Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)

The Basics

Built in the 15th century during the Ottoman era, the market remains an active and lively center of commerce—and today, tourism—in Istanbul. Explore the best stalls on a guided shopping tour; many Istanbul sightseeing tours combine the Grand Bazaar with the Spice Bazaar or with other sights in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Museum (Aya Sofya), and the Basilica Cistern.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit for history buffs, carpet enthusiasts, and shopaholics.

• Don’t be afraid to haggle; it’s expected.

• Wear comfortable shoes—you will be on your feet as you explore the vast market.

• Be prepared to take your time. The Grand Bazaar is large and it’s easy to get lost.

• The bazaar is accessible to wheelchair users, though there is a 4-inch (10-centimeter) drop at most entrances and some lanes are quite narrow.

How to Get There

The Grand Bazaar, a 20-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square, has many different entrances. One main entrance is a short walk from the Beyazit tram stop; another is behind the Spice Bazaar, not far from the Eminonu tram stop. Taxis are a convenient option.

When to Get There

The market is typically open from the mid-morning until the early evening, Monday–Saturday. Beat the crowds—and possibly strike better deals—in the morning or close to closing time. The Grand Bazaar is generally closed on Turkish and religious holidays.

Buying a Carpet in the Grand Bazaar

Many Istanbul visitors aim to pick up a Turkish carpet. The buying process in the Grand Bazaar involves haggling over a price while sipping Turkish tea. Take your time to speak with the seller and have a sense of what you’re looking for in a carpet. Don’t be afraid to walk away from the sale, as the carpet seller will often lower the price to keep you in the shop.

What can I buy at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul?

You can buy just about anything at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. But many tourists come excited for the Iznik bowls and other Turkish ceramics, gold jewelry, Turkish rugs (Kilim rugs), traditional crafts and teas, Hammam soaps, and uber-fresh spices by the pound.

Are guided tours available for the Grand Bazaar?

Yes, guided tours are available for the Grand Bazaar, and they can be a great way to demystify—and break into doable parts—this massive, ancient market with more than 4,000 shops. Your guide will know the vendors to patronize (or not) and where to find the best souvenirs and deals.

What are the best bargaining tips for shopping at the Grand Bazaar?

Saying “hello” and “thank you” in Turkish goes a long way. You can start your bargaining and ask, “What if I pay in cash?” which may lower the price. Do comparison shopping and note lower prices at other stalls and, as always, stay good-natured and willing to walk away.

Can I use credit cards for shopping at the Grand Bazaar, or is it cash-only?

While you can use credit cards at many shops inside Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, many vendors prefer cash. They may charge you a higher price if you’re paying with plastic. If you can, pay with cash—and let them know it, for a lower price—especially for smaller purchases.

Are there specific areas within the Grand Bazaar for certain types of goods?

Yes, the Grand Bazaar is organized by sections, thankfully—otherwise you’d never make it around the market’s 4,000-plus shops without getting lost. You’ll find sections dedicated to what the bazaar is known for, like gold and silver jewelry, Turkish ceramics and textiles, antiques, as well as spices and soaps.

Do I need to be cautious about scams or counterfeit goods at the Grand Bazaar?

While the Grand Bazaar is a marketplace with a reputable, 500-year history, always be cautious. Certain goods—especially those geared toward tourists—may seem authentic and precious, when they’re mass-produced. Know that bargaining is an option, as is comparison shopping, and you should never pay more than you’re comfortable with.

Ways to explore

Even though it was built during the Ottoman era, the Grand Bazaar remains an active and lively center of commerce in Istanbul. A shopping tour is the best way to navigate the many stalls and learn haggling etiquette, though many Istanbul sightseeing tours combine the Grand Bazaar with other sights in the Sultanahmet district. Staples include the Blue Mosque, the cross-cultural Hagia Sophia Museum (Aya Sofya), and the atmospheric underground Basilica Cistern.

Accessibility

The Grand Bazaar is accessible to wheelchair users, but there is a 4-inch (10-centimeter) drop at most entrances, and some lanes are quite narrow.

Age limits

None, but keep a close eye on young kids among the crowds.

What to pack

Bring plenty of small denominations of cash and be prepared to strike a bargain—haggling is encouraged and expected.

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Smoking, pets

Amenities

Restrooms, stores, street food

Address 

The Grand Bazaar, a 20-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square, has many different entrances, so check which area you want to visit most when planning your route.

Driving

This bustling market is in the heart of historic Istanbul, which is dominated by trams and foot traffic. Combine that with extremely limited parking, and you’re much better off leaving the driving to someone else.

Public transportation

One of the market’s main entrances is a short walk from the Beyazit tram stop; another is behind the Spice Bazaar, not far from the Eminonu tram stop.

Best times to visit

Midday is typically busiest at the market, so go in the morning or late afternoon to have enough space to browse comfortably.

Best days to visit

The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and on the first day of major religious holidays.

Best months to visit

Spring and fall are wonderful times to explore Istanbul, when both the crowds and the temperatures are manageable.

Special events

While the Grand Bazaar doesn’t host festivals, its opening hours might change around major Islamic holidays such as Eid and Ramadan.