Lois Larson
Turkey is known for its unique and vibrant culture, which is reflected in the variety of items available for purchase at Istanbul Airport. From traditional Turkish delights and spices to handcrafted backgammon sets, there is something for everyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. The airport also offers an array of duty-free shopping options, including luxury brands such as Hermes, Moncler, and Louis Vuitton, where travellers can take advantage of favourable exchange rates and VAT refunds. Additionally, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore and purchase traditional Turkish ceramics, artisanal teas, and intricate glass ornaments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Turkish delight | 8TL/kg for rose-flavoured, 29TL/kg for more elaborate varieties with nuts |
| Pismaniye | 5TL-10TL |
| Raki | 40TL per bottle (70cl) |
| Turkish coffee cups and saucers | 200TL |
| Glass items | Small hanging lamps, chandeliers, desk lamps |
| "Evil eye" ornaments | Blue discs with dots forming an eye motif |
| Tea | Loose-leaf tea in many mixes, including "love tea", "winter tea", "orange tea", and "erotic tea" |
| Tea sets and coffee pots | N/A |
| Tapestries and rugs | N/A |
| Luxury fashion | Hermes, Moncler, Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci |
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What You'll Learn
Turkish delight and other sweets
Turkish delight is a famous traditional sweet in Turkey and is available in many varieties. The key advantage of buying it in Turkey is that you can sample the different kinds from behind the counter, allowing you to find your favourite flavours. Prices can range from 8TL/kg for rose-flavoured Turkish delight to 29TL/kg for varieties with various nuts.
One of the best places to buy Turkish delight and other sweets is Koska, a Turkish sweets store with several branches throughout the country, including two in Istiklal Caddesi near Tunel. Their boxed sets of Lokum or Pismaniye, a Turkish cotton candy, range in price between 5TL and 10TL.
You can also find a good variety of Turkish delight and other sweets at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. There are a few great confectionery kiosks inside, including Kapali Carsi, Kadirbaba Turkish Delight, and Turkish Delights & Spices & Teas. Stacks of sweets are neatly arranged, and you can often ask to taste a sample before purchasing.
In addition to Turkish delight, other sweets to try and buy in Turkey include lokum, pismaniye, and traditional Turkish black tea.
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Raki, the national drink
When considering what to buy at the Turkey airport, one iconic and popular item is the national drink of Turkey, Raki. This distinctive beverage is a staple of Turkish culture and social gatherings, and it makes for a unique souvenir or gift. Here's a guide to why Raki is a must-buy item when departing or arriving at a Turkish airport.
Raki is an alcoholic drink that is clear, strong, and similar to Greek ouzo or French pastis. Its distinctive aniseed flavor gives it a unique, licorice-like taste. Traditionally, Raki is produced through the distillation of grapes or raisins, and it has a long history in Turkey, dating back to the 16th century. The drink is typically consumed neat or with water, which turns the clear liquid a milky-white color, a process known as "louche." Turks often enjoy Raki with mezes, which are small plates of food similar to Spanish tapas, creating a leisurely and social dining experience.
When shopping at the airport, you'll typically find Raki sold in bottles of various sizes, making it convenient for travelers. The bottles often feature traditional designs, showcasing the drink's cultural significance. Some airports may also offer gift sets or limited-edition bottles, perfect for special occasions or as a unique present for liquor connoisseurs.
If you're looking for a truly authentic Turkish memento, Raki is an excellent choice. It embodies the country's rich cultural heritage and offers a taste of Turkey that can be enjoyed long after your trip. So, whether you're a liquor enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable souvenir, consider adding a bottle of Raki to your shopping list when passing through a Turkish airport. It's a delightful way to relive your Turkish adventures or introduce someone to the unique flavors of this fascinating country.
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Turkish coffee sets
Turkish coffee is traditionally served in unique cups and saucers, often gold-rimmed, and beautifully decorated. The cups and saucers are usually presented on a silver tray, and the cups can be made of ceramic or copper. If you are looking for a decorative set, you can find handmade copper sets with hand-painted details at Pasabahce on Istiklal Caddesi for around 200TL. However, if you want a set that you can drink from, it is recommended to buy from a Turkish grocery store, such as Migros, to ensure that the set is safe for food use.
There are several options available for Turkish coffee sets, ranging from 12-piece sets in various colours and designs to more comprehensive sets that include additional items for brewing Turkish coffee. The Asala 12-piece set in olive green and gold, and the Jiwar 12-piece set in beige and silver, are both priced at $46. The Atheer 12-piece set, available in dark blue and silver or white and silver, costs $60.
If you are looking for a more luxurious and comprehensive set, the STC I Friendship X Turkish Coffee Set includes a copper Turkish coffee pot (cezve/ibrik), a brewing stand, a micro butane burner, two Turkish coffee cups, and an olive wood stirring paddle. This set allows you to fully experience the art of brewing and serving Turkish coffee.
When shopping for Turkish coffee sets, especially at the airport, it is important to be aware of potential language barriers and ensure that you understand the pricing and details of your purchase clearly.
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Glass items and lamps
Glass mosaic lanterns are a popular item to buy in Turkey, with many tourists opting to bring them home as souvenirs. These lanterns come in various sizes, from small table lamps to large hanging globes, and feature stunning displays of dozens of lamps. They can be purchased from shops in Istanbul, particularly in the Grand Bazaar.
When purchasing glass mosaic lanterns, it is important to consider how you will transport them home safely. Some travellers recommend bringing bubble wrap to cushion and protect the fragile items during travel. You can carry them onto the plane and store them in the overhead bins, but this may not always be feasible, especially if you plan to buy multiple lamps.
Alternatively, you can ship them home, but this option can be expensive. If you choose to ship them, ensure they are insured to cover any potential damage during transit. It is also worth noting that the electrical wiring in the lamps may not be compatible with the electricity standards in your home country. Some lanterns may not even have any wiring at all, requiring you to take them to a lamp shop for conversion.
To avoid wiring hassles, you can opt for tealight lanterns that don't require electricity. These lanterns can be hung in patios or backyards, creating a beautiful ambiance with soft lighting. If you prefer electric lanterns, you can always rewire them yourself or have a lighting store do it for you.
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Luxury fashion and accessories
If you're looking for luxury fashion and accessories, the duty-free shops at Istanbul Airport (IST) are worth checking out. The airport's international departures terminal boasts a range of luxury brands, including well-known names such as Moncler, Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, and Hermes.
For those residing outside the EU and Turkey, shopping for luxury brands like Hermes at Istanbul Airport can be a more cost-effective option. The Turkish Lira exchange rate and applicable VAT refunds can result in significant savings compared to purchasing in Paris, the United States, or elsewhere in the EU. For example, one traveller recounted how they could have saved USD 676.21 on an Hermes Aline Mini Bag at Istanbul Airport compared to buying it in San Diego.
In addition to luxury handbags, travellers can also find deals on small leather goods, shoes, and jewellery from high-end fashion houses. It is beneficial to be aware of the exchange rate and the price of the item in your home country to easily calculate potential savings while browsing.
While luxury fashion and accessories are prominent at Istanbul Airport, traditional Turkish delights, cosmetics, and souvenirs are also available for those looking to bring a taste of Turkey home with them.
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Frequently asked questions
Turkish delight is a traditional sweet that can be purchased at the Istanbul Airport. You can also find Turkish tea, Turkish coffee cups, and Turkish ceramics at the airport.
Residents outside of the EU and Turkey can save on luxury items by shopping duty-free at the Istanbul Airport. Brands like Hermes, Moncler, Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Gucci are available.
You can find souvenirs such as "evil eye" ornaments, glass items, and handcrafted backgammon sets at the airport.
Buying items at the airport can save you time and hassle compared to shopping in the city. It may also be more convenient if you want to take advantage of duty-free shopping. Additionally, you may find better deals on certain items, such as luxury brands.
