Covering a vast area of central Istanbul, the Kapali Çarsi (kah-pah-look char-shoo), which translates as “Covered Market” but is known worldwide as the Istanbul Grand Bazaar, is one of the world’s most famous shopping places.
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is often viewed as a tourist trap due to its high prices and aggressive sales tactics. Shopkeepers are known to harass aggressively persuade passersby to purchase items that may be found elsewhere at lower prices.
This can make the shopping experience quite stressful for visitors hoping to find good deals. However, the place also offers a breathtaking visual treat for photographers. Its labyrinthine corridors, illuminated by streams of light from domed ceilings, provide a dramatic backdrop for capturing the buzz of market activity. The vibrant colors of spices, textiles, and artisan crafts make for striking compositions and themes.
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is a famous market and a favorite spot for tourists and photographers.
Does it really matter if the Grand Bazaar is a tourist trap? Short answer: Not if you like taking gorgeous pictures.
During Byzantine times, the place where the Grand Bazaar stands was occupied by a large market that was expanded and diversified with the arrival of the Ottomans. Its strategic location made it the central meeting point for different groups of manufacturers and merchant associations established here, and it contributed directly to the Bazaar’s impressive expansion.
Over time, the maze of streets of this mega-market was covered by vaulted ceilings. Soon, the Grand Bazaar became the most important trade center of the Ottoman Empire. During its golden era, the Bazaar was locked up every night and watched by over a hundred soldiers as if it were a walled castle.
Until well into the twentieth century, the Grand Bazaar remained Turkey’s most important commercial center. Its walls held over 4,000 shops selling jewelry, silk clothing, copper pots, spices, and products imported from the Orient.
From the late twentieth century, Western tourists’ arrival in search of the “oriental bazaar experience,” the prices of goods (and rent) soared, forcing small merchants to leave the Grand Bazaar and settle in the surrounding areas. Their small stalls were replaced by upscale shops selling jewels, Persian carpets, or souvenirs.
Nowadays, the Grand Bazaar sells ten times more jewelry and luxury goods than it did a hundred years ago. While tourists find it an atmospheric, exotic place, locals see it as a tacky tourist trap.
Although the Bazaar has lost much of its original flavor, its corners are still full of local charm. Thanks to its colors and idealized environment, it remains a paradise for photographers.
Top 10 Things You Can Buy at the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is THE shopping hub in Istanbul. As mentioned above, here you’ll find an intense atmosphere with pushy vendors and generally higher prices compared to other local markets. However, if your time is limited or you’re set on taking home a piece of the bazaar, here’s a list of the top ten items proven popular with buyers:
- Carpet and Kilims: Authentic handwoven carpets and kilims are great at the market. Even if you don’t buy, it’s worth looking at them.
- Jewelry: Turkish silver and gold jewelry, often with intricate designs, are tourist favorites.
- Ceramics and Tiles: Beautifully painted ceramics and tiles reflect traditional Turkish artistry.
- Spices: The scent and colors of Turkish spices are hard to resist. They also make practical souvenirs.
- Lamps and Lanterns: Glass mosaic lamps can bring a piece of Turkish decor into your home.
- Leather Goods: The market offers jackets, bags, and belts that showcase local.
- Textiles: Turkish towels (peshtemals) and bathrobes are known for their quality and absorbency.
- Sweets: Famous treats like Turkish delight (lokum) come in various flavors. They’re perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
- Souvenirs: Small trinkets such as evil eye beads, miniature models of famous sites, or handmade backgammon boards serve as easy-to-pack gifts.
Visiting the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul: Useful Information
- Address: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
- How to get there: To reach Grand Bazaar, take the tramway (T1 line) and alight at Beyazıt, Laleli, or Çemberlitaş stops, all within walking distance.
- Opening times: The market operates from Monday to Saturday, opening at 9:00 AM and closing at 7:00 PM. It remains closed on Sundays and public holidays.
- Tours and guided visits: Book here.
Useful Tips for your Visit to the Grand Bazaar
Going to the Grand Bazaar? Here are practical tips to help you get the most out of your trip.
First, schedule your visit for a weekday. Weekends are usually crowded, which might make it harder to navigate through the market or haggle effectively.
Get ready to haggle. Haggling over prices is part of the shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar. Start your offer lower than what you’re willing to pay and work your way up.
Carry cash. While some shops may accept credit cards, many smaller vendors do not. Plus, cash transactions can be quicker and simpler when bargaining.
Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot, as the Grand Bazaar is extensive.
Know some basic Turkish phrases such as “Merhaba” (Hello), “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you), and “Ne kadar?” (How much?). Even if you’re not fluent, showing effort can establish rapport with shop owners.
Be mindful of what you’re buying. Ensure that the can legally be exported from Turkey or brought into your country.
Watch out for your belongings. As with any popular tourist destination, it’s wise to be alert about pickpockets.