Grand Bazaar Istanbul
Kapalıçarşı
History
The Grand Bazaar was established in the 15th century, shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1453. It was built by order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror to provide a centralised marketplace for trade and commerce in the city.
The initial construction of the Grand Bazaar took place between 1455 and 1461. Over the centuries, the market complex expanded with the addition of new sections and buildings, eventually encompassing a vast area.
The Grand Bazaar is over 550 years old, making it one of the world's oldest covered markets. It covers an area of approximately 54,653 square meters (587,000 square feet) and consists of more than 60 streets and around 4,000 shops.
Which gate to enter to Grand Bazaar Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul has many entry points that provide access to the market. However main entry points are:
Nuriosmaniye Gate: It is convenient for visitors coming from the Sultanahmet area. You can get closer to this gate by taxi, or car.
Mahmutpasa Gate: One of the major entry point. you can reach this gate if you are coming up from Eminonu Spice Market. If you are coming from the spice market, you can reach this gate by walking through the old cobblestone streets (main street called Mahmutpasa Caddesi (street)). As you explore these streets, you will be transported back in time to old Istanbul, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and encounter merchants and locals.
Beyazit Gate: It is conveniently located near the Beyazit Square, making it easily accessible by metro or train. If you're coming from Eminonu, you can catch the metro or train that will take you directly to Beyazit Square.
Opening Hours
It is closed on Sundays
It is open between 09:00am - 07:00pm
You need average 2 hours to 4 hours
It closes during religious holidays
Top places to visit in Grand Bazaar Istanbul
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Carpet Passage (Halıcılar Çarşısı): Turkish carpets, kilims, and other woven textiles
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Bedesten: Located at the heart of the Grand Bazaar, the Bedesten is a historical covered market known for its antique and vintage items.
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Karpakcilar Caddesi (street): Main street and famous for gold Jewellery shops
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Kürkçüler Carsisi: (of Karpakcilar caddesi) it is good for quality leather wear and also fake designer shopping
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Haci Hasan Sokak (street): Around Şark Kahvesi (coffee shop) good for fake designer watches and sun glasses.
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Keseciler Street: Where you can find traditional bathroom accessories and textiles.
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Zincirli Han (example of old caravensaria):It was featured in one of the scenes from the James Bond film "From Russia with Love," which was filmed in 1963. Zincirli Han is known for housing jewellery artisans, and the closest entrance is the Mahmutpasa Gate.
Places to eat Grand Bazaar Istanbul
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Nusr-Et Steakhouse on Sandal Bedesteni
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Fes Cafe on Halicilar pasaji
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Şark Kahvesi on Yağlıkçılar Street
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Havuzlu Restaurant on Gani Celebi Sokak (street) - traditional Turkish dishes
Grand Bazaar Istanbul - Tips
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Before commit to buy anything, familiarise yourself with the general price range of the items you're interested in.
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Begin by offering a lower price than what you're willing to pay. This gives you room to negotiate and allows the seller to make a counteroffer.
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Getting lost in the Grand Bazaar can sometimes lead to unexpected discoveries and hidden gems. Embrace the adventure and allow yourself to wander and explore.
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The locals in the Grand Bazaar are accustomed to visitors and are often more than happy to assist you. Don't hesitate to approach them for help
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If you want to buy quality fake designer fashion items, you need to buy them in the bazaar, out side the bazaar prices definitely lower also the quality.
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During your shopping experience, it is not uncommon for local shop owners to recommend visiting their other shops or warehouses. They may do this to showcase a wider range of products or offer you more options to choose from.
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If you are accompanied by others, there is no need to be afraid. Exploring these additional locations can provide you with a chance to discover unique items and potentially find better deals.
Grand Bazaar Caravanserais
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul has a rich history of caravanserais, which were vital for trade and commerce in the past. These caravanserais served as accommodations for traveling merchants and provided a safe haven for them and their goods. They played a significant role in facilitating trade and fostering cultural exchange within the bazaar. Today, some of these historic caravanserais have been repurposed into shops, cafes, and cultural spaces, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant history of the Grand Bazaar. You can easily discover them.
