What to Buy in Turkey: Popular Souvenirs and Gifts

Turkey is a country that truly excites the senses. From its vibrant markets and ancient ruins to its sun-soaked coastline and rich culinary traditions, there’s so much to discover. Whether you're wandering through a lively bazaar in Istanbul, exploring historic towns in the Antalya region or enjoying a peaceful tea by the sea, you're bound to find something special to take home.

During our own trip to Turkey, we spent most of our time in the Antalya region. We explored charming places like Antalya’s old town (Kaleiçi), the coastal town of Side, the bustling markets of Manavgat, and the fascinating ruins of Aspendos. And in each of these places, we found wonderful souvenirs - some to enjoy ourselves, others to gift to friends and family. What stood out most was the sheer variety of items on offer, from colourful ceramics and lanterns to sweet treats like Turkish delight & locally grown pistachios.

In this post, we’re sharing some of the most popular Turkish souvenirs - things you can find all over the country, not just in one city or region. Whether you're planning a trip to Istanbul, Cappadocia, or the southern coast like we did, these keepsakes are worth keeping an eye out for. Let’s take a look at what to buy in Turkey to bring home a little piece of this beautiful country.

Rugs and Carpets

Turkish rugs and carpets are among the most treasured souvenirs you can bring home. Known for their intricate patterns and rich colours, these handmade pieces often reflect the region they come from. For instance, you’ll find bold geometric designs from the Anatolian region and more floral, detailed styles from places like Hereke or Kayseri. While exploring the Antalya region, we saw several shops in Side and Manavgat offering both vintage and new rugs.

To ensure you’re buying a genuine handwoven rug, ask the seller about the materials used (look for wool or silk) and whether it comes with a certificate of authenticity. Don’t be afraid to bargain - it’s part of the experience! Even if you’re not planning to buy a large one, many stores also sell smaller kilims that are easier to carry home.

Ceramics

Colourful Turkish ceramics, especially the famous Iznik and Kutahya styles, make beautiful souvenirs. You’ll often spot them in the form of bowls, plates, tiles or decorative pieces in markets across Turkey. The bright blues, reds & greens, along with detailed floral or geometric patterns, really catch the eye. We came across some lovely pieces in Antalya’s old town and in Side’s craft shops.

When buying ceramics, choose pieces with slight irregularities - these often indicate that the item was hand-painted rather than mass-produced. Also check the back for the artist’s signature or a label noting its origin.

Nazar Boncugu (Evil Eye Charm)

The Nazar Boncugu, or evil eye charm, is one of the most common and symbolic souvenirs in Turkey. Believed to ward off bad luck and negative energy, you’ll see these blue glass charms everywhere - from jewellery and keyrings to wall hangings and even embedded in pavements. We saw them in nearly every shop in the Old Town of Antalya and Manavgat and even hanging from trees at Aspendos.

They’re affordable, easy to pack & make great gifts. For something more unique, look for hand-blown glass versions or ones set in silver. While the meaning stays the same, designs and materials can vary widely, so there’s plenty of choice.

Turkish Coffee & Cezve

Turkish coffee is more than just a drink - it’s a tradition. Rich, thick & served in tiny cups, it’s a popular souvenir for anyone who enjoys bold flavours. You’ll find good quality Turkish coffee in most supermarkets and spice shops, but for the best experience, look for local brands or freshly ground beans from small vendors. 

If you're picking up coffee, consider buying a small cezve (copper pot) to go with it. 

This makes a great gift set and allows you to recreate the full experience at home. Look for coffee packed in airtight bags with a recent roast date for the freshest flavour.

Turkish Delight (Lokum)

Soft, chewy & dusted with icing sugar, Turkish delight (lokum) is one of Turkey’s most famous sweet treats. It comes in many flavours including rose, pomegranate, lemon & pistachio. We sampled quite a few during our time in Antalya and picked up boxes from a local confectionery store for friends and family.

To get the best quality, avoid pre-packed touristy boxes with long expiry dates. Instead, go for handmade varieties from a sweet shop or spice market. Ask to try a piece first - many vendors are happy to offer a sample.

Olive Oil

Turkey produces excellent olive oil, especially along its western and southern coasts. The region around Antalya is known for its small-scale olive groves, and we came across several shops selling locally pressed extra virgin olive oil. Some even offer flavoured varieties infused with herbs or citrus.

When buying, look for dark glass bottles and labels indicating the oil is "cold-pressed" and "extra virgin." Smaller bottles are easy to pack and make thoughtful gifts for food lovers. Some markets also sell handmade soaps made from the same high-quality olive oil.

Halva 

Halva is a dense, sweet treat made primarily from tahini (sesame paste) and sugar, often swirled with chocolate, pistachios or vanilla. It’s a popular dessert in Turkish households and can be found in supermarkets, sweet shops & local markets across the country. 

For the freshest halva, buy it from a shop that sells it in large blocks rather than pre-packaged slices. Look for a smooth, crumbly texture and a nutty aroma - it should melt in your mouth without being oily. It’s long-lasting and easy to carry, making it a great edible souvenir.

Tea and Tea Set

Tea is a huge part of daily life in Turkey, and Turkish black tea is strong, flavourful & always served in small, tulip-shaped glasses. Apple tea is another popular variety, especially with visitors. 

When buying Turkish tea, look for brands like Çaykur or opt for loose-leaf tea sold by weight in spice shops. Tea sets make for a wonderful souvenir - many include two or four glasses with matching saucers and a small pot, often decorated with traditional patterns.

Bath Towels (Peshtemal)

Turkish bath towels, known as peshtemals, are lightweight, quick-drying & incredibly versatile. Originally used in hammams (Turkish baths), they’ve become popular as beach towels, scarves or even picnic blankets. 

They’re easy to pack, affordable & often made from 100% cotton. To get a good one, check the label for natural fibres and feel the weave - authentic peshtemals are soft but tightly woven. Shops near coastal areas like Antalya often carry high-quality options in a wide range of colours.

Raki

Raki is often referred to as Turkey’s national drink. This clear, anise-flavoured spirit turns a milky white when mixed with water and is typically enjoyed slowly with meze. 

We first tasted Raki at the bar in Grand Park Lara and really enjoyed the unique flavour - it’s strong, herbal &, and definitely something to sip slowly. While more commonly consumed in western Turkey, including cities like Izmir and Istanbul, you’ll find bottles in most supermarkets and duty-free shops across the country.

If you’re planning to buy Raki as a souvenir, choose a well-known brand like Yeni Raki or Tekirdağ, and make sure to check your airline’s alcohol allowance. It’s best stored in checked luggage and makes a great gift for someone who enjoys trying local spirits.

Soap

Natural soaps, especially those made with olive oil, lavender, or laurel, are a lovely and practical Turkish souvenir. These are often handmade and sold at markets, bath shops, and even small village stalls. In Antalya and Side, we found beautifully wrapped soaps infused with local herbs and oils - some even shaped like flowers or stamped with traditional patterns.

To ensure quality, look for soaps that list natural ingredients and avoid overly perfumed or artificially coloured bars. These soaps are gentle on the skin and often used in hammam routines, so pairing one with a bath mitt or loofah also makes a thoughtful gift set.

Pomegranate Syrup (Nar Ekşisi)

Thick, tangy, and slightly sweet, pomegranate syrup is a staple in Turkish kitchens. It’s often used as a salad dressing or drizzled over grilled vegetables and meats. We first tried it drizzled over a tomato and cucumber salad in a small eatery and later bought a bottle to recreate the flavour at home.

When buying, make sure the label lists pure pomegranate without added sugar or colouring - these are typically found in local food shops or specialty markets. The real thing has a deep, rich flavour and comes in dark glass bottles. It’s a great way to add a touch of Turkey to your meals back home.

Baklava

Baklava is one of Turkey’s most iconic desserts - a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. 

I completely fell in love with this traditional treat and enjoyed it every single day of our trip - with every meal! From flaky pistachio-filled squares to walnut-packed rolls, each version was delicious in its own way.

You’ll find baklava everywhere, from high-end patisseries to local bakeries and supermarkets. For the best kind to take home, look for shops that sell it fresh and can box it up securely. Some brands also offer vacuum-packed options that stay fresh for longer. If you’re exploring local markets, don’t be shy to ask for a sample first - many vendors are happy to let you taste before you buy.

Turkish Nougat (Cezerye or Koz Helva)

Turkish nougat is a sweet and chewy treat made with nuts, honey & sometimes dried fruit or spices. There are different versions - cezerye, which is carrot-based and often coated in coconut and koz helva, a type of nutty nougat sandwiched between thin wafers. 

Look for nougat that’s made locally and doesn’t contain too many preservatives. The fresh, handmade versions tend to be softer and more flavourful. They’re a great alternative to Turkish delight if you want something a little different but just as traditional.

Pişmaniye (Floss Halva)

Pişmaniye, also known as floss halva, is a sweet treat made from sugar and flour that’s pulled into fine, hair-like strands. It looks a bit like cotton candy but has a soft, nutty flavour and a melt-in-the-mouth texture. 

It’s widely available in supermarkets and sweet shops across Turkey. When buying, go for sealed boxes from reputable brands or local producers. Because it’s so light and fragile, handle it carefully while travelling - it makes a lovely gift or a fun treat to enjoy at home.

Cat-themed Souvenirs

Turkey, and especially cities like Istanbul and Antalya, is known for its street cats. They roam freely, are well cared for by locals & have even become something of a cultural symbol. If you're a cat lover, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to feline-themed souvenirs - we found everything from magnets and bookmarks to printed totes and miniature figurines.

These items are easy to pack and great for gifts. Many are handmade or feature illustrations by local artists, which gives them a unique touch. Whether it’s a quirky keyring from Antalya’s old town or a watercolour print of a sleepy street cat, these souvenirs are a lovely way to remember Turkey’s affection for its four-legged residents.

Turkish Table Lamps

Turkish table lamps are one of the most eye-catching souvenirs you can bring home. Made with colourful mosaic glass and intricate metalwork, they add a warm, inviting glow to any room. We spotted so many beautiful ones in Antalya’s old town and in Side, from small bedside lamps to larger statement pieces.

If you’re buying a lamp, check whether it’s wired for your home country’s voltage or if you’ll need an adapter. Many sellers offer flat-pack versions with the glass pieces safely wrapped, which makes them easier to transport. Authentic lamps will usually have a slightly uneven finish due to their handmade nature - that’s part of their charm!

Glass Bead Bracelets

Glass bead bracelets, often featuring the Nazar Boncugu (evil eye charm), are simple, affordable, and meaningful souvenirs. These bracelets are handmade in many parts of Turkey and come in a wide range of colours and styles - from delicate single-strand designs to chunkier, boho-style wraps. 

To choose a quality piece, look for beads that are smooth and well-finished, often strung on durable thread or wire. Some include small silver charms or woven elements, adding to their uniqueness. They’re lightweight and easy to carry - perfect for slipping into your luggage or gifting to friends.

Shawls and Scarves

Shawls and scarves are a popular and practical Turkish souvenir. From lightweight cotton wraps perfect for warm days to soft, richly patterned pashminas ideal for cooler evenings, there’s something to suit every style and season. In Antalya and Side, we came across market stalls overflowing with colourful options - many of which were beautifully embroidered or had traditional motifs.

They’re easy to pack and make thoughtful gifts. To find a good-quality scarf, feel the fabric - natural fibres like cotton, silk, or viscose tend to be softer and longer-lasting. Some stalls also sell scarves with added beaded fringes or metallic threads for an extra bit of sparkle.

Some other souvenir picks from Turkey

Turkey is also a great place to shop for spices, with colourful displays of sumac, paprika, dried mint, and saffron lining market stalls and spice shops. These are often sold loose or in ready-packed bags, ideal for cooking enthusiasts. Right next to the spices, you’ll often find dried fruits like figs and apricots, locally harvested honey, and crunchy pistachios - all delicious & easy to carry home. We also saw small decorative glass bottles used for storing olive oil or vinegar, which make a pretty and practical gift.

If you're looking for something unique, consider a miniature musical instrument such as a saz or darbuka drum. These are beautifully made and perfect for display. Other interesting finds include hand-carved chess sets, often made from marble or wood, and jars of pickled vegetables, which are a staple in Turkish cuisine. We also spotted Salep, a powdered drink made from orchid root, especially popular in winter. Though harder to find abroad, it’s a comforting taste of Turkey that’s worth bringing back.

You’ll also find a wide range of accessories and decor. Handmade jewellery featuring turquoise stones is both beautiful and symbolic - turquoise is believed to bring protection and good luck. 

Traditional hookahs (nargile), available in various sizes, are often bought as decorative pieces. Markets and shops also sell tote bags made from Turkish fabrics, travel-friendly books on local culture and cuisine, and ornate copper items such as coffee pots, trays & cups. 

Whether you’re after something tasty, traditional or totally unique, Turkey offers a wide range of souvenirs to suit every taste and budget. From colourful markets to quiet village shops, you’ll find something special to take home as a reminder of your trip. If you enjoy collecting keepsakes from your travels, you might also like to read about some of the best souvenirs from Portugal and top souvenirs to buy in Rome - each destination has its own charm and treasure to discover.