The Egyptian Market Istanbul

 

The Egyptian Market (also known as the Spice Bazaar, or Misir Çarşisi in Turkish) is another great attraction recommended by Istanbul Hotel Booker. As the alternative name suggests, this market and bazaar concentrates on selling spices and other dried foods, and even if you don’t want to buy any of these things, it’s still worth visiting if your Istanbul hotel is nearby!

 

Where to Stay

The Egyptian Market is situated in the area called Eminönü on the historic peninsula, right by the Golden Horn. If you choose to stay in a hotel in Istanbul which is nearby to here you’ll be in a really excellent location: close to the Egyptian Market, close to the ferry terminal and close to the tram stop which takes you across the Golden Horn to Beyoğlu and on to Taksim. Of course you can also get on the tram to go in the opposite direction too as it’s just a couple of stops down to places like Aya Sofya and the Blue Mosque.

Either look for an Istanbul hotel which is based in Eminönü or perhaps nearby Sirkeci if you don’t find one there that suits you.

 

When to Go

As the Egyptian Market is open every day except Sunday this gives you a good choice of days to visit. It’s busy almost all of the time, though Saturdays are perhaps the busiest days. The best thing to do if you’re staying in a nearby hotel in Istanbul is to come by, and if it looks too busy, try again later or even another day!

 

About the Egyptian Market

The Egyptian Market was built in 1664, and although not as large as the Grand Bazaar it’s still impressive and on entry you’re hit by the scents of all the spices which are sold here. In addition to the traditionally sold spices you will also find all sorts of other foods as well, including of course some Turkish Delight (called Lokum in Turkish), dried fruits and tons of nuts.

Although traditionally for food, there are some shops opening up in here selling other goods too now as well. Bed linen, basket-ware, towels and other every day household goods plus more high-end items like jewelry too.

In the large courtyard outside you’ll find numerous aviaries full of parrots and lovebirds, making a cacophony, and you can also visit the nearby Yeni Camii (mosque) nearby which is part of the same complex.