40 Best Turkish Souvenirs: Your Guide to What to Buy in Turkey

Wondering about the best Turkish souvenirs to bring home from your trip to Turkey?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

If you’re traveling to Turkey, you’re undoubtedly wondering what to buy. There are so many great Turkish souvenirs that things get a bit overwhelming. That’s how I felt during my time in Turkey. I bought so many souvenirs I practically needed an extra suitcase to carry them all home.

From edible gifts like baklava, dried fruits, and nuts to textiles and soaps, there are many amazing things to buy in Turkey. But instead of just giving you a list of Turkish souvenirs, I tell you what they are, why they make the best gifts and the cultural significance behind each one. In this post, I also detail where to buy each item and give some bonus tips for haggling in Turkey.

Whether you’re looking for a great gift to bring home for loved ones or a special souvenir for yourself, read on for a list of the best Turkish souvenirs!

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Best Turkish Souvenirs for Foodies

Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses, known as “nar ekşisi” in Turkish, is a versatile ingredient used in many Turkish foods. Derived from the pomegranate fruit, this sweet-sour syrup is the secret behind many Turkish dishes. 

During your travels, you may taste it as a salad dressing or topping eggplant rolls. I use it in my own cooking to flavor rice and chicken and to create delicious salads.  

Pomegranate molasses is an ideal gift for food enthusiasts. Its deep red color and distinct taste will add a burst of authentic Turkish cuisine to your home kitchen. For the best pomegranate molasses, shop in traditional bazaars and specialty shops.

Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey. This heavenly dessert is popular throughout the Balkans and pairs especially well with the national drink of Turkey, cay (tea). 

With a perfect blend of crispness and sweetness, you’ll want to pick up some baklava for yourself and your friends. 

Head to any local pastry shop or confectionery to find delicious Baklava, and be sure to ask for recommendations when choosing between the many varieties.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling with your baklava purchase, have the store wrap it well and pack it inside some extra plastic bags so the honey doesn’t deep and stick all over your clothes! Learn from my mistakes…

Lokum (Turkish Delight)

Turkish delight (lokum in Turkish) is a chewy, fragrant confection flavored with various fruits, nuts, and spices. You may have tasted this dessert outside of Turkey and not been impressed, but trust me when I say the stuff you get in Turkey is miles better than what you’ll get anywhere else!

Colorful and flavorful, lokum makes an excellent gift for anyone with a sweet tooth. You’ll find it across Turkey, but I recommend purchasing it fresh over picking up a pre-boxed mix.

Fruit Wine

Turkish fruit wines offer unique flavors such as cherry, quince, and black mulberry. These sweet wines can be drunk on their own or paired with dessert. 

Whether you bring some home for yourself or your wine-loving friends, these fruity wines are like bringing a piece of the Turkish countryside home with you. 

The best fruit wine in Turkey comes from the town of Sirince, a popular mountain retreat near Selcuk and Ephesus.

Nuts

Turkish people eat nuts as snacks, part of main dishes, and of course as an ingredient in desserts (like baklava!). Pistachios are particularly popular. 

Nuts in Turkey are of exceptional quality and have robust flavors. Also, since nuts last a long time, they make perfect gifts to bring home to friends and family. 

Nuts are widely available in markets, nut shops, and grocery stores.

Spices

One of the things that makes Turkish cuisine stand out is the use of spices. Turkey is a great place to buy spices to bring home for use in your own cooking.

What makes spices such a great souvenir are that they don’t spoil, pack up nicely, are lightweight, and won’t take up much space in your suitcase.

The best spices to buy in Turkey are sumac, cinnamon, and Aleppo pepper.

The Spice Market in Istanbul, one of the city’s famous landmarks, has many vendors selling a wide array of spices at competitive prices.

Tea

Turks drink more tea per capita than any other country, perhaps because drinking Turkish tap water isn’t very tasty. Needless to say, they know a thing or two about good tea! So what better souvenir to buy in Turkey than tea?

Turkish tea is a blend of black tea leaves that brews into a strong, fragrant beverage.  

Purchasing Turkish tea, along with the traditional tulip-shaped glasses, is an excellent way to bring Turkish tea culture home with you. It’s a thoughtful gift for tea enthusiasts and is readily available in local markets and tea shops.

Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee has a long and deep tradition dating back to Ottoman Sultans. Bringing home some of these delicious grounds is a great way to savor the flavors of Turkey from home. 

To make proper Turkish coffee, brew this strong and aromatic beverage in a special pot called a cezve. 

It’s an ideal souvenir for coffee lovers, and you can find quality coffee and cezves in markets and coffee-related stores.

Dried Fruits

Turkish dried fruits, such as apricots, figs, and raisins, are a healthy and delicious snack found all over the country.

They embody the sun-soaked goodness of Turkish orchards. These long-lasting snacks make perfect gifts to bring home and share with loved ones. 

This versatile gift can be eaten as a snack, tossed into salads, or stewed with meats to form a sweet and savory sauce. No matter how you enjoy them, dried fruits make a wonderful, inexpensive souvenir to bring home from Turkey. 

Raki

Raki, often referred to as “Lion’s Milk,” is an anise-flavored alcoholic drink, similar to ouzo or arak. 

This strong spirit pairs well with meze, Turkish small plates. Raki is best enjoyed over ice and mixed with water, which brings out the flavor of this strong drink and turns it into a milky white color. 

It’s certainly an acquired taste, but a fun and unique gift for friends who enjoy drinking spirits.

Wine 

While Turkey is not historically known for its wine, the country is increasingly gaining recognition for its quality wines. 

Most Turkish wines are produced in the Aegean region near Izmir, but other wine-producing regions include Mid-Eastern Anatolia and Marmara. 

Consider bringing home a bottle of Turkish wine, which is known for its unique grape varieties and blends. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or gifting it to one, Turkish wine captures the essence of the country’s burgeoning wine culture.

Olive Oil

Renowned for its purity and robust flavor, Turkish olive oil is a versatile ingredient that will elevate your culinary creations. 

This thoughtful and practical souvenir is for anyone who enjoys cooking and appreciates the importance of quality ingredients. 

Pickled Vegetables

Turkish pickled vegetables, known as “tursu,” are zesty, tangy, and positively delicious. The mix of flavors and textures makes them a delightful accompaniment to a variety of dishes. 

This long-lasting product can be found in markets and stores nationwide and is a great way to bring Turkish cuisine to your table back home.

Honey

Turkish honey is golden in color and rich in taste. With many varieties, including pine, flower, and chestnut honey, it’s a sweet souvenir that captures the essence of Turkey’s diverse landscapes. 

Gift a jar of Turkish honey to friends with a sweet tooth, and look for different varieties in markets and shops across the country.

Salep Powder

Salep is a traditional Turkish drink made from orchid roots and hot milk. This sweet, thick beverage is very popular during the winter in Turkey and the beverage to sip on a snowy Istanbul day. 

We fell in love with it during our travels and drank it every chance we got! We loved it so much that we bought three containers of salep powder to bring home with us. Now we can drink delicious cups of warm salep during the Dublin winter months and be transported back to Turkey.

Mastic

Mastic is a sweet resin harvested from the mastic tree and a unique, aromatic substance widely used in Turkish cuisine. 

In Turkish kitchens, mastic finds its way into desserts, beverages, and savory dishes, giving a subtle and sweet pine-like aroma. It’s commonly used in making Turkish delight, ice cream, and certain meat dishes. If you try the ice cream in Turkey, you’ll probably notice its elastic quality. This is from mastic.

We tried mastic in the mountain town of Sirince, but you can find this ingredient at local markets across the country. It’s a perfect souvenir for creative cooks and bakers.

Best Textile Souvenirs from Turkey

Turkish Towels

Turkish towels are a traditional textile used in hammams throughout the country. Unlike your standard towels, these towels are lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying. These qualities make them perfect travel towels. 

We bring our Turkish bath towel with us on our travels, and it’s the perfect thing to throw into a daypack before hitting the beach. The towels dry quickly and don’t take up much room in a suitcase, making them a perfect gift for avid travelers.

The best place to buy Turkish towels is at Dervis in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. The shop also has many other bath accessories, helping you bring the hammam home with you.

Pashmina

Pashmina shawls and scarves are a symbol of luxury and comfort. Made from fine cashmere wool, these shawls are incredibly soft and warm, perfect if you’re visiting Turkey in winter!

Pashminas come in a variety of colors and designs, so you can pick to suit any style. You can find them in boutiques, markets, and tourist shops all over Turkey.

Turkish Carpets

Turkish carpets are world-renowned for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and impeccable craftsmanship. 

Whether you’re looking for a small area rug or a grand carpet, each piece will make a statement with the unique story it tells through its patterns and colors. 

These heirloom-quality textiles make an extraordinary and timeless souvenir that will enrich your living space. Explore local carpet shops and markets, and consider visiting regions like Cappadocia or Istanbul, famous for their exquisite carpet weaving.

Leather Products

Turkey is famous for its high-quality leather products. You can find anything from leather jackets and handbags to belts and shoes. 

The leather products in Turkey are durable and beautifully crafted. My husband bought himself a nice leather belt during our travels. With the conversion, the belt only cost about €4 and has held up beautifully! 

Leather souvenirs are stylish and practical, the makings of a perfect souvenir. I recommend shopping for leather goods at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.

Other Souvenirs to Buy in Turkey

Mosaic Lamps

During your travels in Turkey, you’ll see many stores selling colorful mosaic lamps. These exquisite works of art, are handcrafted with intricate patterns and colorful glass pieces. I love the look of these lamps, and dream of someday decorating my home with them. 

The lamps come in all sizes, including models that cascade from the ceiling like a colorful chandelier. They would make great statement pieces in any home and would serve as a constant reminder of your travels.

Copper

Turkish copperware, including pots, pans, and decorative items, is known for its beauty and durability. 

Copper is used in Turkish kitchens, particularly for making traditional Turkish coffee. You can find copper cookware, tea sets, and coffee pots in local markets throughout Turkey, but you’ll find the best selection and prices in Istanbul. 

Evil Eye Memorabilia

The “nazar boncuğu” or evil eye bead is a symbol believed to protect against negative energy. You’ll find these iconic blue and white charms in various forms, from jewelry and home decor to keychains and purses. 

Purchasing a charm to ward off the evil eye is a meaningful and thoughtful gift. This is a popular souvenir to bring back home from Turkey, and there is an evil eye charm to fit every budget.

Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry is very popular in Turkey, making this one of the best souvenirs to buy there. With the recent volatility of the Turkish Lira (the currency in Turkey), many locals opt to keep their savings in gold over cash to ensure it doesn’t depreciate. This results in many gold jewelry shops throughout the country.

Gold jewelry stores are especially present in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, which is frequented by locals as well as tourists. Take your time to browse the various pieces before you decide to buy, and find the perfect one to bring home with you.

Sultanite Stone Jewelry

I had never heard of Sultanite (also sometimes spelled Zultanite) before traveling to Turkey. This unique and color-changing gemstone is found exclusively in Turkey. It shifts from shades of lavender to gray and is absolutely captivating. 

Sultanite is a bit like a mood ring, except its color changes are set off by different lights. I bought a Sultanite necklace on our winter trip to Cappadocia, and my kids love to tell me when the color changes from pink to red or green.

Real sultanite stones are as expensive as diamonds, but you can also purchase synthetic ones at a more reasonable price point. I recommend visiting an accredited jeweler so you know you’re picking up a quality piece.

Turquoise

Turkey is a primary world supplier of turquoise, a vibrant blue-green stone highly coveted for jewelry. Turquoise jewelry is a striking accessory.

As with sultanite, I recommend visiting a reputable jeweler to ensure you’re buying quality pieces 

Onyx

Onyx is another stone that’s mined throughout Turkey. With its deep black color and unique patterns, this stone is widely used in Turkish jewelry and decor. 

Onyx pieces are sophisticated and timeless, making them one of the best things to buy from Turkey. Look for onyx jewelry and decorative items in bazaars and dedicated jewelry stores.

Ceramics

Turkish ceramics, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors, are a beautiful addition to any home. 

You can find a wide range of ceramic items, from plates and bowls to tiles and decorative pieces. The famous ceramics and blue tiles of Iznik are great additions to your home collection.

Nargile Pipes

The nargile, or hookah, is a traditional Turkish smoking pipe. Even if you don’t use them for smoking, these water pipes are beautiful and decorative. While not for everyone, they do make unique and culturally significant souvenirs. 

Turkish Tea Sets

Turkish tea culture is deeply rooted in tradition. Bringing back a Turkish tea set, complete with teapot and tulip-shaped glasses, allows you to recreate the warmth of Turkish tea ceremonies in your own home. Turkish tea glasses are often also decorated with mosaic patterns, making them beautiful centerpieces that will elevate your cup of tea back home.

Backgammon Set

Backgammon is a popular game in Turkey, and a backgammon board can be a fun souvenir to bring home. Whether you know how to play backgammon or not, it’s an easy game to learn. Plus, you’ll enjoy playing at home and reminiscing about your travels. 

Backgammon sets can be simple wooden boards or elaborately designed with intricate mother-of-pearl inlays. Whichever you choose, the important part is to enjoy the game (and win!).

Turkish Coffee Sets

Turkish coffee is an integral part of Turkish culture. The traditional Turkish coffee ceremony has deep roots dating to the Ottoman Sultanate, and the drink is prepared much the same way today. 

A traditional Turkish coffee set includes small cups and a cezve, the coffee pot. To make Turkish coffee, boil the grounds, water, and sugar in the cezve over a flame. Once the brew is ready, allow the grounds to settle and pour into the small cups. Enjoy your Turkish coffee with a piece of lokum (another great souvenir to buy in Turkey).

Turkish Lemon Cologne

Turkish lemon cologne has a refreshing scent. It’s a popular item in Turkish households, especially among men. Turkish barbers often spritz lemon cologne on clients after a shave, refreshing the skin and cooling the area.

Lemon cologne (kolonya in Turkish) is also sometimes used as a skin disinfectant and even as hand sanitizer.

Olive Oil Soap

Soap made from olive oil is high quality and all-natural. It’s gentle on the skin and comes in a variety of scents. 

Traditional olive oil soap is used in Turkish hammams. It naturally moisturizes the skin, giving it a healthy glow.

These soaps make thoughtful souvenirs and can be found all over at markets and tourist shops.

Traditional Instruments

Whether you’re a musician or just looking for a unique statement piece to bring home, then consider picking up a traditional Turkish instrument.

Turkey has a rich musical tradition, and traditional instruments like the oud and darbuka make for unique and culturally significant souvenirs. 

Visit music stores, markets, or antique shops to find these unique pieces.

Artwork

You can find Turkish artwork, whether it’s paintings, calligraphy, or miniatures, all across the country. Works by local artists often reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. 

Purchasing some art in Turkey is a great way to support local artists while simultaneously bringing a piece of Turkey home with you.

Prayer Beads

Prayer beads, known as tesbih, can be found in the hands of Turks everywhere. While these beads have a religious history, today many people use them as worry beads.

These strings of beads can be made from precious stones like amber or even cheaper plastic. Holding them in your hands and clacking the beads together is very soothing, almost like a traditional version of a fidget toy. 

They make for meaningful and spiritually inspired souvenirs, but you need not be religious to enjoy them. 

Antiques

Antique stores in Turkey reflect the rich and diverse history of the country. 

Antiques are often available in markets and shopping districts. Some of the best antique stores we saw were in the old city of Ankara, the capital of Turkey. 

While purchasing antiques requires care and consideration, they can be valuable and meaningful souvenirs for collectors.

Chess Board Set

Turkish people also love to play chess, so you’ll often see chess boards for sale in shops and bazaars. 

A finely crafted chess set with pieces inspired by Turkish culture can be both a decorative item and a source of entertainment.

Fridge Magnets

Fridge magnets are popular souvenirs from any country. While they’re certainly not unique to Turkey, the country has many fun fridge magnets that would make a great addition to your collection.

Some of the best fridge magnets I saw in Turkey had the Turkish flag on them. Other favorites were the hot air balloon magnets I saw in Cappadocia. 

No matter what design you choose, this is an easy-to-transport keepsake widely available in gift shops everywhere.

Best Places to Find Souvenirs in Turkey

When it comes to finding unique and memorable souvenirs in Turkey to take home, the possibilities are as diverse as the country’s rich culture and heritage. From crowded markets to specialty shops, there are endless places to find popular Turkish souvenirs. Here are my suggestions for the best places to shop for souvenirs in Turkey:

1. Markets, such as the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar in Istanbul: Istanbul’s markets are legendary for their vibrant and eclectic offerings. The Spice Market is a sensory delight, with a wide array of spices, dried fruits, and Turkish delight. It’s one of the best places to stock up on culinary souvenirs. 

Istanbul’s premier market, the Grand Bazaar, is a treasure trove of artisan goods, textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and more. Navigating its labyrinthine alleys, you’ll find an abundance of authentic Turkish treasures. 

2. Souvenir Shops: Souvenir shops can be found everywhere in Turkey, making them the perfect places to buy gifts for friends and family. Souvenir shops sell a wide variety of items, like evil eye charms, ceramics, textiles, and keychains. 

3. Rug Shops: If you’re in the market for an authentic, handmade Turkish rug, then definitely visit a designated rug shop. At the store, employees will lay out dozens of rugs for you to marvel at. While the experience can be overwhelming, seeing all the different styles will help you determine what you’re looking for in a piece.

Turkish Souvenir Shopping Tips

1. Hone Your Bargaining Skills: Bargaining is common in Turkey, and haggling is expected. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices with shopkeepers. One of the most important lessons when haggling is to be prepared to walk away if the price doesn’t match your budget. Often, both you and the seller can arrive at a mutually agreeable price.
   
2. Buy from Authentic Sources: if you want authentic and quality souvenirs, then purchasing from reputable sources is important. For certain items, like jewelry and carpets, seek out stores dedicated to those items. Be sure to inquire about certificates of authenticity.
   
3. Try before you buy: Before buying food items, especially dried fruits, nuts, and spices, most stores will let you try a sample before purchasing. If you’re unsure what something is or whether you’ll like it enough to buy it, just politely ask for a taste. Most shopkeepers are happy to oblige.
   
4. Ask the Locals: Don’t hesitate to talk with locals, who can guide you to good stores where you can find the best souvenirs. They might direct you to hidden gems, lesser-known markets, or artisan shops that offer high-quality items. Local knowledge can be especially helpful for finding good antique shops and specialty stores.
   
5. Plan Your Budget: Before you start shopping, set a budget for your souvenir purchases. It’s easy to get carried away in the excitement of markets, so having a clear spending limit in mind will help you make thoughtful and controlled purchases. Remember that souvenirs should bring joy and memories, not financial stress.

Tips on How to Haggle in Turkey:

Haggling is a time-honored tradition in Turkish markets, but like tipping in Turkey can be daunting for travelers. Here are some tips to help you navigate the art of haggling in Turkey:

1. Know the Item’s Value and Set Your Budget: Before you start the process, have an idea in your mind of how much you’re willing to pay for the item. For big-ticket items, such as rugs, research prices in advance so you come in prepared. Ways to do this include checking prices in multiple shops, talking to locals, or consulting guidebooks. Having a clear idea of what the item is worth, and how much it is worth to you, will help you set a reasonable budget and determine your upper limit during negotiations.
   
2. Be Patient and Willing to Walk Away: Patience is key in haggling. If the initial price doesn’t meet your expectations, calmly and respectfully state your counteroffer. The seller may counter your proposal, leading to a back-and-forth exchange. However, if the seller’s price doesn’t align with your budget or perceived value, don’t be afraid to thank them for their time and walk away from the negotiations. Often, the prospect of losing a sale can lead them to further reduce their prices.
   
3. Don’t Reveal Your Maximum Budget Too Early: When haggling in Turkey, it’s essential to keep your maximum budget close to your chest. Don’t reveal your budget too early in the negotiation. Sellers may use this information to anchor their initial prices higher, making it more challenging to bring the price down. Instead, let the seller state the starting price and counter lower than you’re max. Then, work incrementally up until you can both agree on a price. This gives you greater control over the negotiation process and increases your chances of getting the best price.

With these haggling tips, you’ll be ready to navigate the markets of Turkey. Remember, haggling is not just about getting a good deal – it’s also a cultural exchange and a memorable part of your Turkish shopping adventure.

FAQ: Turkish Souvenirs

Final Thoughts: Turkish Souvenirs

When planning a trip to Turkey, don’t miss out on the opportunity to bring back a special gift. The diverse range of souvenirs, authentically made in Turkey, lets you bring home a bit of the country’s rich culture and heritage. Whether it’s a traditional carpet, unique ceramics, or flavorful Turkish spices, these souvenirs serve as cherished reminders of your time spent in this fascinating country.