Shopping in Istanbul
Discover 20 markets, shops, and shopping spots in Istanbul, Turkey. From local markets to specialty stores — curated from real traveler tips.
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Historia
Recently opened Historia is the only shopping mall in the Old City (and likely will be the only one, as large-scale new development is restricted in most of this part of the city), and is the place to go if you are looking into something more modern and less touristy than in the Covered Bazaar. Usual selections of garment, electronics, and furniture stores, a large supermarket, as well as a bowling alley, fast food joints, and movie theatre. While there, you may also want to check out '''Fenari İsa Mosque''' just next to Historia (across the narrow alley at the side of the mall), which is a small red-brick Byzantine church from early era, which was renovated in 1970s and now serves as a mosque after staying derelict since a fire damaged the building in 1918.
Vatan Caddesi (Adnan Menderes Bulv.) 2, Fatih Website -
Grand Bazaar
Istanbul's grand old bazaar with an estimated 4400 shops lined along covered walkways. It is said to be the world's oldest shopping mall, covers several blocks and features a labyrinth of side streets to keep you lost for the better part of a day. The shops are organized around their wares, e.g. the silver jewellers are clustered together, the carpet shops are clustered elsewhere and the shoe shops are bunched together somewhere else. Parts of it now are rather touristy (most locals don't shop there) and you are likely to pay a little more for your purchase than elsewhere but with the vast selection you will find what you're looking for and it is one of Istanbul's character pieces.
Mo-Sa 9:00-19:00 Website -
Deli Kızın Yeri
82 Halıcılar Çarşısı. Deli Kızın Yeri (''The Crazy Lady's Place'') was founded by The Crazy Lady herself, an American who has retired in Turkey, who specializes in creating flat, useful, packable items using traditional Turkish motifs, handicrafts and fabrics. Items produced by local artists suiting the flavour of the shop comprise the rest of their inventory. The selection of items changes constantly, but generally includes items such as placemats, tablecloths, purses, doorstops, plastic bag holders, napkin rings, tea cozies, Turkish Delight-flavoured teddy bears and dolls, luggage tags, aprons, pillows, and limited edition clothing.
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Paristexas Concept Store
located next to the Galata Square, Sertaç Haznedaroğlu, the fashion-forward owner, stocks quirky Japanese labels and rare collections created for an Eastern market by designers such as Marc Jacobs, Vivienne Westwood and Chloé. Also check out custom-made leather bags & shoes by Turkish designer Ahmet Baytar.
Buyukhendek Cad. 4/A Galata, Beyoglu -
Can Antik
You will find Ottoman and other antique metalware here - copper bowls, jugs, pots Ottoman silver, furniture jewellery and big collection antique textile dating back to Ottoman era.
Cadircilar Caddesi Lutfullah Sokak no 34/36, Beyazit Website -
Akmerkez
At Etiler. Nearest metro station is Gayrettepe/Zincirlikuyu, the actual location of the mall is about 25-min walk or 10-min taxi ride away from that station.
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Profilo
Located a bit away from main street (about 10 min walk) at Mecidiyeköy. Metro: Şişli-Mecidiyeköy. Also accessible from Mecidiyeköy Metrobus Station.
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Egyptian Bazaar
in Eminönü is also a covered bazaar, which is a lot smaller than Grand Bazaar, and as its name implies, houses herbalist and spice shops.
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Chalcedony
2 Ayasofya Caferiye Sokak. One stop shop for raw rocks, smooth stones and finished jewellery of the pale-blue, semiprecious chalcedony.
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Cevahir
The newest one of malls in Istanbul. At Şişli. Metro: Şişli-Mecidiyeköy. Also accessible from Mecidiyeköy Metrobus Station.
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Derviş
33-35 Keseciler Sokak. Turko-Californian spa shop with raw silk and cotton clothing made to last a long time.
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Mehmet Cetinkaya Gallery
Kucuk Ayasofya Caddesi, 7 Tavukhane Sokak. Glorious museum-quality textiles, a feast for the eyes.
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Bazaar 55 Rug House
Akbiyik Cad. 55, Sultanahmet. The carpet shop known to be most trust-worthy.
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IstinyePark
Beautiful mall with 300 stores, many good restaurants and cafes.
İstinye Bayırı Cadessi Website
Travel tips by Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA 3.0). Verify opening hours before visiting.
Shopping Guide for Istanbul: Markets, Stores & Souvenirs
Shopping in Istanbul is one of the best ways to experience local culture beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you're browsing open-air markets for fresh produce and local specialties, hunting for antiques in backstreet shops, or looking for handcrafted souvenirs to bring home, Istanbul's shopping scene has something for every kind of traveler.
This guide lists 20 shopping spots in Istanbul sourced from Wikivoyage — the community travel guide written by real travelers. These are the shops, markets, and stores that visitors actually recommend to each other.
Shopping Tips for Travelers in Istanbul
- Visit markets early for the best selection at Istanbul's food and craft markets.
- Carry local cash — many independent vendors and market stalls prefer cash over cards.
- Check opening days — many specialty shops in Istanbul are closed on Sundays or have limited weekend hours.
- Ask about local products — the best souvenirs are made locally, not imported for tourist shops.
- Use Nomax to connect with travelers currently in Istanbul who can share real-time shopping tips.
Meet Fellow Travelers in Istanbul
Download Nomax to see other travelers currently in Istanbul. Find a market companion, share shopping discoveries, or join city activities organized by the traveler community. Free on iOS and Android.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shopping in Istanbul
Where to shop in Istanbul?
Istanbul has 20 curated shopping spots including markets, specialty stores, and local boutiques. This guide covers the best places to shop in Istanbul, from open-air markets to specialist shops. Use Nomax to connect with fellow travelers who can share shopping tips.
What souvenirs to buy in Istanbul?
The best souvenirs from Istanbul are locally produced food and drink, handmade crafts, books about the city, and artisan goods. Markets are the best place to find authentic products. Check listings in this guide for specialty shops and markets in Istanbul.
Are there markets in Istanbul?
Yes, Istanbul has several markets in this guide including food markets, antique fairs, and craft markets. Opening days and hours vary by market — check individual listings before visiting.
Is Nomax free to use in Istanbul?
Yes, Nomax is completely free. Download it on iOS or Android to connect with travelers currently in Istanbul, join activities, and get shopping recommendations from people who know the city.
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