If you are thinking what Turkey is famous for? We all know the major things, like a Hot air balloon ride to the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia. Then, massive mosques in Istanbul, and coastal life in Antalya.
Although all cities have unique aspects, there is one central, simple, and local experience that unites them: shopping.
Shopping in this country is insane. It’s like every street gives an old days vibe. Once you enter any of the allies, you will be blinded by the question of what to buy in Turkey.
And the Turkish souvenirs in the corner of the store will catch your eye with their shiny characteristics. These souvenirs aren’t just any random stuff. They are tiny time machines because each one of them has a story. And it will become a memory for you when you look back at it years later.
Shopping in Turkey is a fun experience. It starts with shopkeepers in the Grand Bazaar trying to sell a carpet and convince you that it has magic. When you dodge that, you will be caught up with smelling like cinnamon after you come out of Istanbul’s spice stalls.
However, the pure joy of sipping tea and coffee while hunting for the delicious Turkish delight is the most relaxing thing.
I suggest you bring an extra bag and add a day to your Turkey itinerary just for trying Turkish food and stuffing your bags with Baklava (a famous dessert).
Now, let’s dive into the blog that shares all the local tips to make your shopping experience in Turkey easy and delightful.
Here is Your List of the Best Things to Buy in Turkey
When shopping, if you don’t have a list, you might end up buying a lot of things. And, that too, you will see Turkish souvenirs spread out in every corner. To avoid confusion about what to buy in Turkey, consider this list, which guides you to the best things to purchase. These items will not only be decorative but also functional.
Local Perfumes
When you step into a Turkish bazaar, your senses get hit with this wave of rose, amber, musk, and oud. Perfume in Turkey isn’t just about smelling good; it’s part of the culture, which goes back to Ottoman times.
Sultans were fond of rosewater, using it not just as a scent but in baths and even during religious ceremonies. And in present times, those rose perfumes from Isparta, the famous city of roses, are still a big deal.
Turkish perfumes come in gorgeous glass bottles. It is a little work of art. You can go for a traditional attar or try a modern blend with classic Ottoman notes; it’s like capturing a bit of Turkey in a bottle.
When you are unsure about what to buy in Turkey, perfumes are a great go-to option.
Recommend Places and Brands
- Nishane
- Nokta Cosmetics
- Kutay Perfume
Pottery
There’s something special about Turkish pottery. The colours used in the pots will capture your eye. And the patterns and classic Ottoman floral designs will make you admire each piece for hours. All the items will just feel timeless.
If you want to experience the heart of it all and experience the process of pottery in depth, you have to visit Avanos in Cappadocia. This little town has been shaping red clay from the Kızılırmak River into beautiful pots and many items for over 4,000 years.
You’ll find all kinds of pottery here. Some pieces are practical, like sturdy bowls and jugs you’ll actually use. Others are decorative, with intricate blue-and-white Iznik tiles that look straight out of a museum.
Honestly, just watching the local artists at work in their cosy cave workshops is a treat on its own. You can buy pottery and also book a workshop to learn the process.
Recommended Place: Avonos in Cappadocia.
Turkish Carpets
Turkish carpets are honestly more than just something you lay on the floor. Every piece is like a little story. The carpets here are woven together with symbols for love, luck, or just wishing for a good life.
Do you know, for ages, women in Anatolia made these carpets for their dowries, and you’ll still see that tradition alive today. Some are simple wool kilims, while others are silk and shine like actual gems.
The craft of carpet making dates back to ancient times, with the Seljuk Turks who introduced the weaving in Anatolia.
Then the Ottomans adopted and further expanded Turkish rug weaving, adding their style to each of the clothes. This craft also connects deeply to the country’s history and traditions.
Getting a carpet is the best gift to buy in Turkey for yourself. It will make you feel super cosy and give your home a stylish look.
Recommended Places
Turkish Coffee
The most hyped talk in Turkey is its coffee, and it deserves all the attention. It is not just the beverage you drink. It is a part of Turkish culture that goes way back, all the way to the Ottoman Empire.
In the 1500s, coffee houses began to appear on every corner in Istanbul. It became a gathering spot for social time, where people shared poetry, made deals, or simply chatted about what was going on in the world.
What makes Turkish coffee stand out? How is it known to people all over the world? It’s all about the way it’s made. The coffee beans are ground until they get super rich in aroma, then slowly boiled in a copper pot called a cezve until a nice foam forms on top.
Actually, UNESCO has recognised Turkish coffee as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage. So, if you ever visit Turkey, don’t just drink the coffee, get your hands on the coffee powder and take it back home and make it yourself.
Recommended Shops and Brands You Must Try
- Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi
- Hisar Kahve
- Kocatepe
Turkish Tea
In Turkey, coffee holds a fancy story. But tea, also known as çay, is a part of everyday life. From breakfast to dinner, whether hanging out with friends or spending time with family, tea is a constant presence in their lifestyle.
The whole tea custom took off in the year 1900, when coffee got pricey. Turkish tea is strong, a bit earthy, and always poured into those little tulip-shaped glasses.
If you want to bring home a bit of that Turkish feeling, buying some tea powder is the way to go. When buying, most people go for black Rize tea, but you’ll also find apple tea and herbal blends like sage or linden.
Instead of buying them in any supermarket, buy them in local markets where a variety of tea will be available. You can ask for a small quantity to smell them, or ask the locals for their suggestion and choose the one you like.
Turkish Spices
Spices are so famous in Turkey that they have a separate market called the Spice Bazaar in Istanbul. It was built in the 1600s and is still full of stalls stacked with bright, fragrant spices. It’s a feast for the senses.
These spices actually bring Turkish food to life, which is why kebabs to pilafs are so rich and full of flavour.
At the same time, spices in Turkey aren’t just for cooking. People once used them as medicine and even in religious ceremonies.
If you are Indian, you might not find this surprising, given that India is known for its spices. But I am sure you will find a lot of new ones, and even if it’s the same spice, the flavour can vary a bit.
I’ll tell you some must-buy spices from Turkey. Saffron, sumac, pul biber, Urfa biber, Nigella sativa, Aleppo Pepper, Mahlab, Marash Pepper, and Aleppo Pepper spice are the ones you should buy.
You can also purchase Baharat Spice Mix, similar to the Biryani mix found in India. Additionally, you can find a powder mix to make chicken and rice.
Honey
I never knew honey was famous in Turkey until I was there. There is honey on every meal table, especially during breakfast time.
In Anatolia, Turkey, people have been making honey for ages. And, they take great pride in its purity and its long-standing reputation for being tasty and healthy.
And there are many flavours in honey, which I was unaware of back in India. Also, in most countries, it’s hard to find different flavours of honey that are completely pure.
The pine honey from Mugla gives a slightly woody taste. In the seaside of Turkey, you will get chestnut honey, a little bit darker and bitter. People say it is filled with antioxidants. So, when in Turkey, don’t miss the chance to buy the purest honey.
The flower honey is the most used in Turkey; it is sweet and golden in colour. And there is Thyme Honey, mad honey, lime honey, Anzer honey, and Centauri Honey. You can find all in the local bazaar. Try a small quantity of each and buy the one you like best.
Recommend Places
- Spice Markets are the go-to places in Istanbul: Tahmis Sokak & Spice Bazaar
- Antalya Old Bazaar
Jewellery
Jewellery in Turkey truly stands out, not just because it shines, but because every piece screams Turkey’s history and style. Way back in the Ottoman Empire, jewellery was a big deal. Sultans and their wives wore gold, pearls, and gems from all over, showing off their status.
These days, you’ll spot the same elegant touches in the markets: silver filigree bracelets, turquoise pendants, necklaces with old Ottoman coins, and even modern designs inspired by the grand palaces.
The impressive thing is how Turkish jewellery blends old-school craftsmanship with today’s styles. With the right piece, you can style them with modern and traditional dresses.
Recommended Stores
- Kalite Jewellery
- Swarovski
- Grand Bazaar and local markets for a street shopping experience. (Mostly bracelets and handmade chokers)
Art & Photography
Art in Turkey is a real mix, like its long, colourful history. You’ll spot everything from detailed Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman miniatures to bold, modern paintings.
These days, local artists capture the country’s vibe in so many ways. You can find oil paintings of the Hagia Sophia or soft watercolours of the Bosphorus, even as you walk on the harbour side.
And, the popular one is the lovely black-and-white photos of those famous Cappadocia hot air balloons.
Walk around Istanbul, and you’ll catch street artists bringing Turkish culture to life right on the walls with calligraphy or quirky modern pieces.
Places to Go to Buy Art & Photography in Turkey
- Seljuk Art Gallery
- Lisa Fotoğraf sanat atölyesi
- FineArt Art Print Services Ltd. Sti. (They help you print your photographs that come out super high quality and turn out to be an art)
Desserts
Honestly, a trip to Turkey wouldn’t feel right without tasting some of its famous desserts. These aren’t just sweets; they are a big part of Turkish heritage, shaped over hundreds of years.
Anyone who loves Turkey or is making a trip here knows the famous dessert, Baklava. It is thin layers of pastry, nuts, and syrup, first made for Ottoman royalty.
Turkish delight (or lokum) goes back to the 18th century and is a favourite dessert for all. You’ll find it in flavours like pistachio, rose, and pomegranate.
There is also Helva, made with sesame, and pestil, which are chewy dried fruit rolls from Anatolia’s countryside.
Here are some of Turkey’s proud places that sell desserts
Best Places to Buy Turkish Souvenirs
Turkey has numerous antique stores, souvenir shops, and famous markets throughout the city. With so many options, it’s difficult to visit them all. However, if you know what you’re looking for, you can save time by focusing on a few key places rather than trying to see everything.
That’s why I will tell you the best places to visit in Turkey for specific types of goods.
Grand Bazaar
This Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a place that even appeared in our history classes. This is one of the oldest shopping centres in the world, which was built in 1461 by Fatih Sultan Mehmet.
Going to this bazaar is one of the top things to do when in Istanbul for many tourists. Let me break it to you: this place was once a vital commercial centre, but now it’s solely a tourist attraction and even a trap.
However, don’t avoid this place all at once; it is definitely worth a visit for the architecture and the 4000 shops that are lined up here. If you’re going, make sure to bargain and compare prices in different shops.
Apart from the scams some vendors pull off, you will have the best time exploring. You can find jewellery, souvenirs, and high-quality textiles such as silk, leather, and fine wool. Even handcrafted carpets and lanterns are hung beautifully everywhere.
Spice Bazaar
This Spice Bazaar is also called the Egyptian Bazaar. This place dates back to the 17th century, built in 1660.
This is one of Istanbul’s markets that pulls you in with its aromas. You need to stop here to buy authentic Turkish flavours.
You can find a wide variety of spices, such as saffron, sumac, cumin, pul biber/red pepper Flakes, Kekik/dried oregano, and so many other spices. Along with that, you can also get dried fruits, herbal teas and Turkish delights.
Eminonu Bazaar
This Eminonu Bazaar is less well-known among tourists. This is a famous marketplace where you can find a wide variety of items to buy in Istanbul at a reasonable price.
As there are many locals who regularly visit, fewer scams occur among tourists compared to the Grand Bazaar.
This bazaar is located between the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. And there are many streets inside, each selling specific items. Let’s see what these streets offer-
- Tahmis Sokak: This place is located next to the spice bazaar, just following the main entrance. Similar to the Spice Bazaar, you will find everything from spices and dry fruits to Turkish delights, but all at a lower price.
- Hasircilar Street: This is the busiest street in Istanbul, offering a unique type of Turkish souvenirs. You can also find a wide range of household goods that are useful.
- Comertturk Street: This is a less crowded place, with barely any people during weekdays. You can get electronic items and mobile accessories here. And, the shops in this street close around 07:00 pm.
- Mahmutpasa Yokusu Street: This is most popular with the locals. You can get clothes, bags, and shoes for all age groups. This place also has the best party wear, wedding items and gifts for henna nights.
- Sark Han: This is a six-floor building with many gift options. Plus, you can get wedding items at wholesale prices.
- Havuzlu Han: This is an eight-level building selling baby items. For anything you need during your pregnancy or for your baby, you can find it here, available both in retail and wholesale.
Avanos in Cappadocia
Avanos is an area in Cappadocia, famous for its red clay pottery traditions. Here, people still spin clay on wheels passed down through generations. You can find many ceramic stores and places where you can actually do your pottery.
These places also give you a chance to learn about the unique pottery methods and their historical significance and impact.
Many workshops here are run by the families who have been practising pottery for generations. They will guide you through the process and teach you how to make a pot or any object you choose. From handling the clay to spinning the wheel, you will learn everything here.
Manavgat Market in Antalya
In Antalya, Manavgat Market is popular among Turkish people. It is a local open-air market that gives you a cultural experience.
This market is open on Mondays and Thursdays, where you can buy spices, clothing, vegetables, and many home essentials. You will have two sections in the market.
The first section will feature a curated selection of textile products, bags, and unique accessories.
In the second section, you will find vegetables and fruits. If you are interested in local organic products, you can find them here, including chicken, eggs, greens, spices, and cheese.
Antalya Old Bazaar
Shopping in Antalya Old Bazaar, Turkey, is one of the most underrated places. There is a large arched entrance, and from there you will find countless lanes and venues lined with shops.
Once you come out of the bazaar, your hands will be filled with many souvenirs, leather items, spices, clothing, fresh produce, jewellery and many more. Moreover, the best thing is that you will be able to buy everything for a reasonable price.
Antalya Old Bazaar is located in the heart of the city and near the ocean. Visiting here will be the best and most convenient thing to do in Antalya. After running in the beach sand and swimming, you can head to the market to get some local food too.
Conclusion
When you are on vacation, you want to buy things from that country for your loved ones.
I am sure you will be confused about what to buy in Turkish markets for your friends and family. If it were me, I would definitely pack tea & coffee powders because there is someone in the group who is obsessed with that.
It is not that costly, and it will be the thoughtful gift you will ever give them. If you want to buy more fancy items, you can get tea sets, pottery items, and perfumes that Turkish people boast about.
There are plenty of things to buy in Turkey. Personally, I think you don’t have to go to each one of the famous markets. And the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is so much over hyped. Instead, try shopping in Antalya, Turkey or farmers’ markets in any city you stay.
Frequently Asked Questions on What to Buy in Turkey
Name the best souvenir to buy from Turkey?
Turkey offers a variety of the best choices. You can purchase Turkish carpets, coffee and tea sets, and powder or coffee beans without hesitation. And, ceramic items and household decorative products are really good.
What cheap things to buy in Turkey?
For affordable, country-style items, consider purchasing spices, tea, Turkish lanterns, clothing, and food from local markets.
Are markets in Turkey crowded?
If you know which market to go to and what time to go, you will escape the crowd. Markets in Istanbul, such as the Grand Bazaar and the spice markets, as well as other tourist areas, will be filled with people. So, consider visiting during weekdays or exploring local markets in Antalya or small stalls in any alley.
