The Best Souvenir Opportunities to Purchase | Istanbul | Turkey

Istanbul, a stunning metropolis that straddles Europe and Asia, is a treasure trove for those seeking unique souvenirs to share with family and friends. In this blog, we explore a delightful array of quirky and charming gifts that are sure to enchant travelers.
From intricately designed ceramics depicting traditional Turkish motifs to vibrant handwoven textiles that tell a story, each item captures the essence of this vibrant city. These souvenirs not only serve as mementos of your journey but also invite you to bring a little slice of Istanbul’s rich culture and history back home with you. Join us as we uncover these captivating treasures that will make your adventures unforgettable.

Table of Contents

1-  Evil-Eye
2-  Turkish Lamp  
3-  Dessert  
4-  Kilim  
5-  Turkish Coffee Set 
6-  Turkish Tea Set  
7-  Copper Cezve( Coffee Pot)
8-   Turkish Art and Antiques
9-   Ottoman Jewelry 
10-  Clothes and Pashminas
11-   Hamman Accessories
12-   Freshly Ground Turkish Coffee  
13-   Conclusion

1-  Evil-Eye:

In the Turkish language, the evil eye, known as “nazar boncuğu”, is famous as the most iconic and widely recognized sign in Istanbul. The people believed it was used for protection against harmful power and bad luck caused by jealous stares.

• Famous Evil Eye Souvenirs:

1. Keychains.
2. Bracelets & Necklaces.
3. Wall Hanging & Ornaments.
4. Ceramics & poetry painted on plates, bowls, and tiles.
5. Magnets & mini souvenirs are best for purchasing in dimension as a small gift dimension.
6. Textiles such as motifs printed and embroidered on fabrics.

•   Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar from Kapalıçarşı.
2. Spice Bazaar from Mısır Çarşısı.
3. Arasta Bazaar

2-  Turkish Lamp:

With the echoing color and intricate design of lamps for souvenirs, there are many illustrious places to buy Turkish lamps. The dynamic mosaic patterns and elaborate handicraft lamps that illuminate echo centuries of Ottoman and Anatolian artistic architecture. Each lamp is crafted with handmade glass mosaics and traditional metals, including brass or bronze bases with Ottoman-inspired Patterns.

•  Types of lamps:
  

1. Table Lamps are small and medium-sized lamps.
2. Hanging or Pendant Lamps are the cluster of melodramatic lights of homes and cafes.
3. Floor Lamps for tall standing pieces.
4. Wall scones decorative walls with mounted lamps.
5. Chandeliers

•    Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar.
2. Arasta Bazaar.
3. Spice Bazaar.
4. Boutique shops in Sultanahmet or Galata

3-  Dessert :

Istanbul, a captivating city, is a treasure trove of rich Ottoman heritage intertwined with the vibrant allure of modern Turkish delights.

•   Types of desserts you can buy from Istanbul:

The classic Turkish delights( Lokum) and purchases from Hacı Bekir, Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir, and Hafiz Mustafa. For optimal taste, select vacuum-sealed or tightly packed packs to maintain freshness.

       a-  Baklawa:

Baklava is an irresistible delicacy that features delicate layers of filo pastry. Each is lovingly filled with a delightful mixture of finely ground nuts. This mouthwatering treat is bathed in a sweet, fragrant syrup, often elevated by the natural goodness of honey, adding a touch of healthful charm to every bite. When you bring home this heavenly delight, many shops suggest using travel-ready boxes to preserve its freshness, consuming it within a week, or storing it in the refrigerator to ensure you savor every delightful bite.

       b-  Helva( Halva):

Indulge in this delightful, rich dish crafted from creamy tahini sesame paste, harmonious sugar, and enchanting swirls of pistachio or decadent chocolate. Each bite is a tempting blend of flavors that promises to captivate your senses.

       c-   Acıbadem Kurabiyesi ( Bitter Almond Cookies):

The dessert is prepared with a combination of chewy cookies with bitter almonds, egg whites, and sugar, which is gluten-free and naturally preserved with long-lasting properties.

        d-  Pestil & Köme:

The fruit leather, known as pistil, and nut-filled rolls, famous as Köme, are specifically prepared from the eastern regions but are available in Istanbul.

         e- Candied Chestnuts:

The candied nuts known as Kestane Şekeri are conserved in syrup, and it is famous in Bursa but also available in Istanbul.

         f- Traditional James and Honey:

You can buy rose petals, figs, pine, and flower honey according to your taste and preference.

•    Where to buy:

1. You can indulge in this exquisite Baklava dessert at renowned establishments such as Karaköy Güllüoğlu, Hafiz Mustafa, and Köşkeroğlu.
2. You can buy Helva from Koska, the illustrious brand, and have shops throughout Istanbul.
3. You can buy Acıbadem Kurabiyesi ( Bitter Almond Cookies) from Beyaz Fırın.
4. You can purchase Pestil & Köme from Doğa Pestil, Tatbil Pestil Köme, Pestil Marketim, and Trendyol (various sellers) shops in Istanbul.
5. Candied Chestnuts can be purchased from Hafiz Mustafa (various branches, including İstiklal Eminönü and Karaköy), Grand Bazaar, and Istanbul Classic Kestane.
6. You can buy it from the Grand Bazaar, the Spices Bazaar, and gourmet shops.

4-  Kilim:

The Kilim is a flat-woven rug or textile traditionally handmade with colorful geometric patterns and cultural significance in Turkish heritage.

•  Which types of Kilim did we buy?

Find the enchanting allure of Kilim products, including beautifully crafted bags, elegant purses, cozy slippers, stylish shoes, echoing pillow covers, and outstanding wallets. Enhance your living space with enchanting accessories, small rugs, captivating wall hangings, and framed artistic fragments of antique kilims. Each piece adds a touch of culture and beauty to your home, transforming it into a warm and inviting sanctuary.

•    Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2.  Arasta Bazaar
3. Sultanahmet area
4. İstiklal Street
5. Çukurcuma.

5-  Turkish Coffee Set:

If you wish to buy the best souvenir Turkish Coffee set, we suggest purchasing a gorgeous coffee set. You can pursue an Ottoman-style design, hand-painted ceramics, or a copper-work coffee set.

•   Types of Coffee Set:

In coffee sets, items include cezve( coffee pot) and demitasse cups ( Fincans), yet some coffee sets are also available with the facility of a serving tray.

•    Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2. Arasta Bazaar
3. Special Shop like Raşabahçe

6-  Turkish Tea Set:

The Turkish tea set represents the genuine Turkish hospitality and culture. Tea set complete set including Çaydanlık (featured double teapot), thin-waisted glasses (since Benelli tulip-shaped glasses), Saucersspoons try round, oval shapes made with metal, wood, and some engraved.

•     Types of Turkish Tea Set:

1. Traditional Copper or Brass sets.
2. Porcelain or Ceramics Sets.
3. Glass Sets with gold or silver rim accents.

•    Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2. Spice Bazaar
3. Arasta bazaar
4. Boutique shops in Sultanahmet or Karaköy

7-  Copper Cezve( Coffee Pot):

The handleless pot is used for making coffee illustrious, as a copper cezve, yet the most prominent is the hand-hammered copper cezve. But I think the most suggested coffee pot is a tin-lined cezve, which is durable and safe.

•    Types of Copper Cezve( Coffee Pot):

1. By Size/ Capacity
3. By Crafting Method
4. By Inner Lining
5. By Shape and Design
6. Regional Variations
7. Handle Types of Copper Cezve

•    Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2. Special stores like Eminönü.
3. Arasta Bazaar near the blue mosque.
4. Istaklil Street’s
5. Local artisan stores in Kadıköy and the Galata areas for higher-quality contemporary design.

8-   Turkish Art and Antiques:

Turkish art forms such as Ebru (marbling art), Hat (Ottoman calligraphy), and Iznik & ceramics (Ottoman tile art) are known for their vibrant beauty and intricate designs.
You can select different items such as antique furniture & woodwork, vintage clocks & Timepieces, and Weaponry, and military memorabilia.

•     Types of Turkish Art and Antiques:

1. Ottoman Era items
2. Turkish Decorative Arts
3. Jewelry and Metalworks
4. Cultural and Religious Items
5. Books and Prints

•      Where to buy:

1. The Turkish art Ebru( Marbling Art) is bought from the Arasta Bazaar and the Sultanahmet area.
2. Hat ( Ottoman Caligraphy) bought from the Sultan Ahmet area and the Istanbul Modern Gift Shop.
3. Iznik & Ceramics ( Ottoman Tile Art) can be bought from the Grand Bazaar, Arasta Bazaar, and special ateliers.
4. Turkish Antique,  buy from the Grand Bazaar, Arasta Bazaar, Cukuruma ( Antique District), Balat Fener.

9-   Ottoman Jewelry:

If you’re desiring genuine Ottoman-style jewelry souvenirs in Istanbul, you’re in for a treat. The city’s rich history and enthusiastic bazaars offer a superfluity of options, from classic gold lattice compositions to stylish strategies motivated by Ottoman aesthetics. The Ottoman jewelry, gold and silver, delicately the metalwork inspired the taste and trend of the public. The gemstone jewelry set is adorned with stones of turquoise, malachite, and sapphire that remind us of the past Ottoman architecture style and trend.

•    Types of Ottoman Jewelry:

1. Turga Inspired Jewelry
2. FiligreeJewelry
3. Evil Eye Jewelry
4. Gemstone-Encrusted Jewelry ( Sultanic Style)
5. Calligraphy Jewelry
6. Coin Jewelry
7. Harem Style Jewelry

•  Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2. Mahmutpaşa Bazaar
3. İstiklal Avenue
4. Galataport

10-  Clothes and Pashminas:

If you have an idea of buying traditional clothes as souvenirs, you have to choose a Kaftan,s Ornate long robe with embroidery. The Shlwar is a loose-fitting trouser, and trousers alike resemble the Ottoman period and a handmade waistcoat.
In modern trend clothes, you can choose Boho dresses and Tunics that look beautiful with Anatolian prints. The Evil-eye T-shirt looks vibrant with ” Nazar Boncuğu” prints.
In Pashminas (Shawls and scarves), often material used is often a mix of silk, viscose, wool, and cashmere blend. The design used on Pashminas is Ottoman patterns, Turkish tile motifs, floral prints, and paisley.

•       Types of Clothes and Pashminas:

1. Traditional Turkish Garments
2. Modern Turkish Fashion
3. T-Shirt & Casual Wear
4. Pashima Shwals
5. Silk Scarves
6. Cotton and Wool Scarves

•     Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2. Arasta Bazaar
3. Spices Bazaar
4. Istiklal Street
5. Nişantaşı or Galata

11-   Hamman Accessories:

Hamman Accessories( Turkish baths) are not only traditional, but it is captivating and serviceable. Here we suggest some Hamman accessories because when you purchase, you won’t face any trouble.

•    Types of Hamman Accessories:

1. Peshtemal (lightweight cotton linen smooth towels).
2. Kese (Essential from traditional Scrub).
3. Olive Oil / Black Soap ( The soap is prepared with herbs and is mostly used in Hamams).
4. Hamam Bowl & Ibrik (Hand-hammered decorative copper brass bowl and jugs).
5. Takunya ( traditional wooden Hamman clogs).
6. Buhudran & Gülabdan (Traditional elegance for sprinkles of rose water and fragrant Brass or copper burners).

•  Where to Buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2. Arasata Bazaar near Blue masjid
3. Spice Bazaar & Mahmutpaşa

12-   Freshly Ground Turkish Coffee:

Coffee is appreciated by everyone, yet if you enjoy the rich taste of coffee illustrious for its rich flavor, strong aroma, and unfiltered preparation. Turkish coffee is freshly ground and prepared with Arabica 100% rich flavor.

•     Top brand for Coffee Buying:

1. Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi’s Coffee brand is the most popular and highly recommended by customers.
2. Nuri Toplar roasted on a wooden fire for an aromatic flavor.
3. Mandabatmaz coffee has a thick and foamy brew.

•     Where to buy:

1. Grand Bazaar
2. Stamboul Bazaar
3. Othoman Market
4. Halilstore

13-   Conclusion:

In the end, selecting a souvenir from Istanbul is more than just a simple purchase; it’s a chance to capture the essence of a city steeped in history and spirituality. As you browse through the bustling markets and artisan shops, remember that each item carries a story and a connection to the community. In Islam, the act of giving is seen as a form of charity, a way to foster goodwill among people. Let these meaningful gifts serve as reminders of the beautiful experiences and connections you’ve made during your time in this enchanting city, echoing the Islamic value of generosity and kindness.

Islamic teachings highlight the importance of modesty for women when they are in public spaces. It is encouraged that women dress in a way that covers themselves appropriately and adheres to principles of modest clothing when leaving their homes.

As you stroll through the vibrant bazaars and enchanting streets of Istanbul, you’ll find a treasure trove of souvenirs that capture the essence of this captivating city. From the extravagant colors and intricate designs of traditional Turkish ceramics to the allure of handwoven rugs, each piece tells a story steeped in rich history and culture. Don’t overlook the fragrant spices that infuse your senses with the aroma of the spice markets, or the elegance of beautifully crafted jewelry that reflects the artistry of local artisans.

Remember to bring home a piece of the renowned Turkish delight, which comes in a delightful array of flavors and textures, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Each souvenir serves not just as a reminder of your journey, but as a meaningful connection to the spirit of Istanbul, allowing you to relive the memories of this extraordinary city long after you’ve returned home. Embrace the opportunity to gather these unique gifts that embody the heart and soul of Turkey, making your travels unforgettable.

FAQs:

1- What types of souvenirs are inexpensive in Istanbul?  

Affordable souvenirs in Istanbul include small Iznik-style ceramic coasters, magnets, and evil-eye charms, commonly sold in the city’s bazaars.

2- Is 3000 lira sufficient for a week?  

No, 3,000 lira is unlikely to be sufficient for a full week in Istanbul. Budget travelers typically spend between 1,700 lira and 2,200 lira per day. Therefore, 3,000 lira for an entire week is quite tight and probably not enough, unless you plan to stay in a hostel, eat very cheaply, and avoid paid attractions.

3- What are the top treasures to seek out and purchase in the vibrant city of Istanbul?

Must-buy treasures in Istanbul include Turkish delight, spices, evil-eye charms, handmade ceramics, and traditional textiles like scarves and carpets. These items represent the city’s culture and make for unforgettable gifts.

4- When is the ideal time to buy souvenirs in Istanbul?

The ideal time to buy souvenirs in Istanbul is during the early morning or late afternoon, as these times allow you to explore the bustling bazaars when they are less crowded. Additionally, visiting during off-peak seasons, such as late fall or winter, can lead to better deals and a more relaxed shopping experience.

5- Which type of bags are cheap in Istanbul?

When exploring the bustling markets of Istanbul, you’ll find that canvas and synthetic fabric bags tend to be quite affordable. These lightweight, practical options are popular for their durability and versatility, making them ideal for shopping or everyday use.