7 ways to shop like a pro in Istanbul

Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been one of the world’s greatest shopping and trading cities for centuries. Here are some tips and tricks on how to make the most of a trip to the city.

1 Bargain hard

Istanbul’s shopkeepers have been driving hard bargains for centuries. Haggling isn’t as universal as it used to be, but across all establishments — except the most exclusive ones — you can beat the price down. Seek out streets where shops selling near-identical goods are clustered together — that way, the shopkeeper knows you can take your business next door. Don’t look too keen, and don’t rush. Get the dealer to name his price first, keep a poker face, and be prepared to walk if you don’t get the price you want. Above all, keep smiling.

2 Card or cash?

You’ll get a better deal for cash almost everywhere, and many smaller stores and street traders do not accept plastic. Beware of fraudsters and never let your card out of sight. However, if you’re buying from a shop that ships heavy or bulky items such as rugs and carpets, using a credit card will give you the chance of getting your money back if your purchase doesn’t turn up, or is damaged in transit.

3 The real deal

If your budget won’t accommodate designer clothes, you’ll find affordable copies around the bazaars. But if you can afford the real thing, cross the Golden Horn to Nişantaşi, where you can hit up posh boutiques stocked with brands such as Prada, Dior, Cartier, Chanel, Christian Louboutin and Louis Vuitton along the famous Abdi İpekçi Street.

4 Best buys

From riches to rags and back, Beyoğlu was once Istanbul’s wealthiest district, but its glamour faded briefly during the 1970s due to migration from the area. However, it made a massive comeback and remains a great lifestyle destination, and a place to find unique jewellery.

5 Antique ties

Treasures from the east and west and relics of many empires make Istanbul’s antique shops a collector’s haven. You’ll find some of the best stuff in Çukurcuma in the heart of Beyoğlu along with hip boutiques and vintage-wear shops.

6 Beside the Bosporus

On the European shore of the Bosporus and in the shadows of the world’s only intercontinental bridge, the rejuvenated Beşiktaş neighbourhood is home to dozens of designer boutiques, cafés, restaurants and art galleries, clustered near the grandiose 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace. There’s plenty to tempt you in the Akaretler Row Houses, including diamond jewellery, antiques and musical instruments.

7 Ferry to Asia

To cross over from Istanbul’s European side to its Asian half, don’t cab it. Take a ferry instead across the strait to Kadıköy — and beyond — in less than 30 minutes and enjoy beautiful views of the old city along the way. On the other side, Bağdat Caddesi is lined with big names such as Zara, Longchamp and Swarovski, while the Şaşkınbakkal and Erenköy neighbourhoods towards the west are full of quirky boutiques and galleries.