- Türkiye
- Things to do in Istanbul
- Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
The Spice Bazaar, or Mısır Carsısı, is one of Istanbul's most vibrant and aromatic attractions. Located in the historic Eminönü district, this bustling marketplace has been a cornerstone of Turkish culture and trade since the 17th century. Famous for its colorful stalls brimming with exotic spices, dried fruits, Turkish delight, teas, and a variety of local delicacies, the bazaar offers a sensory overload like no other. Beyond its flavors and scents, the architecture of the bazaar, with its high vaulted ceilings and ornate details, speaks of Istanbul’s rich Ottoman heritage. Whether you're shopping for unique souvenirs or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Spice Bazaar is a must-see for any visitor.
Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) Tours & Excursions
Istanbul - Türkiye
Across Two Worlds: Istanbul’s Unforgettable Day Tour
€70
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Turkey in 8 Days: From Istanbul to Ephesus Pamukkale
€1500
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise & Spice Bazaar – A Journey Through Time
€55
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Private Guided Tour With Historical Riches
€19
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Best of Turkey in 10 Days: Istanbul Cappadocia Pamukkale & More
€2230
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: 4 Nights Hotel Accomodation with Transfers and Tours
€665
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: 4-Hour Turkish Shopping Experience
€152
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Guided Food Tour of Street Food and Markets
€100
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Explore the Heart of History with Hagia Sophia Entry
€150
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour
€22
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul’s Highlights: Private Layover Adventure
€90
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Walking Tour: Secrets of the City and Iconic Landmarks
€66
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul’s Cultural & Architectural Marvels in a Day
€3
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Food and Photography Tour
€100
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Patterns of Turkey: 13-Day Tour
€4800
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Istanbul - Türkiye
From Istanbul: Cappadocia Konya and Ephesus Multi-day Tour
€2250
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Hidden Gems of Istanbul: 4-Day Journey
€600
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Istanbul - Türkiye
From Istanbul: Ephesus, Pamukkale & Cappadocia 8-Day Tour
€1450
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Cappadocia, Pamukkale 8-Day 7-Night Tour From Istanbul
€1,000
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Explore Istanbul’s Food Scene by Ferry: European & Asian Delights
€2
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The Basics
The Spice Bazaar is situated near the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) and the Galata Bridge in the heart of Istanbul. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, it’s a great destination for tourists and locals alike. Entry to the bazaar is free, but be prepared to bargain for the best prices! While credit cards are accepted in many stalls, having cash on hand is always a good idea. The bazaar is a convenient stop if you're exploring other nearby attractions like the Grand Bazaar or Topkapi Palace.
Across Two Worlds: Istanbul’s Unforgettable Day Tour
Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover Istanbul’s wonders with a seamless blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views! From the Spice Bazaar to a magical Bosphorus cruise, this tour covers the city's most iconic attractions.
€70
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Turkey in 8 Days: From Istanbul to Ephesus Pamukkale
Istanbul - Türkiye
Explore the heart of Turkey in 8 exciting days. Visit iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in history, enjoy natural wonders like Pamukkale’s thermal pools, and marvel at Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes.
€1500
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Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise & Spice Bazaar – A Journey Through Time
Istanbul - Türkiye
Embark on a half-day guided tour through Istanbul’s most iconic sights. Explore the bustling Spice Bazaar, cruise along the Bosphorus Strait and soak in stunning views of Ottoman palaces, mansions, and the scenic Istanbul skyline.
€55
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Things to Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit, arrive with a sense of curiosity and a plan. It’s helpful to have an idea of what you’d like to buy—be it saffron, sumac, or Turkish coffee. Prices can vary, so don’t hesitate to haggle politely. The bazaar can get crowded, especially in the afternoons and weekends. Dress comfortably and be cautious of your belongings to avoid pickpockets. Lastly, many stalls offer free samples, so don’t hesitate to try before you buy!
How to Get There
Getting to the Spice Bazaar is straightforward. If you’re staying in Sultanahmet, it’s a short tram ride on T1 (Bagcılar-Kabatas line) to the Eminönü stop. From Taksim Square, you can take the funicular (F1) to Kabataş and then hop on the tram. Alternatively, buses heading to Eminönü are widely available. For a scenic route, consider taking a ferry to Eminönü pier, which offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. Once at Eminönü, the Spice Bazaar is a two-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the Spice Bazaar is in the morning, ideally right after it opens. This allows you to explore the stalls at a leisurely pace before the crowds arrive. Weekdays are less busy than weekends, making them ideal for a more relaxed experience. If you’re visiting during Ramadan or other Turkish holidays, keep in mind that hours might vary, and the atmosphere will be even more lively with festive events.
Day Trips from Istanbul
The Spice Bazaar can be part of a memorable day trip around the Eminönü and Sultanahmet districts. Start your day at the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, then stroll through Topkapi Palace before making your way to the bazaar. After shopping, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise departing from Eminönü pier or visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, perched on a nearby hill. For food lovers, combine your visit with a traditional Turkish meal at one of the nearby restaurants or street vendors offering fresh fish sandwiches (balık ekmek) along the waterfront.
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