SHOPPING IN TURKEY
Offering the quality craftsmanship, artisan traditions of fine carpet weaving, jewelry and tiles and ceramics besides textile; if you are visiting Turkey, shopping itself is irresistible for the wide range of unique and beautiful crafts available. It is both entertaining and satisfying when you are in a reputable, gallery or store. You gain experience and even improve your bargaining skills which are great fun!
Bargaining for everything except the food is quite customary in Turkey in privately owned individual shops, but make sure you have an idea of the price of the article before you begin to get more information about that article. The majority of the shopkeepers in the country is generally honest and will not try to pass off an imitation of the original, but it is always good to ask for a certificate of guarantee for expensive items like carpets or jewelry. While making the payment, you should know the rate of exchange that applies. Ask for a calculator and work out the amount in your own currency.
If you have specific interests or have a private group or special occasion, Travel Atelier creates customized itineraries; highlighting carpet & jewelry stores, boutiques, designer shops, hot restaurants with a great combination of knowledge on the history of the neighborhood.
Like every other destination all around the world, naturally, the tour guide who assists you with a purchase receives a commission from the store. We would like to make it clear that, it does not mean; the travelers pay more – and even in most of the cases, they still pay less rather than doing it alone which is a part of the tradition. Travel agents and the guides who are assigned by the travel agencies only work with reputable establishments and/or companies and have the ability to impose sanctions in case of a delivery problem or need of the change of the good purchased.
Please note that; Other than shopping tours, all our private tours are non-shopping unless or otherwise requested by the respective customer before and during the tour.
5 Places You Need to Go Shopping in Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has a rich history, a lovely culture, and when you visit, you actually have the chance to be on two continents at once.
Not to mention, there's something to indulge the senses everywhere you go. Whether you're taking in the sights, tasting the food, or watching how modern-day life lives in harmony with ancient traditions, you're sure to be amazed.
If one of the passions you want to entertain while you're in Istanbul is shopping, you're in luck. There's enough shopping in Istanbul to fill your heart's desire.
If you want to go to the best places, make the following five shopping destinations in Istanbul a priority.
1. Istanbul Cevahir
The Istanbul Cevahir is the second-largest mall in the entire world and the largest shopping center you'll find in all of Europe. Here, you can enjoy world-renowned favorites like Ralph Lauren and Hugo Boss, but also explore unique fashions from a Turkish perspective.
Make sure you give yourself a whole day here, or at least an afternoon, in order to truly take it all in.
2. Abdi Ipekci Street
The next shopping destination worth going to is Adbi Ipecki Street. While it's not the biggest place to shop, it's where all of the high-end designers are.
Come here if you're ready to drop some serious cash, or to dream about one day going on such a shopping spree. If you visit Istanbul towards the end of the year, note that Adbi Ipecki Street gets very crowded around New Years.
3. Istinye Park
If you're looking for high-end shopping mixed with a little bit of everything, head to Istinye Park. This is where you can find some of the top brands from around the world and Turkey's finest.
In addition to fashion shopping, Istinye Park offers delicious sweet shops and cafes, as well as restaurants and eateries. You can easily spend the whole day here - and maybe even come back for more!
4. The Grand Bazaar
It's not a trip to Istanbul until you visit the Grand Bazaar. This is the place to go for food, clothes, decor - everything. It's all here, organized in small stands that are run by friendly faces.
You can spend an entire day wandering the shops and talking to their owners. Don't be surprised if you end up eating more than once or if you do a spend a little more time here than you expected. There's something magical about the Grand Bazaar that can keep you entertained for hours on end.
5. The Nisantasi District
The final Istanbul shopping destination on the list is the Nisantasi District. This area was well-known as the elite gathering place for royals and aristocrats back in the day.
Today, their influence remains as luxury designer shops line the streets and delicious cuisine fills the air with the smell of international foods. Go here if you want nice shopping and an authentic experience wrapped in one.
Experience Shopping in Istanbul Like a Local
As great as all the shopping in Istanbul is, you have to know the right time to go to each place. The Grand Bazaar closes on some days, for example, and the Nisantasi District is best enjoyed when it's not too crowded.
Such intel is something only the locals know. It's worth getting a private tour of the city and an inside scoop on the shopping before you go off on your own.
To schedule a tour, click here.
Our Tours Include:
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.
- Transportation in luxury vehicle
- Refreshments and snacks to fuel your shopping
- Knowledgeable guide to point out customized highlights for you; such as in-store experts who would share their expertise on specific items, special treats in reputable stores
- Gratuity for guide and driver