Turkey is a paradise to shoppers with the rich mixture of the east and west in its colorful and lively and busy bazaars. Turkish bazaars are not only a place to get goods, but they are also a part of the culture which is characterized by centuries of trade and craftsmanship, aromatic spices, handmade ceramics, rich textiles, and intricate jewelry. To the tourist who would like to have a taste of this mix of shopping and culture, the Turkish markets are a must visit destination in a Turkey Tour.
Now, it is quite easy to get Turkey Visa whether you are going to the Gulf region or any other place. Oman tourists especially can easily apply Turkey Visa in Oman to plunge in the cultural depths of this vibrant nation. This is a guide to the best Turkish bazaars where you could have a real shopping experience and at the same time experience Turkish culture.
1. Grand Bazaar (Kapalicsarh) Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the biggest covered markets in the world and the highlight of the Turkish shopping culture. The market that is over 60 streets long and has more than 4,000 shops is a historical market, which has a variety of merchandise, including carpets, jewelry, textiles, spices, antiques, and souvenirs. The Grand Bazaar is like a time machine in walking. It is thrilling and nostalgic to be in its maze-like layout, colorful, and having the sound of haggling around.
2. Istanbul Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar is also in Istanbul and it is a riot of color and smell. This is where you can discover a great variety of spices, dried fruits, nuts, teas and traditional Turkish delights. The bazaar has been operating since the 17 th century and still draws both locals and tourists. It is an ideal location to visit and buy original ingredients by people who want to learn more about the Turkish culinary culture. No one who is interested in Turkey Tour and has a special interest in food can miss this legendary market.
3. Kemeralti Bazaar- Izmir
Another less well-traveled but just as charming place is the Kemeralti Bazaar in Izmir. This ancient market dates back to the 17th century and provides more local shopping experience than the bazaars of Istanbul. The bazaar is made up of artisans, tailors, tea houses and mosques and provides the visitor with a glimpse of the Turkish life. Kemeralti is a perfect place to go to in case one wishes to escape the crowd and find original products like handmade shoes, fabrics, or local cuisine.
4. Arasta Bazaar Istanbul
Arasta Bazaar is a small and less intense market located close to the Blue Mosque unlike its huge neighbor, the Grand Bazaar. It is most well-known by its assortment of handicraft items such as carpets, ceramics and fabrics. The peculiarity of this bazaar is its historical background and the lack of the huge crowd. Arasta Bazaar is the undiscovered treasure of the visitors on a Turkey Holiday Package wishing to do their shopping at their own pace and yet be able to have access to quality and authentic Turkish products.
5. Ancient Bazaar – Antalya
The Old Bazaar of Antalya is an allusion of a seaside town with the wealth of Turkish trade. This bazaar is situated in the Kaleiic (Old town), and it is a wonderful combination of new and old, where you can purchase leather items, souvenirs and hand made jewelry. To the tourists who spend their days in the beaches of the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, this bazaar is an excellent introduction to local trade without the need of going too far away to the beach. It is an ideal shopping venue when on a laid-back Turkey Tour that concentrates on the southern part.
6. Sahaflar Bazaar Istanbul
Sahaflar Bazaar is located between the Grand Bazaar and Beyazit Mosque and is a paradise to book lovers. The market is specialized in old books, rare manuscripts, maps and second hand publications. It is one of the most ancient book markets in Istanbul which dates back to the Byzantine period. In case your Turkey Tour is of a cultural or literary character, this place provides you with something special that you are unlikely to find elsewhere in a bazaar.
7. Ulus Market – Ankara
The Ulus Market in Ankara, the capital of Turkey is the meeting point of tradition with affordability. Ulus is cheaper than Istanbul bazaars, even though it is not as magnificent, but it also offers clothes, textiles, kitchenware, and accessories. It is popular among locals, and that is why you will get the real Turkish products without the tourist price. Ulus Market is a good addition to your itinerary, especially to those who are on a budget or have acquired a Turkey Visa and are planning to visit more than just the most common tourist destinations.
8. Gaziantep Bedesten Market
Gaziantep (Pistachios and Baclava) Gaziantep has a covered market, called Zincirli Bedesten, where there are spice sellers, copperwork, and traditional sweets. A trip to this market is an ideal dive into the Anatolian culture, as the route of ancient trade used to be there. Gaziantep is a must visit destination in a Turkey Tour, especially by food enthusiasts and people interested in traditional crafts.
Conclusion
Turkey shopping is not only a process of purchasing some souvenirs it is a trip back in time, through centuries of tradition, work and hospitality. Every bazaar, be it in Istanbul or Gaziantep, has its particular charisma and range of merchandise. These are crucial destinations to anybody interested in getting a feel of the real Turkey other than the common sightseeing places.
You should also apply the correct Turkey Visa before you plan your trip, especially when you are coming in the Gulf region. To the travelers in the Sultanate, it is very easy to get a Turkey Visa in Oman and this opens the gates to one of the most culturally rich nations in the world. Not only visit Turkey, but also feel it, taste it, see it, and make your shopping really unforgettable, choosing a perfectly organized Turkey Holiday Package.