How to Shop in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar Like a Local: Going Native in Turkey

Istanbul is a beautiful city visited by countless travellers all around the year. The Grand Bazaar, in particular, is a treasure trove of remarkable history and culture and a unique shopping sensation. For centuries, traders and buyers from around the globe would come to sell their wares in the Bazaar. Today, visitors come not only to shop but also to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Navigating the 4000-plus shops in the labyrinthine Bazaar might not be an easy task for new shoppers. This guide attempts to fix that problem.

img via wikipedia commons

Understanding the Layout of the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a mammoth of shops that range from jewelry to ceramics, textiles to spices. The Bazaar may seem quite overwhelming at first, especially if you are new to the whole scene. There are main sections, and familiarizing yourself with them will help you feel less lost and confused. There are different zones that you should keep an eye out for, like gold and silver jewelry in one area, leather goods in another, and hand-woven goods in yet another. Take your time to explore these different sections, and make a mental map of where you saw items that caught your eye. Locals often make multiple rounds before making a purchase, comparing quality and prices at different stalls.

The Art of Bargaining

While many markets around the globe encourage bargaining, it is usually optional, but at the Grand Bazaar, it is part and parcel of the experience. Locals usually reject the first price offered, and neither should you. Vendors tend to inflate prices, hoping that buyers will bargain and negotiate.

How to bargain effectively:To be an effective bargainer, you need to do your research about the general asking price of goods before you visit the Bazaar. Showing genuine interest in an item usually indicates to the seller that you mean business, and they will start the bargaining. Always take off at least 50% or more of the initial asking price and make your way up. Finally, always remember to be polite but firm on your request, and don’t be hesitant to walk away if the price isn’t right.

Knowing What to Buy

Before stepping into the Grand Bazaar, you should always have a rough idea of what you are expecting to purchase there. Going overboard is natural, but it's always good to stick to your list. One of the advantages of staying at Istanbul serviced apartments is the freedom to shop for larger items, as these apartments are usually spacious. Somerset Maslak Istanbul, for example, will be very accommodating and will have adequate room when you bring back all your shopping to your temporary home.

Items worth looking intoTurkish Carpets: These hand-woven beauties are a symbol of the fascinating Turkish culture. Take your time to inspect the craftsmanship and materials. 

Jewellery: The Grand Bazaar offers an extensive collection of exquisite pieces, from gold and silver to semi-precious stones. 

Leather Goods: Istanbul is renowned for its high-quality leather products. From jackets to bags, these items are durable and stylish, making them a great investment.

Timing Your Visit

The Grand Bazaar is open most days of the week, namely from Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm. To truly shop like a local, you need to know the best times to get the most out of your trip. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to arrive, as the tourists are scanty then. Mornings are quieter, giving you a chance to browse without the crowds. Locals often visit after lunch when sellers are more likely to make deals, especially as the day draws to a close.

Staying Safe While Shopping

As with any large market, it’s important to consider safety while shopping at the Grand Bazaar. Locals tend to keep their valuables secure, and so should you. Use a money belt or a cross-body bag, and avoid flashing large sums of money in public. When paying for items, it's better to carry cash, especially Turkish Lira. Some shops accept credit cards, but they may charge a fee or offer less room for bargaining.