Embrace the Weekly Tradition of Turkish Bazaars

Buying property in Turkey opens the door to a delightful tradition: becoming a regular at the local weekly bazaar, known as a ‘pazar’. These lively, colorful markets are your one-stop shop for seasonal produce, the freshest cheese and meats, and a wide array of products from cleaning supplies to clothing and shoes. The first visit can feel overwhelming, with crowds vying for the best goods and stalls packed with everything from village free-range eggs and olives to homemade jams and salsas. However, local pazars are an integral part of neighborhood life and a great way to explore rich local cuisine.

What to Expect at a Pazar

Sampling and Buying: Vendors often offer samples of olives, cheese, or fruit, which is a common practice. Feel free to taste before you buy. While you can usually pick your own produce, sellers handle delicate items like strawberries and nuts. Most food is sold by weight (grams and kilos), so it’s helpful to learn your numbers in Turkish. Carrying cash is essential as most transactions are cash-based.

Pricing and Bargaining: Despite tales of price gouging in tourist areas, most vendors display prices, and bargaining is uncommon. Bazaar prices are often lower than in grocery stores, reflecting a fair market value with modest profit margins. Toward the end of the day, some vendors may offer discounts to clear their stock.

Timing and Preparation: Pazars can close down entire streets, so parking might be challenging. Arriving early ensures the best selection of goods. Bring reusable bags or a small trolley to carry your purchases and reduce plastic use.

Embrace the Experience

Shopping at the weekly pazar is not just about buying groceries; it’s about connecting with your community and enjoying seasonal, local produce. So dive in, explore, and make the most of this vibrant local tradition!