Here's a place to go to when every other attraction in Istanbul seems to have become a commercial tourist attraction. Blue Mosque is overrated as a tourist attraction, not to mention, ridiculous amounts of people try to see the mosque every day. I'm talking lineups nearly a kilometer long and 10 people wide. And when you get inside, it does not live up to the hype. Grand Bazaar, kind of like a shopping mall now. Basilica Cisterns, ok, unique, but in 5 minutes you've seen it all. Hippodrome, in 2 minutes. Topkapi, not bad, but not worth the price of admission. This brings us back to the spice bazaar. Just seeing all the spices piled high, smelling the delicious amazing smells is an experience in itself. Well worth a visit for a person with a cultured and exotic palate.

A beautiful market that made me wish I knew what to do with so many and such exotic spices. Barrels heaped with colors (I wondered how long it took to get to the bottom), trays of sweets, birds in cages :( If you so much as look any merchant in the eye they'll start swooping in. It seems to be oriented for both locals and tourists. In any case, quite a visual spectacle. Probably not prudent to try the uncovered sweets unless you have a stainless steel digestion.

So, you might have to deal with a lot of charming, and yelling, and persistent salesmen, BUT
The colors are vibrant and rich
The lighting is cool
There may be tourists, but watch how the locals go through
FREE FOOD- Try a bit of Turkish delight from every stall, asking for tasters is completely normal

Even if you don't quite know where you're going in Istanbul, you'll know when you're near the Spice Bazaar! It smells so incredible! I had a great time wandering around and bartering for spices, scarves and trinkets. Just be warned - visiting here willl make you hungry! :)

My favourite spot to wander in Istanbul. The small size and fun mix of shops in the Spice Market made it an enjoyable spot for shopping. Good place to pick up some ceramics or spices (obviously) or Turkish delights and other sweets.