Buy Now

Old & Historical Shopping Streets In Istanbul

When people think of shopping in Istanbul, they typically think of the Grand Bazaar and its maze-like alleys filled with everything from carpets to local spices. If you're searching for anything other than the bustle of the extra-large covered market, though, the city has much to offer. Culture Trip selects the finest shopping alleys in Istanbul, from antique stores to high-street fashion. 

Ekim Erkan
Ekim Erkan
September 26, 2021 3 min
Old & Historical Shopping Streets In Istanbul


The most popular, vibrant, and touristy squares, avenues, and streets in Istanbul may be found here. On your vacation in Istanbul, you may enjoy a wonderful day out by dining out, having a drink while relaxing in one of the famous cafes, shopping, walking, and being entertained in all of those locations.


 


 


Serdar-i Ekrem Street


One of Istanbul's best shopping streets is this little cobblestone lane near the old Galata Tower. There are no big-name labels here; instead, there are a slew of hip shops. Check out Turkish designer Arzu Kaprol's store, Kashif Sofa's antiques, and the beautiful boutique Atelier 55 towards the end. After that, stop by Mavra for a cup of coffee and some wonderful homemade chocolate cake. If you're out and about around cocktail hour, stop by the Georges Hotel Galata's terrace for a cool drink and a wonderful view of the city. 


Imperial Divan Road


Divan Road, which translates to "Road to the Imperial Council," is an ancient road that connects Sultanahmet Square and Beyazit Square and is home to a variety of historical sites and architectural relics from the Ottoman, Roman, and Byzantine periods, as well as hotels, tourist shops, cafes, and restaurants. During the Byzantine period, it was the most significant route. In the Sultanahmet area, this is a highly busy and touristy street.


 


 


Bagdat Street


Bagdat Street is one of Istanbul's most opulent streets. A popular location for both residents and visitors to walk around, relax in its broad variety of luxury cafés, restaurants, bars, and pubs, shop at many major brands and boutique stores, and have fantastic day out activities on a beautiful Istanbul day.  It is located on Istanbul's Asian side. Bagdat Street runs for 9 kilometers from the Bostanci area to the Kadikoy district's Goztepe neighborhood. It got its name from the path used by Ottoman Sultan Murad IV on his way to the Baghdad Battle. During the Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamit II's reign, it became one of Istanbul's most affluent streets. 


 


 


Valikonagi Street


Valikonagi Street is one of Istanbul's most elegant and attractive streets. Beautiful ancient buildings line the street, which is bustling with activity. It is an excellent place for those who want to have a fantastic time in its global brand stores, boutiques, and range of luxury restaurants. It is located in the Sisli neighborhood, quite near to Taksim, and intersects with Abdi Ipekci Street and Tesvikiye Street. 


 


 


Istiklal Street


Istiklal Street is Istanbul's most well-known street and entertainment district. It's a lengthy, vibrant pedestrian strip with a variety of stores, restaurants, cafés, and street performers. There is a magnificent, as well as the amazing St. Anthony of Padua Church and the Pera Museum. You may spend the evening in the renowned Asmalimescit dining and drinking street if you want to enjoy supper and night entertainment.

Find more Istanbul inspiration

Tipping Culture in Istanbul: A Helpful Guide for Travelers
calendar_today Dec 8, 2023 10 min

Tipping Culture in Istanbul: A Helpful Guide for Travelers

Istanbul, the vibrant heart of Turkey, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. While exploring this fascinating city, understanding the local tipping culture is crucial for ensuring a smooth and respectful experience. For this article, we have prepared a guide to navigating Istanbul's tipping culture for you. But before we dig into […]

Safe Neighborhoods to Live in Istanbul!
calendar_today Mar 28, 2022 4 min

Safe Neighborhoods to Live in Istanbul!

Are you considering moving to Istanbul? Surely you aren't the only one on the planet who has considered doing anything like this! Due to the availability of the best colleges and universities, a very modern health care system, and the fact that most of Istanbul's districts are prosperous and elite places, millions of people around […]

Where to Shop in Istanbul: From Grand Bazaar to Local Designers
calendar_today Apr 23, 2025 6 min

Where to Shop in Istanbul: From Grand Bazaar to Local Designers

Shop the Best of Istanbul. Skip the lines and shop till you drop with the Istanbul Tourist Pass! Enjoy access to top attractions and shopping experiences in Istanbul. Get your pass today!

Moda Istanbul Guide: A Local Seaside Escape in Kadikoy
calendar_today May 8, 2025 7 min

Moda Istanbul Guide: A Local Seaside Escape in Kadikoy

Istanbul spreads across two continents like a living mosaic. Palaces and buzzing bazaars fill the European side, yet a quick ferry ride lands you in Kadikoy on the Asian shore where life slows down. Street markets spill onto wide sidewalks, musicians play on corners, and sunset turns the Bosphorus a soft shade of gold. This […]

About App
calendar_today Feb 19, 2025 2 min

About App

Discover Istanbul with ease using the Istanbul Tourist Pass® App! Our interactive map, powered by Google Maps, helps you locate attractions, get directions, and estimate travel times. With everything at your fingertips, Istanbul is in your hands! 
 
 How Do I Get the Istanbul Tourist Pass® App? 
 
 Once you purchase your Istanbul […]

Istanbul for Solo Travelers: A Safe and Fun Guide
calendar_today Jun 4, 2025 6 min

Istanbul for Solo Travelers: A Safe and Fun Guide

Discover the ultimate guide to solo travel in Istanbul—an empowering, safe, and unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most captivating cities. From insider safety tips to top attractions and hidden gems, this article shows you how to make the most of your solo adventure.

Topkapı Palace Fast-Track Entry: Save Time with Your Pass
calendar_today Apr 12, 2026 12 min

Topkapı Palace Fast-Track Entry: Save Time with Your Pass

Unlimited Istanbul Transportation Card
calendar_today Feb 21, 2025 12 min

Unlimited Istanbul Transportation Card

Touch down in Istanbul and the city feels huge at first, yet it starts to shrink as soon as you pick up the Unlimited Istanbul Transportation Card. This little card lets you ride every metro, tram, bus, ferry, funicular, and even the nostalgic red streetcar on İstiklal. You tap once and glide from the Grand […]

Istanbul Itinerary: 1, 2, 3, 5 & 7 Days in Istanbul (2026)
calendar_today Aug 17, 2026 10 min

Istanbul Itinerary: 1, 2, 3, 5 & 7 Days in Istanbul (2026)

Plan the perfect Istanbul itinerary for 1, 2, 3, 5 or 7 days. Discover the best routes, attractions, neighborhoods and local experiences for your 2026 trip.

A Guide to Best Historic Baths and Fountains to Visit in Istanbul
calendar_today Feb 11, 2021 6 min

A Guide to Best Historic Baths and Fountains to Visit in Istanbul

While most tourists come to Istanbul to visit its grand historical palaces and many important museums, there is much more to be discovered in this city. Some of the most overlooked attractions are the historic baths and fountains in Istanbul. You can find many of these scattered all around the city, and each and every […]