Shopping Tour in Istanbul Bazaars
Shop Istanbul's oldest bazaars with a local guide who grew up in them, on a private tour shaped around what you want to find.
What you'll experience
You'll be joined by a local guide who has spent their life in Istanbul's bazaars, not just someone who knows the markets but someone who is part of them. From the moment you arrive, the tour is shaped around you and what you are looking for. You start at the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, move through the busy streets of Eminönü, and finish in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. At every stop your guide introduces you to trusted vendors, shares the history behind what you see, and makes sure you shop smart, pay a fair price, and take home something you are glad to have.
- Local guide — a hospitality expert and bazaar native
- Unlimited tea and small tastings at every shop
- Entrance to all markets
- Digital Istanbul Guidebook
- Personal purchases and shopping expenses
- Food and drinks outside of included tastings
- Transportation to/from the meeting point
Egyptian Spice Bazaar
Step into one of Istanbul's most colourful and aromatic markets, packed with spices, sweets, teas, and local delicacies. Your guide shows you what to look for, how to smell and taste before you buy, and which stalls have the best quality.
Eminönü Square & Market
Walk the busy streets around Eminönü, where much of the city's daily shopping happens. Small shops along the waterfront sell everything from spices and kitchen goods to souvenirs and street food. Your guide knows which stalls are worth stopping at, and which ones to skip.
Grand Bazaar
Enter one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, over 4,000 shops across a maze of historic streets. Your guide takes you straight to the best vendors for Turkish carpets, handmade ceramics, jewellery, leather goods, and souvenirs. You learn how to bargain with confidence, spot good craftsmanship, and steer clear of the tourist traps, with the history of the market along the way.
Frequently asked questions
Which bazaars will we visit on this tour?
You'll start at the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, walk through the streets of Eminönü, and finish at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Your guide introduces you to trusted vendors at each stop.
How much does the tour cost?
The price starts from $50 per person, and it scales with the size of your group. This is a private, customized tour, so the experience is shaped around you and what you're looking for.
Where do we meet, and how do I get there?
The tour begins at Eminönü. Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, so you'll need to make your own way there.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 3 hours. In that time you'll move from the Egyptian Spice Bazaar through Eminönü and on to the Grand Bazaar.
What is included in the price?
Included are your local guide, unlimited çay and small tastings at every shop, entrance to all markets, and a Digital İstanbul Guidebook. Personal purchases, food and drinks outside the included tastings, and transportation are not included.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 3 days before the tour. Since this is a private tour, the timing and focus can also be adjusted to suit you.