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.
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 ).
Expect to negotiate over the price in artisan shops that sell large items such as carpets, paintings, statues, furniture and textiles, and those stocking counterfeit luxury goods.
Exploring Istanbul's Grand Bazaar! (world's oldest & largest market)
How much to haggle in Turkey?
Most times haggling will be in smaller shops or at the markets, when you see something you want, ask the price, if it sounds expensive offer 50% of the price, if the price seems reasonable then offer 80-90% then the trader will start the game with you, but remember if you do beat him down then its only right that you ...
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.
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.
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.
Don't be crass, rude or demanding when negotiating. Pushy behavior won't get you what you want. "Pleasant persistence wears down resistance," Dweck says. "You're not going to get them with vinegar, you're going to get them with honey."
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.
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.
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.
You need to spend at least 3 hours to visit the Grand Bazaar, including coffee and a lunch break. If you want to skip lunch, you can probably cover the market is about 1.5 hours – but we recommend tasting some of the local delicacies in the market.
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. Navigating through its labyrinthine alleys can be an exhilarating experience, and there are numerous unique treasures and experiences to discover.
It's one of the most significant tourist sites in Istanbul owing to its location, architecture, history and fame. Depending on the season, between 250-400thousand people visit the Bazaar everyday. The Grand Bazaar is open daily between 09:00-19.00 except on Sundays and during public or religious holidays.
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.
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.
Additionally, the cost of living in Turkey is generally lower than in other countries, making it cheaper for tourists to purchase goods and services. Finally, the exchange rate between the Turkish lira and other currencies often favors tourists, meaning that they can get more value for their money.
Be mindful of your body language and gestures in Turkey. Avoid pointing at people with your finger, as it can be considered impolite. Instead, use an open hand or a nod to indicate something. Furthermore, public displays of affection are not commonly seen, so it's best to keep them to a minimum.
Do you tip in Turkey? It's normal to tip for good service in restaurants, bars and cafes in Turkey - especially in touristy or business areas. Tips are also appreciated in hotels and serviced apartments - and other places where staff may not be so well rewarded, like spas or salons.
Tipping is expected in Turkey and leaving a 10-15% tip on your bill in a restaurant is generally an acceptable amount. When it comes to other areas of the service industry, such as taxis and hairdressers, rounding up the fare is a nice gesture but not obligatory.
For a holidaymaker coming from the UK, Turkey is much cheaper than home. This applies to everything from hotels to cafes and restaurants and even clothes, shoes and souvenirs. Combined with the current rate of exchange, your pounds will go a long way!
It's usually best to have both cash and a card when travelling in Turkey. You will need cash for small shops and markets, taxis and buses, while it's often easier to pay in hotels and restaurants with a card.
