Turkey’s Best Souvenirs: What to Buy and Where to Find Them
When you go to Turkey, you see so much that you want to take some of it home with you. Turkey is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes and amazing handicrafts. From colorful carpets to delicious food, here are some of the best souvenirs to buy in Turkey and where to find them.
Also Read: 7 Famous Turkish Food To Try On Your Turkey Trip!
1. Turkish Carpets and Kilims
What is it?
Turkish carpets and kilims (thin woven fabrics) are among Turkey’s most iconic souvenirs. They come in different shapes and colors, each telling a different story. Kilim are usually made of bright colors and geometric patterns, while carpets are usually bold with intricate patterns.
Where to Find It?
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is the top place to buy carpets. You’ll find a wide selection, and vendors are often willing to explain the meaning behind each design. Other good places are Konya, known for its quality carpets, and Cappadocia, where you can find old and new kilims. Remember to negotiate prices, as shopping is part of the buying experience.
2. Turkish Delight (Lokum)
What is it?
Turkish Delight or Locum is a sweet and savory dessert usually flavored with rose, lemon or pomegranate. They are usually dusted with powdered sugar and can have nuts like pistachios or walnuts in them. Turkish delight is a classic dish and a perfect gift for friends and family.
Where to Find It?
The best place to buy Turkish Delight is specialty sweets shops like Hafiz Mustafa or Hasi Bekir in Istanbul. These shops have been locum for generations and offer a wide selection of goodies. You can also find excellent Turkish Delight at spice markets across the country.
3. Evil Eye (Nazar Boncugu)
What is it?
The Evil Eye, or Nazar Boncugu, is a blue glass charm believed to protect against bad luck. It’s a popular symbol in Turkey, and you’ll see it everywhere – in homes, on keychains, and even hanging from trees. The Evil Eye is usually blue with a white and black circle in the middle.
Where to Find It?
You can find the Evil Eye almost everywhere in Turkey. Souvenir shops, markets, and airports all sell these charms in various sizes and styles. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul and markets in Cappadocia have plenty of options. Look for shops that specialize in glasswork for higher-quality pieces.
4. Turkish Spices
What is it?
Turkish spices are flavorful and make cooking Turkish dishes at home easy. Some popular spices to bring back are sumac, red pepper flakes, and cumin. You can also buy Turkish spice mixes that go well with meats, vegetables, and soups.
Where to Find It?
The Spice Bazaar (also known as the Egyptian Bazaar) in Istanbul is famous for its spices. Here, you can find spices sold in colorful displays, and the vendors often let you sample them. Many local markets in Turkey also sell fresh spices at affordable prices.
5. Handmade Ceramics
What is it?
Turkish ceramics are known for their bright colors and beautiful patterns. Many ceramics are painted with flowers, geometric designs, or scenes from nature. Plates, bowls, and tiles make lovely decorations and are easy to pack as souvenirs.
Where to Find It?
In the city of Iznik, you can find some of Turkey’s best handmade ceramics. Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet area also have many shops selling ceramic items. If you’re in Cappadocia, the town of Avanos is known for its pottery workshops where you can watch artisans at work.
6. Turkish Coffee Sets
What is it?
Turkish coffee is a must-try, and a Turkish coffee set makes a fantastic souvenir. These sets include a small pot called a cezve for brewing the coffee, along with cups and saucers. Many sets are beautifully decorated and come in metal or ceramic.
Where to Find It?
The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar in Istanbul are excellent places to buy Turkish coffee sets. Look for sets made of copper or brass, which are traditional materials. You can also find high-quality sets in cities like Izmir and Ankara.
7. Olive Oil and Olive Oil Soaps
What is it?
Turkey is a major producer of olive oil, and Turkish olive oil is known for its purity and flavor. Olive oil soaps are also popular and have a natural, earthy scent. They’re great for the skin and make a thoughtful gift.
Where to Find It?
The Aegean region, especially Izmir, is famous for olive oil production. Many shops sell bottles of high-quality olive oil and soaps made from local olives. Istanbul’s spice markets and other bazaars also offer a variety of olive oil products.
8. Baklava
What is it?
Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup. It’s a rich and delicious dessert that is famous worldwide. In Turkey, you’ll find baklava made with pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts.
Where to Find It?
You can find baklava at pastry shops like Karaköy Güllüoğlu in Istanbul, known for its top-quality baklava. Many stores offer boxed baklava for easy travel, so you can bring some home as a sweet reminder of your trip.
Also Read: Grand Bazaar In Istanbul: All You Need To Know Before Visiting!
Final Tips for Buying Souvenirs in Turkey
- Bargaining is Common – Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices, especially in markets. Bargaining is part of the culture, and most sellers expect it.
- Quality Matters – Turkey has a wide range of products, so always check the quality before buying, especially for items like carpets and ceramics.
- Respect Local Customs – If you’re visiting religious or traditional areas, remember to dress respectfully, even while shopping.
Bringing home a souvenir from Turkey is more than just buying an item. It’s a way to keep a piece of Turkey with you and to share its culture with others. Whether you’re buying something sweet like Turkish Delight or a beautiful ceramic bowl, these souvenirs will remind you of Turkey’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality.
To experience all of this firsthand, explore our exclusive Turkey tour packages that offer a blend of historical wonders, scenic landscapes, and vibrant marketplaces. Whether you’re drawn to Istanbul’s iconic architecture, Cappadocia’s unique rock formations, or Pamukkale’s thermal terraces, our curated tours are designed to immerse you in Turkey’s rich culture and breathtaking scenery.
