Experience Istanbul's diverse shopping scene from historic bazaars to modern luxury malls. This carefully planned itinerary takes you through centuries of commerce, from the 500-year-old Grand Bazaar to contemporary designer boutiques, with culinary delights along the way.
08:00 - 09:00
Start your shopping day with Istanbul's most famous baklava at this historic establishment. Their traditional Turkish breakfast includes fresh pastries, cheese, olives, and tea. Don't miss trying their legendary baklava – the perfect sweet energy boost before your shopping adventure begins.
41.0166406,28.9697745
Everyday 9 AM-8 PM
09:00 - 09:30
From Karaköy, take the T1 tram line to Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı station, the stop for the Grand Bazaar. This historic tram line connects many of Istanbul's shopping districts and offers scenic views of the Golden Horn as you cross the Galata Bridge.
09:30 - 11:30
Immerse yourself in one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets with over 4,000 shops. Navigate the labyrinthine alleys organized by product type - jewelry, carpets, leather, antiques, and textiles. Stop at Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi for Turkish coffee, visit Sevan Bıçakçı for unique jewelry designs, and don't miss İznik Classics for traditional Turkish ceramics. Remember to bargain - it's expected and part of the experience!
41.0106848,28.9680681
Everyday except Sun: 8:30 AM-7 PM
The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is a large covered market located in the center of the city. It was built in the 15th century and is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world. The bazaar is made up of over 60 streets and 4,000 shops, and is known for its wide variety of goods, including jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and spices. The bazaar is a popular destination for tourists and offers a unique and vibrant shopping experience. It is also an important part of Istanbul's cultural and historical heritage, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
11:30 - 11:40
A scenic 10-minute walk (0.8 km) downhill from the Grand Bazaar to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar. The route passes through the bustling commercial heart of Old Istanbul with numerous small shops and street vendors to browse along the way.
11:40 - 12:40
Delight your senses at this colorful covered market dating back to 1664. Famous for its aromatic spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, and specialty foods. Visit Ucuzcular for premium spice blends, Malatya Pazarı for the finest dried fruits, and Pandeli (upstairs) for a glimpse of old-world Istanbul. The displays of colorful spice mounds and hanging dried goods create a photographer's paradise and perfect souvenir shopping opportunities.
41.01650009999999,28.9705194
Everyday 8 AM-7:30 PM
Built in 1664, this L-shaped bazaar is one of Istanbul's oldest and most colorful markets. Its vaulted halls are filled with shops selling spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, tea, and traditional remedies. The market was historically a major stop on the Silk Road and served as the city's center for spice trade. Today, it offers a feast for the senses with its vibrant displays, aromatic atmosphere, and opportunities to sample local delicacies. Located near the Galata Bridge and the New Mosque, it's easily combined with other historic sites in the area.
12:40 - 12:50
A short 5-minute walk (0.3 km) from the Spice Bazaar to Hamdi Restaurant, located near the waterfront with beautiful views of the Golden Horn and Galata Bridge.
12:50 - 14:20
Refuel at this famous kebab restaurant with stunning views of the Golden Horn and Galata Bridge. Known for its authentic southeastern Turkish cuisine, especially Urfa and Adana kebabs, their menu also features mezze platters and regional specialties. The terrace seating offers a perfect midday break from shopping with panoramic vistas of Istanbul's waterfront.
41.0185296,28.9707519
Everyday 8 AM-9:30 PM
14:20 - 15:00
Take a scenic ferry ride from Eminönü across the Bosphorus to Üsküdar (15 minutes), then connect to the M4 metro line to Gayrettepe, and finally a short M2 metro ride to Zorlu Center. This combination showcases Istanbul's efficient public transport system and offers beautiful Bosphorus views during the ferry crossing.
15:00 - 17:00
Experience luxury shopping at this ultra-modern complex housing high-end international brands and designer boutiques. Visit Turkey's only Apple Store, explore fashion flagships like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Burberry, and browse local Turkish designers at Beymen. The center's award-winning architecture features green terraces and artistic installations, while the Performing Arts Center hosts world-class performances.
41.0669934,29.0155549
Everyday 10 AM-10 PM
Zorlu Center is a shopping and entertainment complex. It is located in the Zorlu Center District of the city, and it is one of the largest and most popular malls in Istanbul. Zorlu Center offers a wide range of shopping and dining options, as well as a cinema, a theater, and a variety of other entertainment options. The complex is also home to several luxury brand stores, hotels, and residential buildings.
17:00 - 17:30
Board the M2 metro line at Zorlu Center and travel to Seyrantepe station, then connect via the M7 line to Vadistanbul station. This efficient metro connection showcases Istanbul's modern transportation infrastructure as you head to your final shopping destination.
17:30 - 19:30
Discover one of Istanbul's newest and largest shopping destinations with over 250 stores spread across two connected malls. The complex features an open-air shopping street, international and Turkish fashion brands, home goods, electronics, and an impressive selection of dining options. Don't miss the unique indoor canal running through the mall, inspired by the Bosphorus Strait.
41.1073968,28.986714
Everyday 10 AM-10 PM
19:30 - 21:00
Complete your shopping day with dinner at one of Vadistanbul's upscale restaurants. Choose from international cuisine at Huqqa or The Hunger, traditional Turkish dishes at Develi, or seafood specialties at Kalamata. Many restaurants offer terrace seating with views of the Belgrade Forest, creating a relaxing atmosphere to review your day's purchases and plan tomorrow's shopping adventures.