Free: All time
Some will suggest that you avoid this ancient maze of commercialism where you’ll probably get hassled by pushy salesmen, but honestly, it’s worth a visit. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It all started in 1461 when Sultan Mehmed II initially commissioned two small warehouses as a way to fund the transformation of Aya Sophia into a mosque. Shops began to mushroomed in the vicinity and roofs began to appear. Fast forward to today, the Bazaar consists of more than 4,000 shops on 64 covered streets, making itself a world within itself. Despite having to navigate the labyrinth while dodging salesmen and other tourists, you’ll find the market a visual and cultural treat!
Address: Beyazit/Istanbul
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am – 7pm; Closed Sundays
Direction: Tram to Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı Station
Phone: +90 212 244 7770
Website: www.kapalicarsi.org.tr
Photo credit: Laszlo Ilyes, Marc Tarlock, Dmgultekin
