Shopping Bazaars

While Istanbul has its world-famous version, the Alanya region boasts its own impressive alternatives. These are fixed-location shopping centers designed to mimic the atmosphere of a traditional bazaar with a modern twist.

Location: Okurcalar (approx. 10 minutes from Avsallar). Open daily from 09:00 to 23:00.

What to buy: A massive variety of textiles, "genuine fake" designer brands, watches, and evening wear.

Price range: Mid-range ($20–$150).

Haggling: Essential. Expect to start at 50% of the initial asking price.

Tips: It is best visited in the evening when the neon lights create a festive atmosphere and the air is cooler.

Alanya Grand Bazaar (Cuma Pazarı Area)

Location: Central Alanya, near the harbor. Open daily 08:30 to 24:00.

What to buy: Jewelry, high-quality leather jackets, and Turkish lamps.

Price range: Variable ($10–$500+).

Haggling: Accepted and expected for high-ticket items like leather and gold.

The weekly markets (Pazar) are the heartbeat of local life.

These nomadic markets move from district to district, bringing fresh produce and incredible bargains to each neighborhood.

Avsallar Wednesday Market

Location: Central Avsallar, near the clock tower. Wednesdays, 08:00 to 18:00.

What to buy: Local honey, fresh figs, spices, cotton t-shirts, and household goods.

Price range: Budget-friendly ($2–$30).

Haggling: Encouraged for textiles and souvenirs; less common for small amounts of produce.

Tips: Go early for the freshest fruit or late (after 16:00) for the absolute lowest prices on clothing as vendors look to lighten their load.

Alanya Friday Market (Cuma Pazarı)

Location: Near the Alanya Dolmuş station. Fridays, 08:00 to 19:00.

What to buy: Authentic village products, cheeses, and hand-woven textiles.

Price range: Budget ($1–$50).

Turkish craftsmanship is world-renowned.

When shopping in Avsallar, look for these iconic items:

Turkish Ceramics: Hand-painted bowls and plates with tulip motifs. Fair price: $5–$40 depending on size.

Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu): The blue glass eye designed to ward off bad luck.

Turkish Lamps: Intricate mosaic glass lanterns that cast colorful shadows.

Fair price: $15–$60.

Leather Goods: Turkey is a top producer of high-quality leather.

Look for soft lambskin jackets. Fair price: $150–$400.

Don't leave without filling your suitcase with the flavors and textures of the Antalya region:

Spices & Sweets: Sumac, pul biber (chili flakes), and authentic Turkish Delight (Lokum). Avoid the pre-packed boxes; buy by weight for better quality.

Textiles: Turkish cotton is exceptionally soft. Look for Peshtemals (thin hammam towels) which are perfect for the beach and dry instantly.

Olive Oil Products: The region is lush with olive groves. Look for organic oils and handmade olive oil soaps.

As you explore these markets, remember that the area is perfectly connected to neighboring hubs. To make the most of your stay, you can book tours, excursions, and day trips with free hotel pickup from Avsallar, Alanya, and across the Antalya region at www.siwixtour.com, which is a helpful resource for navigating the coastline beyond the shops.

Atatürk Boulevard (Alanya): The main artery for shopping, featuring brands like LC Waikiki and DeFacto alongside local boutiques.

Avsallar Center: The main street in Avsallar is lined with pharmacies (great for skincare), jewelry shops, and leather outlets.

Haggling is a cultural art form in Turkey.

Follow these rules for a successful deal:

Stay Polite: It’s a social interaction, not a battle. Smile and enjoy the conversation.

Know Your Max: Have a price in mind before you start.

The "Walk Away" Move: If the price isn't right, politely say "no thank you" and walk away. Frequently, the vendor will call you back with a better offer.

Cash is King: You will often get a better discount if you pay in cash (Lira, Euro, or Dollars) rather than by card.

Market/Shop Location Open Days Best Buys Price Range Haggling?

Avsallar Bazaar Central Avsallar Wednesdays Spices, Fresh Fruit, Textiles $ - $$ Yes

Alara Grand Bazaar Okurcalar Daily Fashion, Watches, Bags

Alanya Friday Market Central Alanya Fridays Village Cheese, Olive Oil, Fabrics $ - $$ Yes

Alanya Grand Bazaar Near Harbor Daily Leather, Gold, Ceramics

Atatürk Boulevard Alanya Daily Brand Name Clothing, Shoes

Shopping in Avsallar is more than just a transaction—it is an immersion into the local culture. From the aroma of freshly ground coffee to the glint of hand-beaten copper, the treasures you find here will serve as lasting memories of your Turkish getaway.