Grand Bazaar

There's no denying that the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul’s Old City is packed with shopping opportunities – with 4,000+ stores, this massive, ancient covered market offers everything from jewellery and clothes to leather goods and handmade carpets. Yet it's less a shopping destination than an essential Istanbul experience, combining impressive architecture and painted ceilings with a chance to see artisans crafting their wares in small workshops. If you're not a seasoned haggler you'll struggle to get a bargain out of the expert traders, but you can still accept the cups of sweet tea and enjoy a bit of light-hearted banter.