(98a Cengiz Toytunç Caddesi, tel: 0242 248 6162) Famous for spices, potions, herbal soaps, remedies and herbal cosmetics, Otçu isn't a tourist trap but serves local needs, and the goods are fresh and reliable.

Ã-zdilek Park Shopping Centre is an ideal place to escape the heat of the day and shop for the most popular national and international brands (Fabrikar Mah, 2 Fikri Ertan Cad, Kepez; tel: 0242 334 3399).

Forgotten your holiday reading material? The Owl Bookshop stocks a large selection of used books. Feel free to take along any unwanted books you've finished with (Barbaros Mahallesi, 9 Kocatepe Sokak, Kaleiçi).

Rub shoulders with the locals at Cumartesi Pazar, the Saturday street market situated between İsmet Gökşen Caddesi and Eski Lara Yolu in Şirinyalı. Not only does this place offer a great taste of local life, you can also pick up clothes, food and appliances.