Best Markets in Turkey: 15 Must-Visit Shopping Spots

Looking for the best markets in Turkey? From the dazzling Grand Bazaar in Istanbul to colorful local bazaars bursting with spices, jewelry, and handcrafted goods, markets in Turkey offer an unforgettable blend of culture, color, and tradition.

Shopping here isn’t just about buying souvenirs it’s a true sensory experience. You’ll smell rich spices, see vibrant textiles, hear lively bargaining, and taste delicious local treats along the way. Whether you’re exploring historic covered markets or open-air local markets in Turkey, each destination reveals a new side of Turkish life.

In this guide, we’ll uncover 15 of the best markets in Turkey, along with insider tips on what to buy, how to reach them, and when to visit for the most authentic shopping adventure.

15 Best Markets in Turkey

From ancient covered bazaars to trendy shopping malls, these are the top shopping markets in Turkey. Each offers a unique experience, whether you’re after traditional handicrafts, designer labels, or the freshest produce.

1. Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is the ultimate shopping experience and easily the biggest market in Turkey. With over 4,000 shops sprawled across a maze of alleys, it’s one of the oldest covered markets in the world. From glittering gold and handwoven carpets to fine leather and ceramics, it’s a shopper’s paradise where getting lost is half the fun.

• What to Buy: This is the place to stock up on classic Turkish souvenirs like colorful lamps, hand-painted ceramics, silk scarves, and chunky silver jewelry. Be prepared to bargain – it’s expected. Start at half the quoted price and work your way up.
• How to Reach: The Grand Bazaar is in the heart of Istanbul’s Fatih district. The nearest tram stop is Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı on the T1 line. It’s a short walk from Sultanahmet Square.
• Timings: Open Monday to Saturday, 9 am-7 pm. Closed Sundays and public holidays.

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2. Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

For a burst of color and aroma, the Spice Bazaar stands out among the best food markets in Turkey. Established in 1664, it’s packed with fragrant spices, dried fruits, Turkish delight, and nuts under stunning Ottoman arches a must-visit for anyone exploring Istanbul’s culinary scene.

• What to Buy: As the name suggests, this is the place to pick up high-quality spices like saffron, sumac, and pul biber (Aleppo pepper). Other popular buys include flavored teas, Turkish coffee, natural soaps, and lokum (Turkish delight).
• How to Reach: The Spice Bazaar is next to the New Mosque in Eminönü. Take the tram to Eminönü stop or the ferry to Eminönü pier.
• Timings: Open daily 9 am-7 pm, except religious holidays.

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3. Arasta Bazaar

Just a short walk from the Blue Mosque lies a local market in Turkey known for its relaxed atmosphere and authentic handicrafts. With around 40 shops in a charming neo-classical building, this hidden gem offers beautiful handmade souvenirs without the crowds of the Grand Bazaar.

• What to Buy: Hand-woven carpets and kilims, İznik tiles, embroidered textiles, and replica antiques. Prices are a little higher than the Grand Bazaar but the quality is generally better. Some shops offer shipping services.
• How to Reach: Arasta Bazaar is in Sultanahmet, behind the Blue Mosque. It’s a 2-minute walk from Sultanahmet tram stop.
• Timings: Open daily 9 am-7 pm.

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4. Kadiköy Tuesday Market

If you want to shop like a local, head to the Tuesday cheap market in Turkey, a massive street market filled with olives, cheeses, anchovies, clothes, and housewares. It’s a lively glimpse into everyday Turkish life and one of Istanbul’s most authentic experiences.

• What to Buy: Stock up on fresh seasonal produce, local honey, cheeses, and pickles. Grab a bag of midye dolma (rice-stuffed mussels) to snack on as you browse.
• How to Reach: The market sets up along Yasa Caddesi in the Kadiköy district on Istanbul’s Asian side. Take the ferry from Eminönü to Kadiköy.
• Timings: Every Tuesday from early morning to early evening.

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5. Ortaköy Thursday Market

Every Sunday, Ortaköy’s waterfront transforms into an arts and crafts paradise. Local artisans display jewelry, ceramics, and paintings against the stunning Bosphorus backdrop making it one of the best markets in Turkey for handmade goods.

• What to Buy: One-of-a-kind souvenirs like hand-painted ceramics, bold statement jewelry, watercolor paintings, and vintage kilims. Foodies can pick up organic cheeses, cured meats, and jams.
• How to Reach: Ortaköy is on the European shore of the Bosphorus, north of Beşiktaş. Buses 22, 25E and 40T stop nearby.
• Timings: Every Sunday from 9 am to 7 pm.

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6. Fatih Women’s Bazaar

On Wednesdays, the courtyard of Fatih Mosque comes alive with a unique women-only bazaar run by more than 200 female vendors. This local market in Turkey focuses on textiles and clothing, offering authentic, affordable finds that support small-scale sellers.

• What to Buy: Freshly baked gözleme (stuffed Turkish flatbread), handmade lace, crocheted shawls, printed headscarves, and bolts of colorful fabric. Be prepared to communicate with gestures if you don’t speak Turkish.
• How to Reach: The market is in front of Fatih Mosque. Take the tram to Fatih station and walk 5 minutes.
• Timings: Every Wednesday from 9 am to 5 pm.

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7. Çukurcuma Antique Market

For antique lovers, Çukurcuma Market is a dream come true. Wander its narrow streets lined with Ottoman-era homes and explore vintage treasures like gramophones, typewriters, and antique furniture. It’s a perfect mix of history and discovery.

• What to Buy: Retro furniture, antique maps, vintage jewelry, collectible vinyl, old photographs – it’s a treasure trove for lovers of all things vintage. Prices are on the high side but there’s room to negotiate.
• How to Reach: Çukurcuma is near Taksim Square. Take the funicular from Taksim to Kabataş and walk 10 minutes uphill.
• Timings: Shops are open daily but the street market is on Sundays only, from 10 am to 6 pm.

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8. Balat Flea Market

Every Sunday, the cobbled streets of historic Balat fill up with stalls selling antiques, vintage clothes, handmade jewelry, and more. The bohemian vibe and friendly sellers make it a pleasant place to while away a few hours. Combine your visit with a coffee at one of Balat’s hip cafes.

• What to Buy: Vintage dresses, antique silverware, retro decor items, handmade ceramics, and one-of-a-kind accessories. Prices are affordable and bargaining is part of the fun.
• How to Reach: Balat is on the Golden Horn, west of Eminönü. Take the 99A bus from Eminönü to Balat Yokuşu.
• Timings: Every Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.

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9. Beşiktaş Market

This sprawling outdoor market in Turkey sets up in Beşiktaş’s main square every Saturday. It’s a one-stop shop for fresh produce, clothing, housewares, textiles, and much more. The energetic atmosphere and rock-bottom prices draw a lively crowd.

• What to Buy: Seasonal fruits and veggies, spices, nuts, olives, cheeses, simit (Turkish bagels), cheap socks and underwear, knock-off sneakers, and colorful tablecloths. Be prepared for jostling crowds and assertive sellers.
• How to Reach: Beşiktaş is on the European shore of the Bosphorus. Ferries and buses from Kabataş and Eminönü stop at Beşiktaş pier, a 5-minute walk from the market.
• Timings: Every Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm.

10. Kanyon Shopping Mall

Kanyon is an upscale mall with a unique design – the building curves around a dramatic open-air “canyon”. It houses over 160 international and Turkish brands, plus restaurants, cafes, a cinema, and an outdoor plaza with frequent events.

• What to Buy: Designer fashion, high-end cosmetics, luxury home goods, electronics, books, and gourmet food items. Prices are at the higher end but occasional sales offer good value.
• How to Reach: Kanyon is in the Levent business district. Metro line M2 stops directly underneath the mall at Levent station.
• Timings: Open daily 10 am-10 pm.

11. Istinye Park

Istinye Park is a stylish shopping spot in Turkey, known for its luxury brands and beautiful design. Three separate sections house designer boutiques, high-street fashion, home stores, restaurants, cafes, a cinema, and a supermarket. The lush garden in the center is a tranquil spot to rest weary feet.

• What to Buy: International designer labels, Turkish fashion brands, cosmetics, jewelry, home decor, gourmet food, and gifts. Regular sales offer discounts on previous seasons’ collections.
• How to Reach: Istinye Park is north of central Istanbul, near the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. Buses 29Ş and 29D stop outside.
• Timings: Open daily 10 am-10 pm.

12. Akmerkez Shopping Mall

Akmerkez is a modern mall in upmarket Etiler, with a bright, airy design. It has a good mix of Turkish and international brands, a food court with city views, a cinema, and a family entertainment center.

• What to Buy: Mid-range fashion, sportswear, shoes, cosmetics, accessories, electronics, books, gifts, and souvenirs. The Macro Center supermarket stocks imported food items.
• How to Reach: Akmerkez is in Etiler, north of Bebek. Buses 29, 29C, 29K, 29P, and 29Ş stop nearby. The nearest metro is Gayrettepe on line M2.
• Timings: Open daily 10 am-10 pm.

13. Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall

Forum Istanbul is a huge mall with over 280 stores, an aquarium, an ice rink, a cinema, and a food court. The spacious layout and natural light make it a pleasant place to shop. Regular events like fashion shows and live music add to the appeal.

• What to Buy: Affordable fashion brands, sportswear, shoes, accessories, electronics, home goods, toys, and gifts. The Carrefour hypermarket has a wide selection of groceries and household items.
• How to Reach: Forum Istanbul is northwest of central Istanbul in Bayrampaşa. Buses 33, 33B, 33BT, and 33M stop outside.
• Timings: Open daily 10 am-10 pm.

14. Marmara Forum

Marmara Forum is a large mall in the Bakırköy district, popular with locals for its affordable brands and family-friendly amenities. It has a good selection of Turkish and international stores, a food court, a cinema, and a playground.

• What to Buy: Budget-friendly fashion, shoes, sportswear, cosmetics, accessories, electronics, home goods, and gifts. The Migros supermarket is a good place to pick up snacks and drinks.
• How to Reach: Marmara Forum is in Bakırköy, west of central Istanbul. The Yenimahalle metro stop on line M1A is a short walk away.
• Timings: Open daily 10 am-10 pm.

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15. Cevahir Shopping Mall

A modern shopping twist, Cevahir Shopping Mall offers a completely different experience from traditional markets. As one of Europe’s largest malls and the biggest market in Turkey in a contemporary sense, it features six floors of shops, restaurants, a cinema, and an entertainment center blending global brands with Turkish flair.

• What to Buy: Mid-range and affordable fashion brands, shoes, sportswear, cosmetics, accessories, electronics, home goods, toys, and gifts. The large food court has Turkish and international options.
• How to Reach: Cevahir is in the Şişli district, close to Mecidiyeköy. Metro lines M2 and M7 stop at Şişli-Mecidiyeköy station, which has a direct entrance to the mall.
• Timings: Open daily 10 am-10 pm.

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FAQs

What are the best things to buy from markets in Turkey?

The best things to buy from markets in Turkey include Turkish carpets, ceramics, spices, Turkish delight, pashmina scarves, leather goods, onyx items, and traditional tea and coffee sets. Additionally, you can find unique souvenirs like evil eye ornaments and handmade olive oil soap.

What is the best time to shop in Turkey?

The best time to shop in Turkey is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, making it easier to browse and negotiate prices.

Is it worth shopping in Turkey?

Yes, shopping in Turkey is worth it due to the variety of unique and high-quality products available at reasonable prices. The cultural experience of visiting local markets also adds to the value of shopping in Turkey.

What stores are cheaper in Turkey?

Local markets and bazaars typically offer cheaper prices compared to high-end boutiques or malls. Places like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are known for affordable goods where bargaining is common.

What time are markets open in Turkey?

Most markets in Turkey open around 9:00 AM and close by 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary by location, so it’s always good to check specific market timings.

Is shopping in Turkey expensive?

Shopping in Turkey can be inexpensive, especially if you shop at local markets. Prices can vary significantly based on where you shop; high-end stores may have prices similar to those found in Western countries.

How much gold can I carry from Turkey to India?

Travelers can carry gold jewelry up to a certain limit without declaring it. For accurate regulations regarding customs duties and limits on gold imports into India, it’s advisable to check with Indian customs authorities before traveling.

Are Turkey markets safe?

Markets in Turkey are generally safe for tourists. However, it’s advisable to remain vigilant about your belongings and be cautious in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing.