Manavgat Market, also known as Manavgat Bazaar, is one of the most popular spots for tourists visiting the Antalya region in Turkey. This vibrant and bustling market offers a unique mix of local culture, fresh produce, textiles, souvenirs, and more. Whether you’re in the area for a day trip or a longer stay, knowing how to get to Manavgat Market is key to making the most of your visit.

In this guide, we’ll not only tell you how to get to Manavgat Market, but also provide valuable insights into its opening times, tips on shopping, and how to explore nearby attractions.

What is the Manavgat Bazaar?

Manavgat Market consists of two distinct parts:

  • Covered Bazaar: Located in the town center, this market is open daily and perfect for those wanting to shop throughout the week.
  • Local Open-Air Market (Manavgat Bazaar Proper): Held on Mondays and Thursdays, this is the market that truly reflects the spirit of Manavgat. The open-air market is where you’ll find an impressive variety of local goods, fresh produce, and handmade items.

The Manavgat Bazaar attracts both locals and tourists alike. For visitors, it’s a must-see attraction that offers an authentic taste of Turkish culture and shopping.

Manavgat Market Opening Times

The Manavgat market opening times vary depending on the day of the week. Here’s a breakdown:

Manavgat Local Market (Open-Air Bazaar):

  • Open on Mondays and Thursdays
  • Operating hours typically range from 08:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but it’s recommended to arrive early to enjoy the freshest produce and avoid the midday crowds.
  • On market days, especially Thursdays, the market can get crowded, so try to visit early in the morning if you want to beat the rush.

Manavgat Covered Bazaar:

  • Open daily for regular shopping, this market offers convenience for those visiting on days other than the traditional market days.

Visiting the Manavgat Market on Monday or Thursday ensures you’ll experience the full charm of the market, from bustling stalls to the lively atmosphere that fills the streets.

How to Get to Manavgat Market

  1. By Car / Rental

Driving to Manavgat Market gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. If you’re coming from nearby resorts like Side or Belek, the drive is straightforward via the D400 motorway, which connects key cities on the Mediterranean coast.

  • Distance: From Belek, the market is about 47 km away. From Side, it’s roughly 16 km.
  • Parking: The town’s parking can be challenging on market days, so try to arrive early. Paid parking lots are available nearby, or you can park in public areas, though these tend to fill up quickly during peak hours.
  1. By Minibus (Dolmuş)

For those relying on public transport, dolmuş (minibuses) are an excellent option. Regular dolmuş services run from popular tourist towns like Side, Belek, and Kumköy directly to Manavgat Bazaar.

  • Dolmuş Stops: You’ll typically need to disembark at the Manavgat Bridge and walk just a short distance to the market area.
  • Cost: The fare is budget-friendly, and minibuses are frequent, especially in the mornings.
  1. By Tour or Resort Shuttle

Many local tours and resorts offer guided tours to Manavgat Bazaar. These tours usually combine a trip to the market with visits to other nearby attractions like the Manavgat Waterfall or a relaxing boat ride along the Manavgat River.

  • Ideal for Tourists: If you’re staying in Side or Belek, booking a tour that includes the market is a convenient way to experience both the bazaar and the surrounding attractions.

What to Expect at Manavgat Market

How to get to Manavgat Market, antalya

Once you arrive at Manavgat Market, you’ll be greeted by an array of vibrant stalls and friendly locals. Here’s what you can expect:

Fresh Produce and Local Goods

  • Fruits & Vegetables: The Manavgat Bazaar is famous for its fresh, local produce. Expect to find seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and figs, as well as vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplants.
  • Spices and Herbs: You can also explore stalls offering aromatic herbs and spices — a perfect souvenir for anyone interested in Turkish cuisine.

Textiles, Leather Goods, and Souvenirs

  • Clothing & Accessories: The market is a haven for shoppers looking for Turkish textiles. You’ll find everything from vibrant scarves and shawls to beautifully crafted leather bags, shoes, and jackets.
  • Handmade Souvenirs: For those looking to take home a piece of Turkey, stalls selling handmade goods such as ceramics, carpets, and traditional jewelry are abundant.

Turkish Delicacies

  • Street Food & Snacks: After a long day of shopping, you can grab some local street food like gözleme (Turkish flatbread), simit (sesame bagel), or a traditional kebab.
  • Turkish Tea & Coffee: Don’t forget to sip on some authentic Turkish tea or coffee, offered at many small cafes around the bazaar.

Shopping Tips at Manavgat Bazaar

To make the most of your time at Manavgat Market, here are some helpful shopping tips:

  • Bargain: Bargaining is common at Turkish markets, so don’t hesitate to haggle for a better price. Start by offering a lower price and work your way up.
  • Check Quality: While many items are genuine, it’s important to inspect the quality of leather goods or imitation brand items carefully.
  • Pay in Turkish Lira: While Euros are sometimes accepted, paying in Turkish Lira (TRY) is preferred and often results in better prices.
  • Arrive Early: The best time to visit the Manavgat Market is early in the morning, particularly if you’re visiting on Mondays and Thursdays when the market is busiest.

Manavgat Bazaar Nearby Attractions

The Manavgat Bazaar isn’t just about shopping — it’s also an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. Many visitors combine their trip to the market with visits to the following:

  • Manavgat Waterfall: A short drive from the market, this stunning waterfall is one of Antalya’s most famous natural wonders.
  • Boat Tours on the Manavgat River: After your shopping, take a leisurely boat ride along the river to see the countryside and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

These attractions are easily accessible from the market and make for a perfect day out in Manavgat.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting for the first time, Manavgat Market offers an authentic, bustling atmosphere that captures the essence of Turkish shopping. Knowing how to get to Manavgat Market, the opening times, and what to expect when you arrive will ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

If you’re staying at a nearby resort in Side, Belek, or Antalya, make sure to allocate a few hours for a visit to the Manavgat Bazaar. You’ll not only find fantastic shopping opportunities but also gain a deeper understanding of local culture.