Egyptian Bazaar in Istanbul: The Spice Bazaar is one of the city's tourist attractions, located in the Eminöü district by the Galata Bridge.
The spice bazaar
The Misir Çarsisi in Istanbul awaits its guests with enticing scents. This is because Istanbul's spice bazaar has been taking place here for 300 years. In contrast to the Grand Bazaar, the Egyptian Bazaar is much smaller. The L-shaped covered bazaar houses around 100 shops. On offer here are mainly spices in all shapes and colours and it is a rush for all the senses to stroll through the colourful stalls of the Egyptian Bazaar. The merchants vie for the favour of the buyers and loudly praise their goods, everywhere can be tasted and touched.
Saffron, paprika, thyme, the rich colours of the huge spice bags offer an overwhelming sight. An extensive range of spices is rounded off by dried fruits, sweets and exotic teas. Visitors really feel as if they are in 1001 Nights. In addition to the traditional spices, textiles and electronic items are now also on offer.
However, nobody should expect real bargains at the Egyptian Bazaar, because the bazaar is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, so of course the traders also set their prices.
Taste Turkish specialities
The bazaar is located at the southern side of the Galata Bridge in the district Istanbul-Eminönü. Even in Byzantine times, the area around the Egyptian Bazaar served as quarters for merchants. The bazaar was built in 1663 as part of the New Mosque. The income from the stalls was used to finance the maintenance of the mosque. The bazaar owes its name to the Egyptian ships that brought spices and medicinal plants to the city.
Around the bazaar a variety of traders have settled and in many restaurants typical Turkish specialties can be tasted. Especially the restaurant Pandeli is famous for more than a hundred years for its traditional Turkish cuisine, it is located on the first floor of the spice bazaar and offers its guests a very special atmosphere.
The Egyptian Bazaar is open daily except Sundays between 9 am and 8 pm.
Personal tip
In contrast to the Grand Bazaar, the Egyptian Bazaar is not so heavily frequented by tourists. Here you will find numerous delicacies such as nuts, sweets, fish, meat and cheese as well as many other products for household and living.
