Hotels near Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi, also called the Egyptian Bazaar) is Istanbul's second-largest covered market, built in 1660 as part of the New Mosque complex at Eminonu. The L-shaped hall contains around 85 shops selling spices, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delight, teas, and natural remedies. The air inside is a dense mix of saffron, sumac, dried chilli, and roasted nuts - one of the most evocative sensory experiences in the city.

Unlike the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar is compact enough to see in 30-45 minutes. Prices inside the main hall tend to be tourist-inflated - the streets immediately outside the bazaar (especially Hasircilar Caddesi running uphill toward the Grand Bazaar) offer the same products at significantly lower prices and a more local atmosphere. The bazaar sits at the Eminonu waterfront, making it easy to combine with a Bosphorus ferry departure from the adjacent terminal.

Pro Tip: Buy your spices and Turkish delight from the shops on the streets behind the Spice Bazaar rather than inside - quality is equivalent and prices are 30-50% lower. For the freshest Turkish delight in the area, look for shops where it is made on-site rather than pre-packaged. The rooftop terrace of the Hamdi Restaurant above the bazaar has outstanding views over the Golden Horn.