Top 10 Traditional Souvenirs to Buy in Istanbul – A Local’s Guide
Top 10 Traditional Souvenirs to Buy in Istanbul
If you're wondering what gifts to buy in Istanbul for your friends and family, you’re in the right place. Whether you’ve just arrived at Istanbul Airport via a comfortable Havaist shuttle or found your way into the city using the Istanbul Metro and your Istanbulkart, one thing is for sure: shopping for souvenirs is an essential part of your trip!
Istanbul offers a wide variety of traditional gifts that reflect its deep cultural heritage—from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras to today’s vibrant Turkish craftsmanship. And don’t worry, we’ve got tips for every budget, whether you're spending 10,000 TL on a handmade silk rug or 100 TL on a copper Turkish coffee pot.
So let’s dive into the Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in Istanbul, plus some insider tips on where to shop and how to bargain!
Baklava & Turkish Delight (Lokum)
No trip to Turkey is complete without bringing back Baklava or Turkish Delight. These sweet treats are among the easiest and most loved gifts from Istanbul.
Whether you're staying near Sultanahmet, Taksim, or commuting via the Istanbul Metro, some of the best spots to try include:
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Karaköy Güllüoğlu
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Hafız Mustafa (just opposite the Sirkeci Tram Station)
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Koska Delight Store (great for Lokum)
Tip: If you used Havaist to reach Eminönü or Sultanahmet from Istanbul Airport, you're already close to some of the most famous sweet shops in the city!
Turkish Scarf – Silk & Cotton Pashmina
Perfect for a thoughtful and stylish gift, Pashmina Shawls are light, elegant, and easy to carry. You’ll find high-quality wool or silk versions in the Grand Bazaar or near the Spice Bazaar, both of which are easily accessible using Istanbul Metro and Istanbulkart.
Turkish Hammam Towel (Peshtemal)
A true piece of Turkish bath culture, the Peshtemal towel is both beautiful and functional. It makes a great beach towel or spa gift. Look for handmade, organic cotton towels in Arasta Bazaar or small boutiques in the Sultanahmet area.
Did you know? Arasta Bazaar is a short walk from the Sultanahmet tram stop, and if you're coming from the airport, the Havaist Sultanahmet Line now makes this area even more accessible!
Turkish Coffee Cups, Pots & Tea Glasses
If you've learned how to brew Turkish tea or coffee during your trip, why not take home a set? Copper pots (cezve), porcelain coffee cups, and tulip-shaped tea glasses are popular. You’ll find great options in stores close to Spice Bazaaror on your way from Istanbul Airport using the Havaist shuttle to Eminönü.
Jewelry & Accessories
From Ottoman-style rings to modern gemstone jewelry, Istanbul is full of hidden treasures. If you’re navigating the Grand Bazaar via Istanbul Metro or tram, take your time in the side alleys—you’ll find more unique and affordable pieces the deeper you go.
Turkish Plates & Ceramics
These colorful and handcrafted plates and bowls are perfect for kitchen decor or dining. Most tourists reach the Grand Bazaar area by metro or tram using their Istanbulkart, but if you're coming from Istanbul Airport, the Havaist Sultanahmet line will drop you right in the middle of it all.
Turkish Henna Dress (Kaftan)
Kaftans are traditional Ottoman-style garments, beautifully embroidered and often used in special ceremonies or as luxury loungewear. They’re light, easy to pack, and make for a meaningful gift.
Hammam Soaps
Natural olive oil soaps, rose-scented varieties, and traditional Hammam soaps are affordable and delightful. You’ll find them in bazaars or near tram stops like Eminönü and Sultanahmet, and yes—you can get there using your Istanbulkart.
Miscellaneous Souvenirs: Evil Eye, Spices & More
Other great souvenir ideas include:
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Evil Eye charms
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Spices and teas
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Calligraphy art
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Nargile (Hookah) sets
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Cute fridge magnets
These are all available in central shopping areas accessible by the Istanbul Metro, tram, and ferries—and now, even more convenient with the Havaist line to Sultanahmet.
Where to Shop in Istanbul?
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Grand Bazaar (Beyazıt tram stop)
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Spice Bazaar (Eminönü tram/ferry stop)
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Arasta Bazaar (near Sultanahmet tram stop)
All of these shopping areas are accessible with your Istanbulkart, and if you're coming from Istanbul Airport, you can take the Havaist shuttle directly to Sultanahmet or Eminönü to start your shopping journey right away!
How to Bargain in Istanbul's Bazaars?
We always recommend offering 50% of the asking price on expensive items and settling around 25–30% lower. Don’t bargain on cheap souvenirs like magnets. And remember, being friendly and knowing a few Turkish words like “Merhaba” (hello) goes a long way!
Final Tip:
Istanbulkart, Metro, Havaist, and Istanbul Airport — these are your best tools for navigating the city while enjoying your souvenir hunt.
Don’t forget to check out our full guides on:
- How to Buy and Use an Istanbulkart
- Complete Istanbul Metro Map and Travel Tips
- Havaist Shuttles from Istanbul Airport
