See Your Hotel’s Blog

The market of all markets, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul offers a shopping experience like no other! Also known as Kapalicarsi, the Grand Bazaar is located in Sultanahmet, an area swarming with tourists and rich with history.

The Grand Bazaar is home to over 4000 shops and is the largest covered market in Turkey. Look for bargains on anything and everything ranging from lamps, leather goods, hand made crafts, beautiful pottery, woven carpets, colourful stones and hard to find brassware. Various restaurants also litter the market place so come hungry and ready to shop!

When shopping at the Grand Bazaar, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First off, never settle on the asking price. The vendors expect you to haggle so haggle you must! Barter on the price but don’t go lower than 50 per cent of the asking price. Also, be very aware of pickpockets. Keep your money and purse where you can see it at all times! Vendors usually only accept cash so be sure to bring enough for all your bargains.

With all of these things to worry about, the last thing you need is complications with your hotel. So be sure of your accommodation with See Your Hotel.

Hotels in the vicinity of the Grand Bazaar include the Hotel St Sophia, the Ayasofya and the Turkomen Hotel. Also nearby are the Empress Zoe and Hotel Valide Sultan Konagi, both famous for their rich Turkish charm. For backpackers or those on a budget, Side Hotel offers cheap rates on rooms. All of these hotels are located in Sultanahmet.

Other things to check out near the Grand Bazaar include the Beyazit University and the Yesil Ev, an Ottoman mansion featuring a rich garden. No matter what you decide to do in Istanbul, be sure to visit  seeyourhotel first to ensure a stress-free vacation.