It's definitely a lot to handle and experience. In essence it's a huge "flea market" that is…read moreperfect for souvenirs and such. The people can be alittle aggressive but you just gotta give them that same energy. It's doesn't need to be an all day thing but I recommend spending atleast 3-5 hours in there (thankfully it's huge so that's actually easy)

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.

It's a little far from the center of Istanbul but easy the reach by following the 'Şile yolu' and…read morewhen the metro is ready it'll be even easier... the mall is unique because of it's open air-roof... there's a fitness center on the top floor and as every mall in Istanbul all the restaurants are also located on the top floor.. it's not my favorite mall for shopping because the variety of shops isn't that big..

I stayed pretty close to the Axis Istanbul during my visit on Istanbul, so i decided to come here…read moreto have a look. The mall is right next to the metro line M1, make It very reach. The mall is pretty nice, not huge one, but the food court was amazing. It offers many different choice of food, I even got the chance to try some local food like Pide and fried chicken and they were tasty. But the whole mall was so full, barely could find any free table. It was probably because of the holiday. It was pity there was no seat on the terrace but the view was still pretty great. The mall also has a cinema, a gym and many amusement felicities, like game arcade. It is very family friendly and great place to chill with friends. If you are looking for ATM, it is located at the -2 floor.

There are two Altinyaldiz stores at the Olivium outlet center. One smaller at the entrance and a…read morebigger one further in. I prefer the bigger one. Service is good. Staff is very helpful. English skills varies though. I have bought four or five suits here over the years and the quality is excellent and that's the main reason i keep coming back. Also the shirts in the "Beymen business" line is absolutely amazing! And worth every Lira! If you want to make a really good deal be sure to register your cell phone number to gather bonus points which you can use for shopping later on.

Nice tiny shop in Hak Pasaji, Nisantasi, full of interesting old books, toy soldiers, engravings,…read morepaintings and objects.

I did a walking tour in Istanbul. Our last stop was at the Grand Bazaar. I have been told that it…read moreis the largest market in the city. It's huge! You can easily get lost looking at a ton of merchandise. I bought M&M's cell phone cases. I also got Turkish tea. You can score pretty decent deals. If you need to bring back gifts, this place is for you. It does get busy. Pack patience with you! (106)

This place is a haggler's dream. I remember my visit so vividly. From the Turkish delight samples…read moreand gentleman pushing free apple tea to the comical haggling and beautiful scarves. This is *the* grand bazaar often credited fir today's modern mall concept. The energy is buzzing in every nook and cranny of the grand bazaar and you could easily lose yourself in the abundance of colorful stalls selling nearly everything under the sun- but most importantly, artistic Turkish treasures like rugs, lighting, scarves, etc. A few other notables that will mark this experience in your memory forevermore: -The beautiful call to prayer playing over the speakers throughout the hallways -the Grand Bazaar is located conveniently not too far from the spice bazaar (another great stop for treasures and smells) Don't be shy! Bartering is part of the experience and if you work at it, you're in for some deals and fun. (Note that bartering is part of the Turkish culture and almost like a sport in the Grand Bazaar).

Adorable women's accessories shop. Mid range prices. Minimal and delicate jewelry. Love it. Some…read moreclothing and housewares as well. It's one of those places that's good for buying hostess gifts, birthday gifts, and just stuff for yourself. The style of the shop is a mix of modern, feminine, and cheeky. It's cute, but not overly sweet.

I bought some beautiful jewelry from them. Respectfully deciding on a price. They had it sized and…read morepolished before I walked out. The selection was amazing. Zultanite is such a beautiful stone and I love to wear it and talk about it.