The Spice Bazaar is a historic covered market located behind the New Mosque in Eminönü, where spices, nuts, and natural remedies have been sold since 1660.
The Spice Bazaar, one of Istanbul's oldest covered markets, was built in 1660 by Turhan Sultan as part of the New Mosque complex. Located right next to the Flower Market in Eminönü, this historic structure has been at the center of Istanbul's trade and daily life for centuries. Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, the market is built on an L-shaped plan with six historic gates.
In its early years, the bazaar was allocated to herbalists and cotton merchants, but over time it transformed into a vibrant trading place selling spices, natural remedies, rare plant roots and barks, flower seeds, as well as nuts and delicatessen products. Today, the bazaar largely preserves its old tradition, offering an experience where locals shop, tourists marvel, and a different scent greets you at every corner.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Istanbul, Gastronomy, Istanbul gastronomy, Bebek Coast.
Guide's Note
The Spice Bazaar is considered a must-visit historical place by the vast majority of visitors. The variety of products offered by the bazaar is its most prominent feature; you can find many things from spices to souvenirs under one roof. Multiple visitors found the section selling animals and plants particularly interesting; it was also emphasized that this area is worth visiting a few times a year. Coffee breaks near the plant sellers are also among the positively mentioned details.
The bazaar can be crowded; this can sometimes make exploring tiring. Although the general atmosphere and historical texture satisfy visitors, the shopping experience is not the same for everyone.
- Beware of price differences: Multiple visitors have stated that the same products can be found at more affordable prices elsewhere; it is recommended to compare prices before purchasing.
- Tourist-focused sales pressure: Some visitors have reported encountering aggressive sales approaches targeting tourists, which negatively affected their overall experience.
When Should You Visit?
The Spice Bazaar can be visited all year round; however, the most enjoyable time is during the spring and autumn months. During these periods, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold; you can comfortably stroll through the narrow corridors of the bazaar. In summer, tourist density increases significantly, and especially at noon, the bazaar can become uncomfortably crowded.
The time of day also matters greatly. Between 09:00-11:00 in the morning, the shopkeepers are still energetic, and the stalls are filled with the freshest products. In the afternoon and towards the evening, the crowd noticeably increases. Weekend afternoons are the busiest period, so a visit might require patience. It's worth noting that some shops may be closed on Sundays.
How to Get to the Spice Bazaar?
The Spice Bazaar is located in Eminönü, which is at the center of Istanbul's transportation network, making it easily accessible from all parts of the city. The most practical option is the tram: using the Kabataş-Bağcılar line, get off at the Eminönü stop, and the bazaar is within walking distance.
For those coming from the Anatolian side, the ferry is both an economical and scenic alternative. After crossing from Üsküdar or Kadıköy piers to Eminönü, you can reach the bazaar in a few minutes. It is also possible to connect to Eminönü via metro lines. If you plan to come by car, finding parking around Eminönü is quite difficult, so we recommend using public transport.
What to Buy at the Spice Bazaar?
The most well-known products of the bazaar are, of course, spices and natural remedies. In addition to everyday spices like cumin, saffron, sumac, and chili flakes, you can also find rare plant roots and barks, flower seeds, and herbal mixtures prepared by herbalists. Alongside these, nuts, Turkish delight, molasses, honey, and delicatessen products are also among the indispensable items sold in the bazaar.
When shopping, comparing prices and visiting multiple shops will be advantageous. Opting for openly sold products instead of packaged ones is both fresher and allows for flexibility in weight. For those looking for tourist souvenirs, there are also many options inside and around the bazaar; however, you might need to bargain a bit on prices.
Best Spots for Photography
The Spice Bazaar is practically a natural studio for photography enthusiasts. As you enter the main corridor of the bazaar, the stalls lined with colorful spice bags offer attractive shots with their yellow-orange tones. The natural light entering the bazaar in the early morning hours illuminates the long corridor, and the crowd is also smaller at that time.
When you step outside the bazaar, you can get wide-angle shots where you can frame the historic facade of the bazaar along with the New Mosque. In photos taken from Eminönü square, it is possible to capture the bazaar, the mosque, and the Golden Horn in the same frame. The narrow streets on the Flower Market side also offer interesting shooting spots for those looking for an authentic Istanbul atmosphere.
What and Where to Eat Nearby?
Right around the Spice Bazaar, you'll find some of Istanbul's most established culinary stops. The fish sandwich boats, which have become a symbol of Eminönü, greet you right under the Galata Bridge; you definitely shouldn't miss trying fresh fish sandwiches here.
You can treat yourself to fresh spices, Turkish delight, or nuts from the shops inside the bazaar. There are also tea gardens and small restaurants in the surrounding historic inns and around Eminönü square. This part of the historical peninsula is one of Istanbul's richest spots for street food.
Things to Know Before Your Visit
Although the Spice Bazaar is a free venue, it's wise to be careful when shopping. Especially during busy hours, be vigilant against pickpockets; it's recommended to carry your bag in front of you. It's known that some shopkeepers may charge higher prices for foreign visitors; therefore, it's sensible to inquire about the price of items you intend to buy at a few different shops.
Since the bazaar is narrow and crowded, navigating with large suitcases or backpacks will be difficult for both you and other visitors. Choosing comfortable walking shoes will provide great ease, especially on the cobblestone streets around the bazaar. Since the bazaar has an L-shaped plan, getting lost is unlikely; however, it's still helpful to remember which gate you entered through by paying attention to their locations.
Spice Bazaar Videos
Spice Bazaar videos load when you open this section to keep the page fast.
Show videos
FAQ
Updated:
