Turkey becomes tourist destination which is interesting for many Indonesians, especially because there are usually Umrah packages plus Turkey, or for those who want to travel to Europe via Turkey first, because Turkey’s location is between the continents of Asia and Europe. Cheap Turkish souvenirs are things that are hunted for Indonesian tourists visiting Turkey. The following are some shopping places in Turkey that sell various cheap souvenirs.
Turkey is a country strategically located between the continents of Europe and Asia. Many Indonesian tourists are interested in visiting Turkey, because there are many interesting destinations in this country, namely starting from historical tours of various relics of Islamic civilization in Turkey, then also historical mosques, then also witnessing the beauty of tulips blooming. Turkey, then can also feel the sensation of riding a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, enjoying a variety of unique culinary delights ranging from ice cream to kebabs and various Turkish cakes that can also be used as souvenirs. Buying souvenirs is a must, especially for Indonesian tourists who are famous for shopping. Various cheap shopping places are certainly a game for Indonesian tourists. The following are some shopping places in Turkey that offer souvenirs at low prices
1. Area Around Grand Bazar
Grand Bazar itself is a legendary shopping place in Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar or Kapali Carsi is one of the markets in a closed area, so it’s comfortable because it has a roof. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and also the oldest shopping place in the world. Previously, the market was founded and initiated by Sultan Mehmed II, whose construction began around 1456 until 1451. This Grand Bazaar Market
has an area of approximately 54 thousand square meters, and has become a place for more than four thousand shop outlets spread along 64 streets. The grand bazaar is indeed one of the most famous souvenir shopping centers in Turkey. Many items for various needs can be purchased here, ranging from pashmina, and various t-shirts, as well as a variety of jewelry, accessories, and watches, as well as bags, and luggage, as well as gold jewelry, and furniture, as well as antiques and various carpets and various souvenirs, as well as even key chains to scarves and magnetic patches are also available. In addition to shopping, visitors can also take pictures here, because this grand bazaar has many interesting photo spots such as various ancient buildings that are very unique and have a classic style. When you first enter the gate, you can already feel the unique atmosphere of this high-roofed indoor market. Access to the grand bazaar can be done by taking the T1 tram and then getting off at the Beyazit tram. The Beyazit Tram came into existence after two stops from Sultan Ahmet. It is estimated that this market has been visited by about 250,000 people per day. Actually, the price of goods in the Grand Bazar market is quite cheap, especially if you are an expert in bargaining. But if you want a cheap price, don’t buy it in tourist areas and in stores that are specifically labeled selling souvenirs. Cheap prices can be found at ordinary shops around the Grand Bazar area, such as the Shafa shop behind the Grand Bazar building, so you can get a variety of snacks, typical Turkish cakes at a more affordable price. Various typical Turkish snacks that can be a souvenir to be brought to the homeland. In the area around the grand bazaar, you can also find a variety of scarves and branded convection items that are sold at low prices. Zara set up factories in Turkey, as well as several other brands.
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2. Arasta Bazar
In addition to the Grand Bazaar, there is also the Arasta Bazaar or Arasta Carsi, which is located in an alley behind Sutanahmet Square which is also close to the location of the Blue Mosque. Arasta Bazar has become one of the shopping centers built by Ottoman officials since the 17th century. Arasta Bazar, which is quite historic, has also become a favorite shopping place for tourists, because it has a calmer atmosphere and the goods sold are quite interesting. Some of the items sold in this place are Turkish ceramics, as well as various types of carpets, as well as souvenirs, and clothes and jewelry are also available. There is also a cafe in Arasta Bazar to relax and unwind after a long day of shopping around.
3. Galata Tower
This shopping place not only consists of a line of shop outlets that sell various typical Turkish goods, but there is also a tower that is quite interesting. Tower or stone tower is located in Karakoy Beyoglu district, in the city of Istanbul. In ancient times the Galata Tower was one part of the fortress of the Republic of Genoa colony in Constantinople which is now called Istanbul. The number of store outlets in Galata Tower is indeed not as many as there are shop outlets in other shopping places, but the scenery in this place is very beautiful. Galata Kulesi or Galata Tower was built in 1348. On the top floor of this place, there are restaurants and cafes that are suitable for viewing the beautiful views of the Bosphorus Strait and also the city of Istanbul from above. In order to get to Galata Tower, you have to climb some circular stairs on the top of the hill first.
4. Area Around Sirkeci Station
If you want to buy souvenirs at a slanted price, which is even cheaper, then you have to go to a location that is usually not a tourist area, a local shopping place or one that is not too popular as a gift shop. Like for example in the area of the Sirkeci train station, or on the small streets that lead to the Galata Tower in the Beyoglu area. Bargaining is something that must be done if you want to get a cheap price. Because usually the traders will immediately give the tourist price, therefore there is no need to feel hesitant to bid the price up to half more. Even though in some stores there are written prices, it is still possible to get discount prices, especially when buying in large quantities. The average price of souvenirs in Turkey is quite cheap. Fridge magnets, as well as key chains and cloth wallets can be had for around 1 lira to 5 lira.
5. Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar also sells various items at quite affordable prices, including hats, clothes, and chocolate, as well as cheese, as well as Turkish tea and coffee.
6. Ortakoy Weekend Market
Ortakoy weekend market is only open on certain days, namely only on Saturdays and Sundays. Many stone jewelry are sold, such as bracelets and rings, there is also glass bowling which is quite cheap.
7. Istiklal Cadessi
There is also Istiklal Cadessi, whose area must be traversed on foot, because cars are prohibited from crossing this area. Don’t forget to bargain before buying souvenirs.
That’s the place to look for souvenirs in Turkey, which can be visited while in Turkey. You can also shop at the local Carrefour, to buy various snacks for souvenirs at low prices.
