One of the most exciting things about Istanbul, besides the breathtaking sites, welcoming people, delicious food, and rich history and culture, is shopping. If you are visiting this city, you always just have to bring something home to remember your trip by.
The fake markets here are interesting too. You can find a wide range of copy items, including clothing, shoes, watches, accessories, and even electronics. Some of them are usually branded with well-known designer names, while others closely resemble them without the actual branding.
The quality of these products also varies. Some products seem high quality and long-lasting, while others don't. Prices are way cheaper than the original goods, and if you know how to bargain, you can walk away with even better deals.
Here are some of the best fake markets in Istanbul.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the most famous and oldest covered markets in the world. Inside, you will find shop after shop selling fake designer bags, watches, shoes, clothes and more. There are copies of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Rolex, and while they are not the real deal, many of them look very close to it.
The shopkeepers here are friendly and used to tourists from all over the world. They often offer tea while you browse and are always ready for a bit of friendly bargaining. The market is busy and full of energy, making it a fun and unforgettable shopping experience.
Laleli Market is not far from the Grand Bazaar, and is well-known for wholesale goods. This is where many shop owners from different countries come to buy clothes, bags and shoes in large quantities.
Even if you are not buying in bulk, you can still shop here and find some great deals. The prices are often better than what you will find in the Grand Bazaar, and the quality is usually very good.
You will find lots of stylish items here, including sportswear, winter coats, and leather jackets that look just like the real ones. It is a great place to shop if you want something that looks expensive without spending too much.
Terkos Passage is a small market located near the busy Istiklal Street in Taksim. It is especially popular with young people and fashion lovers looking for trendy and affordable clothes. It has a more modern feel and is packed with clothes that copy popular streetwear and fast fashion brands.
You will find t-shirts, jackets, shoes and more, often at very low prices. Terkos is a great place to find a few stylish pieces without spending a lot, and a fun spot to walk around and see what’s trending in fashion at the moment.
The Egyptian Bazaar is best known for its amazing spices, teas and Turkish sweets, but it also has some hidden gems for fake shopping. As you walk through the market, you will come across stalls selling fake perfumes, watches and small accessories.
Some of the perfumes are very close to the original scents, and they come in fancy bottles to make them look real. You will also see a few bags and wallets that copy big brands. This market is smaller, but it is still full of colour and charm.
Remember, when shopping in these markets, always try to bargain. Sellers expect it and will quote higher prices at first. Don’t be shy. Start low and meet somewhere in the middle. It is also important to check the quality of the products. Some fakes are made really well, while others might not last long. Try to bring cash, as many shops prefer it. And most importantly, have fun. These markets are not just about shopping. They are part of the Istanbul experience.
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