Donโt leave Turkey without picking up one (or five!) of these authentic keepsakes.
From traditional handicrafts to unique snacks, Turkey is full of affordable and beautiful souvenirs that make the perfect gift โ or memory of your trip.
1. Turkish Delight (Lokum)
- ๐ฌ Sweet, chewy, and comes in dozens of flavors
- ๐ Popular for gifting
- ๐๏ธ Buy from: Hafiz Mustafa (Istanbul), Koska, or local markets
2. Spices & Herbal Teas
- ๐ถ๏ธ Saffron, sumac, Turkish chili, apple tea
- ๐ซ Try tulip-shaped tea glasses for bonus points
- ๐ Best found at spice bazaars and local shops
3. Nazar Boncuk (Evil Eye Charms)
- ๐งฟ Symbol of protection in Turkish culture
- ๐ผ๏ธ Found on jewelry, wall hangings, magnets
- ๐ก Small and lightweight = ideal souvenir
4. Turkish Ceramics & Tiles
- ๐จ Hand-painted with Ottoman patterns
- ๐บ Great for home decor โ coasters, bowls, plates
- ๐๏ธ Visit Avanos (Cappadocia) or Grand Bazaar
5. Carpets & Kilims
- ๐งต Handwoven rugs โ every pattern tells a story
- ๐ธ Prices vary from budget to luxury
- ๐ Always ask for a certificate of authenticity
6. Olive Oil Products
- ๐ซ Soaps, oils, lotions โ made from Aegean olives
- ๐ Eco-friendly and locally made
- ๐ Great gifts with natural packaging
7. Turkish Coffee Sets
- โ Beautiful copper sets with ornate designs
- ๐ Often includes cups, pot (cezve), and tray
- ๐ Found in Istanbulโs bazaars and artisan shops
8. Ebru Art (Paper Marbling)
- ๐๏ธ Unique Turkish painting technique
- ๐จ Looks like watercolor waves
- ๐ผ๏ธ Buy framed or as notebooks and bookmarks
9. Textiles & Towels (Peshtemals)
- ๐งบ Lightweight, absorbent towels used in hammams
- ๐ Stylish for beach or home use
- ๐๏ธ Look for handmade, 100% cotton options
10. Baklava
- ๐ฅฎ Delicious, flaky dessert with pistachios or walnuts
- ๐ซ Easy to pack in vacuum-sealed boxes for flights
- ๐ฏ Popular brands: Karakรถy Gรผllรผoฤlu, Kรถลkeroฤlu
โ Final Thoughts
No matter your budget, Turkey has something beautiful, flavorful, or meaningful to take home. Skip the clichรฉ fridge magnets and go for something unique and handmade.
๐งณ For more shopping tips and local bazaars, check out the full guides on Simple Turkey Guide!