5 Must-Have Turkish Souvenirs You Should Buy
Turkey is a shoppers' paradise. They can stroll through Istanbul's crowded Grand Bazaar or the charming Cappadocia bazaars. There are plenty of things to buy from Turkish specialty souvenirs. If you're wondering what to buy in Turkey, here are five essential souvenirs that capture the spirit of Turkish culture.
1. Turkish Delight (Lokum)
The best souvenirs of Turkey is Turkish delight. It is also called lokum. The sweet has been around for centuries and comes in a range of flavors. They vary from traditional rose and pistachio, to the more unusual pomegranate and saffron. Good Turkish delight is soft, chewy and covered in powdered sugar. It makes a great gift for family and friends. For the real thing, buy in established shops like Hafız Mustafa or Hacı Bekir. They've been making this dessert for generations.
Tip: Choose a mixed box to sample various flavors. Ensure that it is fresh for optimal taste.
2. Handmade Turkish Ceramics - An Ottoman Work of Art
Turkish ceramics are renowned for their intricate designs and bright colors. They can be fancy plates, hand-painted tiles, or exquisite coffee cups, all reflecting the rich history of the Seljuk and Ottoman empires. Kutahya village is renowned for ceramics, but you'll also discover beautiful work from the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul or specialty shops in Cappadocia.
Tip: Try to buy handmade, original ceramics instead of mass-produced ceramics to get a one-of-a-kind piece of Turkish art.
3. Turkish Carpets and Kilims – A Timeless Treasure
One of the most famous Turkish souvenirs is a classical carpet or kilim. They are produced by hand with intricate ornamentation, rich colors and high-quality wool or silk. Each rug has a personal history behind it.
They tend to reveal the history and culture of where they were created. Prices may range from affordable to expensive, but purchasing a genuine Turkish carpet is a unique way to introduce a touch of Turkey into your home.
Tip: Be ready to negotiate when you buy carpets, since prices can generally be negotiated. A good seller will give you a certificate so you can authenticate it.
4. Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu) – A Symbol of Protection
The evil eye, or nazar boncuğu, is the most widely used amulet in Turkish society. It is thought to repel bad energy and to bring good fortune. This blue glass trinket decorates homes, shops, and cars throughout Turkey. It is marketed as a keychain, wall decoration, jewelry, or even in decorative plates.
Tip: Utilize handmade glass evil eye charms instead of plastic copies so that you can get a genuine one.
5. Turkish Spices and Tea – Get a Taste of Turkey at Home
Buying some Turkish spices and Turkish tea to take back home enables you to taste Turkish flavors after your trip. Spices such as sumac, saffron, and pul biber (red pepper flakes) are commonly used while cooking Turkish dishes. Apple tea and original black tea (çay) are a part of Turkish etiquette simultaneously.
Tip: Go to the Spice Bazaar in Istanbul for the finest spices and all sorts of loose-leaf tea. Most stalls permit you to try out samples, so sit down and discover your favored flavors.
Where Can You Find Real Turkish Souvenirs?
Shopping in Turkey is an adventure on its own. Well known destinations like Istanbul's Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are renowned for having a vast selection of goods. Small workshops of local artisans and small stores have more unique items. To shop for the finest souvenirs in Turkey, make it a point to go to smaller bazaars and authentic craft stores. When you bring home delectable Turkish delight, a beautifully handwoven carpet, or a finely handcrafted ceramic piece, every Turkish souvenir holds a piece of this charming country's history and heritage. With such a wide variety, it's hard to pick one!
What would you like to take back home? Plan Your Shopping Spree in Turkey! Seeking a Turkey shopping tour with an expert? Contact us now to visit the finest local bazaars, find great souvenirs, and have a stress-free experience discovering Turkey's shopping scene!