How big is Grand Bazaar?

The Grand Bazaar (Turkish: Kapalıçarşı, meaning 'Covered Market'; also Büyük Çarşı, meaning 'Grand Market') in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops on a total area of 30,700 m², attracting between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily.

How many streets are in the Grand Bazaar?

The Istanbul Grand Bazaar has more than 3,600 shops which are spread out over 64 streets, and there are 22 doors which give access to the market.

How much time do you need at the Grand Bazaar?

The Grand Bazaar is open between 8.30 am-7.30 pm in the summer and 8.30 am-7.00 pm in the winter. It's closed on Sundays. Time needed You will need to spend at least 3-4 hours.

Why is the Grand Bazaar so famous?

Grand Bazaar is actually the first MALL that was ever built. It has 61 streets totally covered and 4000 shops. It is big. Since Istanbul was a trades center, the Grand Bazaar serves as a trade center since 1460 ( Almost since Istanbul was conquered by Turks ).

What is the area of Grand Bazaar?

Huge it is – more than 30,000 square meters: If Wikipedia is to be believed, the bazaar is home to more than 4000 shops/stalls (!), all interconnected/intertwined in a labyrinth of 60+ narrow streets.

Exploring Istanbul's Grand Bazaar! (world's oldest & largest market)

Is the Grand Bazaar the biggest in the world?

The Grand Bazaar (Turkish: Kapalıçarşı, meaning 'Covered Market'; also Büyük Çarşı, meaning 'Grand Market') in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops on a total area of 30,700 m², attracting between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily.

What is worth buying in Istanbul?

Istanbul has always been known for its silk and leather products. There is also a traditional felt-making tradition, which today produces many highly contemporary fashion items, particularly slippers and hats.

What to buy in Turkey Grand Bazaar?

Which area to stay in Istanbul?

Where is the best market in Turkey?

What things are cheap in Turkey?

Prices may vary depending on location and quality, but you can generally find many goods cheaper than in other European countries. Popular items to buy include textiles, ceramics, and leather goods which are offered at very reasonable prices, particularly when purchasing handmade goods from local markets and bazaars.

What is best to buy in Turkey?

Handmade carpets, beautiful ceramics, soft leather… these are only some of the crafts on offer. Then there is the food, from delicious baklava, to organic honeys. Beyond these well-known gifts for yourself or others, there is a deep reserve of well-crafted designer goods.

What is the best time to visit Grand Bazaar Istanbul?

The Grand Bazaar remains open from 9 AM to 7 PM and is closed on Sundays. The best time to visit the covered market is in the morning or any time before 5 PM. This is the time when it is less crowded and visitors can indulge in shopping, exploring the market with ease.

Is the Grand Bazaar cash only?

Many vendors accept debit/credit cards, for those that don't there are two banks with ATM's next to the market. Remember, cash is king at a market.

Can you pay by card at the Grand Bazaar Istanbul?

Cash is preferred, but many stores accept cards (though not always American Express) and there are cash points around.

Do they take credit cards at Grand Bazaar Istanbul?

The bazaar is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m., though merchants typically begin closing for the day around 6:30 p.m. The market is closed on Sundays and certain public and religious holidays. Most shops accept credit cards, but cash is preferred and will often result in a better price.

What is the safest area to stay in Istanbul?

Beykoz. Beykoz is a green and hilly district located on the Asian side of Istanbul, overlooking the Bosphorus. This district is known for its historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and serene atmosphere. Beykoz is also considered one of the safest districts in Istanbul, with low crime rates and a high police presence.

What is the nicest part of Istanbul?

Which area to stay in Istanbul for first time visitors?

TAKSIM & ISTIKLAL STREET: The Best Area to Stay in Istanbul for Shopping & First Time Visitors. When you're researching the best places to stay Istanbul, Taksim Square is probably one of the first options that will come up on your list.

How to bargain in Turkish Grand Bazaar?

Start low. After browsing the shops, you should know that prices might still be inflated by up to 50%. So when you start haggling, make sure you offer half or even one third of the price. Even if you don't expect to agree on that price and you're willing to pay more, you need to leave a lot of room for negotiation.

Are designer bags in Grand Bazaar real?

There are many places that sell fake designer handbags at the Grand Bazaar. You will immediately spot them once you walk through the bazaar. However at the backstreets of the bazaar, at an area called Tahtakale, Mahmutpasa and Mercan, again many stores sell such handbags.

What can you buy with 100 lira?

TL 100 can only get you 1 bottle of milk, a bag of chips, and medium-size bags of Nescafe and Coffee-Mate if you like this waker-upper combo like many do. If you earn your money in Dollars, you're one of the lucky few. Average salaries in Turkey for mid-level jobs are at 7k to 8k per month.

Is gold cheap in Turkey?

The price of gold is the same all over the world but gold jewellery here tends to be cheaper than many places due to lower labour costs. In the U.K most jewellery is 9ct with just some in 14ct. but here most everyday pieces are 14 or 18 ct with special pieces in 22 and 24 ct.

Should you haggle in Istanbul?

At modern stores or shopping malls, the posted prices are final. But in the tourist zones-such as the Grand Bazaar, Spice Market, and other shops around the Old Town-merchants know you're expecting to haggle...and they're happy to play along. Local shoppers have less patience for this game.

Are things still cheap in Turkey?

Now is a great time to go; although each year the country attracts more and more tourists, prices remain cheap and economically interesting compared to other countries. Competitive prices are most noticeable in Istanbul and other top tourist spots. As far as accommodation goes, it depends on what you're after.