The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı), built in the 15th century, is the oldest covered market in the world. Covering an area of 54.653 square meters, it also still ranks as one of the world’s biggest covered markets. In other words, keep on reading if you want to be prepared before entering this maze of 56 interconnecting vaulted passages, housing over 4.000 shops with persistent … [Read more...]
How to Bargain Like a Pro in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Elsewhere
The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world housing over 3000 shops, is more than just a sightseeing spot. Ever since the 15th century, it has been bustling with activity. Every day locals and visitors are haggling to get the best bang for their buck. Here are some valuable bargaining tips for the Grand Bazaar and other shops around … [Read more...]
Top 5 Markets in Istanbul
Every week in Istanbul more than 200 markets (pazar) are set. This is an old tradition that comes from the Ottoman times. Markets in Turkey offer more than just fruit and vegetables. You can find almost anything in the markets mentioned in this article. Textiles have a great hand in the popularity of markets. Even celebrities and high-society members are spotted while shopping … [Read more...]
What Is Baklava – and Where To Find the Best Baklava in Istanbul?
You must taste baklava during your stay in Istanbul. The recipe may sound too easy to be true: chopped nuts are spread in between the phyllo (yufka) layers, dressed with butter, baked and sweetened with syrup or honey. But the excellence depends on the quality of the flour, the thinness of the dough (phyllo) and the proportion of the syrup. The origin of Baklava Baklava is a … [Read more...]
Where to Buy What Quality Souvenirs in Istanbul
Actually, the question is not only what souvenirs to buy in Istanbul, but how to make sure the gifts are original and of excellent quality! With Istanbul's vast history and different influences, you get easily overwhelmed while looking for a gift or a souvenir. Not in the least because you'll run into a low quality souvenir shop or stand on almost every street corner. In … [Read more...]