Grand Bazaar

Kapalıçarşı

Founded in 1461, one of the world's largest covered markets, with 61 streets and about 4,000 shops. It is a maze of carpets, lamps, spices and gold jewellery, and haggling is a must.

The Grand Bazaar was founded in 1461 under Mehmed II and expanded over the centuries. It covers more than 30,000 square metres, with 61 covered streets, about 4,000 shops and 22 entrances. It welcomes 250,000 to 400,000 visitors every day, making it one of the oldest and largest indoor markets in the world. The market is divided by trade. In the center, the old jewellery hall, Cevahir Bedesteni, sells antiques and silverware. Both sides of Kalpakçılar Avenue are lined with gold shops. The rest of the market has handmade carpets and kilims, colourful stained-glass mosaic lamps, İznik ceramics, leather and fur, Turkish towels, spices, tea, Turkish delight (lokum) and all kinds of souvenirs. There are also traditional cafés and kebab restaurants. Shopping tips: asking prices are usually 1.5 to 2 times the final price, so start at half and negotiate. Most shops accept cards and euros. Be careful when buying carpets and leather, and arrange international shipping for large items. Turkish delight, saffron and Aleppo soap make good small souvenirs. Several courtyard cafés, converted from historic inns (han), are good places to rest. The Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı or Çemberlitaş stop on Tram Line T1 is a 2-minute walk away. From the Blue Mosque, it's about 15 minutes on foot. The entrance from the Nuruosmaniye gate is the most convenient. After shopping, you can walk downhill to the Egyptian Bazaar (spice market) and the New Mosque. Note: it is closed on Sundays. Wi-Fi and restrooms inside the market are limited. Watch out for pickpockets, and keep valuables in front of you.

Grand Bazaar

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