Shopping in Istanbul

Gokce Nacar

Feb 15 603 read

Shopping in Istanbul

Istanbul, which is a very crowded and busy city, has a lot of shopping opportunities. There is everything from bazaars to second-handed stores. Plus, the city has nearly 120 malls. This is a very big number for a city, which means that you can see lots of outlet malls while you are walking down the street or driving your car. If you are in Istanbul and want to do shopping, you can always find something convenient for your aim. Do you want to buy something from a historical bazaar or do you spend some time in an outlet mall after you buy whatever you want? You can do both because there is everything in Istanbul.

Here, there are 5 different opportunities for you in terms of shopping in Istanbul.

Visit Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

If you love historical views, traditional and antique goods, you can prefer Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi). If you want to buy some spice, herbs or various nectars you can visit the Egyptian Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) instead. Both bazaars have very deep histories and they became one of the important landmarks in Istanbul.

The Grand Bazaar is a plus 550 years old covered market in Beyazit, and also one of the biggest bazaars in the world. It has more than 4000 shops, which means that you can find different kinds of stuff in the bazaar. You should spend at least half of your day seeing Grand Bazaar in detail.

Located in Eminonu, the historical Egyptian Spice Bazaar is an 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.

Go To Nakkas Oriental Rugs

Nakkas Oriental Rugs is next to Hippodrome, a historical monument that belongs to the Roman era. It is one of the oldest carpet shops in Istanbul. Besides, its location is very beautiful. You can tour Hippodrome after you looked some carpets around Nakkas. In the 1500-year-old cistern under Nakkas, there is also a museum. You can discover the detailed sight of Hippodrome here.

Go To Istiklal Street in Beyoglu District

Istiklal Caddesi is one of the most famous, busy, and historical streets in Istanbul. It is located in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul and it represents half-European and half-Asian culture. You can see the buildings from the mid-19th Century along the street, they have amazing architecture.

There are so many Turkish and international brands in Istiklal Caddesi and you can find very qualified goods from clothes to pieces of jewelry if you are fond of shopping. Appendix to these, there is an old tramway along the street which represents the historical feature of Istiklal Caddesi.

Visit Zorlu Center in Besiktas

Located in Beşiktaş, Zorlu Center covers 70.000 meters square area and has 180 stores. There is everything that you are looking for, plus, Zorlu Center has both open and closed areas. Thus you do not feel uncomfortable due to the walls covering everywhere. You can have some fresh air after buying some new clothes, shoes, jewelry or furniture.

Go To Viaport Asia Outlet in Pendik

If you are near Pendik and looking for a shopping mall to shop or eat, Viaport Asia Outlet is for you! In 2004, this shopping mall was chosen as the most entertaining shopping mall in Istanbul by the Shining Star Awards. You can find different facilities to spend qualified time in Viaport Asia Outlet. There is Pony Club for kids, cinema, bowling and also a funfair area. Do not miss it!