The Friday Weekly Pazar is Amasya's principal open-air produce market, held every Friday morning in the central market area near Merkez. Unlike the year-round bazaar shops of the old town, this weekly market is overwhelmingly patronised by local residents from Amasya city and surrounding villages, creating an immersive snapshot of everyday commercial life in the province.
The market divides informally into three zones. The largest section is given over to fresh seasonal produce: summer brings figs, peaches, and Amasya's renowned red apples; autumn sees walnuts, hazelnuts, and dried peppers dominate; winter shifts to citrus, root vegetables, and greenhouse tomatoes. The second zone concentrates local dairy products — regional white cheeses, fresh butter churned in nearby villages, and yoghurt — alongside olives, pickles, and dried legumes priced considerably below supermarket equivalents. A smaller third section at the periphery stocks budget clothing, household textiles, and plastic goods, which are of limited interest to most visitors.
Prices are set and displayed on hand-written signs; haggling is not customary at this market, which functions more as a community staples run than a souvenir destination. Payment is almost exclusively cash. The pazar runs from approximately 07:00 to 16:00, though the best of the fresh produce sells out by midday, particularly in summer. At peak times — roughly 09:00 to 11:00 — the aisles between stalls become narrow and lively. Street food vendors operate at the edges of the market, selling simit, börek, and tea.
For travellers, the Friday Pazar offers an opportunity to source local snacks and picnic supplies at local prices. Amasya's apple varieties and locally produced honey are particularly good value compared with gift shops in the old town. The market's informal, non-touristic character means English is rarely spoken; pointing and a basic Turkish phrase or two go a long way.
Location
Merkez, Pazar Alanı, 05100 Amasya, Turkey
40.6518, 35.8330 View on map
Highlights
- Seasonal Amasya red apples and local fruit at farm-gate prices significantly below old-town shop rates
- Village-produced white cheeses and fresh butter from surrounding Amasya districts
- Local walnuts and hazelnuts sold loose by the kilo — among the freshest available in central Anatolia
- Street food stalls at the market perimeter serving simit, börek, and tea for a local breakfast experience
- Amasya mountain honey sourced from beekeepers in the highlands north of the city
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 09:00 to secure the best produce; most fresh fruit and dairy sells out well before 12:00
- Bring small-denomination Turkish lira banknotes — vendors rarely have change for large bills early in the morning
- The market operates rain or shine; most stalls have basic tarpaulin covers but wet weather can make access muddy
- Visit the dairy section first as local cheeses and butter are among the most perishable and fastest-selling items
- The clothing section offers limited value for visitors; focus on the food aisles for the most authentic experience
Frequently asked questions
Is this a tourist market or a local market?
The Friday Pazar is a local weekly market patronised primarily by Amasya residents and nearby villagers. There is minimal English signage and very few souvenir vendors; it provides a genuine view of everyday provincial shopping.
What is the best time to arrive?
The market is most active between 07:00 and 11:00. Arriving early ensures access to the full range of fresh produce and dairy. By early afternoon, many stalls begin packing up.
Can visitors buy local honey and apple products here?
Yes. Local honey, dried apple rings, and fresh apples are available from farm vendors at prices typically 30–50% lower than old-town gift shops.
Is card payment accepted?
Cash only. All transactions at the Friday Pazar are conducted in Turkish lira. ATMs are available on the main street a short walk from the market area.
Does the market run in winter?
Yes, the Friday Pazar operates year-round every Friday. In winter the produce selection shifts to citrus, root vegetables, and greenhouse crops, with fewer stalls overall.