Shopping in Istanbul

This updated guide helps you plan your Turkish Lira (TRY) strategy for Istanbul travel in 2026 with money-saving tips, real examples, and current best practices.

From Viaport to Grand Bazaar, find the best budget shopping spots in Istanbul. Prices, brands, maps, discounts & travel tips inside.

This guide unlocks the best of Turkish shopping, revealing the brands that offer an incredible mix of quality, style, and authenticity. We explore the cream of the crop, from luxury fashion and unique jewelry to stunning glassware and leather goods, helping you navigate Istanbul’s shopping scene like a local.

Istanbul Cevahir Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world, is a massive retail and entertainment destination in the Şişli district. It features over 200 brands, a vast food court, and the Atlantis indoor theme park. It is conveniently accessible with direct entry from the Şişli metro station.

In Istanbul, 10 EUR (approx. 440 TL) goes surprisingly far, covering a full day of food, transport, and a souvenir. For this budget, you can enjoy a simit and tea, a döner for lunch, a Bosphorus ferry ride (using the Istanbulkart), and still have enough left for an Evil Eye charm.

As of March 2025, prices in Istanbul have risen amid global inflation. Budget travelers should plan €30–35 per day or €150–200 for 5 days. Learn how much taxis, metro, food, hotels, SIM cards, and museums cost — with up-to-date fares and smart tips for saving on your Istanbul trip.

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is an ancient, labyrinthine marketplace that enchants visitors with its vibrant atmosphere. Stepping into this historic maze reveals a treasure trove of traditional crafts, from exquisite carpets and Turkish lamps to jewelry and aromatic spices. Haggling is a time-honored tradition in this must-visit destination.

Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar, is a captivating symphony for the senses. This 17th-century market dazzles visitors with intoxicating aromas and a kaleidoscope of colorful spices, Turkish delight, and coffee, offering a vibrant portal into Turkish commerce and culture.

İstinye Park, located in Maslak, is a premier shopping destination blending indoor and open-air retail areas for a “street shopping” experience. Home to 300 shops, including numerous luxury brands (Louis Vuitton, Chanel), it features a grand Rotunda and a Bazaar area. It is known for its high-investment design and 4,000-car parking capacity.

Kanyon is an architectural marvel in Istanbul’s prestigious Levent neighborhood, blending a high-end mall with offices and luxury residences. It features over 170 shops, including Harvey Nichols, plus gourmet dining. Easily reached via the Levent Metro stop, it offers a premium, all-in-one lifestyle and shopping experience from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

This guide details 18 essential things to bring from Istanbul, moving beyond basic souvenirs. It highlights authentic gifts like edible delights (Turkish delight, baklava, coffee), high-quality cotton textiles, natural olive oil cosmetics, and iconic items such as mosaic lamps or the “nazar bonjuk” (evil eye amulet).

Istanbul remains a global trade hub with prices generally lower than in Europe. Enjoy two major sales seasons (July–Sept and Jan–Mar) with potential discounts up to 70%! Explore the luxury brands on Istiklal Street, haggle for treasures at the Grand Bazaar, or visit mega-malls like Cevahir. Remember to look for the Tax Free Shopping sign for potential refunds.