Grand Bazaar visitor guide: gates, shopping and tips for visiting with children

A short history of the Grand Bazaar

Soon after the conquest, Mehmed the Conqueror built today’s Cevahir (Inner) Bedesten to increase the revenues of Hagia Sophia. The Sandal Bedesten was added under Suleiman the Magnificent; the space between the two bedestens gradually filled with shops, hans and streets and was roofed over. The bazaar has been rebuilt after many fires and earthquakes throughout its history; one of the biggest repairs followed the 1894 earthquake. Today the bazaar also contains mosques, fountains, hans and bank branches.

Which gate should you use?

• Nuruosmaniye Gate: The easiest entrance for those coming from Sultanahmet; from the Çemberlitaş stop you pass through the courtyard of the Nuruosmaniye Mosque. It opens onto the main street lined with jewellers.
• Beyazıt Gate: On the side of the Beyazıt Mosque and the Book Bazaar.
• Mahmutpaşa Gate: Opens onto the slope leading down to the Spice Bazaar; good for those who want to continue on foot to Eminönü.

To avoid getting lost inside, agree on the Cevahir Bedesten and the name of the gate you came in by as meeting points.

What to buy at the Grand Bazaar?

Carpets and kilims, handmade ceramics and tiles, copper and silverwork, leather goods, gold and jewellery, Turkish delight, nargile sets and textiles are the most sought-after items. For spiritual gifts such as prayer beads, prayer rugs and musk see our spiritual souvenirs guide, and for modest clothing our article on modest fashion shopping in Istanbul. Bargaining is common; asking a price is not a commitment to buy. Our money guide makes currency, cards and tipping easier.

The Grand Bazaar with children

The Grand Bazaar is a colourful place for children to explore, but it is very easy to get lost in the crowds. Put a card with your phone number in your child’s pocket and teach them, if they get lost, to go into the nearest shop and tell the shopkeeper. Strollers move easily on the main streets but struggle in the side alleys; a baby carrier is more practical. Because the bazaar is covered, it is also a good option on rainy and very hot days.

Visiting tips

• It is closed on Sundays; plan the Spice Bazaar or the Arasta Bazaar for Sunday.
• For big purchases, visit several shops and compare prices; do not rush.
• There are clean toilets and small prayer rooms inside the bazaar; ask a shopkeeper.
• Carry your bag in front of you in the crowds.
• From the bazaar you can walk down the Mahmutpaşa slope to the Spice Bazaar in 15 minutes.