Shopping malls are important business centers with a variety of stores, restaurants, and places to have fun. These complexes are made to make shopping easy and fun for customers. They often have parking, public restrooms, and food courts.

In Turkey, shopping malls play an important role in the economy, as they provide a significant source of employment and contribute to the country's overall economic growth. The construction of new shopping malls in Turkey has been on the rise in recent years, with Istanbul alone having over 100 shopping malls. These malls serve as retail destinations and social and cultural hubs where people can come together to shop, dine, and socialize. As such, shopping malls are integral to Turkey's modern urban landscape.

According to Trading Economics’ global macro models and analysts' predictions, Turkey's GDP will reach $800 billion by the end of 2023. The economy is diverse and growing. The country's industrial sector is very well-developed and is a big part of its economic output. It also has a thriving tourism industry.

Shopping malls contribute to Turkey's economy in several ways. 

1. First, they are a significant source of jobs, giving thousands of people jobs in retail, hospitality, and construction, among other fields. 

2. Secondly, they stimulate economic activity by attracting consumers who spend money on retail goods, food, and other services. This can have a ripple effect, as increased consumer spending leads to increased demand for goods and services, which can ultimately drive economic growth.

3. Additionally, the construction of new shopping malls in Turkey has become a significant industry in itself, with many construction companies specializing in building large-scale commercial complexes. This has created more opportunities for employment and investment in the construction sector.

Overall, shopping malls are an important part of Turkey's economy because they create jobs, get people to spend money, and help the economy grow.

Top 10 Shopping Malls in Turkey

Istinye Park - Istanbul

• Size: 291,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 294

• Unique features: Outdoor and indoor sections, botanical garden, movie theater, luxury stores, and restaurants

İstinye Park Alışveriş Merkezi

Cevahir Mall - Istanbul

• Size: 420,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 343

• Unique features: Largest mall in Istanbul, includes a roller coaster, movie theater, and bowling alley

İstanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall

Kanyon - Istanbul

• Size: 37,500 sqm

• Number of stores: 160

• Unique features: Open-air design, modern architecture, and luxury brands

Kanyon AVM

Akasya Acıbadem - Istanbul

• Size: 88,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 270

• Unique features: Family-friendly, with a play area and a large food court

Akasya Mall

Forum Istanbul - Istanbul

• Size: 495,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 286

• Unique features: Includes a vast aquarium, a roller coaster, and an ice-skating rink

Forum Istanbul

Marmara Park - Istanbul

• Size: 135,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 350

• Unique features: Located near the sea, with a large outdoor area and a cinema

Marmara Park

Optimum Outlet - Izmir

• Size: 95,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 161

• Unique features: An outlet mall with discounted prices on designer brands

İzmir Optimum

Deepo Outlet - Antalya

• Size: 60,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 80

• Unique features: An outdoor outlet mall with a unique Mediterranean-style design

Deepo Outlet Center

Mall of Istanbul - Istanbul

• Size: 350,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 350

• Unique features: One of the biggest malls in Turkey, with a roller coaster and a 4D cinema

Mall of Istanbul

Akbatı - Istanbul

• Size: 92,000 sqm

• Number of stores: 270

• Unique features: Family-friendly, with a large entertainment center and a food court

Akbatı

Some of these malls have also received recognition and awards for their design, features, and contributions to the retail industry in Turkey. For example, Istinye Park won the European Shopping Center Award in 2008, while Cevahir Mall received the Best Shopping Center Award at the Sign of the City Awards in 2016.

Shopping Experience in Turkey

The shopping experience in Turkey is diverse and vibrant, offering a wide range of products and shopping destinations to suit all tastes and budgets. In Turkey, bargaining is common in many markets and bazaars, but prices are usually fixed in shopping malls. However, shoppers can still find good deals and sales on various items, especially during seasonal promotions.

Turkey is known for its high-quality textiles, carpets, and leather goods, which are available in many of the country's shopping malls. In addition to clothing and accessories, malls also offer a variety of home goods, electronics, and other consumer products.

Many shopping malls in Turkey also offer a range of entertainment options, including cinemas, amusement parks, and restaurants. Mall cinemas often show the latest international and local films, while amusement parks feature rides and attractions for all ages. There are both fast food and high-end restaurants, giving shoppers a wide range of options for eating and socializing.

All in all, the shopping experience in Turkey is a unique blend of traditional bazaars and modern shopping malls, offering shoppers a diverse range of products, experiences, and activities. The bargaining culture in markets and bazaars adds to the fun and excitement of shopping in Turkey. At the same time, the convenience and amenities of malls provide a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience.

Tips for Shopping in Turkey

Here are some tips for visitors to get the most out of their shopping experience in Turkey:

1. Best time to shop: The best time to shop in Turkey is during the offseason, typically from January to March and October to December. During these months, prices may be lower, and the crowds in the malls and bazaars may be less.

2. Bargaining: Bargaining is a common practice in markets and bazaars in Turkey, but prices are usually fixed in shopping malls. However, visitors may still be able to negotiate discounts or ask for special deals, especially if they are buying in bulk.

3. Local currency: Visitors should make sure to have enough local currency (Turkish Lira) on hand for their shopping needs, as not all shops or markets accept foreign currencies or credit cards.

4. Dress code: Visitors should dress modestly when shopping in Turkey, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. There is no strict dress code in malls, but visitors should dress appropriately for the occasion.

5. Cultural differences: Visitors should be aware of cultural differences when shopping in Turkey, such as greeting store owners or salespeople with "Merhaba" (Hello) and "Tesekkur ederim" (Thank you) after a purchase. It is also important to be polite and respectful when bargaining or negotiating prices, as aggressive or rude behavior, is not appreciated in Turkish culture.

6. Tax-Free shopping: Visitors who are not residents of Turkey may be eligible for tax-free shopping, where they can get a refund on the VAT (Value Added Tax) paid on their purchases. Visitors should look for shops displaying the "Global Blue" or "Tax-Free Shopping" signs and ask for a tax-free shopping form before purchasing.

Being respectful, polite, and aware of cultural differences will help tourists maximize their shopping experience in Turkey. By following these tips, visitors can enjoy the diverse and exciting shopping options that Turkey has to offer.

If you're looking for a unique and exciting shopping experience, Turkey is the perfect destination for you. Turkey's shopping malls offer a range of products, experiences, and activities that cater to all tastes and budgets. From traditional markets and bazaars to modern shopping centers, Turkey's shopping scene is diverse and vibrant.

Turkey offers tourists much more than just great shopping opportunities, from ancient ruins to modern metropolises brimming with history and culture. Because of its strategic location between Europe and Asia, Turkey has become a cultural crossroads where many different traditions and styles have merged. 

Visitors can explore the historic city of Istanbul, with its stunning mosques, palaces, and bazaars, or head to the coastal cities of Antalya and Izmir for a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. No matter where you go in Turkey, you'll find friendly locals, delicious food, and a warm welcome.

So, whether you're looking to shop for souvenirs, clothing, or luxury goods or simply want to immerse yourself in Turkey's rich culture and history, this is a destination that should be on your bucket list. Plan your visit today and discover the beauty and charm of Turkey's shopping malls for yourself!