Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı), is one of the oldest markets in Istanbul, and one of the best places in the city to buy typical products, such as spices, sweets, or nuts. It can be found in Eminönu, just around the corner from Galata bridge.
The spice bazaar is built in an L shape, and has 6 entrance points. It's a beautifully decorated market packed with colour: truly a delight for all the senses.
History
the history of the Spice Bazaar go back to 1663, and it was built just adjacent to, and at the same time as, the New Mosque.
The name of the bazaar comes from the time when Istanbul was the final point on the Silk Road, as well as the centre of distribution throughout Europe, trading spices with Venice as early as the 13th century.
During the 15th century, spices came from India and south east Asia to Egypt (giving the market its other name of Egyptian Bazaar), and from here crossed the Mediterranean to Istanbul.
Our Opinion
The Spice Bazaar is the best place to buy sweets, nuts, cheeses and other typical foodstuffs from Istanbul. Outside you can also find the markets with birds and flowers, and the New Mosque. Not to be missed!
And if you have enough time, between the Spice market and the New Mosque there is a small park with excellent terraces.
Schedule
Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm.
Closed on Sundays.
Nearby places
Bosphorus Cruises (156 m) Galata Bridge (359 m) Suleymaniye Hammam (468 m) The Grand Bazaar (748 m) Cemberlitas Hammam (943 m)
