3 of the Best Markets You Can Find in Istanbul

When you board your Istanbul airport transfer to take you to your hotel, you may well pass by some of the finest sights the city has to offer. When you do you will no doubt spot some markets, as the city is well known for these eclectic and bustling trading places.

We’ve picked out some of the best ones in the city to explore – but there are plenty more.

The Grand Bazaar

This is arguably the bazaar to end all other bazaars! The size is not something you can easily grasp until you see it for yourself. Even if your Istanbul airport transfer doesn’t take you past it, you will have no trouble finding your way here – it is world famous. There are thousands (yes, thousands) of shops here and you can easily days exploring everything it has to offer. Haggling is part and parcel of the experience, so make sure you remember this if you are tempted to buy something.

The Spice Bazaar

Your nose will lead you here even if your Istanbul airport transfer doesn't take you past it on arrival! While the Grand Bazaar opens every day except for Sundays, this one is open seven days a week. If you want a healthy snack you will definitely find something appealing, and it sells a plethora of dried fruit and nuts, among other things. Of course if you want to try some genuine Turkish delight you will find that here as well. Be prepared for a very visceral experience and allocate a couple of hours at the very least to explore everything it has to share with you.

The Booksellers’ Market

This is more unusual since books are not normally the item of choice on many market stalls in the city – but it is truly amazing. It is located in Beyazit not too far from the Grand Bazaar (get your Istanbul airport transfer driver to point it out), so if you are seeing one you should think about seeing the other as well. There is more to see than just books, such as badges and coins.

Whatever reason you have for coming to this wonderful city, it is well worth exploring the markets, which are such a big feature and an intrinsic aspect of the culture. Many of them have a long history and it can be fascinating to wander around and learn more. Speak to the stallholders, sample the wares and immerse in this authentic Turkish way of life.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for an Istanbul airport transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.