Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar to Open on Sundays

For the first time in its storied history, one of Istanbul’s most visited attractions, the Grand Bazaar, will be open to the public on Sundays.

The market’s chairman made the decision to be open every day of the week as a response to visitor interest in the one of the world’s oldest market that welcomes up to 400,000 people each day.

Implementing Sunday business may take time to fall into place as shopkeepers have been notified they can choose their own operational hours. Visitors can stroll through the 61 covered streets that make up the market until 7 p.m., although some of the shops only stay open until 6 p.m.

Both locals and foreigners come to shop, but visitors also pass through just to marvel at the market’s sheer size and environment.

Originally open for business in 1461, the Grand Bazaar is comprised of more than 4,000 individual stalls selling everything from spices to clothing to Turkish coffee. Stalls are organized by type of product (more or less), which makes it easier to compartmentalize a visit for those seeking to snag handmade goods like ceramics, carpets and jewelry. The massive space also houses a mosque, a few hammams (Turkish spas), fountains and cafes.