Grand Bazaar & Spice Market

One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with origins in 1461 when Mehmed II built a bedesten (covered market) shortly after conquering Constantinople. It expanded over centuries into a labyrinth of 61 streets, 4,000+ shops, mosques, fountains, and hans (caravanserais). At its peak it was the commercial heart of the Ottoman Empire. Today it welcomes 250,000-400,000 daily visitors. The bazaar is organized by trade — gold, leather, ceramics, carpets — echoing its guild-based origins. Fires and earthquakes have damaged it repeatedly; the current vaulted ceilings date to an 1894 restoration.

Enter through the Beyazit Gate for orientation. The Zincirli Han courtyard is a peaceful escape from the crowds. Bargaining is expected — start at 50% of the asking price.

Istanbul's second-largest covered market, built in 1660 as part of the Yeni Cami (New Mosque) complex. Originally called the Egyptian Bazaar because it was funded by Ottoman taxes on Egyptian imports. The L-shaped hall contains 85 shops selling spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, honey, and medicinal herbs. Saffron, sumac, and pul biber (Aleppo pepper) perfume the air. While increasingly touristy, the market remains a working spice trade hub. The courtyard outside hosts a daily flower and pet market, and the streets around it are where Istanbul's food industry sources ingredients.

The shops just outside the bazaar's back entrance offer the same products at much lower prices. Try a fresh pomegranate juice from the stand at the Eminonu entrance.