You can read our useful tips on what to buy as traditional Turkish souvenirs and gifts from Istanbul to bring back home as the perfect trip mementos. When you come to know Istanbul a little better, it indeed seems like a city of wonder. Every area of the city is packed with tales, which is why there are so many unique mementos of Istanbul. Here are some must-buy Istanbul souvenirs for you. Let us get started!
Have you ever pondered what to bring home as a souvenir from Istanbul? Here is a selection of top Istanbul souvenirs and gifts to get home.
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Turkish Carpet
Turkish carpet is really a unique one with traditional Turkish ornaments. These traditional carpets are mostly knit by Anatolian women and carry this tradition.
You can find the best carpets of any quality carpet shops in the top tourist zones, and Grand Bazaar, although bazaars are the best. You can also have your name written on miniature carpets and have a unique piece of your own. One of the most popular souvenirs from Istanbul.
Turkish Coffee Set & Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee settings appear to be right out of a storybook. Some are quite ornate, constructed of copper, brass, or other metal, occasionally with silver/gold ornaments, while others are made of brilliantly painted ceramics with silver/gold decorations.
The Grand Bazaar is the perfect place to buy them; Turkish coffee may also be found in the Spice Bazaar.
Turkish Tea & Traditional Turkish Tea Pot & Glasses
Tea is served from excellent sets of little tulip-shaped cups, typically with elegant embellishments, everywhere you go in Turkey. They create an unusual, sophisticated, and exquisite Oriental-themed gift.
There is also a wide selection of high-quality tea at highly reasonable costs, so fill your cups with some packages! The traditional Turkish tea –çay– is a strong black tea with natural apple, pomegranate, orange flower, linden blossom, sage, and rosehip flavors.
The Grand Bazaar is the best place to buy them; Turkish coffee may also be found in the Spice Bazaar.
Nazar Boncuk (Evil Eye Amulet)
An inexpensive yet distinctive memento or present – especially as Turks offer them to their loved ones. The “Evil Eye” amulets, popular in both Turkey and Greece, are used to ward off ill luck.
These deep indigo blue glass beads come in every size and form, generally, as a large oval flat pendant or as chains of little beads, keyrings, magnets, earrings, or anything else – they all act like a charm to bring you luck! You will see them everywhere: in every Turkish home, shop, and office.
Most fantastic location to get them: Any souvenir shops in the top tourist zones and neighborhoods, although bazaars are the best.
Spices
Even if you can purchase everything anywhere in this day and age, getting some highly intense, freshly ground Oriental spices at one of Istanbul’s bazaars is worthwhile. They are presented in an aesthetically pleasing manner, and their colors and fragrances will set your senses quivering.
The best place to get them is, of course, the Egyptian Spice Bazaar! Even the most exclusive spices may be found there.
Turkish Delight – Lokum
Turkish delight (lokum in Turkish) is one of the most famous sweet in Turkey. You should definitely try it and buy one as a gift on your way back home. It is based on a gel of starch and sugar.
You can find different kinds such as with pistachios, and hazelnuts or walnuts bound by the gel, as well as traditional varieties flavored with rosewater, mastic, bergamot orange, or lemon.
The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are the best places to buy them, with an unbelievable selection.
Mosaic Lights
What about bringing a bit of Turkey home to replicate its mystical and wonderful atmosphere? Beautifully and expertly adorned glass and brass lamps come in a variety of colors and forms, are one-of-a-kind, and have a lot of personalities. It’s undoubtedly one of the most unusual mementos or presents you may bring back with you.
The Grand Bazaar is unquestionably the best site to buy them, with an unbelievable selection.
Leather handbags, jackets, and belts
Istanbul has some great steals when it comes to leather items. Whether you are looking for a modern leather jacket, a stylish leather purse, or accessories like a belt or wallet, the options are endless. Bags come in a variety of colors and sizes, and some have rather distinctive designs. The rates are fantastic – remember to haggle!
Best place to buy them: Cadircilar Caddesi, Arasta Bazaar
Jewelry and Gold
Jewelry is a highly significant commerce in Istanbul. Turkey is one of the world’s major gold exporters. Turkish jewelry in gold, silver, and precious stones is of high quality and beauty. So, whether you have a soft spot for these lovely items or want to buy something exceptional for a loved one, the various jewelry booths of Istanbul’s bazaars are a must-see.
The best location to get them is: Grand Bazaar
Iznik Ceramics
Ceramics with classic, distinctive designs, such as the Iznik tiles found in Istanbul’s magnificent structures such as Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, are a sophisticated present. You may purchase plates, bowls, and other utensils.
The best location to get them is: The Ancient Bazaar (inside the Grand Bazaar), Arasta bazaar
Backgammon and chess
This traditional game has been played in Turkey since the 16th century. In Istanbul, you will find a plethora of finely carved, handcrafted backgammon and chess boards. The greatest ones are generally constructed of walnut wood and inlaid with pearls. Handmade backgammon or chessboard is a polished and beautiful present.
Any souvenir shops in the top tourist zones and neighborhoods, although bazaars are the best places to get them.
Perfume
Perfumes are one of the things that may draw the least attention but that we suggest. Turkish fragrances are highly exotic, with a very enticing scent. Furthermore, they are manufactured with oil, which means that their content is much more concentrated, and with only a few drops, you will be scented for the whole day.
Any branded perfumed shops in the top tourist streets and shopping malls.