Istanbul location on the prehistoric trade route between West and East means that most of its inhabitants are shoppers and merchants to the core. From fine carpets, Ottoman antiques to belly-dancing costumes and jewellery, Istanbul offers a variety of all things oriental. It is also famous for its elegant shopping malls and chic boutiques. In fact it gives Paris and London a run for their money in terms of edge and inventiveness; and there are numerous streets and designer malls to keep label-hungry satisfied.
Here are some of the top shopping centres in Istanbul
Akmerkez
Akmerkez has been one of the most attractive shopping centres in Istanbul since 1993, and is located in one of the most vivacious districts in Istanbul. The four storey mall has almost 250 stores and covers an area of 180,000M2. It is visited by both locals and tourists thanks to its free transportation services to and from close neighbourhood places and hotels. . In 2010, it was awarded a prize for having the best interior design by European Property Awards. It has stores on electronics, designs, furniture, clothing and many more. Classy restaurant and cafes are found in the food court and the popular Italian restaurant Paper Moon is also found here.
Kanyon
Located in the financial city of Lavante, Kanyon has more than 160 stores and houses top Turkey and world brands. Its closeness to commercial and business center of Istanbul makes it a popular destination for shopping and eating out. It is also boasts of 9 movie theatres and a number of classy cafes and restaurants. The fashion and music shows in Kanyon is a must attend.
Istinye Park
This popular shopping center is found in Sariyer district and it has all worlds’ celebrated brands in one roof. Its open green and glass dome spaces gives a revitalizing feeling even when you are indoors. This shopping center offers glass roofed indoor and outdoor sections e.g. the street side shopping, Fashion District, green central park, Leisure Golf, Hillside sports and kid’s entertainment center. It is also home to some exclusive restaurants that serve some delicious food from various cuisines
Forum Istanbul
Forum Istanbul is located in Bayrampasa and is one of the largest living and shopping center in Europe. It also houses the giant aquarium of Turkey (Turkuazoo) as well as the first theme park of Turkey (Jurassic land). Forum Istanbul is particularly favoured by families with children and has 10 different themes i.e. Magic Hands Children’s Club, Tiox Entertainment World, Atlantis Bowling, Funlab, an ice rink, Gmax reverse bungee jumping and 10 movie halls.
Istanbul Cevahir
This is one of the most popular shopping centres in Istanbul and is always busy. It boasts of 200 stores all spread in the six floors building. Cavahir is home to numerous international and national brands and is particularly frequented by families with children mainly because of its game centre Atlantis and indoors theme park and movie theatres. Apart from the fast food chains you can also enjoy the traditional food in the many restaurants or go watch a play by the Istanbul State Theatres .Get you Turkey visa today and get to explore this magnificent shopping centres.
Alice, a passionate traveler and blogger who shares her thoughts on various topics she came across. As a solo traveler shares her stories on many blogs. Presently she is working for Immigration green card which enables to Visa Assistance service.
