Best Souvenir Shops in Istanbul: What to Bring Home

Istanbul is a city where history, culture, and art are well combined. Istanbul is also an excellent city to buy souvenirs. Visitors can stroll in the crowded Grand Bazaar shops or in the shops in hidden alleys. Istanbul offers a wonderful selection of souvenirs.

Where to Buy Souvenirs in Istanbul?

1. Grand Bazaar: The Enduring Shopper's Heaven

One of the oldest and biggest bazaars in the world is the Grand Bazaar. It's a shopper's paradise for those who want to shop for traditional Turkish souvenirs. There are more than 4,000 shops. Sellers have everything from Turkish delight and local jewelry to carpets and hand-painted ceramics. Haggling is all part of the fun. So get ready to negotiate the best deal.

2. Spice Bazaar: Treat for the Senses

Spice Bazaar is an ideal place for shopping for Turkish scented spices, dried fruit, and herbal tea. Spice Bazaar is situated near the Golden Horn. Turkish coffee and lokum (Turkish delight) are well packaged. The shopping experience here will be a feast for the eyes with colors and for the senses with smells.

3. Arasta Bazaar: The Hidden Gem

Arasta Bazaar is suitable for leisurely shopping. It is situated behind the Blue Mosque. There are very fine handicrafts. Sellers offer ceramic plates, silk scarves, and Ottoman lamps. The small bazaar, unlike the Grand Bazaar, is a quiet shopping experience.

4. Istiklal Street: Modern and Trendy Discoveries

Istiklal Street is one of the most crowded streets in the city. The street is filled with modern retail shops and classical souvenir shops. You can buy handmade leather products, fashionable fabrics, and exclusive artistic products as souvenirs. The souvenirs are designed by modern Turkish designers. It is a perfect place to shop for a blend of modern and traditional souvenirs.

5. Nisantasi: Upscale Shopping with Turkish Flair

Nisantasi is ideal for designer souvenirs. The area is famous for its high-end Turkish designer shops. There are good jewelry and high-end home decor. Tourists will adore the high-quality luxury souvenirs and traditional craftsmanship here.

What to Buy: Top Turkish Souvenirs

• Turkish Carpets and Kilims Turkish handmade carpets are famous because of their complex designs and superior quality. Whatever you choose, a big carpet or a small kilim, it is a beautiful decoration for your home.
• Turkish ceramics are famous throughout the globe. Kutahya and Iznik ceramics have classic designs and lively colors. Tiles, ornamentations, plates, and bowls make great souvenirs and gifts.
• Sample some Turkish delight in various flavors. There is the classic rose, pistachio and some new flavors. These Turkish Delight make perfect souvenirs.
• The Grand Bazaar is also full of professional jewelers. Vendors sell gold, silver, and gemstone jewelry. They are Ottoman-style. Purchasing a handmade item ensures a one-of-a-kind, timeless souvenir.
• Evil Eye Amulets (Nazar Boncugu) is one of Turkey's most iconic souvenirs. It is a protection from bad luck. Available in pendant, bracelet and home decor. These charms make a thoughtful gift.
• There is a nice souvenir for visitors who would like to bring some flavor of Turkey back home. It is Turkish tea and coffee sets. Visitors may also have coffee cup fortune telling. Paired with a traditional copper cezve (coffee pot), they are a highly authentic experience.
• Turkish leather products are fashionable. It has a good quality. There are wallets and handbags made of leather. They are a good investment for souvenir shoppers.

Shopping Tips for Visitors

• Bargain Reasonably: Haggling is the way of life in ancient bazaars like the Grand Bazaar. Begin at around 50% of the price requested and bargain courteously.
• Check for Authenticity: While buying carpets, jewellery or high-cost souvenirs, request authenticity certificates. Buy from official dealers.
• Bring Cash: Most shops accept credit cards. Small traders may prefer cash.
• Be Conscious of Customs Laws: Some items, such as antiques, may be prohibited for export. It is best to inquire before purchasing. Shopping for souvenirs in Istanbul is an adventure by itself.

Would you like to shop in Istanbul? Contact us for private guided tours and personal shopping tours. See Turkey's markets and shops at their best!