The bustling bazaars and elegant malls often steal the spotlight when it comes to shopping in Turkey, but the country’s retail charm stretches far beyond the obvious. Sure, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul and the luxury storefronts of Nişantaşı are iconic, but what about the delight of stumbling upon a handcrafted ceramic in a sleepy village market, or scoring a beautifully woven kilim rug from a family-run shop tucked away in Cappadocia?

From vibrant spice markets echoing with centuries of trade to contemporary fashion studios and antique havens, Turkey offers a shopping experience where tradition meets modern craftsmanship.

Don’t forget to bookmark this article for your next trip to Turkey. And now, you can also apply for your Turkey visa quickly and hassle-free with Atlys!

Whether you’re after time-honoured Turkish goods, authentic souvenirs, or one-of-a-kind artisan pieces, this guide to shopping in Turkey explores the most rewarding things to buy, beyond the touristy stalls and the usual suspects in Istanbul and Izmir

Here are the 17 best things to buy in Turkey:

1. Turkish Carpets and Kilims

2. Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu)

3. Turkish Delight (Lokum)

4. Spices and Herbal Teas

5. Iznik Ceramics

6. Turkish Coffee Sets

7. Olive Oil and Natural Soaps

8. Handmade Jewellery

9. Copperware and Metal Crafts

10. Textiles and Hammam Towels (Peshtemals)

11. Leather Goods

12. Traditional Turkish Lamps

13. Baklava

14. Hand-painted Calligraphy and Miniature Art

15. Local Fashion and Scarves

16. Rakı

17. Antique and Vintage Finds

1. Turkish Carpets and Kilims

No trip to Turkey is complete without admiring the intricate beauty of its carpets and kilims—an age-old tradition that reflects the country’s rich cultural and tribal heritage. These handwoven masterpieces, often passed down through generations, are crafted using natural wool, silk, or cotton and dyed with plant-based colours. Each carpet tells a story through its motifs, whether it's fertility symbols from Anatolia, geometric tribal patterns from the Taurus Mountains, or elegant Ottoman floral designs.

There are two main types to look out for:

• Carpets (Halı): Pile-woven and thicker, with luxurious texture.

• Kilims: Flat-woven and lighter, often used as wall hangings, floor coverings, or throws.

Where to Shop:

• Istanbul's Grand Bazaar and Arasta Bazaar (near the Blue Mosque) are iconic spots to begin.

• Cappadocia is renowned for tribal kilims and village-made carpets with earthy tones.

• Konya, the spiritual heartland, has centuries-old weaving traditions and offers slightly better prices.

• Uşak, Hereke, and Kayseri are famed for their silk carpets and intricate knot work.

Approximate Cost:

• Small kilims (wall hangings/table runners): $50–$150

• Medium-sized wool carpets: $300–$800

• Large handwoven silk carpets (especially Hereke): $1,500–$10,000+, depending on size and quality

Prices vary based on materials (silk is the most expensive), knot density (more knots = finer detail), and age (antique pieces fetch higher prices). Always ask for a certificate of authenticity, and feel free to negotiate (bargaining is expected).

2. Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu)

One of the most recognisable symbols of Turkish culture, the Evil Eye, or Nazar Boncuğu, is more than just a beautiful blue charm; it's a deeply rooted cultural talisman believed to ward off negative energy and ill intentions. Shaped like a concentric eye in shades of cobalt, white, and black, this amulet has been used for centuries across the Mediterranean and Middle East, but in Turkey, it’s a true national emblem. You’ll spot it everywhere: hanging in homes, offices, cars, worn as jewellery, or even embedded in the foundations of new buildings.

Made from hand-blown glass, skilled artisans traditionally create the charm, especially in the coastal town of Nazarköy near İzmir, where this craft is still passed down through generations. Each piece is slightly different, making it a unique, meaningful gift or keepsake.

Where to Shop:

• Grand Bazaar (Istanbul) and Kemeralti Bazaar (İzmir) offer a wide variety, from tiny beads to large wall hangings.

• Nazarköy, the namesake “Evil Eye Village,” is known for authentic handmade glass charms straight from the furnace.

• Boutique stores in Kapadokya, Bodrum, and Antalya sell more modern or artistic interpretations.

Approximate Cost:

• Small bead/keychain/trinkets: $1–$5

• Bracelets or jewellery pieces (silver or gold-plated): $10–$50

• Wall hangings or decorative items (ceramic, glass, or metal): $10–$100, depending on size and craftsmanship

• Handcrafted artisanal glass versions from Nazarköy: $20–$80

Whether you believe in its power or not, carrying a Nazar Boncuğu is a beautiful way to take home a piece of Turkish folklore.

3. Turkish Delight (Lokum)

Turkish Delight, or Lokum, is one of Turkey’s most beloved confections. It’s soft, chewy, and delicately flavoured, with a history that stretches back to the Ottoman Empire. Traditionally made with sugar, water, and starch, these bite-sized sweets are often infused with rosewater, citrus, or mastic, and filled with ingredients like pistachios, hazelnuts, or walnuts. Dusted with powdered sugar or coconut flakes, they melt in your mouth and pair perfectly with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.

You can try the best lokums at Hafiz Mustafa in Istanbul, so don’t miss out on that!

While mass-produced versions are easy to find, the true magic lies in tasting handmade lokum, crafted in small batches using age-old methods and high-quality ingredients. Some shops also offer modern twists, combining flavours like pomegranate with pistachio, or saffron with almond.

Where to Shop:

• Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) in Istanbul is a top spot for artisanal varieties and generous samples.

• Hafiz Mustafa (since 1864) and Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir (dating back to the 1700s) are two of the most reputable and historic lokum makers in Istanbul.

• Local sweet shops in Gaziantep, Bursa, and Safranbolu also offer excellent regional variations.

Approximate Cost:

• Pre-packaged lokum (basic varieties): $5–$10 for 250g

• Handmade or gourmet lokum (premium flavours/nuts): $15–$25 for 500g

• Luxury gift boxes from legacy brands: $30–$50, depending on packaging and selection

Many shops offer vacuum-sealed boxes for easy travel, making lokum an ideal edible souvenir. If buying in bulk, just be sure to check the ingredients and shelf life.

4. Spices and Herbal Teas

Step into any traditional Turkish spice bazaar and you'll be greeted by a riot of colours and aromas, an olfactory journey that reflects centuries of trade, empire, and culinary finesse. Turkish markets offer an extraordinary range of spices: crimson sumac with its tangy zest, deep golden saffron, warming cumin, rich paprika, and flavorful pul biber (chilli flakes).

Alongside spices, you’ll find an impressive collection of herbal teas, like dried apple tea, rosebuds, linden, sage, and chamomile, all staples in Turkish households.

These make aromatic, lightweight souvenirs perfect for food lovers and wellness enthusiasts. Many vendors also create beautiful spice blends for meat rubs or rice pilafs.

Where to Shop:

• The Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) in Istanbul is a top destination for quality and variety.

• Gaziantep, Antalya, and Şanlıurfa local markets offer regional spice mixes and better prices.

• Speciality tea and spice shops in Safranbolu and Trabzon focus on dried herbs and healing infusions.

Approximate Cost:

• Common spices (sumac, cumin, pul biber): $2–$6 per 100g

• Premium saffron: $10–$25 per gram (make sure it's real Iranian or Anatolian saffron)

• Herbal teas (rose, linden, sage): $3–$10 per 100g

• Gift spice sets (in glass tubes or tins): $15–$40, depending on packaging and contents

Vendors usually allow you to sample the teas or smell the spices before buying, so don’t hesitate to ask.

5. Iznik Ceramics

Iznik Ceramics are one of the most exquisite and timeless art forms from Turkey. These hand-painted tiles, bowls, and plates originated from the town of Iznik during the Ottoman era and were once used to adorn mosques, palaces, and royal residences. Characterised by their vibrant cobalt blues, turquoise, emerald greens, and coral reds, these ceramics often feature motifs of tulips, carnations, arabesques, and geometric designs.

Today, artisans continue this tradition, creating decorative and functional pieces perfect for collectors, interior decorators, or anyone seeking a truly elegant Turkish souvenir.

Where to Shop:

• Istanbul’s Arasta Bazaar (behind the Blue Mosque) and Grand Bazaar have many trusted ceramic workshops.

• For authentic, workshop-made pieces, head to Iznik town itself, or visit local ateliers in Kutahya, another major ceramics hub.

• Smaller shops in Avanos (Cappadocia) also produce distinctive pottery with a regional twist.

Approximate Cost:

• Small decorative plates or bowls (hand-painted): $20–$50

• Larger serving dishes or tiles: $60–$200

• Custom wall panels or antique-style Iznik pieces: $300–$1000+, depending on size and craftsmanship

Always check if the item is hand-painted (not decal) and made with traditional quartz-based ceramic for authenticity.

6. Turkish Coffee Sets

A true Turkish coffee experience goes beyond the brew. It’s a ritual, and the coffee set is at its heart. These sets typically include a copper cezve (ibrik) for brewing over low heat, a set of elegant porcelain cups (fincan) often encased in metal holders, and sometimes an ornate tray for presentation. Many also come with matching sugar bowls and tiny spoons.

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply appreciate intricate craftsmanship, these sets make beautiful, functional souvenirs. Some are minimal and modern, while others feature rich Ottoman designs with filigree, inlays, or enamel work.

Where to Shop:

• Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and Tahtakale in Istanbul are great for variety and quality.

• Gaziantep and Mardin offer more traditional, handmade copperwork at competitive prices.

• Smaller boutiques in Avanos or Safranbolu may offer local styles with rustic finishes.

Approximate Cost:

• Basic sets (1 cezve + 2 cups): $15–$30

• Mid-range with tray and detailing: $40–$80

• Hand-hammered artisan sets (with gold or silver plating): $100–$300

Consider pairing it with Turkish coffee grounds and a small tin of lokum for a complete gift.

7. Olive Oil and Natural Soaps

Turkey’s Aegean coast, particularly the region around Ayvalık, is famed for its sun-drenched olive groves and the golden, cold-pressed olive oil they yield. This oil, rich in antioxidants and known for its smooth, fruity flavour, is widely used in Turkish cuisine and also valued for its skincare benefits. Alongside edible oils, Turkey also produces a range of natural olive oil soaps, often handmade using traditional methods and infused with local herbs or essential oils such as lavender, rose, thyme, or laurel (defne).

Ideal for gifting or personal use, these products reflect a centuries-old bath and wellness culture rooted in the traditions of the Turkish hammam.

Where to Shop:

• Ayvalık, Kuşadası, and Bodrum are the best places for small-batch oils and handmade soaps from local producers.

• In Istanbul, visit the Grand Bazaar or eco-friendly shops in Galata and Karaköy.

• Farmers’ markets and cooperatives across the Aegean region offer farm-direct prices.

Approximate Cost:

• Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (500ml): $8–$20

• Flavoured or artisanal blends (with herbs, citrus, etc.): $15–$30

• Natural soaps (100g bar): $2–$6

• Luxury soap gift sets: $10–$25, depending on packaging and ingredients

Look for products that are 100% natural, additive-free, and preferably made by women’s cooperatives for a more ethical purchase.

8. Handmade Jewellery

From the elaborate elegance of Ottoman-inspired filigree to modern, minimalist silverwork, handmade jewellery in Turkey is an art form passed down over centuries. Artisans across the country craft pieces using sterling silver, gold plating, copper, and semi-precious stones like turquoise, agate, onyx, and amber. You'll find styles ranging from traditional Turkish coins repurposed into earrings to delicate evil eye bracelets and intricate Hittite motifs etched into rings.

Many designs reflect Turkey’s layered history, from Byzantine to Seljuk to contemporary boho-chic trends, and suit a wide range of tastes and budgets.

Where to Shop:

• The Grand Bazaar (Istanbul) is famous for its gold and silver workshops.

• Kalkan, Çeşme, and Alaçatı are known for coastal boutique jewellery stores.

• Kapalıçarşı's Hans (inner courtyards) often house independent artisans with unique creations.

• Mardin is celebrated for its delicate filigree work (telkari).

Approximate Cost:

• Silver rings, earrings, or pendants: $15–$50

• Gold-plated or gemstone statement pieces: $50–$150

• Filigree or handmade traditional sets: $100–$300, depending on materials and labour

Ask for certificates if you're buying high-value items, and look for artisan signatures or stamps on silver.

9. Copperware and Metal Crafts

Turkey’s copperware traditions go back thousands of years, with artisans crafting everything from functional cookware to ornamental trays and decorative items. These pieces are usually hand-hammered, engraved, and often tinned on the inside for safe culinary use. Turkish copperware combines utility with visual elegance from copper coffee pots (cezve) to engraved pitchers, trays, wall hangings, and traditional cooking pots (tava).

Gaziantep and regions in Southeastern Turkey remain strongholds of this art form, where you can even watch craftsmen at work in historic bazaars.

Where to Shop:

• Zincirli Bedesten in Gaziantep is a living museum of copper artistry.

• Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmiths’ Bazaar) in Kahramanmaraş or Şanlıurfa for authentic pieces.

• In Istanbul, check Tahtakale, just behind the Spice Bazaar, for affordable kitchen-ready items.

Approximate Cost:

• Small cezve (Turkish coffee pot): $10–$25

• Hand-engraved trays and bowls: $30–$80

• Large or ornamental copperware (with silver inlay or custom engravings): $100–$400+

Be sure to ask whether items are decorative or food-safe if you plan to cook with them.

10. Textiles and Hammam Towels (Peshtemals)

Lightweight, versatile, and effortlessly stylish, peshtemals (also called Turkish towels) are a staple of the traditional hammam experience. Woven from 100% Turkish cotton, sometimes blended with linen or bamboo, these towels are known for being super absorbent, quick-drying, and eco-friendly. They’re used as beach towels, scarves, picnic blankets, or even table runners, making them one of the most practical and beautiful souvenirs you can take home.

Designs range from classic Ottoman stripes to contemporary patterns, often finished with hand-knotted fringes. They pack light and wash beautifully, only getting softer with time.

Where to Shop:

• Buldan (Denizli Province) is the heartland of Turkish textile weaving. Many of the peshtemals sold around the country originate here.

• Istanbul’s Arasta Bazaar, Kapalıçarşı, and lifestyle boutiques in Cihangir and Moda offer stylish selections.

• Coastal towns like Alaçatı, Kaş, and Bodrum also sell breezy resort-style versions.

Approximate Cost:

• Basic cotton peshtemals: $10–$20

• Luxe versions (bamboo/linen blend or handloomed): $25–$50

• Gift sets with soap and hammam accessories: $30–$60

For the most authentic pieces, look for handwoven labels and natural dyes.

11. Leather Goods

Turkey has a long-standing tradition of leather craftsmanship, blending Ottoman-era tanning techniques with modern design sensibilities. From buttery-soft jackets to hand-stitched wallets, belts, and handbags, Turkish leather goods are known for their durability, quality, and competitive pricing compared to their European counterparts.

These pieces are often handmade in small ateliers, using full-grain leather and natural dyes. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or vintage-inspired pieces with character, Turkey offers a wide variety of leather products worth investing in.

Where to Shop:

• Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar has entire alleys dedicated to leather; look for small workshops over touristy stalls.

• Kuşadası, Izmir, and Antalya also offer excellent local selections, often at better prices than Istanbul.

• Laleli (Istanbul’s wholesale district) is ideal for bulk shopping or bargaining on high-quality items.

Approximate Cost:

• Leather jackets: $100–$300 (sheepskin or cowhide, depending on design)

• Handbags and purses: $40–$120

• Belts and wallets: $10–$50

• Custom-made pieces: Prices vary, but are often more affordable than Western equivalents

Pro tip: Test the leather for softness and smell (genuine Turkish leather has a distinct, rich texture and natural scent).

12. Traditional Turkish Lamps

Few souvenirs evoke the magic of Turkey quite like a handcrafted mosaic lamp. These colourful glass lamps, set in brass or copper frames, are made using centuries-old techniques where colored glass pieces are meticulously arranged into intricate geometric or floral patterns. They come in various forms, hanging lanterns, desk lamps, chandeliers, and floor lamps, and can add an exotic, ambient glow to any space.

Each lamp is a unique piece of art, reflecting Turkish design aesthetics and Ottoman influences.

Where to Shop:

• The Grand Bazaar and Arasta Bazaar in Istanbul are top spots for selection and quality.

• Avanos (Cappadocia) and Kütahya offer artisan workshops where you can watch lamps being made.

• Smaller boutiques in Sultanahmet and Cihangir may offer more modern or minimalist interpretations.

Approximate Cost:

• Small tabletop lamps: $20–$50

• Medium-size pendant or desk lamps: $60–$100

• Large chandeliers or multi-tiered hanging lamps: $150–$500+

Make sure to ask about voltage compatibility and whether the lamp comes with wiring for your home country.

13. Baklava

A rich, indulgent treat, baklava is made by layering paper-thin sheets of phyllo dough with crushed pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts, then baking and soaking the pastry in a light syrup made from sugar, lemon, and sometimes rosewater. The best baklava boasts a flaky, buttery texture that melts in your mouth.

Baklava originated in Ottoman court kitchens, but the most revered varieties today come from Gaziantep, where baklava-making has been elevated to a culinary art. It is perfect as an edible souvenir or a luxurious gift.

Where to Shop:

• Karaköy Güllüoğlu in Istanbul is one of the oldest and most prestigious baklava producers.

• Imam Çağdaş or Koçak Baklava in Gaziantep are widely considered among the best in Turkey.

• Airport duty-free shops often carry vacuum-packed versions for travellers.

Approximate Cost:

• Standard mixed box (500g): $10–$20

• Premium pistachio-only boxes or special editions: $25–$40

• Luxury gift boxes (1 kg+): $40–$70, depending on packaging and ingredients

Look for fresh, handmade varieties, because a good baklava should be neither soggy nor overly sweet.

14. Hand-Painted Calligraphy and Miniature Art

Steeped in Islamic and Ottoman tradition, Turkish calligraphy and miniature paintings offer a glimpse into the country’s scholarly and artistic heritage. Calligraphy, often written in Arabic script or Ottoman Turkish, features Quranic verses, Sufi poetry, or blessings. Miniature paintings, originally used to illustrate manuscripts, depict scenes of court life, architecture, or mythology with stunning detail.

Many artists still produce these works by hand, making them a meaningful and culturally rich keepsake.

Where to Shop:

• Sultanahmet’s art galleries and shops around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

• Istanbul’s Islamic Arts Museum has an attached store with museum-quality pieces.

• Safranbolu, Konya, and Bursa also have regional calligraphy shops and artist co-ops.

Approximate Cost:

• Small framed calligraphy pieces or miniatures: $20–$50

• Larger or custom works on parchment or silk: $80–$300+

• Scrolls and hand-bound notebooks: $10–$30

Ask the artist to explain the script or symbolism, as it adds more meaning to the artwork.

15. Local Fashion and Scarves

Turkey’s fashion scene effortlessly blends traditional materials with contemporary design. Whether it’s soft cotton shawls, ikat-weave wraps, or luxurious silk scarves, textiles play a central role in Turkish identity. Bursa, historically known as the centre of silk production during the Ottoman Empire, continues to produce exquisite silk scarves in rich colours and intricate prints.

Meanwhile, coastal towns like Alaçatı and Kaş offer chic, boho-style linen outfits, kaftans, and handmade sandals that reflect a breezy Mediterranean vibe.

Where to Shop:

• Bursa Silk Market (Koza Han) for premium silk scarves.

• Boutiques in Alaçatı, Bodrum, and Kaş for modern resort fashion and linen clothing.

• Istanbul’s Galata, Moda, and Nişantaşı neighbourhoods are for independent fashion designers.

Approximate Cost:

• Cotton scarves or peshtemal wraps: $10–$25

• Pure silk scarves (hand-printed or woven): $30–$80

• Designer linen wear or kaftans: $50–$150

Lightweight and elegant, these pieces are easy to pack and make stylish gifts.

16. Rakı

Known as Turkey’s national drink, rakı is a strong, anise-flavoured spirit often sipped slowly during long meals of meze (Turkish appetisers). It turns milky white when diluted with water and is traditionally served chilled in tall glasses. Rakı is more than just a drink; it’s part of Turkish social culture, meant to be enjoyed in good company, often with music and philosophical conversation.

Brands vary in smoothness and strength, with some made using grape distillates and others with figs or raisins.

Where to Shop:

• Supermarkets and speciality liquor shops in Istanbul or along the Aegean coast.

• Duty-free at Turkish airports offers travel-safe, sealed bottles.

• Restaurants and meyhanes (taverns) may also sell artisanal varieties.

Approximate Cost:

• Standard 700ml bottle: $10–$20

• Premium or aged rakı (like Efe or Tekirdağ Gold): $25–$40

• Gift sets (with glasses and bottle): $30–$50

Note: Check alcohol import rules for your home country before purchasing.

17. Antique and Vintage Finds

Turkey, with its layered history and rich trading heritage, is a treasure trove for antique lovers. Flea markets and antique shops in cities like Istanbul and Ankara brim with curiosities, from Ottoman-era coins, vintage postcards, gramophones, tea sets, oriental rugs, and mid-century home decor. Some items date back to the 19th century or earlier, while others are simply charming relics of the recent past.

You’ll also find vintage jewellery, military medals, and photographs, each with a story waiting to be uncovered.

Where to Shop:

• Çukurcuma (Istanbul’s antique district) is the epicentre of vintage and antique shops.

• Feriköy Flea Market (on Sundays) is great for bargain hunting.

• Sahaflar Çarşısı (Second-Hand Book Bazaar) near Beyazıt offers rare books and prints.

• Antique markets in Kadıköy, Ankara, and Izmir’s Kemeraltı Bazaar are also worth exploring.

Approximate Cost:

• Vintage postcards and coins: $2–$10

• Retro homeware or old photographs: $15–$40

• Antique furniture or gramophones: $100–$500+, depending on condition and rarity

Always ask for background or provenance where possible; it adds depth to your find.

Whether you're chasing timeless craftsmanship, bohemian fashion, or cultural keepsakes, Turkey’s shopping scene promises something for every kind of traveller.

Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, where the scent of saffron lingers in the air and stalls overflow with handwoven carpets, glittering lamps, and intricate jewellery. Or get lost in the spice-scented corridors of the Egyptian Bazaar, where history seeps through every brick and every merchant has a tale to tell. Beyond the famed bazaars, you’ll find stylish boutiques in Galata, artisan studios in Cappadocia, and seaside markets in Bodrum that marry local charm with global flair.

But trust me, the real joy of shopping in Turkey lies in the meandering. One minute you're sipping on Turkish tea with a shopkeeper over a spontaneous chat; the next, you're stumbling upon a quiet workshop in Safranbolu, where time slows down and craftsmanship takes centre stage. This blend of age-old traditions, unexpected modernity, hospitality, and hustle makes Turkey such a great shopping destination.

So, when are you planning to lose yourself in the bazaars of Turkey?