Turkey’s Grand Bazaar Istanbul is much more than your typical shopping center. The market first appeared in the 15th century, following Ottoman conquest of Istanbul-previously known as Constantinople. In the countries where they ruled, markets like this were commonplace. The building was ordered by Sultan Mehmet II. The Istanbul Hagia Sophia, which had been turned into a mosque, received the Grand Bazaar Istanbul store rents after that. The Grand Bazaar started out tiny but expanded through the centuries to become what it is today.
The shop owners in the Grand Bazaar aren’t afraid to tell you that they want your money and will go to great lengths to acquire it. If you’re not a rabid shopper, sixty streets lined with thousands of businesses might be too much to handle. On my first trip to the Grand Bazaar, I spent the majority of the time gawking in shock. The crowds were very dense, so I decided not to make any purchases.
My second trip to the bazaar was with two female international friends, and we were all easy pickings. But we did make it through. As a result, I created my comprehensive photo guide. Let’s talk about where to go, how to get there, what mementos to buy, and how to negotiate effectively. You’ll leave with some amazing and affordable mementos!
The Grand Bazaar Istanbul
What Should I Purchase at the Big Grand Bazaar?
Since there are so many odd, beautiful, and commonplace things to buy, it might be easier to list what is not for sale. Neither agricultural animals nor day-trip tickets to space were seen. The practice of classifying streets by their products presumably dates back to Ottoman era. You will see household and home goods because the Bazaar is where Istanbul residents go to shop. Sadly, there is also a good deal of trash.
How to Stay Out of Trouble at the Grand Bazaar Istanbul
Consider pretending to be temporarily insane. Start by muttering fiercely to yourself and getting uncomfortable twitches. Second, the night before, roll about in the trash and spend the night on the streets to give the impression that you are a tramp without any money. The third choice is to arm oneself with a burka and some noise-canceling earbuds. Well, you should understand what I’m saying. There isn’t a typical technique to get rid of the hassle. You have to handle it. You are the prey in the lion’s den that is the Grand Bazaar Istanbul.
Women: If PMT is acting up, I advise avoiding the situation until your hormones are back to normal. You can only hear, “Do you want to buy a carpet?” so many times before you start hitting the merchant in the head out of annoyance. You must truly be in a fantastic mood. You can laugh a lot if you participate in the conversation. I was asked to snap photos of many salespeople. I informed the one who requested a kiss that my spouse was just around the corner. The question, “Do you want to buy a carpet?” was brought up during the conversation.
How to Bargain Like a Pro
As previously stated, there is a ton of rubbish for sale at the Grand Bazaar Istanbul, so be prepared to haggle if you find something you like. Because shopkeepers anticipate that you will try for a lower price, if you don’t barter, you will lose out because the price is already high. Generally, take 50% off of the price he provides you when you return. He will then chuckle, claim to be in need and have six kids to support before returning with a new offer. Continue until you and the buyer reach an agreement on a price. Do this in additional locations throughout Istanbul.
Opening Hours: The Grand Bazaar Istanbul is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day except Sunday and is free to enter. It closes on October 29 each year because that day is a bank holiday in Istanbul and Turkey as a whole. Additionally, keep an eye out for Seker Bayram and Kurban Bayram (religious holidays that fall on various days each year).
Getting There
Ask your hotel for information on the buses that pass in that direction since it is in the Beyazit neighborhood of Istanbul, close to Sultan Ahmet. You may stroll there if you stay in Istanbul’s Sultan Ahmet, Beyoglu, Fatih, Eminonu, or Taksim neighborhoods. You can get the ideal route by using Google Maps and entering the location of your tourist accommodation, the Turkish Grand Bazaar! A map on your person while navigating the Bazaar is like wearing a neon flashing sign. Instead, be prepared to get lost—it’s enjoyable. There is so much more to learn. When you’ve had enough and decide to leave Istanbul, check for the exit signs everywhere.
