The Spice Bazaar, also known as Mısır Çarşısı or the Egyptian Bazaar, was named so because spices were historically imported from Egypt to the Ottomans.
Upon entering the bazaar, you will immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of the East, characterized by its exquisite Oriental architecture and an array of spice aromas, colors, and fragrances. Scents of cinnamon, caraway, saffron, mint, thyme, nuts, pistachio, almond, Turkish coffee, lokum, and various rare herbs evoke an unparalleled atmosphere found nowhere else.
A Brief History of Spice Bazaar
Egyptian Bazaar or Spice Bazaar was built in 1660 as a part of the New Mosque complex by Turhan Sultan. It was one of the best traditions in the Ottomans to build a bazaar near the mosque and establish a foundation, which the income coming from the bazaar to the foundation would be able to cover the expenses and salaries of the Mosque. In this way, whatever happens to the state, the mosque complex would sustain itself for hundreds of years.
What to See and Do in Spice Bazaar
Walking through the Spice Bazaar is a truly sensory experience. The vibrant colors of the spices and the enticing aromas offer an authentic taste of Istanbul’s rich culinary culture. Aside from spices, you can also find a variety of local products such as traditional Turkish sweets, teas, dried fruits, nuts, and many more.
Practical Information
What is Spice Bazaar famous for?
The Spice Bazaar is a renowned destination for its vast selection of spices, but also a variety of other products including traditional Turkish foods, herbal teas, sweets, and an array of local delicacies like Turkish delight and baklava.
What day is Spice Bazaar closed?
The Spice Bazaar is usually open every day of the week. However, hours may vary for individual shops and it may be closed on national holidays.
How far is the spice market from the Grand Bazaar Istanbul?
The Spice Bazaar is conveniently located, just a short 15-minute walk from the Grand Bazaar, another of Istanbul’s vibrant shopping hubs.
What can you buy in Spice Bazaar Istanbul?
The Spice Bazaar offers a cornucopia of goods, including exotic spices, fragrant teas, traditional sweets like Turkish delight and baklava, an assortment of dried fruits and nuts, ceramics, jewelry, and even colorful souvenirs to remember your visit.
Do you bargain at the Spice Bazaar?
Bargaining is not only accepted but also a significant part of the shopping culture at the Spice Bazaar. Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price, it’s part of the fun!
Who is the owner of Spice Bazaar?
The Spice Bazaar is managed and maintained by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.
What is the difference between Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar?
While both are vibrant and worth exploring, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world with a wider range of goods, whereas the Spice Bazaar, though smaller, offers a more focused collection, specializing in food items, particularly spices and sweets.
Insider Tips
Engage with vendors and don’t be shy about asking for samples. You’re likely to discover a variety of flavors you’ve never tried before. Also, consider exploring the streets around the bazaar where you’ll find less touristy shops offering similar items at possibly lower prices.
What to Buy from Grand Bazaar?
The Spice Bazaar iss renowned for its wide variety of high-quality spices and herbs, from familiar staples such as cumin, cinnamon, and saffron, to more unique and exotic blends.
Teas of all types, from traditional Turkish apple tea to fragrant herbal infusions, can be found in abundance. But the bazaar isn’t limited to just spices and teas. It also showcases a plethora of traditional Turkish foods such as lokum (Turkish delight), baklava, dried fruits, and nuts.
It’s also an excellent place to buy natural beauty products like soaps and essential oils, crafted from local ingredients. Furthermore, the Spice Bazaar is home to stalls selling ceramics, textiles, and other souvenirs, providing a great place to hunt for unique gifts and mementos.