Grand Bazaar
One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops.
- 4.000+shops
- 60+streets
- 20+gates
- 1461Built
About
Grown around the Cevahir Bedesten built under Sultan Mehmed II, the bazaar has been the city's commercial heart for centuries. Today more than 4,000 shops, caravanserais, a mosque and fountains line over 60 streets.
Opening days
Monday–Saturday · Closed Sundays and on the first day of religious holidays
What to buy
Carpets & kilims
Halıcılar Street and inner hans
Gold & jewellery
Kuyumcular (Jewellers) Street
Lamps & ceramics
Mosaic lamps, İznik-style tiles
Textiles & peshtemals
Hammam towels, silk scarves
Antiques
Cevahir and Sandal bedestens
Leather goods
Jackets, bags and wallets
Shopping tips
- Bargaining is normal — make a polite offer below the first price.
- Jewellers here treat hallmarks, certificates and invoices as standard practice — do ask about the design and the story of the stone.
- Carpet dealers love explaining a weave's region, knotting technique and age — settle in with a glass of tea and ask away.
- Be wary of street touts offering to take you to a shop.
- Pick a gate as your meeting point so you don't get lost.