Who doesn’t love shopping? For those who love a bit of shopping, Istanbul is the place where you will live your dream.
Istanbul, Turkey! Everybody knows this city and loves it very much. And, of course, everyone knows the popular spots like grand mosques, royal palaces, and the Bosphorus, which you see in fancy travel magazines.
Apart from that, this city has a lot to offer that can connect you to modern culture, which involves shopping.
And here, I am not going to talk about the Grand Bazaar. However, everyone visits it by default, and it is in everyone’s Turkey itinerary. But did you know that the malls in the city are extravagant and offer a top-notch shopping experience?
I will let you in on my findings of the best shopping mall in Istanbul. You will see big, modern malls packed with international brands, and unique outlets with a European touch.
Apart from regular shopping, these malls offer famous global brands, affordable Turkish fashion, family-friendly relaxation areas, and a wide range of food options. You basically get everything in one place without travelling around the city.
List of the Best Malls in Istanbul
Malls in Istanbul are known for their diverse mix of activities. Plus, it has entertainment facilities where you can have fun and stunning architecture to admire.
All these malls are spread across both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, so no matter where you stay, there’s always one close by.
Mall Of Istanbul
Highlight: MoiPark, Turkey’s largest indoor amusement park, is located within this mall
Mall of Istanbul is one of the biggest malls in Turkey. It is located in Başakşehir and is pretty easy to get to by metro or bus. You can take the M9 Line and get off at Masko stop, which is directly connected to the mall.
With more than 350 shops, you’ll find everything from top international brands to Turkish clothes, electronics, home items, and more.
Also, kids will enjoy the place, mainly with the roller coasters, fun rides, and a separate kids’ section. Plus, there is a big cinema hall and many cultural events happening in the evening.
The food court here has endless choices. You can try local Turkish kebabs and sweets. If you are not in the mood for that, go for Starbucks and Shake Shack.
Note: Most of the malls in Istanbul open at 10:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM. Mall Of Istanbul has the same schedule, but on Fridays and Saturdays, the mall only closes at 10:30 PM
Istinye Park
Highlight: Luxury Brand Selection to Gourmet Dining serving as an elite social hub.
Those who love a bit of luxury, Istinye Park in Sarıyer, should be on your list. It is quite popular with celebrities and all the famous people in Turkey.
The mall is split into two areas- The indoor and the outdoor section.
Indoor, you have this beautiful glass dome, filled with famous names like Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Chanel, Gucci and many brands that are crazy expensive. Also, it offers a gourmet food court.
The outdoor area looks just like a European yard, with lovely shops in smaller booths, cafes, and restaurants.
Istinye Park is ideal for those who enjoy a stylish shopping and dining experience. Even if you don’t buy anything, just walking around the outdoor area is really beautiful. Then try the fine-dining restaurants to eat delicious food.
Istanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall
Highlight: Kids will enjoy the small indoor amusement area with a roller coaster.
İstanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in Europe, located in Şişli. It’s directly connected to the metro, which makes things easy.
You need to take the M2 Line Yenikapı to Hacıosman train route. Then, get off at the Şişli/Mecidiyeköy stop. The exit will directly take you to the Cevahir Mall.
Inside, you can find more than 300 shops that are spread over six floors.
You’ll find global brands like Zara and H&M, plus plenty of Turkish fashion that is sold at a reasonable price.
Additionally, any book lover must visit this shopping centre in Istanbul, as it features a large bookshop with an impressive collection.
There are also 12 large halls dedicated to movies, as well as a small indoor amusement park for children.
And with 48 restaurants, the food court here offers everything from Turkish dishes to Indian food. You will also find Indian vegetarian options. With the variety you get, you’ll probably need some time to choose what to eat.
Forum Istanbul
Highlight: Huge Ikea store and a lot of excellent top brands with a wide range of products.
Forum Istanbul Mall in Bayrampaşa is more than just a place to shop. It is also an entertainment zone. Plus, with over 300 stores, you’ll find all kinds of brands.
The mall stands out from other Istanbul shopping malls because of its attractions. There was a Sea Life Aquarium inside, and it’s one of the biggest aquariums in Europe.
But currently it is closed. If you have any luck, there is a high chance they will reopen it. Then you can enjoy watching sharks and all sorts of sea creatures that are unique.
There are a lot of families coming here as the food choices are plentiful. From quick bites to full-service restaurants, everything fills your stomach with such delicious food.
Venezia Mega Outlet
Highlight: Designed like Venice, Italy, yet with discounted outlet shopping for major brands.
Venezia Mega Outlet is a shopping mall designed to look like the city of Venice. It is designed amazingly, and in the settings, you can see canals, gondolas (boats), and little bridges.
With more than 200 stores, you can shop for hours. Surprisingly, you can get a lot of things at good deals.
This mall is actually perfect for bargaining when shopping. You’ll find brands like Adidas, LC Waikiki, and Nike at discounted prices, plus Turkish fashion at great rates.
The best part is the Venetian atmosphere, where you can walk along the canals, sit in a café, or catch live shows in the main square. It feels more like a tourist spot than just a mall.
It is one of the best shopping malls in Istanbul, offering a serene and picturesque environment to relax.
Vadistanbul Mall
Highlight: Modern complex with residences, offices, and a Riverside dining area.
Vadistanbul Mall is one of the main spots in Sarıyer. This shopping centre is in a lush green valley. With more than 270 stores inside, you will find everything from Nike to local Turkish brands that are so underrated. In the end, you can brag about buying something in Turkey that is so unique that it can’t be found elsewhere.
Other than the shopping experience, you have multiple things to do. You can watch movies, attend live concerts, and enjoy a variety of events featuring local bands.
In the outdoor area, you can see restaurants lined up. They serve Turkish kebabs, sushi, pasta, and anything else you crave; you can find it all here.
When you are eating here, surrounded by beautiful valley views filled with trees and plants, it almost feels like you are not in the city anymore.
Kanyon Mall
Highlight: Award-winning open-air mall for its architectural design.
Kanyon Mall in the Levent area is not your average mall. The design of this entire mall is wild. With open-air spaces and incredible architecture, it feels like someone tried to recreate the Grand Canyon but with boutiques and cafés.
There are about 160 stores, and every store is all about luxury. High-end brands like Harvey Nichols, Calvin Klein, and Turkish designs will immediately capture your attention when you enter.
It’s not just about shopping; the mall always has something going on. There are fashion shows, art exhibits, and live music happening here almost every other day.
Then, coming to the food, it is really fancy here. You have the options of fine dining, sushi bars, and unique cafés. In the evenings, the place is filled with young people.
Most corporate people come here to grab dinner after work. It feels more like a hangout spot than a typical mall.
Akasya Mall
Highlight: KidZania, located in this mall, is an indoor mini-city where kids can become adults for a day.
The Akasya Mall is on the Asian side of Istanbul, exactly in Acıbadem. The Asian side is where most locals live. If you are seeking an authentic cultural experience, this is the best shopping centre in Istanbul.
With KidZania, I am sure taking your kids here is the best thing you can do in the entire trip. This place gives your kids a chance to experience grown-up professions.
Through fun activities, they will develop motor skills, understand the importance of physical fitness, and enhance their social skills. I am sure this will teach your kids the freedom to choose, use their creativity and also have the most fun.
Of course, when it comes to shopping and eating, this mall gives you everything you want. There is no need to worry; you will find what you are looking for.
Emaar Square Mall
Highlight: Emaar Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Emaar Square Mall, in Üsküdar, is like a city within a city. It’s attached to a hotel and several luxury apartments. And with 400+ stores, you could get lost here for days.
High-end names like Gucci and Cartier, to our go-to brands like Zara and H&M, are lined up here. Whether you feel like spending all your money or saving a bit, you are covered in both options.
However, the place attracts a large number of people for its Emaar Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Sharks, stingrays and many creatures that are defenceless are cared for and protected here. Take a break from shopping, stare at some sea creatures and see how cute they are.
Additionally, with hotels and apartments, this place offers endless choices. Food court, fancy restaurants, Turkish local food, and global chains, you get all kinds of food.
Zorlu Centre
Highlight: The only Apple Store in Turkey, which features a glass cube design, is located here. It’s a treat to look at the architecture, especially for Apple lovers, who shouldn’t miss it
Zorlu Centre in Beşiktaş is basically an Istanbul elite shopping mall where rich people go to shop. Luxury brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Dior will tempt you to buy them.
Also, most of the wealthy people live in residences that are within the mall area.
Zorlu’s not just about shopping. It has the Zorlu Performing Arts Centre right inside, which can accommodate nearly 2,308 people. You may have the chance to see international concerts, Broadway shows, and cultural events.
One night, you are shopping; the next, you’re catching a musical. And the food will never disappoint you; upscale restaurants, trendy Turkish dining rooms, and cool cafés are enough to pull you in again.
Conclusion
The Istanbul shopping mall literally screams, “malls shouldn’t be boring”. And all these best shopping malls in Istanbul justify the point that these places aren’t just for shopping. They are packed with cinemas, aquariums, amusement parks, endless food options, and many entertainment options.
You have malls that sell reasonably priced products, then you have super luxury shopping malls and the malls where bargaining is possible. Whatever your shopping style and needs are, Istanbul has a mall that can meet your expectations.
So, take a chill day to explore the everyday life of local people, rather than just visiting mosques and sightseeing spots.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Shopping Mall in Istanbul
Which mall is best for affordable shopping in Istanbul?
Venezia Mega Outlet and Cevahir Mall offer budget-friendly shopping with numerous discounts. Moreover, in the Venezia Mega Outlet, you will have stores where you can bargain if you have the skill.
What is the best mall in Istanbul for families with kids?
Forum Istanbul is less crowded, and plenty of space to walk around. Then, Akasya is a must-go with kids for KidZania. Emaar Square offers an aquarium and a zoo, which is ideal for families.
Which is the biggest mall in Istanbul?
Mall of Istanbul is one of the biggest, with over 350 stores and a huge indoor theme park.
For luxury brands in Istanbul, which is the best mall to go to?
Istinye Park, Zorlu Centre, and Emaar Square Mall are the best places. It offers international luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, Hermes, Louis Vuitton and many more.
