The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops in a total area of 30,700 m², attracting between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily.
Located inside the walled city of Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar is within walking distance to many of Istanbul’s other tourist attractions such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. With over 20 different entrances to the bazaar it can be easy to lose your bearings so it’s a good idea to have a map handy or book a guided tour. The market is separated by type of goods, so if you are only looking for one specific thing then it can be helpful to know which street its on and the best gate to enter to get there. But don’t forget to take your time strolling through the market as you admire the bright lights, countless colours and take in the smells of spices, sweets and perfumes. Getting lost in the Bazaar is all part of the experience and there is always plenty of signage around to get you back on your way!
Bartering is normal here, so don’t be afraid to bargain with the vendors for the best deal. Haggling in the Grand Bazaar can be overwhelming, especially for first timers so if you ever feel uncomfortable, just walk away and move on to the next shop.
If you’re all shopped out or in need of a rest, then why not relax and visit one of the Bazaar’s many restaurants or cafes. Restaurants within the Bazaar are known to be some of the best in Istanbul, so if you want a truly authentic experience then try one of the restaurants and eat like a local.
