Must-Buy Souvenirs

The original Ottoman confection — a soft, powdered-sugar-dusted gel flavored with rose, pistachio or pomegranate. Hacı Bekir (founded 1777) is the historic brand most tourists specifically seek out.

The blue-and-white glass amulet believed to ward off envy and misfortune, sold everywhere from keyrings to wall-hangings. Genuine hand-blown glass pieces (look for tiny air bubbles) start around ₺150; mass-produced resin copies run ₺20-40.

Handwoven flat-weave kilims or knotted carpets, a Turkish craft tradition for centuries. The Grand Bazaar's Sandal Bedesteni hall specializes in serious dealers; ask for a certificate of authenticity and expect to negotiate hard (start near 50% of the asking price).

Real high-grade saffron threads, sold by the gram at the Spice Bazaar. Buyer beware: much of what's marked cheap 'Turkish saffron' (₺20-80/gram) is actually dyed safflower or corn silk — genuine saffron runs ₺140-210/gram.

A sweet, instant fruit tea (technically not a traditional Ottoman drink, but a modern tourist-era staple) sold loose or in gift boxes alongside rosehip and jasmine teas — a light, packable souvenir.