When I pictured Istanbul’s bazaars, I envisaged a riot of colour, noise, delicious treats – and I wasn’t wrong! We explored the sprawling maze of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, with everything from gold to jeans to intricate rugs, and the Spice Bazaar, which is smaller and focused as the name suggests on spices, with a hefty helping of lokum (aka Turkish Delight!) Both are found in Istanbul’s central Sultanahmet district, and are about a ten minute walk apart.
The Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar was originally the last stop on the Silk Road for the camel caravans that came from Persia, China and India. Today you will mostly find edible delights within and outside its walls, including many fabulous spices, sweet treats, and even dried kiwifruit! It’s quite small and was packed at its entrances and exits, with the crowds fanning out inside to shop, sniff and snack. 
The white marshmallow lokum with raspberry and pistachio in the top middle of the picture was my absolute favourite – so good!
Outside the covered part of the market, the alleyways around are lined with stalls selling everything from fish to cheese to chickpeas, and of course more lokum.
Special baklava delivery!
Nearby, we admired the beautiful Rüstem Pasa Mosque, which is considered one of the best examples of Ottoman architecture and tiling.
The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar or Kapaliçarsi was established in 1461 by the order of Mehmet the Conqueror. It is one of the largest covered markets in the world with over 5000 shops and lanes that you can easily wander for hours! Whether you’re looking for a souvenir or some serious bling, there will be a stall for you. 
I had heard quite a few negative comments about the Grand Bazaar before I came, to the extent that I was prepared to be hassled and joggled every step of the way. I’m happy to report that wasn’t my experience at all. Like in all cities, you do need to be sensible and alert to pickpockets, but I never felt pressured to buy anything, with most stallholders happy for you to browse and examine the goods. 
These beautiful lamps were my favourite thing in the whole market – if it wasn’t for luggage restrictions and logistics, I would have come away with several! 
Bits and Pieces
The Grand Bazaar is well sign-posted, and found by Beyazit Square and the Istanbul University
The Spice Market is down near the waterfront, close to the Galata Bridge
Entry to both markets is free, but I’d be surprised if you can leave with your wallet unopened!
