Istanbul Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar Shopping Tour

Start your experience with a pickup from your central Istanbul hotel. Settle into your air-conditioned vehicle and soak up the bustling streets and landmarks as your guide sheds light on Istanbul’s historical fame as a trading center. Standing at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, the city, known as Constantinople, was the last stop on the fabled Silk Road and a major commercial hub during the Middle Ages.

Head first for Istanbul's Egyptian Bazaar, or Spice Market, a colorful market that began life in the 17th century and draws flocks of locals and visitors with its spice, herb, sweet, fruit, food, flower and other stalls.

On arrival, head inside and explore, with your expert guide ready to point out the best buys. Admire the eye-popping colors, inhale the exotic aromas, and snap up bargains with the help of bartering tips from your guide.

Next, follow your guide to an atelier, a traditional ceramics workshop. Watch the craftspeople as they make terracotta pottery and quartz Iznik tiles, and then see them adorn the different pieces with intricate Seljuk and Ottoman designs as you learn about the age-old techniques behind their artwork.

Then, head for the Grand Bazaar, where around 4,000 stalls make up one of the world’s biggest indoor markets. Be introduced to the maze of lanes and hans (courtyards) by your guide to avoid getting lost, and dive in to shop for everything from gold and rugs to ceramics and jewelry. Use your newly honed haggling techniques to get the best deals and when your visit ends, leave the bazaar laden with bags.

After a brief visit to see a carpet-making demonstration and a calligraphy master shop, return to your coach and end your tour with a drop-off at your hotel.