Çarşı Street

Walk along Çarşı Street, the vibrant heart of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, filled with color, energy, and traditional Turkish crafts.

Brief History: Çarşı Street, the central thoroughfare inside the Grand Bazaar, dates back to the late 15th century and has evolved as the main commercial artery of the market. It connects multiple bedestens and gates across the bazaar. Notable Features: Lined with hundreds of shops, this street is covered with high, vaulted ceilings decorated with painted Ottoman motifs. The symmetry and layout reflect a mix of Byzantine influences and Islamic geometric planning. Fun Fact: This street is often used in movie scenes and photo shoots due to its classical bazaar ambiance and dramatic lighting. Current Use: It’s the busiest lane in the bazaar, ideal for people-watching and browsing an eclectic mix of leather goods, lamps, ceramics, and textiles.