Dervis Istanbul
The home of authentic Turkish textiles...
Zekeriya from Istanbul
Of course the Grand Bazaar is the top attraction of most tourists and I have to say the same for locals for shopping. If you are shopping oriented you cannot say that its fulfilled unless you have a stop at the Grand Bazaar. Its deep, narrow pathways resemble an Eastern labyrinth with Western touches. It comprises a dozen of hundred shops all with various products. It's said by the locals that you need to be stupid not to find what you are looking for in the Grand Bazaar.
Anyway my topic is obviously not the Grand Bazaar but a shop I often visit within the complex. Its called ‘Dervis' like the dervish swirling in a Sufi ritual. It specializes in handcrafted products from textiles, to soaps, to accessories. It offers products all over Turkey that have been hand-made by artisans living in villages.
Dervis is the gateway or a bridge for the villagers to show off their products to the rest of the world. Whenever I need bath accessories, soaps or even traditionally knitted toys I have a stop at Dervis. They have been around for the last 5 years and have been sustainable with all their products.
It's like the off-the-beaten-path shop for me in the Grand Bazaar. Once you enter you cannot stop shopping. I would especially insist that you buy some hand made soap. And if you are looking for an ethnic present this is your stop.
Istanbul Spotter Zekeriya
About this spot
Our Istanbul City Guide
Find your way with 241 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul
Glow Coffee
Cool spot, good latte
"Glow Coffee" in Istanbul has wonderful brownies and makes lattes with oat milk! Haven't seen it anywhere else yet...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Yirmiyedi Kuzguncuk
Slow Design and Art
YirmiYedi Kuzguncuk's commitment to supporting designers is admirable, allowing each creator to showcase their work under their brand name.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Zürafa No203
Excellent choice of cocktails
One of the highlights was the delicious pistachio cocktail. If you want to stay on the safe side and prefer a fruity taste, you can try Berry Bees.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Zula
Burger Heaven
The chefs of Zula know how to cook tasty burgers for sure, I go for the basic one: 100gr meat, cheddar, caramelized onion, pickle relish & truffle mayo.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Hide Arnavutköy
Hidden Garden
Cafe Hide is a perfect spot to enjoy your day and unwind as it feels like you are out of the city. If you are looking for an escape, look no further!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Fethipaşa Korusu
Panoramic Views of Bosphorus
"Fethipaşa Korusu" (or 'grove') in Istanbul offers plenty of spots from which to enjoy breathtaking views over the Bosphorus & much more... Come at sunset!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Bias Koşuyolu
Tasty and unique cocktails
Bias Koşuyolu bar and kitchen is definitely worth a visit, as they serve delicious food and drinks. Try their elegant signature cocktail Bias...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Asuman
For chocolate lovers
"Asuman" in Istanbul serves... asuman! They have lots of other delicious desserts too, but I always come back for their namesake...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Minoa Pera
A Literary Haven
The café, nestled among the bookshelves, serves as a cosy refuge where one can savour their coffee while getting lost in the pages of a newfound gem.
by
Cemre
Sandal
CRR Concert Hall
Istanbul's Cultural Hub
From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kandilli Suna'nin Yeri
Bosphorus's maritime gem
Suna'nin Yeri's commitment to sourcing only the finest seafood is evident in every bite. Everything that is served here is fresh and sourced daily.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Homemade Aromaterapi
Natural and vegan products
"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Heading to Istanbul?
241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 241 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Istanbul
Get to know our other Spotters from Istanbul
As featured on:
