Bazaar-e Bozorg (Grand Bazaar)

One of the oldest and grandest covered markets in the Middle East — a labyrinth of vaulted brick arcades stretching some two kilometres and linking the medieval Atigh Square to the magnificent Safavid-era Naghsh-e Jahan Square. Founded in Seljuk times and flourishing under the Safavids, it’s still a working bazaar: aromatic spice stalls, gold and coppersmiths, and above all Isfahan’s famous handicrafts — hand-printed textiles, khatam marquetry, painted enamel (mina) and, of course, carpets. Lose yourself in the passages, haggle gently, and pause for tea under the domes.