Gaziantep Old City & Bakırcılar Çarşısı - a group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings
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Gaziantep Old City & Bakırcılar Çarşısı

4.6
·20k reviews·, Türkiye

Gaziantep's Old City is a UNESCO gastronomy hub, famed for its baklava and vibrant copper bazaar, offering a rich cultural and culinary journey.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

CrowdLow
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Gaziantep Old City & Bakırcılar Çarşısı - a group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings

Gaziantep Old City & Bakırcılar Çarşısı

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Gaziantep's Old City is a UNESCO gastronomy hub, famed for its baklava and vibrant copper bazaar, offering a rich cultural and culinary journey.

4.6
(20k reviews)

"A feast for the senses, from world-class baklava to handcrafted copper treasures!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Taste Everything! :ice_cream:

Vendors offer generous samples of baklava and spices. Don't be shy to try them all!

Bazaar Navigation :motorcycle:

Be alert for motorcycles and bikes zipping through the bazaar. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baklava Bliss

Baklava Bliss

Various Baklava Shops

Indulge in Gaziantep's legendary baklava, a sweet symphony of pistachios and honey. Taste the authentic flavors that make this city a culinary capital.

Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Copper Bazaar)

Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Copper Bazaar)

Old City

Discover a treasure trove of handcrafted copperware, from intricate pots to decorative plates. A perfect spot for unique souvenirs and a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship.

Authentic Kebabs

Authentic Kebabs

Local Restaurants

Savor the rich, smoky flavors of Gaziantep kebabs. Try specialties like Ezmeli Tava for a true taste of the region's renowned meat dishes.

Historic Streets & Architecture

Historic Streets & Architecture

Bey Mahallesi & Old City

Wander through charming old streets, admire Ottoman architecture, and stumble upon hidden mosques and museums. Experience the city's deep historical roots.

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Embrace the Flavors and Crafts

Gaziantep's Old City is a feast for the senses! Dive into world-renowned baklava and savory kebabs. Don't miss the chance to explore the Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Copper Bazaar) for unique handcrafted souvenirs. Be prepared for delicious samples!

Navigate the Bustling Bazaar

The Bakırcılar Çarşısı is a vibrant hub, but watch out for motorcycles and bikes weaving through the narrow lanes. While prices can be touristy, handcrafted items offer great value. Look for authentic pieces and enjoy the friendly vendors offering samples.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Bazaar buzz, golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tasty Turkish Baklava in Gaziantep 🇹🇷 Gaziantep is the home of baklava. My local friend's favourite Baklava restaurant is 'Çelebioğulları', and they took me there to try some tasty Turkish treats. #Gaziantep #Turkey #Türkiye #TurkishFood #TurkishCuisine
@dalephilipvlogs
44.8K likes • 1.1M views

Taste Everything! :ice_cream:

Vendors offer generous samples of baklava and spices. Don't be shy to try them all!

Bazaar Navigation :motorcycle:

Be alert for motorcycles and bikes zipping through the bazaar. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Kebapçı Muzo'dan Zırhta çekilmiş Kebap Dürüm . Bugünkü Gaziantep gezimde Gaziantep Şehitkamil'de bulunan Meşhur Kebapçı Muzo'ya güzel bir Zırhta Çekilmiş Kebap Dürüm yemeye geldim ben iki çeşitli Kebap Dürüm tercih ettim sizlerde hangi malzemelerden,hangi çeşitlerden isterseniz ekletebiliyorsunuz Kebap Dürümleri harikaydı sizinde yolunuz Gaziantep'e düşerse kesinlikle buraya uğramayı unutmayın . ...
@yemekturkiyecom0
40.6K likes • 4.3M views
🏚️🎥 Gaziantep/Bey Mahallesi . . . #reels #reelsvideo #reelsinstagram #instagram #instareels #reelitfeelit #traveller #trekking #walking #vanlife #historia #oldcity #old #oldhouse #human #gaziantep #likesforlike #lifestyle #follow4followback #followforfollowback
__alaiye__
0 likes • 1.6K views

Handcrafted vs. Factory-Made :hammer:

Distinguish between handcrafted copper items and mass-produced ones for best quality and value.

Pepper Power :chili_pepper:

Don't forget to buy the famous Antep pepper, a staple spice from the region.

Gaziantep 🧡💛 #türkiye #kesfet #gaziantep #oldcity #love #sokaklar
hu.alzeer
10 likes • 252 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Taste Everything! :ice_cream:

Vendors offer generous samples of baklava and spices. Don't be shy to try them all!

Bazaar Navigation :motorcycle:

Be alert for motorcycles and bikes zipping through the bazaar. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Handcrafted vs. Factory-Made :hammer:

Distinguish between handcrafted copper items and mass-produced ones for best quality and value.

Pepper Power :chili_pepper:

Don't forget to buy the famous Antep pepper, a staple spice from the region.

Explore Bey Mahallesi :house_with_garden:

Wander through this historic neighborhood for charming streets and traditional houses.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(20k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Gaziantep's Old City and Bakırcılar Çarşısı for its authentic atmosphere, delicious food, and unique handicrafts. The vibrant bazaar is a highlight, offering a sensory experience with friendly vendors and tempting samples. Some note that prices can be touristy and caution is needed due to fast-moving vehicles in the bazaar.

"Visited the place to buy some copper items. All handcrafted right inside the stores. They have handmade leather shoes, cold pressed oil from any kind of seeds you can think of."

Taniyyus Syed

"Beautiful bazaar with vendors selling a lot of copper handcrafts, spices, and many other traditional things. We spent many times here."

Ditya Ayu Dwiputri

"Very authentic place! Highly recommended to visit! You won’t leave without getting some new copper items for your kitchen. However, be mindful—there are both factory-made and handcrafted pieces, so prices and quality vary. Also, don’t forget to buy the famous Antep pepper! 🌶️"

Аsiya

What People Like

Authentic copper crafts
Delicious baklava & food
Vibrant bazaar atmosphere

What People Dislike

Tourist prices
Vehicles in bazaar

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gaziantep's Old City and Bakırcılar Çarşısı are centrally located. You can reach them easily by taxi or local dolmuş (minibus) from most parts of the city. Walking is also a great way to explore once you're in the vicinity. Instagram+1

Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of the Old City due to narrow streets. It's advisable to use public transport or park a bit further away and walk. Instagram

Yes, the Old City and Bakırcılar Çarşısı are adjacent and easily walkable. Exploring on foot is the best way to soak in the atmosphere. Instagram+1

The Old City is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. Instagram+1

Yes, several local tour operators offer guided tours of Gaziantep's Old City, providing historical context and insights. Check online or with your hotel for options. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Gaziantep Old City and Bakırcılar Çarşısı is free. You only pay for any purchases you make within the bazaar or for entry into specific museums. Instagram+1

The shops in Bakırcılar Çarşısı generally open in the morning and close in the evening, typically around 7 PM. Some may have slightly different hours, especially on Sundays. Instagram

While the streets are free to roam, museums and historical sites within the Old City, such as Gaziantep Museum of Archaeology, may have entrance fees. Instagram

The Old City is accessible at all times, but shops and specific attractions will have their operating hours. Evenings offer a lively atmosphere. Instagram+1

Haggling is common in the Bakırcılar Çarşısı, especially for handcrafted items. Be polite and respectful when negotiating prices. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

The most popular souvenirs are handcrafted copper items from Bakırcılar Çarşısı, local spices like Antep pepper, and of course, delicious baklava. TikTokReddit+1

Gaziantep is famous for its baklava. Look for renowned shops like 'Çelebioğulları' or explore the many bakeries in the Old City for a taste of true Gaziantep baklava. TikTok+1

Handcrafted copper items often have slight imperfections and unique detailing. Feel the weight and examine the finish. Vendors are usually happy to explain the craftsmanship. Reddit

Yes, you can also find handmade leather shoes, traditional textiles, and various spices and dried goods in the bazaar. Reddit

Prices vary greatly depending on the size, complexity, and craftsmanship. Smaller decorative items can be affordable, while larger, intricate pieces can be more expensive. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Gaziantep is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy! You must try its world-famous baklava, various types of kebabs (like Ezmeli Tava), lahmacun, and local stews. TikTok+2

For an authentic kebab experience, try places like Kebapçı Muzo for their unique 'Zırhta Çekilmiş Kebap Dürüm' or look for local eateries serving Ezmeli Tava. TikTok+1

While Gaziantep is known for its meat dishes, you can find vegetarian options like lentil soup (mercimek çorbası), various mezes, and vegetable-based stews in many restaurants. Lahmacun can also be ordered without meat. TikTok

Antep pepper is a type of dried red pepper known for its mild heat and rich flavor. It's used in many local dishes and is a popular spice to buy as a souvenir. Reddit

Absolutely! Many vendors, especially in the bazaar, offer samples of their baklava, spices, and other local delicacies. It's a great way to decide what you like. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant colors of the Bakırcılar Çarşısı, the intricate details of Ottoman architecture, and the charming street scenes. Bey Mahallesi offers picturesque alleys. Instagram+2

It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially shopkeepers. Many are happy to pose if asked respectfully. Instagram

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the essence of the bazaar. Late afternoons provide warm, golden hour light for atmospheric shots. Instagram

Look for the intricate details on the copperware, the textures of old stone buildings, and the lively interactions between vendors and customers. Instagram+1

Generally, yes, but it's always a good idea to ask the shopkeeper first, especially if you're taking many photos or focusing on specific items. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gaziantep's Old City offers a sensory adventure for families. The Bakırcılar Çarşısı is exciting with its sights and sounds, and kids will love seeing the copper being hammered. Many vendors offer samples of baklava, which is always a hit with children! TikTokReddit

While the historical streets are great for exploring, keep an eye out for motorcycles and bikes that can move quickly through the bazaar. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, for a more relaxed experience. The abundance of delicious food, especially sweets, makes it a fun culinary journey for the whole family.

💰 Budget Travelers

Gaziantep's Old City and Bakırcılar Çarşısı can be very budget-friendly if you're mindful. Entry to the bazaar and streets is free. While some copper items can be pricey, you can find smaller, more affordable handcrafted pieces. Reddit

Focus on enjoying the free samples of baklava and spices offered by vendors. For meals, look for local eateries serving delicious and inexpensive kebabs or lahmacun. Exploring the historic streets on foot is also a cost-free way to experience the city's charm.

💖 Couples

For a romantic experience, explore the historic streets of Gaziantep's Old City hand-in-hand, especially during the golden hour for beautiful lighting. Instagram+1 The Bakırcılar Çarşısı offers a unique shopping experience, where you can find charming handcrafted copper souvenirs together. Reddit

Indulge in the city's famous baklava at a cozy cafe, or enjoy a romantic dinner at a traditional restaurant savoring authentic Gaziantep cuisine. The vibrant evening atmosphere adds to the charm of a couple's visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Copperware in Bakırcılar Çarşısı

The Bakırcılar Çarşısı is Gaziantep's historic copper bazaar, a place where generations of artisans have honed their craft. Here, you'll find everything from traditional coffee pots and serving trays to decorative plates and intricate wall hangings, all meticulously hammered and shaped from copper. The air buzzes with the rhythmic sound of hammers on metal, a testament to the enduring tradition. Reddit

When exploring the bazaar, it's important to distinguish between handcrafted and factory-made items. Handcrafted pieces, while often more expensive, bear the unique touch of the artisan, with subtle variations and a higher quality finish. Look for items with detailed hammering and a rich patina. Many vendors are proud of their work and will happily demonstrate their techniques or explain the origin of their pieces. Reddit

Beyond copper, the bazaar also offers a variety of other traditional goods, including spices, leather goods, and textiles. Don't hesitate to engage with the friendly vendors; they often offer samples of their delicious local products, making the shopping experience as much about tasting as it is about buying. Reddit

Gaziantep's Culinary Heritage: A Taste of Tradition

Gaziantep is celebrated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and its culinary scene is a major draw for visitors. The city's Old City is a gateway to experiencing these world-renowned flavors. From the flaky, pistachio-filled baklava to the succulent, spice-infused kebabs, every bite tells a story of rich history and local pride. TikTok+1

When in Gaziantep, a visit to a traditional baklava shop is non-negotiable. Renowned establishments offer a variety of baklava, each with its unique balance of sweetness and nuttiness. For savory delights, seek out restaurants serving authentic kebabs, such as the unique 'Zırhta Çekilmiş Kebap Dürüm' or the flavorful 'Ezmeli Tava'. TikTok+2

The local markets also offer a sensory overload of spices, dried fruits, and nuts. The famous Antep pepper is a must-try and a perfect souvenir for home cooks. Many vendors are happy to let you sample their wares, making it an interactive and delicious way to discover the local palate. Reddit

Exploring the Historic Streets and Architecture

The Old City of Gaziantep is a living museum, with its narrow, winding streets and beautifully preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Wandering through neighborhoods like Bey Mahallesi offers a glimpse into the city's past, with traditional stone houses, charming courtyards, and historic mosques. Instagram+2

As you explore, you might encounter local musicians adding to the ambiance, or stumble upon hidden gems like small museums or artisan workshops. The historical significance of the area is palpable, with every corner seeming to hold a story. It's a place where old charm meets vibrant daily life, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. Instagram+1

Instagram reels and TikTok videos often showcase the picturesque alleys and the authentic feel of these historic areas. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven, and to take your time to soak in the details of the architecture and the local way of life. Instagram+1