Kapalı Çarşı - Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
- Written by Portal Editor
Kapalı Çarşı - The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. It contains more than 4000 shops, restaurants, streets, gates and even two mosques. This old building was built over the remains of the Old Bedesten.
The building of the Grand Bazaar has hundreds of silver plated domes with many windows.
The jewellery trade areas were built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror shortly after his conquest of the city in 1453. The major parts, made of wood, were built by order of Kanuni Sultan Süleyman.
The area of the Kapalı Çarşı / Great Bazaar is 30700 m2 and that means it takes hours to wander around all the halls in the building.
A high quality of traditional Turkish merchandise is sold, for reasonable prices, bargaining is mostly possible and also, before you buy, you should get prices from more than 3 shops so that you can get the best deal.
It is located in the Old Istanbul district between Nur–i Osmaniye Mosque, Beyazid Mosque and the Mahmutpasa Bazaar.
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest covered markets in the world with more than 60 streets and 4000 shops and should not be missed.
Kapalı Çarşı - Grand Bazaar Istanbul: A Magical Shopping Experience in the Heart of the City
The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul (Turkish: Kapalıçarşı) is not just a market – it's an experience. With its approximately 4,000 shops, winding alleys, tempting scents, and colourful displays, it is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Anyone visiting Istanbul should not miss this historic shopping paradise.
A Piece of Living History
The Grand Bazaar was built in 1461 by order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror – just eight years after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. What once began as a small trading centre for fabrics and jewellery developed over the centuries into the heart of the city's trade. Today, over 250,000 visitors stream through its gates every day.
What awaits you in the Kapalı Çarşı / Grand Bazaar?
A veritable labyrinth of alleys, halls, and courtyards of Kapalı Çarşı filled with:
- Handcrafted carpets
- Gemstones and gold jewellery
- Antiques and handicrafts
- Leather goods and clothing
- Ceramics, lanterns, copperware
- Spices, sweets, and tea
Each shop has its own character, and many have been run by the same family for generations. Haggling is part of the culture—so don't be afraid to negotiate!
Tips for your visit of Kapalı Çarşı in 2025
- Best times to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Open: Monday to Saturday, approximately 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday is closed.
- Safety: The bazaar is safe, but keep an eye on your valuables—as in any busy tourist destination.
- Payment: Cash is most common, but some shops accept credit cards. Turkish lira is preferred.
- Don't lose it: The bazaar can be overwhelming—remember the entrance you came through.
How do I get to the Kapalı Çarşı / Grand Bazaar?
The bazaar is located in the Fatih district, just a few minutes' walk from the Sultanahmet Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The T1 tram line takes you conveniently to the Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı station. From there, it's just a few steps away.
An experience for all the senses
The bazaar isn't just about shopping – it's a journey of discovery:
- The scent of freshly brewed apple tea
- The sparkle of gold-plated bracelets
- The colourful interplay of hand-painted ceramics
- The sound of merchants bargaining
- And, of course, sampling local sweets like baklava and Turkish delight
The Kapalı Çarşı / Grand Bazaar 2025 – What's new?
Many merchants are modernizing their shops without losing their historic charm. Visitors can expect:
- Multilingual signage
- Free Wi-Fi in many aisles
- Sustainable souvenirs and local products
- Guided bazaar tours with culinary stops
Conclusion: A place full of magic and stories
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is far more than a place to shop – it is a vibrant showcase of Turkish culture, a place of exchange and tradition. If you want to experience the soul of Istanbul, start right here – among the carpets, tea, and a thousand little wonders.
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