Gaziantep, in southeastern Turkey near the Syrian border, is one of Turkey's oldest continuously inhabited cities and its undisputed culinary capital. Famous worldwide for its baklava, pistachios, and complex spiced dishes, the city pairs 2,000 years of history with a thriving modern food culture. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum — one of the world's great mosaic collections — anchors a city packed with Ottoman bazaars, ancient hilltop citadels, and a copper-craft tradition that dates back centuries.
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Uzun Çarşı (Long Bazaar)
Pistachios, baklava, spices, dried fruit, olives, textiles, handicrafts
Where: Old city, running alongside the castle
Hours: Monday–Saturday 08:00–19:00; most closed Sunday
Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmith Bazaar)
Hand-hammered copper trays, ewers, coffee sets, decorative items
Where: Adjacent to Gaziantep Castle, old city
Hours: Monday–Saturday 08:30–18:30
Zincirli Bedesten (Covered Spice Market)
Isot chili, sumac, cumin, pistachio powder, Antep pepper paste
Where: Old bazaar covered market
Hours: Monday–Saturday 08:00–18:30
Saturday Market (Pazar)
Fresh produce, herbs, seasonal vegetables, cheap textiles
Where: Şehitkamil district
Hours: Saturday 06:00–14:00