Top 5 Famous Shopping Streets in Istanbul, Turkey

When people think of shopping in Istanbul, they usually think of the Grand Bazaar and its maze-like streets, from carpets to local spices. If you're seeking anything other than the bustle of the extra-large covered market, the city has lots to offer. Turkey Visa Online picks the top shopping streets in Istanbul, spanning from antique shops to high-street fashion. But first, apply online application for a Turkish e visa.

Serdar-? Ekrem

One of Istanbul's nicest shopping streets is this little cobblestone street near the ancient Galata Tower. There are no big-name brands here; instead, there are many trendy shops. Check out Turkish designer Arzu Kaprol's showroom, Kashif Sofa's antiques, and the elegant boutique Atelier 55 in the end. After that, go to Mavra for a cup of coffee and some excellent homemade chocolate cake. If you're out and about around cocktail hour, go by the Georges Hotel Galata's terrace for a cool drink and a beautiful view of the city.

• ukurcuma Caddesi

The beautiful classical homes surrounding this neighbourhood are very befitting of the overall nostalgic theme. Cukurcuma is Istanbul's main antique-hunting street, and the lovely classical houses all around this neighbourhood are extremely befitting of the whole reflective topic. Walk along the winding roads and stop at the antique and vintage shops and the Museum of Innocence, a massive exhibition of Istanbul's history, but not forgotten. A La Turca, Items of Desire, and Asli Gün?iray are some of the most fantastic stores in the region. When you've had your share of walking and shopping, stop into Cuma for a bite — the pancakes are great.

?stiklal Caddesi

One of the city's main shopping streets, Istiklal Caddesi, runs from Taksim Square to Tünel Square. Each brand you can think of, from local to international, has a location here. Is Istiklal also has several unique sidestreets and little pasaj (arcades), so take a detour if you see anything that strikes your attention? Check out the Beyoglu Balik Pazari (open-air market) for some serious food shopping, and then go next door to the famous Ciçek Pasaj arcade, which opened in 1876. Take the historic red tramway that runs up and down the street if you get tired of walking.

Abdi?pekçi Caddesi

Whether it's a local designer's atelier and showroom or a world-famous brand's store, the Ni?anta?i area is known for its luxury. Discover everything from Prada to Louis Vuitton, as well as Vakko and Beymen, Turkey's finest luxury brands, on Abdi ipekçi Caddesi. If you're more worried about how much money you spend, take a detour to Te?vikiye Caddesi, where you'll discover more reasonably priced boutiques, including Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Scotch & Soda. City's Ni?anta?i, a nearby shopping centre, has even more businesses, including Banana Republic and Gap imports.

Ba?dat Caddesi

Although the Asian side of Istanbul is known as the calmer and more residential sibling of the European side, there are plenty of shopping choices to entice you to take the ferry. This side's main shopping street, Bagdat Caddesi, has something for everyone's budget, with boutiques ranging from Burberry to Marks & Spencer. On weekends, the road is busy with locals walking or stopping by one of the numerous cafés. The coast is only a few blocks away is also a benefit because you can always go for a walk along the water when you've finished shopping.

Rani Sharma is a well-known travel blogger who has written several blogs about Turkey tourism, sights, food, and turkey e visa applications.