West Asia's markets are souqs and bazaars: covered lanes of spices, gold, textiles and sweets. Most are daytime markets, but in hot countries the evening is when they come alive, so we list both.
Istanbul
- Grand Bazaar: the huge covered bazaar, daytime only.
- Spice Bazaar: spices, teas and sweets by the Golden Horn.
- Kadıköy Market: locals' food market on the Asian side.
The Gulf
- Souq Waqif, Doha: best after sunset.
- Dubai Gold Souk and Deira Spice Souk.
- Mutrah Souq, Muscat: busiest in the evening.
- Souk Al-Mubarakiya, Kuwait City.
- Bab Al Bahrain Souq, Manama.
Israel and Jerusalem
- Mahane Yehuda Market: produce by day, bars at night.
- Carmel Market, Tel Aviv.
- Muslim Quarter Souq, Jerusalem Old City.
The Caucasus
- Dezerter Bazaar, Tbilisi.
- Vernissage Market, Yerevan: weekends.
Practical tips
- Many shops close in the afternoon in the Gulf and reopen in the evening.
- Friday and Saturday hours differ by country, so check before you go.
- Check current travel advice for the country you plan to visit.
- Bargaining is normal in souqs, but not in food stalls.
Photos are credited on our photo credits page. Browse the West Asia category or read our Central Asia guide.