The Grand Bazaar, known locally as Kapalıçarşı or the Covered Bazaar, is a historic covered market in Beyazıt, in the Fatih district of Istanbul. Its origins go back to 1461, and it is counted among the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
What you will find
The bazaar holds more than 4,000 shops. Visitors come for carpets, jewelry, spices and handmade crafts, and the stalls and lanes make it a place to wander without a fixed plan. Browsing and bargaining are part of the experience, so allow time to look around rather than rushing to a single purchase.
Why it makes a worthwhile visit
- A large, long-established market under one roof, with a strong sense of history in its streets.
- A wide range of goods, from traditional carpets and spices to jewelry and crafts.
- A lively setting for people-watching and for seeing how a working market operates.
Because the bazaar is so large, it is easy to lose your bearings. Keep a note of the gate you entered by, and take a break in one of the cafés or tea houses if you need to rest.
Planning your trip
The Grand Bazaar sits in the old part of Istanbul, where you can combine a visit with other nearby sights in the Beyazıt area. For current information, you can call the bazaar on +90 212 519 1248 before you go.