The tradition of the bazaar in Turkey, goes back almost to the beginning of civilisation. The custom has always been, not only to barter or sell the produce you have grown or made, but to meet and catch up with the local gossip. Turgutreis market is no exception.
For centuries there has been a bazaar in the Turgutreis area, slowly evolving to its present status. These days it is not just the local people who take advantage of its ambience and shopping opportunities, Turgutreis market will welcome you as a visitor, with a friendly smile, or a chance to taste before you buy. Every Saturday, for as long as anyone can remember, Turgutreis market has prepared the stalls and baked the goods, to enchant you with its aromas and colourful artefacts.
Turgutreis is a small town with a big market. Indeed many people are shocked at the market’s size, it certainly is the largest market on the Bodrum peninsula. It also states that it is the cheapest, so dont forget to bargain the prices down, That’s half the fun!
The market is not only famed for its herbs and spices, lending that rich aroma throughout your visit, but for textiles such as silks and locally produced ceramics. The visual and sensual feast of an authentic Turkish bazaar is there at your fingertips, and let us not forget your taste buds!
Locally cooked, traditional Turkish fare (or ‘sofra’ as it is more locally known) is also on sale at strategically placed restaurant sites throughout the market. If you are hungry that is probably because the smell of gozleme (savoury pancakes) being freshly prepared has awoken your appetite, or the rich aroma of Turkish coffee brewing in the age old way. Even the sounds of the market enrich your ‘Turkishness’ with the calling of the vendors and the chatter as you walk along.
Also, if you are self catering on your holiday, the fruit and vegetables on sale, will probably be the freshest you have ever bought, grown locally without pesticides or additives, you will, quite literally, taste the freshness.
So whether you wish to buy those aromatic herbs and spices or a new pashmina for the cooler evenings, or even an original painting by a local artist Turgutreis market tour will enchant you in every way and leave you happy with your days purchases.
In 2024, price of Bodrum Turgutreis Market Tour is 30 € for adults, 20 € for children between 7 – 12 years old and free for children under 6 years old.
Type | Age | Price |
---|---|---|
Adult | 13 years and older | €30 |
Child | 7 — 12 years old | €20 |
Infant | 0 — 6 years old | Free |
You will be picked up from your Bodrum hotel or apartment by bus with full air conditioning and comfortable seating at around 10:00. Times may vary but you will be notified on your ticket purchase.
Your guide will introduce themself to you and you will begin the 20 minute or so journey to Turgutreis. After an informative talk by your guide you will have free time in the market (usually about 3 hours) before meeting at the designated point and time for return to Bodrum and your original pick up point.
Cost of Bodrum Turgutreis Market Tour is 30 € for adults, 20 € for children between age 7 and 12, free for children under 6 years old in 2024.
Your Transfer to and from Turgutreis market is included in your excursion as well as insurance and guide service.
You may wish to purchase some refreshments yourself throughout the day and you should budget for any personal expenditure, including purchases at the market.
Due to its gentle ambience most people who are physically mobile will enjoy this tour. Though there may be little to entertain young children, the market is wheelchair friendly. Classed as a half day tour, the length of time is enough to entertain without being too long.
First, some Turkish money and if you have it, foreign currency is also welcomed by some of the stall holders. When the exchange rate is good, foreign currency is usually preferred. Please note that stall holders prefer note money and many will refuse to take foreign coinage.
Wear your good walking shoes and bring your camera for those special photos you may want to take.
Don’t forget your suncream and glasses and possibly a good hat to keep the sun at bay.
Bargaining the price is generally a way of life in the market stalls, if not the town shops in Turkey. Don’t be afraid to bargain your way through the market. Where some stall holders do not wish to reduce the price, they may well offer you 3 for the price of 2, particularly when paying with paper foreign currency. Your guide will give you the best advice, so all you have to do is enjoy the experience.