Istanbul has always been big on shopping. Historically, it was the capital of trade due to its strategic location.
Long before the Ottoman Empire began, travelers as far as Europe, the Balkans, Iran, Africa, the Arabian peninsula, the Caucasus, the Russian steppe, and the Mediterranean Basin would venture to this historic city to trade goods.
Today, Istanbul is still a hub of trade and shopping. The Grand Bazaar is considered the oldest shopping mall in the world, and you can still find vendors hawking their goods in its covered streets today.
But times have moved on, and Istanbul has moved with it. While you can still find tourist trinkets and traditional goods in the Grand Bazaar and other souk markets, if you’re looking for modern shopping facilities, look no further than these shopping malls in Istanbul.
From designer brands to high-street labels, these shopping centers in Istanbul are the perfect place for shopping enthusiasts to visit. But what does each shopping mall specialize in? Which shopping mall is best? That’s what this guide will tell you…
Planning a trip to Istanbul last-minute?
Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!
Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:
- Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken International Airport (SAW) (Super affordable!)
Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:
- Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must-do In Istanbul)
- Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique experience!)
- Historical Turkish Bath Experience
- Istanbul Food And Culture Tour
Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:
- Magnuara Palace Hotel (Gorgeous hotel in the historic centre!)
- Pera Palace Hotel
- Cheers Hostel (Budget hostel near the Blue Mosque!)
The Best Shopping Malls of Istanbul
In no particular order, you’ll find the best Istanbul shopping malls. We’ll detail the types of products, fashion, and homewares you’ll find in each mall, so you can make a decision about which mall is right for you.
1. Mall of Istanbul
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm, Closes at 10.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Address: Ziya Gökalp, Süleyman Demirel Blv No:7, 34490 İkitelli Osb/Başakşehir/İstanbul, Turkey
The Mall of Istanbul is one of the largest shopping centers in Turkey and is also one of the most popular, since it offers all the conveniences a tourist might need – accommodation, electronics, clothing, a food court, Turkish souvenirs, and entertainment.
It opened in 2011 and boasts over 365 stores, ranging from luxury brands to affordable fashion options. The designer boutiques and jewelry stores attract many wealthy shoppers, but there are also affordable options for budget-conscious visitors.
There are also dozens of restaurants and cafes, a movie theater, and Europe’s largest indoor amusement park called MOI Park. One of the highlights of the mall is the MOI Sahne, a huge theater that offers hosts unforgettable performances.
The Mall of Istanbul offers a unique and exciting shopping experience for visitors and locals alike, and is one of the most visited malls of Istanbul for good reason.
2. Akmerkez
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Kültür, Nispetiye Cd No:56, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey
Another popular shopping mall in Istanbul is the Akmerkez shopping center, which offers something for everyone. The mall boasts a variety of high-end retailers such as Armani, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as affordable brands like H&M and Zara.
In addition to the countless clothing and accessory stores, there are also beauty shops, electronics stores, toy stores, and even a movie theater.
One of the highlights of the Akmerkez is its extensive food court with options ranging from Turkish cuisine to sushi to pizza. There are also sit-down restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the mall.
The mall opened in 1993 in the Etiler district. At the time of its conception, the mall aimed to be something different and unique from other malls in the world. Soon after it was built, it was selected as the Best Shopping Center in Europe by the International Shopping Council (ICSC) in 1995, followed by the World’s Best Shopping Center in 1996.
It was awarded the “ICSC International Design and Development” award, and the 2010 “Interior Design 5 Star” award at the Europe&Africa Property Awards, making it the only shopping center to win two awards.
The mall is huge, spanning over 180 thousand square meters and as high as 8 floors (four are full of shops, and four are garages). It’s also within walking distance of bus stops and there is a Metro station in front of it.
Overall, the Akmerkez offers a luxurious shopping experience with its chic atmosphere and wide selection of over 160 stores and dining options. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit or just want to grab a bite to eat, the Akmerkez has it all.
3. Istinye Park
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Pınar, Katar Cd No:11, 34460 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
For those looking for designer and high-end brands, the IstinyePark Mall is the place for you. It opened in September 2007, and covers a huge 270 thousand square meters, where more than 280 stores call the mall home – 147 clothing stores, plus 41 new brand stores. There are also restaurants serving International cuisine.
The mall has always been more than just a place to shop. With its stunning glass dome and surrounding green spaces, it’s a place to hang out as well as part with your Lira.
Perhaps the highlight of the mall is Market Place, which has 20 small shops that serve up traditional gourmet meals.
The car park has a capacity for over 3,600 vehicles, perfect for those who drive in Istanbul.
IstinyePark is another award-winning Istanbul mall, having been awarded the “Shopping Center Developer of the Year” award by Mapic in 2008 and “Grand Opening, Expansion & Renovation” and the “Maxi Silver Award” by International Council of Shopping Centers in 2009 .
4. Kanyon
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Levent Mah, Büyükdere Cd. No:185, 34394 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey
Kanyon Mall is not only a place to shop, but a landmark of architectural beauty. It’s smaller than the other malls, covering a space of 40,000 square meters, and is home to 121 stores, 22 kiosks and 27 restaurants. There are six floors in Kanyon Mall.
The mall also has a movie theater with 9 movie screens, a fitness center and a parking lot for 2,300 cars.
You’ll find local and international brands retailing here, as well as see open air performances in the open area, adding a lively atmosphere to the space.
It’s most famous for the Harvey Nichols store, as well as other prestigious brands that were introduced to the Turkish market.
5. Zorlu Center
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Levazım, Koru Sokağı No:2, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey
If you’re looking for a mall where luxury, gastronomy, arts and high fashion converge, then look no further than the Zorlu Center.
The Zorlu Center is an architectural triumpth. In fact, it has a long list of awards for its innovation and design. The mall houses over 200 brands in its 72,213 meter squared area – some local and some international – and it also has the largest green roof in Europe, which spans for 10,000 meter squared.
Zorlu Center is more than a mall, it’s Turkey’s first ‘five-functional living space’ offering houses, offices, hotels, a shopping center and culture and arts scene – what more could you want?
The Zorlu Center was the first mall to introduce International brands to Turkey, such as Apple, Asics, Beymen, Bvlgari, Balenciaga, Balmain, Brooks Brothers, COS, Pomellato and Tiffany & Co.
Other brands you’ll find at Zorlu are Burberry, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Moncler, MontBlanc, Prada, Saint Laurent, Rolex, Valentino, as well as more highsteet brands such as GAP, H&M, Lacoste, Mango, Network, Pinko, Tommy Hilfiger, and Zara.
It also has the Zorlu PSM Theater, which is a huge performing arts venue showcasing live music, plays, stand-up comedy, talks and the iconic Istanbul Theater Festival.
Also part of the mall is the high-end hotel, Raffle Istanbul, which is a five-star hotel with spa and fine-dining restaurant.
6. City’s Nişantaşı
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Teşvikiye, Teşvikiye Cd. No:12, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey
City’s is a sophisticated retail center in Istanbul with a focus on upscale and midrange chain stores. You’ll see many flashy sports cars lining up outside this mall, but don’t worry, if you can’t afford the stores there is still a great food court and movie theater.
It’s a small mall, but has everything you need. Some notable brands in the mall are Mango, Cartier, Aldo, Nine West, and for those looking for more affordable chains, you’ll find a Gap, Banana Republic and Network.
The mall is well maintained and clean, and has a lot of coffee shops. It’s less crowded than other malls, so it’s a great place to go and relax in a coffee shop and enjoy some air con on hot summer days.
7. Forum Istanbul
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Kocatepe, Paşa Cd, 34045 Bayrampaşa/İstanbul, Turkey
The Forum is Istanbul’s largest mall, spanning 495,000 square meters with over 286 stores to explore. It’s also home to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, SEA LIFE Istanbul Aquarium, a Cinema, FunLab, and Joypark.
Although the mall is big, it feels very spacious, with wide shopping streets and plenty of benches to sit on. You’ll find many local and international brands here, such as IKEA, H&M, MediaMarkt, Decathlon, and Zara.
There is also over 50 stylish restaurants and bars, offering everything from fast-food to trendy cafes.
Perhaps the biggest draw to the venue is its entertainment, especially for families visiting Turkey. Sea Life Istanbul is a huge aquarium and where you’ll find the longest underwater ocean tunnel in Europe at 83 meters long. It has 61 sharks from 15 species, including a Hammerhead shark, Sand Tiger shark, Nurse shark, Zebra Shark and Blackfin Shark.
Another popular attraction in The Forum is LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, which spans over an area of 3,000 meters squared. Here you’ll see incredible installations made out of over 5 million LEGO® bricks.
For families looking for a mall in Istanbul, The Forum is a great option.
8. Istanbul Cevahir
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: 19 Mayıs, Büyükdere Cd. No:22, 34360 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey
İstanbul Cevahir is a shopping and entertainment venue that opened its doors in October 2005. It has six floors, which more than 300 brands call home.
Inside the complex, you’ll also find a cinema with all the latest blockbusters, a food court and Funlab entertainment center.
It’s most famous for housing one of the world’s best Zara concept stores. Some other notable brands that retail here are LCW, Koçtaş, Teknosa, Boyner, Marks & Spencer and Migros.
There is also a parking lot for 2500 cars.
9. Galleria
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Ataköy 1., Kennedy Cd., 34158 Bakırköy/İstanbul, Turkey
The Galleria is the first shopping mall in Turkey to open (if you don’t count the Grand Bazaar) and it therefore plays a pivitol role in the city’s culture.
It opened its doors in 1988 and was the first introduction of Western brands to Istanbul. It has four floors, with 119 stores occupying its vacinity. It not only offers shopping, but has many sports and entertainment venues as well.
Today, you’ll find the mall is well organized and each brand is easy to find. The basemen level is where you’ll find the bigger International brand names such as Adidas and Quicksilver. There’s also some restaurants and a supermarket.
The first floor is where you’ll find a bowling alley, and the second floor there is a cinema. It also has a 500 meter squared event space.
10. Historia Shopping and Life Center
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: İskenderpaşa, Adnan Menderes Blv. No:2, 34080 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
For those who don’t want to venture too far away from the city center, consider shopping at Historia Shopping and Life Center, so named because it combines history and quality of life.
The shopping complex is home to many open-air cafes, a fountain pool and a glass cage ceiling, which is a marvel piece of architecture worth visiting the mall for on its own.
There are many stores selling clothing, accessories and homewares. There’s also a food market and some technology stores.
For those driving, you can also take advance of the car wash service. There’s also a shoeshine parlour, pharmacy, tailor, dry-cleaner, and small mosque.
In terms of entertainment, the mall has a cinema with eight-screens, a bowling alley and playgrounds. It also has regular fashion shows, concerts, and activities for children.
If you are visiting from abroad, you can also find a Tax Free Port that is reimburses the tax you’ve paid on goods before you fly home.
11. Metrocity
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Levent, Büyükdere Cd. No:171, 34330 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey
MetroCity is another huge shopping mall that covers 51,000 meters squared of five floors. It has 175 stores and a parking lot for 1,200 cars.
It’s also centrally located in the 1st Levent, with a direct connection to the metro station (hense the name, MetroCity).
The mall is spacious and bright with modern architecture. It has everything from high-end brands, to highstreet brands such as JoJo May, Harley Davidson and Marks & Spencer.
It also has a great food court, a bowling alley, cinema, children’s playground, and sometimes offers events and surprise activities.
12. Viaport Asia Outlet Shopping Mall
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Yenişehir, Dedepaşa Cd No:19, 34912 Pendik/İstanbul, Turkey
Another one of Turkey’s biggest shopping malls is Viaport on the Asian side of Istanbul. It was opened in 2008 and is one of the most visited malls in the country, not just Istanbul. It spans for 365,000 meters squared and has over 250 stores, plus a car park for 4,000 cars.
It has a modern decor, with a “street style” concept, embracing the indoors/outdoors living vibe. What makes the mall special is that it’s an outlet mall, meaning you can purchase cheaper products by some of your favourite brands.
When you’re tired of shopping, settle into the food court and be surrounded by nature next to the lakeside. Here you can see peacocks, rabbits, dogs and cats.
Viaport Asia also has a Ponny Club, where children can learn to ride ponies and horses, as well as an Amusement Centre, bowling alley, go-kart track and cinema with 10 screens.
This is one of Istanbul’s best shopping centers, having won the 2014 Shining Star Awards.
The mall also has a traditional bazaar. Here you can see one of the largest domes in Turkey, which spans for 34 meters in diameter and 10 meters tall.
13. Capitol
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Altunizade, 34662 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey
Capitol Shopping Centre is an old shopping mall, which opened in 1993 in Üsküdar. It was the first big, modern shopping mall to be built on the Asian side of Istanbul.
It covers 73,000 meters squared and encompasses six floors. It has 157 retail stores, plus a department store and an MMM Migros supermarket.
It also has a movie theatre with eight screens – it’s the biggest movie theater in Istanbul. It also has a food court with fast food restaurants and cafeterias. Some other entertainment options include a bowling alley and entertainment center.
It’s most famous for housing Capitol Radio, a private radio station that broadcasts from the mall (hense the name).
In the center of the mall is a huge spring fountain surrounded by several cafes. It’s a great place to relax, unwind or catch up on some work.
14. Emaar Square Mall
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Ünalan, Libadiye Cd. No:88, 34700 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey
Emaar Square Mall is a huge shopping complex that covers 138,000 square meters and 6 floors. It has approximately 415 stores and 52 restaurants, plus a car park for 4,200 vehicles.
It opened in April 2017, and has a very prestigious vibe. The Address Hotel Istanbul is a five-star hotel that operates in the complex and it brings with it high-end luxury.
Today, the shopping mall is a hub of entertainment, music, art, and culture which is offered in its fashion events.
The mall has started to tailor its market towards families, with the opening of the Emaar Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Here you can find over 20,000 species which are viewable from the longest glass terrace in Europe at 27 meters.
The shopping mall also houses the Museum of Illusion, The Jump, a 4DX Movie theater, a breathtaking VR ROOM, and PlayBowling.
15. Palladium
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Barbaros, Halk Cd. No:8 D:B, 34746 Ataşehir/İstanbul, Turkey
Opening in September 2008, Palladium is one of the newer shopping malls of Istanbul. It hosts over 190 brand in its 40,000 square meter vicinity.
The mall covers five floors and has a car park for 2,500 cars. There’s also a cinema and food court.
The mall is recognizable for its glass ceiling and dome, which brings in natural light to the whole complex.
The mall is a great place for those wanting to shop for affordable brands such as H&M, LC Waikiki, Gap, Mango and Marks & Spencer.
16. Demiroren Istiklal Mall
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Hüseyinağa, İstiklal Cd. No:52, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
If you’re looking to shop for more Turkish brands, then Demiroren Istiklal mall is a good option for you. It spans for four-levels and offers clothing, footwear and cosmetics stores.
There’s also a movie theater and many restaurants and fast food options. For international visitors, you’ll find a Sephora, Decathlon and Marks & Spencer here.
There’s a food court and children’s entertainment area. This mall is small but it’s ideally located if you need to get something quickly from the city center.
17. ÖzdilekPark Istanbul Shopping Mall
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Esentepe, Büyükdere Cd. No:181, 34394 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey
Another shopping mall in the Levent neighborhood is ÖzdilekPark İstanbul. It was built in 2005 and features 170 exclusive stores, a Özdilek Hypermarket, electronics market, and a terrace area that spans for 3,200 square meters.
If you’re visiting with children, they will love exploring the children’s entertainment area, or watching a movie at the Cinetime Movie Theater.
There is also a huge food court that can house 1,500 people.
The mall is centrally located in the city center and is also reachable by metro.
18. Aqua Florya
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Şenlikköy, Yeşilköy Halkalı Cd. 93-93/1, 34153 Bakırköy/İstanbul, Turkey
Aqua Florya Shopping and Life Center is another mall in Istanbul that combines excellent entertainment and shopping facilities. It covers 53,000 square meters and has around 160 stores, plus a car park for 1,500 car.
It also has an amphitheater with 900 seats, 11 movie theatres, and a further 52,000 square meters of outdoor space including an exhibition-cultural space. The square outside covers 13,000 square meters and is often used as an open market place.
Aqua Florya is located on the coast of Istanbul, which is no coincidence, since it also houses one of the top attractions in Istanbul; Istanbul Aquarium, which is the world’s biggest thematic aquarium.
19. Watergarden
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Barbaros, Kızılbegonya Sok 10/1, 34746 Ataşehir/İstanbul, Turkey
Watergarden is as much a mall as an entertainment complex, and is most famous for its waterfountain show. As well as the fountain show, the mall also houses several restaurants, a children’s adventure park, a fresh market and a nostalgia street specializing in Istanbul street food.
There’s also a cinema, theater, concert area and sports venue.
The mall is particularly worth visiting at night, when the lights bring the waterfountain to life with not just a water show, but with fire, music and lazers.
20. AXIS
- Hours: 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
- Address: Topçular, Osman Gazi Cd. No:2, 34055 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul, Turkey
Axis Istanbul Mall is a stunning mall with modern architecture and a wide selection of Internationally recognized brands. It covers an area of 24,000 meters squared in three blocks, and has seven floors. It also has a parking lot for 1,500 cars.
It is accessible by all public transportation and highways, so can be accessed from anywhere in the city.
The mall features several terraces, a sports center, and office spaces. There’s also a food court and plenty of places to sit down and take a break from all the shopping you’re doing.
Map of Shopping Malls in Istanbul
To help make planning easier for you, take a look at the map of the top shopping centers in Istanbul:
FAQs About Istanbul’s Shopping Malls
Here’s what people usually ask us about shopping malls of Istanbul…
What is the biggest mall in Istanbul?
The biggest mall in Istanbul is The Forum, which covers a space of 495,000 square meters. It has 286 operating in its space, including Koçtaş and IKEA.
Is Istanbul good for clothes shopping?
Yes, Istanbul is great for clothes shopping. It has many International brands setting up shop here, including H&M, Adidas, Nike, Zara, and Marks & Spencer to name a few.
How many shopping malls are there in Istanbul?
There are more than 200 shopping malls in Istanbul, though some of them are more like local arcades than malls.
Are luxury brands cheap in Turkey?
Compared to the United States or Europe, luxury brands are cheaper in Turkey. Especially since the Turkish Lira has been declining in value since 2013, so your money goes further.
Final Word on Shopping Malls in Istanbul
So there you have it, those are the top shopping centers in Istanbul and as you can see, each of them offers something different. Whatever you’re looking for, or whatever your shopping habits are, we hope you find what you are looking for in this guide.
If you have any questions, let us know in the comments.
