Istanbul's Multicolored Historical Bazaars

When it comes to tourism, Istanbul is undoubtedly a frontrunner. Its rich historical and cultural heritage illuminates every corner of the city, making it not just a pivotal location in our country, but also one of the world's significant cities. Each year, Istanbul ranks among the top cities attracting the most tourists. Of course, there's no end to the historical and tourist sites in Istanbul; we have touched upon many of them in our previous articles and will continue to do so. But what about the historic bazaars where shopping takes place, displaying our culture, preferences, and the secret spices behind our delicious cuisine?

Grand Bazaar

Istanbul is a city that takes you on a journey through time with its historical bazaars and markets. The Grand Bazaar offers a shopping experience that smells of history with more than 60 streets connected to each other like a labyrinth. Built in 1461, this market is a treasure trove of everything from carpets to jewelry, antiques to leather goods. Here, every corner invites you to explore an era and culture.

Egyptian Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar in Eminönü is ideal for those who want to discover colorful spices, fresh nuts and traditional Turkish delights. The smell of exotic spices from Egypt makes you feel the multicultural nature of Istanbul.

Sahaflar Bazaar

Sahaflar Bazaar, known as the oldest bookstore bazaar that has survived from the Ottoman Empire to the present day, is one of the places worth seeing. Located between the Grand Bazaar and Bayazıt Mosque, it is possible to see every kind of book you are looking for. A must-see history even if you are not a book lover.

Markiz Passage

The Markiz Passage on Istiklal Street in Taksim is one of the historical places that authentic shopping lovers should see. It has a history dating back to the 1840s. Its architecture is also very beautiful.

Sipahi Bazaar

Sipahi Bazaar, also known as Arasta Bazaar, is one of the old bazaars. In the bazaar, which consists of shops lined up on both sides, you can find old hand-woven carpets, antiques and different touristic items.

Arasta Bazaar

Mahmud Pasha, the grand vizier of Mehmet the Conqueror, is an important name that shaped the silhouette of the neighborhood with the complex he built after the conquest of Istanbul. This complex, consisting of a mosque, mausoleum, bath, fountain, fountain and a bazaar with 265 shops, became one of the centers of religious and social life in Ottoman Istanbul. Over time, the name Mahmutpaşa became a symbol of this complex and the surrounding area. Today, Mahmutpaşa Bazaar is known as one of the most vibrant and colorful shopping centers in the city. The shops lined up along the slope are a place where you can find almost every kind of product; this is a place where you can enjoy shopping while carrying the traces of the past.

Bakırcılar Bazaar

Once upon a time, the Bakırcılar Bazaar echoed with the warm touch of metal and the sound of hammers. Today, although not part of this nostalgic atmosphere, it is still possible to find traces of copper craftsmanship from the old days. This historical bazaar in Beyazıt draws attention with its master craftsmen, whose number has decreased from 200 to 20 over time. From copper jugs to cauldrons, from fountains to pitchers, all kinds of handmade copper goods reflect history with their warm tones that envelop the streets of the bazaar. Every time visitors step into this bazaar, they can breathe in the deep traces of the past and feel the historical richness and traditional artisan culture of Istanbul closely.

Visit our Istanbul Hotels page for accommodation!