24.07.2026 08:00
A citizen sitting in a cafeteria in the Grand Bazaar rebelled after receiving a bill of 6.5 Euros (approximately 350 TL) for a glass of lemonade. The person recording the moment reacted to the exorbitant prices in tourist spots, saying, "Prices have surpassed Monaco. Is 350 lira worth it?" These images, which spread on social media, sparked a major debate over currency-based pricing and price hikes.
A scene captured in the Grand Bazaar, one of Istanbul's busiest and most touristic spots, once again highlighted the extreme level of price increases.
A citizen who sat down at a cafeteria inside the bazaar to explore and rest in the historical peninsula experienced a great shock upon seeing the bill for a glass of lemonade they ordered. The person, who recorded the lemonade sitting on a marble table with their camera, shared the extent of pricing in touristic venues with their followers.
"PRICES HAVE SURPASSED MONACO" OUTCRY
The citizen recording the scene rebelled, stating that they were charged 6.5 Euros, approximately 350 Turkish Lira, just for a glass of lemonade. Criticizing the level of prices with harsh words, the citizen emphasized that these figures even compete with Europe's most expensive cities, expressing their complaint with the words, "Prices have surpassed Monaco. This is 350 lira, do you think it's worth it?"
PRICING POLICY IN TOURISTIC AREAS SPARKS DEBATE
The citizen's reproachful words brought the high pricing policies applied in touristic areas back into the spotlight. These price practices, targeting both local and foreign tourists, cause even a refreshing glass of beverage to become a luxury.
These images once again revealed that forex-based pricing at cafeterias is increasingly making it difficult for citizens to spend time in historical and touristic venues.