Plan your perfect trip with our expert travel tips to Turkey! Discover must-try local experiences and essential information for a seamless and unforgettable journey.
Recommended Items to Buy and tips in Turkey
Turkey is famous for its rich cultural heritage and a variety of unique handmade products. Here is a detailed list of items you should consider taking home as souvenirs or gifts:
- Ceramics: Turkish ceramics are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. The most famous ones come from places like İznik and Kütahya. You can find beautifully decorated plates, bowls, tiles, and vases.
- Leather Goods: Turkey is renowned for its high-quality leather products, such as jackets, coats, and bags. Istanbul, especially in the Grand Bazaar and some specialized shops, offers a wide variety.
- High-Quality Replica Bags: Istanbul is known for its high-quality replicas of famous brand bags that look authentic. Specialized stores offer a great variety.
- Turkish Delights or Baklava: Turkish delights, especially baklava, are a must-try. You can buy from famous shops like Hafız Mustafa or Karaköy Güllüoğlu, known for their authentic sweets.
- Special Spices from Turkey: The Spice Bazaar in Istanbul is the perfect place to buy authentic Turkish spices like sumac, red pepper, za’atar, and saffron.
- Chandeliers: Turkish chandeliers, especially those made of colored glass, are beautiful and add an exotic touch to home decor. The Grand Bazaar and specialized shops are the best places to find these pieces.
- Typical Carpets: Turkish carpets are world-famous for their quality and beauty. Kilim and Hereke rugs are some of the most popular varieties. Make sure to buy from a reliable seller to ensure authenticity.
- Pashminas: Pashminas and scarves made of silk or cotton are elegant and practical souvenirs. They come in a variety of colors and designs, often with traditional Turkish patterns.
- High-Quality Replica Watches: Like the bags, Istanbul is known for its high-quality replica watches. Specialized shops offer a wide range of options.
- Festive Clothing Fabrics: High-quality fabrics for festive clothing, including silk, velvet, and brocade, are popular and can be found in markets and fabric shops in Istanbul and other major cities.
- Pistachios: Antep (Gaziantep) pistachios are considered the best in the world. Make sure to buy a generous amount as they make an excellent gift or a personal treat.
Tips for Shopping in Turkey
- Always Bargain: Bargaining is a common practice in Turkish markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate the price.
- Check Authenticity: For items like carpets, ceramics, and leather products, it’s important to verify authenticity and quality.
- Research Renowned Shops: Some shops and markets are more reliable and offer better quality products. Do some prior research to know where to buy.
- Discounts and Tax-Free: Ask about tourist discounts and the possibility of tax-free shopping for purchases above a certain amount.
Flavors to Try in Turkey
- Adana Kebab: A spicy meat skewer or Urfa Kebab without pepper.
- Lokum: Famous Turkish delight.
- Simit: A popular sesame-covered bread sold by street vendors.
- Grilled Chestnuts: A common street food.
- Ayran: A famous salty yogurt drink.
- Turşu: Famous Turkish pickles.
- Turkish Tea and Coffee: Must-try drinks.
- Mantı: Turkish ravioli served with yogurt and melted butter.
- Cağ Kebab: Found in Istanbul’s Sirkeci neighborhood restaurants.
- Döner: Shawarma made from beef and lamb, cooked in front of a wood fire.
- Baklava: The most famous Turkish dessert.
- Helva: Traditional sweet made from semolina.
- Oven-Roasted Lamb.
- Lahmacun: Traditional Turkish flatbread topped with minced meat.
- Künefe: A famous dessert from the Ottoman palace tradition.
- Yaprak Sarma: Stuffed grape leaves with minced meat and spices.
- Salep: A drink made from orchid root.
- Boza: A traditional winter drink.
- Şalgam: A salty, spicy, fermented carrot juice.
Street Foods and Rooftop Bars in Istanbul and tips to Turkey
Street Foods to Try
- Köfte Ekmek: A meatball sandwich with salad and onions.
- Balık Ekmek: Grilled fish sandwich, popular in Eminönü near the Spice Bazaar and Galata Bridge.
- Arnavut Ciğeri: Fried lamb liver cubes with spices, served with onion and parsley.
- Döner Ekmek: Slow-roasted meat served in bread with salad and sauces.
- Kokoreç: Seasoned and grilled lamb intestines, chopped and served in bread.
- Tantuni: Chopped meat (usually chicken or beef) cooked in a special pan and served in bread or wrap.
- Lahmacun: A “Turkish pizza” topped with minced meat, onion, tomato, and herbs, usually rolled with lemon and parsley.
- Pide: Known as “Turkish pizza,” a dough filled with meat, cheese, or other ingredients and baked in an oven.
- Grilled Corn: Sold by street vendors, often near tourist spots and parks.
- Kestane Izgara: Grilled chestnuts, especially popular in autumn and winter.
- Kumpir: Baked potato stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, olives, corn, sausage, and sauces.
- Çiğ Köfte: Traditionally made from raw meat, but often found in vegetarian versions made from bulgur, spices, and pomegranate sauce, typically served in a wrap.
Rooftop Bars in Istanbul
- Mikla Terrace Bar in Pera: Offers an amazing panoramic view of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. Great for cocktails and a sophisticated dining experience.
- Mudavim in Nişantaşı: A chic spot in one of Istanbul’s most elegant neighborhoods, offering a cozy and modern atmosphere.
- Spago Istanbul: Located at the St. Regis Hotel, it provides spectacular Bosphorus views and a high-quality selection of food and drinks.
- N Roof Bar: A modern bar at the top of the Nomade Hotel, featuring stunning views and a diverse selection of drinks.
- Narmanli Han in Asmalımescit: A renovated historic space offering an elegant environment with good food and drink options.
- Chef Mezze: Known for its excellent food and magnificent Bosphorus views, especially at sunset.
- Litera Restaurant: Located on the terrace of the German Foundation, with spectacular views and a cozy atmosphere.
These options will provide a rich and diverse gastronomic experience in Istanbul, allowing you to enjoy both local street food and more refined settings with panoramic views of the city. Enjoy your trip and bon appétit!
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