The Alara Grand Bazaar is a sprawling market located in Okurcalar, positioned conveniently along the D400 highway between Alanya and Manavgat. It serves as a significant shopping hub for tourists staying in the surrounding resort areas, offering a vast array of goods, predominantly replica designer clothing, handbags, shoes, and souvenirs. While not a traditional Turkish bazaar in the historical sense, it provides a modern, albeit often chaotic, shopping experience.
Visitors consistently praise the sheer volume and variety of items available, with many reviewers noting that it's possible to find high-quality fake designer goods at a fraction of the original price. The bazaar is well-shaded and airy, making it a comfortable place to browse even on hot days, and several cafes and bars offer refreshments. However, a recurring theme in reviews is the persistent and sometimes pushy nature of the sellers. Many visitors advise being firm but polite, and to be prepared for constant invitations into shops. The quality of goods can vary significantly between stalls, so it's recommended to shop around and compare before making a purchase.
To make the most of your visit, allocate at least 2-3 hours, especially if you enjoy browsing and haggling. Come prepared to bargain aggressively, as initial prices are often inflated, particularly for European tourists. Reviewers suggest that paying in Euros, US Dollars, or British Pounds might sometimes be preferred by sellers, but Turkish Lira is also accepted. It's wise to bring water, especially during warmer months, and wear comfortable shoes. Some visitors recommend visiting during the day when it's less crowded, which might lead to a more relaxed shopping experience and potentially less aggressive sales tactics.
The bazaar is easily accessible, situated directly on the D400 coastal main road. If you're traveling by public bus between Alanya and Manavgat, you can ask the driver to stop directly at the Alara Grand Bazaar. For those staying in nearby hotels, taxis are a common option, though it's advisable to agree on a price beforehand. Some hotels may also offer shuttle services. Parking is available for those driving.
Common complaints revolve around the aggressive sales tactics and the perceived overpricing of items before bargaining. To mitigate this, visitors strongly recommend not being afraid to walk away if a price isn't satisfactory and to visit multiple shops for the same item to gauge fair pricing. There are also warnings about specific jewelry stores, with some reviewers alleging deceptive practices regarding gold pricing and lack of receipts. It's generally advised to be cautious with high-value purchases and to stick to reputable vendors if possible.