Spice Bazaar, Istanbul
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Spice Bazaar, Istanbul - by AppleandTree from Pixabay
Description
The Spice Bazaar is Istanbul's best known covered market after the Grand Bazaar, also located in the historical Eminönü quarter. The Turkish name of "Mısır Çarşısı" actually means "Egyptian Bazaar" because its construction was funded by a revenue stream coming from an Egyptian province in the mid-17th century. Historically, it has been the centre of Istanbul's spice trade but the last few decades saw a strong diversification. There are 80+ shops selling sweets (such as lokums/Turkish delights), spices, dried fruits, nuts but also jewellery and tourist souvenirs.
Access & Transport
The bazaar is located in Eminönü, directly south of the Galata bridge. There are several bus stops along Ragıp Gümüşpala Cd as well as ferry services near the Bridge. The Eminönü tram station (T1) is only 300m away.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining a visit there with the Süleymaniye Mosque. Ideally you would want to discover this and the Grand Bazaar on different days, although they are almost next to each other.
Environmental & Social
Consumerist aspects with minor negative environmental and social impacts
Conclusion
The Spice Bazaar is an enjoyable place for tourists to buy and bring back some dried fruit, tea, spices or sweets as souvenirs. Not a dissimilar experience from the Grand bazaar, without the clothes and other paraphernalia. They are not redundant but, if you are pressed for time, you won't miss much by only going to one of them.
Key positive
Very colourful and photogenic
Centrally located
Key negative
A little pricey
The tiring hustle of vendors
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h 10m
Monday09:00 - 19:00
Tuesday09:00 - 19:00
Wednesday09:00 - 19:00
Thursday09:00 - 19:00
Friday09:00 - 19:00
Saturday09:00 - 19:00
Sunday09:00 - 19:00