Shop in Istanbul

The information in this post was updated in July, 2014. 

Inspired by some Canadian friends who asked me what to do in Turkey, I am continuing my blog with a few places where you can do shopping in Istanbul.

It is worth to shop in Turkey when it comes to textiles, jewellery, arts and crafts. You can find interesting designs and high quality stuff with reasonable prices. Below, you will find some ideas for shopping on European side of Istanbul.

1. Grand Bazaar
In Turkish: Kapalı Çarşı
The building was constructed between 1455 and 1461, and then was enlarged in the 16th century. It feels like a labyrinth inside. You must visit here even if you are not a fan of shopping since the architecture is so impressive.
Where: In Sultanahmet region; 15 minutes walk from Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque. Best way for transportation is the tram.
Buy: Ceramics, textiles, carpets, jewellery, antiques, embroideries and spices.
Hours: Monday to Saturday, between 9am and 7pm
Website: http://www.grandbazaaristanbul.org/Grand_Bazaar_Istanbul.html

2. Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar)
In Turkish: Mısır Çarşısı
The second largest historical bazaar in Istanbul, which was built with the revenues coming from Egypt in the 17th century. If your time is limited, I would recommend you to visit the Grand Bazaar first.
Where: In Eminonu region; close to Galata Bridge and Eminonu ferry dock. You can take the Kabatas-Zeytinburnu tram from Sultanahmet, or take the ferry.
Buy: Spices, dried fruits, nuts, seeds, coffee, Turkish delight, scarfs, embroideries.
More Info: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g293974-d294546-Reviews-Egyptian_Bazaar_Misir_Carsisi-Istanbul.html

3. Kanyon

Here is a modern open-air shopping mall where you can enjoy the good weather, interesting architecture, tasty food and shopping. You will find many international brands (Body Shop, Swarovski, Banana Republic, Lacoste, etc.), but will also find Turkish and European brands those are not available in many other countries (Check the Pasabahce, Atasay, NetWork, Park Bravo, Fabrika, Mavi Jeans, Koton, Mango, Yargıcı and Machka stores).

.

There are (too!) many shopping malls in Istanbul, and most of them look the same. Kanyon is quite different for its unique architecture and fancy stores. Honestly, I recommend you to spend your time going to Kanyon if only you are a rich architect who is into shopping for fancy stuff in the open air (to be specific!).
Where: Buyukdere Caddesi No:185 34394 Levent, Istanbul
Buy: Fancy stuff (Clothes, shoes, jewellery, electronics, books, arts, etc.)


4. Neighborhoods worth to visit for shopping, sightseeing and entertainment:
Historical / Traditional: Sultanahmet, Ortakoy, Besiktas
Modern stores and nightlife: Nisantasi, Macka, Ortakoy, Beyoglu, Levent