The Egyptian Bazaar, known in Turkish as Mısır Çarşısı, is one of Istanbul’s most historic and atmospheric covered markets. Located in Eminönü, right next to the New Mosque (Yeni Cami), its construction began in 1597 and was completed in 1664.
It earned its name because it was originally funded by taxes levied on goods imported from Egypt, and for many years, it was the main hub for merchants trading in spices and herbal medicines arriving from that region. Today, it remains a sensory delight, famous primarily for its rich selection of spices, often piled high in colorful cones.
The L-shaped bazaar houses around 85 shops that sell a vibrant array of edible goods. Visitors flock here for authentic Turkish flavors, including various Turkish delights (lokum), nuts, dried fruits, local cheeses, and a vast selection of teas and Turkish coffee. While spices are the main draw, you can also find jewelry, ceramics, and other small handicrafts. Though not as overwhelmingly large as the Grand Bazaar, the Egyptian Bazaar is often considered more colorful and fragrant, offering a wonderful taste of Istanbul’s culinary heritage.
