Traveling to Turkey is an unforgettable experience filled with rich culture, history, and delicious cuisine. Bringing home a piece of Turkey in the form of a souvenir is a great way to remember your trip and share a part of it with friends and family. Here’s a guide to the best Turkish souvenirs and where to find them.
1. Turkish Delight (Lokum)
What to Buy: Turkish delight, or lokum, is a sweet, chewy confection that comes in a variety of flavors such as rose, pistachio, lemon, and pomegranate. Where to Buy: Hacı Bekir in Istanbul is one of the oldest and most famous shops for Turkish delight. You can also find great varieties in the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar.
2. Spices
What to Buy: Turkey is known for its vibrant and aromatic spices, including sumac, saffron, and Turkish red pepper. Where to Buy: The Spice Bazaar in Istanbul is the best place to purchase high-quality spices. You can also explore local markets in cities like Izmir and Antalya.
3. Ceramics and Pottery
What to Buy: Beautifully hand-painted ceramics and pottery, such as bowls, plates, and tiles, are traditional Turkish crafts. Where to Buy: Visit the pottery workshops in Avanos, Cappadocia, or shops in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar for unique pieces.
4. Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu)
What to Buy: The evil eye is a common protective talisman in Turkish culture, often seen in the form of blue glass beads. Where to Buy: These can be found in almost every souvenir shop in Turkey, especially in markets and bazaars across the country.
5. Turkish Carpets and Kilims
What to Buy: Turkish carpets and kilims are renowned for their intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Where to Buy: Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and the carpet shops in Cappadocia offer a wide range of options. Ensure you buy from reputable dealers to get authentic pieces.
6. Copperware
What to Buy: Copper items such as coffee pots (cezve), trays, and decorative items are traditional Turkish crafts. Where to Buy: Gaziantep is famous for its copperware, but you can also find excellent pieces in Istanbul and Ankara.
7. Pashmina and Silk Scarves
What to Buy: Soft and luxurious pashmina and silk scarves are popular Turkish souvenirs. Where to Buy: Look for high-quality scarves in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar or in the markets of Bursa, known for its silk production.
8. Turkish Tea and Coffee Sets
What to Buy: Traditional Turkish tea sets, often made of glass, and ornate coffee sets make beautiful and functional souvenirs. Where to Buy: The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar in Istanbul, as well as local markets in Ankara and Izmir, offer a variety of sets.
9. Meerschaum Pipes
What to Buy: Hand-carved meerschaum pipes are a unique Turkish souvenir, often featuring intricate designs. Where to Buy: Eskişehir is known for its meerschaum carvings, but these pipes are also available in Istanbul and other major cities.
10. Iznik Tiles
What to Buy: Iznik tiles are famous for their beautiful blue and white designs, often featuring floral and geometric patterns. Where to Buy: Visit the town of Iznik or shops in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar to find authentic tiles.
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