Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar is a massive covered market that's one of the largest and oldest in the entire world, offering a plethora of items for purchase with something for everyone. Whatever your interests are, you're sure to find something that catches your eye within this labyrinth of covered walkways lined with storefronts. Plus, the impressive architecture itself can be worth a visit thanks to the arches and domes that showcase immense talent and technique.

Don't hesitate to bring the whole family to the Grand Bazaar, as you'll find plenty of shops that have items kids would be interested in. The sheer diversity of goods on offer across its seemingly limitless shops means that everyone can bring home a treasured souvenir. Most people spend about 2 or 3 hours here, but you can easily turn your visit into an all-day affair if you're committed to seeing everything on offer.

Grand Bazaar in Istanbul - one of the highlights of 12 Best Things to Do in Istanbul and 10 Great Things to Buy at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar (Read all about Istanbul here)

What are the highlights of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul?

In the Grand Bazaar, the star of the show is the array of shops. It's considered one of the best shopping malls in existence largely thanks to the more than 4,000 shops you'll find among its 61 covered streets. Modern and sleek malls in Istanbul often struggle to compete with this historic staple. You'll find items such as accessories, apparel, toys, handicrafts, jewellery and so much more inside.

If you can imagine an item, you'll probably be able to find it among the Grand Bazaar. Odd shops offer all sorts of items, with shops solely focusing on lanterns being particularly popular. You can also shop for flowers, faucets, books, glassware, electronics and antiques. The signage makes it easy to navigate the labyrinth as well, with a lot of shops of the same kind being grouped together for your convenience.

A brief history of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

Construction of the Grand Bazaar dates back to the mid-15th century following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople and an effort to stimulate economic growth. Another covered market was built in the early- to mid-16th century that was initially separate from the bazaar, but they eventually grew to become part of the same complex over the years.

In the early 17th century, the Grand Bazaar achieved its current form. At the time, the Ottoman Empire was spread across 3 continents, and that meant a lot of trade was coming through. This marketplace served as the central hub of all trade throughout the Mediterranean and was unrivalled in terms of variety, substance and quality, according to European travellers of the time. Several calamities and natural disasters have hit the market in the past, but it has been rebuilt every time.

What else is good to know about the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul?

When you visit the Grand Bazaar, it's helpful to keep a few tips in mind. It'll take more than a single visit to see everything it has to offer in most cases, but if you are committed to seeing it all in 1 day, be sure to start early in the morning and plan for it to take all day. Additionally, the mornings are when you should visit if you want to avoid the biggest crowds, but given the hundreds of thousands of people that come through every day, crowds are unavoidable.

Tea is a central part of the experience at the Grand Bazaar. Shopkeepers will often offer tea and invite you to talk about the items they have on offer. Additionally, don't worry too much about getting lost. You probably will, given the extent of the complex, but that just makes exploration that much more exciting.

Τοποθεσία: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Ώρες λειτουργίας: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm

Τηλέφωνο: +90 212 519 1248

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