Antique Bazaars of Istanbul

Gokce Nacar

Feb 15 567 read

Antique Bazaars of Istanbul

Due to its deep history and great location, Istanbul became one of the most famous cities in the world. In this city, there are so many opportunities for you to find whatever you are looking for. If you are interested in antique kinds of stuff and want to see some historical places where you can find anything, you should definitely visit some historical bazaars. You are lucky because Istanbul is full of antique bazaars!

Here is a list of some important bazaars and markets in Istanbul.

Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi) in Beyazit

Grand Bazaar, which is one of the most valuable, antique, and important landmarks in Istanbul, is a very convenient place for those who love purchasing antique and qualified goods. There are thousands of goods that appeal to every kind of taste. This is why the bazaar is very popular among tourists.

Grand Bazaar is a very antique bazaar because its deep history. The bazaar is a plus 550 years old covered market, and also one of the biggest bazaars in the world. It has 22 gates to enter, 64 different streets with more than 4000 shops, which means that you should spend at least half of your day if you want to fully see the Grand Bazaar. If you are around Beyazit and looking for different and antique kinds of stuff, you should see the Grand Bazaar of course!

Egyptian Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) in Eminonu

Located in Eminonu, the historical Egyptian Spice Bazaar (Spice Market) is a mystical and old spice market. Built-in 1660, the Egyptian Spice Bazaar was used to trade goods from India and the far east during the period of the Ottomans. The name ‘Spice’ was given because the bazaar has so many shops that sell herbs and spices. You can find different kinds of herbs and spices here.

In the bazaar, there are a series of covered streets that include more than 100 shops and two restaurants. You should see it before leaving Istanbul!

Antique Books Market in Beyazit

The Antique Books Market, which is also called Sahaflar Carsisi, is one of the great bazaars in Istanbul. Located in the Beyazit Square, Antique Books Market is between the Grand Bazaar and the Beyazit Mosque so you can switch into places while touring Beyazit.

Here, you can find numerous book stores and second-hand book dealers. Do not skip the Antique Books Market if you are around the Grand Bazaar!

Women’s Bazaar in Unkapani, Fatih

Located in Unkapani, the Women’s Bazaar (Siirt Bazaar) is a great bazaar that you can find whatever you need from Turkey’s southeastern cities such as Siirt, Mardin, Diyarbakir, and Mus. This is why the Women’s Bazaar is also called Siirt Bazaar.

In the Bazaar, there is also a wide range of herbs like Egyptian Spice Bazaar. Besides spices, you can taste different cheese and honey products in the bazaar. The stands are very attractive!