Istanbul Markets: Grand Bazaar, Spice Market & Hans Private Tour
Istanbul is renowned for its tantalizing mix of cultures. This is particularly evident in its bustling markets which showcase vibrant colours and aromas, strong cultural traditions and centuries of history. Visiting the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market on your own can be intimidating, so treating yourself to a private walking tour with a local guide is an excellent way to discover the sights, sounds, and smells of Turkey's cultural heart and reveal fascinating stories and hidden details that many tourists miss.
On your private walking tour, you will:
- Immerse yourself in the delights of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Spice Market in the company of a knowledgeable local;
- Enjoy the undivided attention of your private tour guide;
- Expertly navigate the Grand Bazaar one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world;
- Get a crash course in Turkish trade and local traditions;
- Traverse over 500 years of history across the Bazaar’s 64 streets;
- See some of the local artisans at work;
- Visit some of Istanbul's famed Hans, built by the Turkish Ottomans, and find out about the enduring importance for artisans and traders;
- Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Spice Market;
- Taste some delectable Turkish Tea and delicacies;
On this tour, you will journey into the exotic world of Istanbul’s historic markets and bazaars. Your adventure will begin at a centrally located meeting point in front of Istanbul University, one of Turkey’s most prestigious institutions. Here you will get acquainted with your guide before making your way to the colourful Grand Bazaar. Built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1461, the Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world and is widely regarded as one of the first-ever shopping malls. Your guide will explain the eventful history of the market and how it transformed across the centuries into the vast labyrinthine treasure trove you see today. You will soon feel immersed in the ancient marketplace, strolling through its narrow lanes to watch craftsmen and artists at work. You may even step inside some of the workshops and see firsthand how the artisans use traditional techniques passed down across generations.
As you wander the vast alleys of the Bazaar, your intrepid local guide will be happy to discuss the fascinating history of the area and the significance behind Istanbul’s strategic geographical position near the Bosphorus. They can direct you to the best-hidden gems the market has to offer, including a peek inside some of the ancient Turkish Hans, traditional Ottoman-era inns that served as resting places for merchants, travellers, and their caravans. You’ll get a glimpse into a bygone era when the Hans were hubs for commerce, playing a crucial role in the Silk Road and spice trade networks, as well as cultural melting pots where diverse languages and traditions came together as the merchants exchanged goods and ideas.
Your next stop will be at the famous Turkish Spice Market, where you will be able to peruse some of the best herbs and spices imported to Turkey from all over the world. This is sure to be a treat for the senses as you experience sights, sounds, and smells you are unlikely to have ever come across before. You will learn how the market was central to the spice trade during the Ottoman Empire and how it remains a key component of Istanbul’s culinary scene to this day. Of course, no trip to the Spice Market would be complete without indulging in some tastings, so your guide will facilitate the sampling of quintessential products including traditional tea and Turkish Delight.
Your delicious jaunt around the markets will come to a close in the emblematic Eminönü Meydanı Square where you can take in gorgeous views of the Galatea Tower and the Golden Horn as you bid farewell to your guide. You’ll be left with lasting memories of the bustling market streets and perhaps some trinkets and tasty treats to take home.
