Manavgat Market

The basics

Travelers flock to Manavgat Market from Alanya, Antalya, Side, Belek, and other coastal resorts on both Thursdays and Mondays to soak up the atmosphere, stock up on fake brands, souvenirs, and spices, and dine at the many street-side eateries. Some hotels operate shuttle services to and from the market, but many travelers choose to make a day of it by joining a Manavgat city tour. These generally feature a visit to Manavgat Waterfalls, a Manavgat River cruise, and lunch.

Things to know before you go

• Manavgat Market will be mainly of interest to shoppers looking for fake goods.

• Only some stallholders accept cards. While traders take euros, the exchange rate will not be in your favor: Bring Turkish lira.

• There are basic bathrooms in the covered market.

• The crowded, sometimes narrow side streets are unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

How to get there

Manavgat lies just inland from Side, on the coast road between Alanya and Antalya. Regular buses run from both Alanya and Antalya and the market is about a 1,100-yard (1-kilometer) walk from the bus station. Dolmuş shared taxis run from Side, but you can also take a taxi, hop on a tour, or brave the parking drama.

When to get there

Manavgat Market is only worth visiting on Mondays and Thursdays. It usually starts around 8am and finishes in the afternoon. During Turkey’s sunny summers, the market can get extremely hot and crowded, so plan to visit early to beat the heat.

The art of bargaining in Turkey

Bargaining is expected when buying clothes, fakes, and souvenirs in Manavgat Market, although prices for staple items like fruit and vegetables are usually standard. If you have an idea of what you’d like to buy, research prices online and decide your budget in advance; if you’re being more spontaneous, aim to end up at a price 30–50 percent below the vendor’s initial figure. It’s essential to remain calm and polite while bargaining, but don’t hesitate to walk away.