Spice Bazaar
This is the city's main spice market, a covered arcade in Eminönü filled with stalls selling everything from saffron to lokum. It's smaller and more focused than the Grand Bazaar, with a strong scent of herbs and tea in the air.
The Spice Bazaar is where you come to buy the ingredients for Turkish cooking and to soak up a classic Istanbul market atmosphere. It's a single, L-shaped covered arcade, so you can see most of it without getting lost. The stalls are piled high with colorful spices, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delight, and plenty of souvenirs.
While it's a working market, it's also a major tourist stop, so be prepared for crowds and vendors calling out. The best approach is to take your time, compare prices at a few stalls before buying, and maybe grab a simit from a vendor outside when you're done. It sits right next to the New Mosque and the Eminönü ferry docks, making it a natural part of any stroll through the old city.
“To experience the sights and smells of Istanbul's historic spice trade.”
The main entrance on the New Mosque side is always packed; use the smaller side entrance near the flower market for a calmer start.
Spice Bazaar + Eminönü Food Walk
Six tastings through the Spice Bazaar and the surrounding Eminönü streets.
The main arcade is step-free and has level stone floors, but it can be very crowded, making navigation with mobility aids difficult.
Good to know
- Is Spice Bazaar free to visit?
- Free
- How long should you spend at Spice Bazaar?
- ~1h
- When is the best time to visit Spice Bazaar?
- Morning
- Is Spice Bazaar wheelchair accessible?
- The main arcade is step-free and has level stone floors, but it can be very crowded, making navigation with mobility aids difficult.
