I was looking froward to the Grand Bazaar and while I'm glad I was able to see it, I would…read morerecommend visiting the Spice Bazaar instead. First, to describe, the Grand Bazaar was overwhelmingly smokey. With the heat the smell was even more unpleasant on top of being extremely crowded and I was disappointed to learn from our guide that everything luxury branded is fake. Our visit was included in a tour we took and while I'm glad I was able to visit it, I much preferred the Spice Bazaar which was less busy and had better air quality. All in all, I wouldn't recommend taking a tour that includes the Grand Bazaar during the Summer but stopping in on your own time for a few minutes to take in the history of the space is definitely worth it.

I knew what to expect when I was going to this shopping district, but I was just not in thr mood…read morefor the haggling. I wanted to walk around and check out the stuff maybe get something to eat and purchase 2 t-shirts. lol. However, that plan ended quickly. Window shopping in peace is not an option. Don't get me wrong. the locals are very sweet and everyone wants you to stop by their shop. Each section sells similar to the same products. I stopped to get my two shirts and the bidding started at $40 for two t-shirts. I just smiled said no thank you and left. lol. I absolutely could've stayed and played the back and forth haggling but I wasn't interested. I walked around got lost trying to get back to the tram because this place was huge. They sell just about any and everything. All I can say is I went and don't have to go back. lol.

While the Grand Bazar was incredibly smokey to the point it was difficult to be within it, Misir is…read moreits much younger more comfortable cousin. The air quality is much much better and it's also easier to navigate. If you struggle with air quality issues but want a Grand Bazar like experience I'd recommend stopping in here as it's quite similar but a smaller less busy scale. All in all, I was able to purchase the mini fez I wanted here, so I would definitely come back.

I mean, you have to visit here, right?! The sights. The sounds. The smells. The haggling…read more Plenty of selection to choose from, whether you are shopping for yourself or someone else. Prices seemed fairly reasonable, even with it being a high tourist area. You definitely shouldn't lack for a helpful guide to assist you with your purchases. Fun to try the samples they are giving out also. Turkish treats and teas a plenty.

Tourist Trap? For sure! The Grand Bazaar is a maze you'll get lost!…read more Oldest market, and for me the biggest I have ever been to. It has several entrances and exits, thousands of merchants (no exaggeration) and you'll find everything in here from souvenirs, teas, Turkish delight, spices, fake branded clothes and so on. Higher prices than anywhere else. Beautiful decor, prepare to face the crowds and the maze. You'll be trapped and get lost, so bring your patience along. But when in Istanbul, you have to visit!

The Grand Bazaar has been around since the 1400s and is one of the oldest and largest covered…read moremarkets in the world. It is worth a look just for the experience. There are several gates to enter and it is easy to get lost if you are not paying attention. You will find all kinds of stores here: clothing, jewelry, shoes, souvenirs, teas, spices, carpets and more. In terms of actual shopping though, you can find cheaper prices outside. Because their rent is higher and because they know they can ripoff many tourists, the prices here are inflated even after bartering.