Shopping in History & Modernity

İstanbul’s shopping variety with its traditional and modern products makes the city an attraction center. The city provides various choices between Ottoman Empire originated historical bazaars and modern shopping malls. Fabulous Turkish carpets made of silk, wool or cotton; precious jewelries, authentic glass- wares, traditional evil eye souvenirs and haute couture, trendy and creative products… The city has multiple shopping areas reflecting every era’s characteristic traits. With its more than 4000 shops, the magnificent Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) is one of the world’s greatest historical malls. Egyptian Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) is where various spices, dried fruits, basketry, jewelry, drapery and haberdashery is sold. With its craftsmen Sultanahmet is the place for those who want to enjoy the mysterious ambiance of the Ottoman era. The Arasta Bazaar with its jewellery, pottery, spice, textiles and carpet shops and the Antique Books Market with its priceless books is for the history passionate. For a real İstanbul experience, street markets Salı Pazarı (Tuesday) in Kadıköy on the Asian Side, Ulus Pazarı (Friday) in Ulus and Cumartesi Pazarı (Saturday) in Beşiktaş are all worth to visit. Taksim is a grand shopping area with loads of big brands located on and around the main Istiklal Street. The two-kilometer-long street has many neo-classical passages that include various types of shops from vintage clothing to hand made ceramics. Also, these passages have 100-year-old traditional shops and many cafes. Şişhane, Karakoy and Cihangir near Taksim are filled with designer and vintage stores and bookshops. Nişantaşı is famous with brands and local designer clothing shops. Bagdat Street on the Anatolian side is also a crowded place for shopping lovers.