character remains to make them worth a visit!
Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
People walk down a lane inside Istanbul's market, past shops on either side and a characteristic arched ceiling.
It was built with spices from Egypt following the Great Fire of 1660 and is also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. The alluring aromas emanating from each of the 85 stalls may attract you in, but it is the colours that will captivate you. The friendly bazaar operators will stick with you as they offer you a taste of unusual goods like rose-flavoured Turkish delight. It's not just food; you'll also discover cosmetics like pure henna powder.
When Istanbul residents hear the word Mısır Çarşısı, they immediately think of the alleyways, backstreets, and outside of the Spice Market; the building itself is somewhat touristy. Vendors catering to locals rather than visitors line its external walls.
On one side, there's a tiny fish market, and on the other, there are various enterprises dedicated to gardening, hardware, pet food, fish tank supplies, and even pet birds. The streets and stores around this 17th-century bazaar are also worth a look; you can get many of the same items at a less touristy price.
Address: Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı Sok. No:92, Fatih
Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)
One of the largest and oldest bazaars has an aura of the Tale of the 1001 Nights. Even the most seasoned travellers may become disoriented when navigating over 60 small streets and 3600 stores. You might come here every day for a year and yet not become an expert. Although seeing where you wind up is part of the game, the views within this covered bazaar are also part of the fun.
It would be hard to leave Grand Bazaar without purchasing at least three million dollars worth of glitzy products. The kilim, a high-quality, handwoven carpet that will have you singing 'A Whole New World,' is one of Turkey's greatest exports.
Do the locals also shop at Grand Bazaar? Yes, they do, particularly for gold. In Istanbul, here is where gold and silver are bought and sold.
Address: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, Fatih
Arasta Bazaar (Arasta Çarşısı)
Hidden beneath Sultanahmet's famed Blue Mosque, you might find inspiration for your new outfit here. The Arasta Bazaar is noted for being a smaller replica of the Grand Bazaar, not simply for apparel. You might be able to locate a better deal among less demanding sellers. Furthermore, the streets are quieter. This will highlight our day for the more introverted who want to experience the authentic Istanbul bazaars.
If the handcrafts aren't enough, the Grand Palace Mosaic Museum is only a short walk away.
Address: Sultan Ahmet, Mimar Mehmet Ağa Cd. No:2, Fatih
Mahmut Pasha Bazaar
Still, Mahmoud Pasha Market remains one of Istanbul's most popular markets and a well-known location for Turkish goods such as coats, men's suits, and distinctive ottoman children's boy's outfits. The market opens in the early morning hours. Many people love the vistas from Mahmoud Pasha to the Egyptian bazaar route. The Mahmutpasa bazaar has around 250 stores on both sides of the sloping road known as the Mahmutpasa Slope.
This location is easily referred to as Istanbul's "most busy market." During the Ottoman period, Mahmoud Pasha was one of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet's most influential viziers. The presence of a bath, a hostel, and a mosque established by Mahmud Pasha across the neighbourhood is enough to justify the district's name. Mahmoud Pasha's grave can be found at the Mahmut Pasa mosque.
Everyday Street Markets in Istanbul
Unlike the markets mentioned above, these are teeming with locals carrying full bags. If you understand what I mean!
Kadıköy Market (Kadıköy Çarşısı)
As part of an Istanbul tour, shoppers stroll down crowded Kadikoy market street, admiring the fruit shop and fresh seafood vendor.
If you are staying on the European side of Istanbul, this is an excellent opportunity to explore the Asian side. You'll need to take a ferry voyage where the lovely wind caresses your face, inviting you to a more personable aspect of this historic city.
It's a busy market, and Kadköy arşs is a fantastic place to visit if you want to witness a more authentic picture of Istanbul. You might find yourself meandering through the colourful fruit and vegetable kiosks, or you might find yourself getting a good deal at one of the clothing and shoe stalls. This is where the native’s shop, and for good reason: the prices are always lower than on the European side.
When you need to get a fast snack, this neighbourhood features some of Istanbul's best local restaurants.
Address: Güneşli Bahçe street, Yağlıkçı İsmail street and surrounding streets
Beyazit Book Market (Beyazıt Sahaflar Çarşısı)
This strange, dreamy market will fulfil the fantasies of all readers. Although the vast bulk of the books is religious, this bazaar also has stalls selling used books. You might be able to locate out-of-print titles here that you wouldn't be able to get anywhere else.
Other mementoes sold at bookstores include prayer beads, Middle Eastern scented perfume, bookmarks, and drawings that will encourage your creativity.
All of the bookstores are set in a charming courtyard with a historical style that will leave you feeling emotional. If there was ever meaning to life for a literary disciple, they might find it here.
Address: Mollafenari, No: Medrese Çk. No:4, 34120 Fatih
Tahtakale Streets
Cobbled backstreet near spice market surrounded with businesses selling a variety of wooden items and culinary supplies Open Sesame! If there was ever a spot that could have inspired Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, it would be here. The prices are reasonable given that it is a market on Istanbul's European, touristic side. You'll find a variety of goods that may tempt you to come again with empty luggage. Items made of wood, brass, porcelain, glass, and a variety of other materials will transport you to another world.
Tahtakale's backstreets are recognized for being a wholesaler market, so if you're interested in importing and exporting things, don't forget to stop by. You don't have an import/export business? You will be alright on the main streets!
The Rüstem Pasha Mosque nearby likewise worth a visit.
Address: Hasırcılar street, Kantarcılar street and surrounding backstreets
Beyoğlu Fish Market (Beyoğlu Balık Pazarı)
During an evening food tour on Taksim Istiklal Boulevard, restaurant tables line the sides of a stunning domed passageway. Beyoğlu Fish Market is a street with 5-6 fresh fish stores and many seafood restaurants, located alongside the spectacular içek Pasaj and Avrupa Pasaj. Don't be fooled by the name "Fish Bazaar": you'll discover all kinds of goodies here. Avrupa Pasaji is worth a visit; you'll immediately become overwhelmed by the countless modest colourful stores inside this charming 19th-century arcade. içek Pasaj is only for restaurants, however even if you're not hungry, don't miss witnessing this gorgeous structure. Address: Sahne Street on Istiklal Avenue
Fatih Women’s Bazaar (Fatih Kadınlar Pazarı)
This is the spot to go for trail mix components if you want to get off the beaten road. This tranquil market, famous for its honey, dried fruits, and nuts, has been a food bazaar from its inception: once upon a time, women would pick fruits deemed 'unsellable' to the rich from the Eminönü market and bring them here to sale to other women.
There are also several actual butchers in this market, and you can buy any piece of meat from one of them. There is no part of the animal that is thrown away here.
It's not just the low prices of the meals that will attract you to attend; there are so many restaurants surrounding this bazaar that you'll have no trouble finding a dish that strikes that sweet spot on your taste.
Address: The area where İtfaiye street and Tezgahçılar street meets in Zeyrek/Fatih
Weekly Food and Clothes Markets in Istanbul
These weekly bazaars are popular among the locals. They're only open one day a week and sell everything you could possibly desire for yourself or your home, including fruits, vegetables, dairy goods, apparel, toys, rugs, undergarments, handbags, towels, shoes, and more.
01. Kadıköy Tuesday Market (Kadıköy Salı Pazarı)
You might want to stop by on a Tuesday, as the name suggests. If you don't feel like getting dressed up, this could be on your to-do list. Dressing down, acting like a local, and negotiating, in general, al will get you the kind of deals that will make you smile from ear to ear.
The quality of the garments won't be as excellent as that of a Turkish chain, and many of the styles will be sporty, but it's worth a visit to stock up on cheap stuff.
Address: Hasanpaşa, Mandıra Cd. No:1, Kadıköy
02. Ortaköy High Society Bazaar (Ortaköy Sosyete Pazarı)
In Turkey, it doesn't matter if you're a millionaire or not; you still go to weekly markets, and Ortaköy Sosyete Pazar is one of the most popular.
If you're feeling a little sensitive but still want to explore the fabrics on offer, we recommend heading to Ortaköy. If the presence of plain-clothed police officers does not make you feel more comfortable, the presence of an ambulance will.
Unlike other markets, Ortaköy Sosyete Pazar focuses on fashion, textiles, garments, and cosmetics rather than foods and vegetables.
Every Thursday and Sunday, you can go to Ortaköy Sosyete Pazar.
Address: Levazım Mahallesi, Çayır Sk. No:4, Beşiktaş
03. Yeşilköy Bazaar (Yeşilköy Pazarı)
If you're looking for low-cost yet high-quality items, there are stalls here selling clothing, makeup, accessories, and other items.
It would be a shame to miss Yeşilköy Bazaar, which is located indoors in a permanent site and is open for 12 hours every Wednesday (from 8 am to 8 pm). However, with roughly 2000 stalls, you may require full 12 hours. While the price is higher, it is slightly more convenient because some stall owners take credit cards.
Address: Yeşilköy Mahallesi, Hamdullah Suphi Tanrıöver Sk. No:35, Bakırköy
04. Beşiktaş Saturday Market (Beşiktaş Cumartesi Pazarı)
If you enjoy shopping from dawn to dusk for the finishing touches to your outfit, you'll enjoy this one. The focus may be on garments at the Beşiktaş Saturday Market, but you won't be left out.
If you get bored of stalking your stylish pal, stop by one of the nearby restaurants. The gözleme is also highly praised in this location.
Address: Muradiye Mahallesi, Nüzhetiye Cadddesi, Deryadil Sokak. Yıldız/Beşiktaş
Farmers markets in Istanbul
These are also weekly markets, but you can only find fruit and vegetables.
01. Ferikoy Organic Bazaar (Feriköy Ekolojik Pazar)
Organic fruit and vegetables in season are just what the doctor prescribed to keep your body nourished during flu season. If you speak with a seller, their enthusiasm for healthy food may lead to an hour-long chat.
The awnings shield the clients from the weather's mood swings. Arrive early to eat breakfast. Before you go shopping, grab a gözleme (organic, of course), a type of Turkish pancake that will warm your soul. Because parking is scarce, public transportation is your best bet.
Address: Cumhuriyet, Semt Pazarı No:8, Şişli
02. Historic Inebolu Village Bazaar (Tarihi Inebolu Köy Pazarı)
Fresh, multicoloured kiosks that will pique the interest of anyone with culinary ambitions or who simply enjoy the cuisine as a hobby. You'll feel like an adventurer as you learn about the various goods that Turkish villagers cultivate.
It's not only fruits and vegetables; you'll also find handcrafted items like apple cider vinegar and yoghurt-related treats you never knew existed. If you're unfamiliar with strained yoghurt, ask around for it using the phrase "süzme yourt" (size-may yoo-court).
Fresh village eggs, homemade jams, bread and cheese, butter, and wild mushrooms may be found at Tarihi Inebolu Köy Pazar. Heirloom fruits and veggies are also available.
Every Sunday, Kastamonu residents travel to this food market to sell their wares. Food and vegetables are so good here that it's always a race to get as much as possible first thing in the morning.
Address: Fişekhane Deresi Cd. Toprak Tabya Sk. Kasımpaşa
Antique Markets in Istanbul
Antiques are likely to be found in two out of every ten residences in Istanbul. Every year, the popularity of antique collecting grows, resulting in an increase in the number of antique merchants in Istanbul. The four most popular places to shop for antiques, relics, heirlooms, and collector's items in Istanbul are as follows:
01. Antique shops of Cihangir and Çukurcuma
If you have all day and there is something specific you want, you may want to pop into the neighbourhoods of Cihangir and Çukurcuma. Grab as many coffees as possible from the local cafes; you’re going to need the caffeine! With so many exciting options, you may find time slipping away.
The antique shops are scattered around Çukurcuma evenly, but you can find many of them gathered on Ağa Hamam street, Çukur Cuma street, Sadri Alışık street, and Faik Paşa street.
02.Horhor Antique Seller’s Market (Horhor Antikacılar Çarşısı)
If you've ever wished you had a time machine, this market might be a better choice. Horhor Antikaclar arşs is one of the world's largest antique markets, with 7 levels and over 200 antique shops.
If you forget to exchange your cash for Turkish liras, this is the place to go. The antiques are occasionally priced in US dollars and Euros. Don't be scared; there are some valuable artefacts for sale for $20,000, but it is also possible to find amazing items for every budget and bring back the nostalgia in your home at a modest cost.
Chandeliers, furniture, mirrors, safes, tile stoves, sculptures, coffee tables, armchairs, cabinets, vases, lampshades, telephones, tall trays, gramophones, typewriters, and whatever else you can think of are available.
Address: İskenderpaşa, Kırma Tulumba Sk. No:1 D:140, Fatih
03.Kadıköy Antikacılar Sokağı
This is an excellent place to visit while in Kadköy for a short holiday. It's on one of the town's oldest streets, and it's a nice place to loiter for a bit while exploring Kadköy.
This stretch of road has seen better days. It is no longer as lively and exciting as it once was, but there are still four to five antique shops to visit.
Address: Tellalzade street, Caferağa/Kadıköy
04.Feriköy Antika Pazarı (Feriköy Antique Market)
While there is a roof, there are no walls, so you should dress warmly. However, once inside, you will become lost among the many stalls that reach further than the naked eye can see. If you like antiques, you'll feel like a kid in a candy store! Here you will find more reasonably priced antiques.
Please keep in mind that this is a weekly market that is only open on Sundays.
Address: Cumhuriyet, Semt Pazarı No:8, Şişli
Comments