Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar - most important information
Grand Bazaar, known as the Grand Market is one of the largest and also oldest covered markets in the world. It is located in Istanbul and represents one of the most visited attractions in the world. This market is spread in an area of 30.700 square meters and more than 4.000 shops situated in the 61 covered street.

About Grand Bazaar
Grand Bazaar was built in 1461 after the Ottoman conquer of Constantinople. At that time it was built out of wood, but today we can see it in stone and brick. It began as a small bazaar but grew to become the largest covered market in Turkey. The oldest buildings in the market are two bedestens. Bedestens in Turkish means cloth seller’s market and the ones that have the title of the oldest ones are İç Bedesten and Sandal Bedesten. They are a remarkable example of Ottoman architecture and are not to be missed when visiting Bazaar. Here you can find plenty of different things. Ceramics, Clothes, footwear, jewelry, carpets are just some of them. Since the market is huge, so is the offer, so explore it thoroughly before shopping. The bargain is considered normal in Turkey, so take your chance to lower the price of the things you want to buy. Many people come prepared here because they know they will buy much for low prices. Leave free space in the suitcase, because you will be surprised how much stuff you will want to purchase

What to buy?
You should not miss the chance to purchase, or at least see, some of the most famous pieces of Turkish handicrafts and products, such as:

Ceramics
Turkish metalware
Carpets
Nargile
Jewelry
Small textiles
Hammam accessories
Sweets

Opening hours

Grand Bazaar is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, except on big holidays.

How to get to Grand Bazaar?

There is a direct metro line from Taksim Square. Take the M2 line from Taksim Station and take off at Vezneciler; then take the Vezneciler Cd and Darülfünun Cd. on foot, and after around 10 minutes you’ll get to the Grand Bazaar.

What should you know before visiting Grand Bazaar?

Even though you should bargain, be careful, merchants here are always in contact with tourists, so they recognize inexperienced ones. If you are not sure how to bargain, maybe some of the locals you meet on your journey could help and bargain for you.
Explore all the areas in the Bazaar, since they are all dedicated to a different kind of merchandise.
Don’t miss the chance to try some of the Turkish sweets offered at the Bazaar. They are one of the most recognizable symbols of Turkey, and besides that, they are delicious.
Grand Bazaar is really huge, so expect to get lost. It’s normal, and finally, you will find your way out. Also, keep in mind that you will need a lot of time to explore the Bazaar the right way, so set aside a bigger portion of the day and dedicate it to shopping. You won’t regret it.