Food and Shopping in Turkey
Walking through Turkey’s markets is like stepping into centuries of living history. In Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar’s labyrinth of alleys overflows with handwoven carpets, İznik ceramics, and engraved copper coffee pots, while quieter streets in Selçuk or Antalya’s old town reveal local artisans producing textiles, jewelry, and spices unique to their region. Many shops are family-run, and vendors often share the story behind each craft, such as a hand-loomed rug dyed with natural pigments or a copper tray engraved in patterns passed down through generations. Haggling is part of market life, while boutique stores in neighborhoods like Karaköy and Nişantaşı offer curated goods at fixed prices.
Turkish cuisine reflects centuries of regional customs, where coastal seafood, Anatolian grains, and local herbs shape meals that are inseparable from their place of origin. Along the Aegean coast, olive oil flavors light vegetable dishes and grilled fish, while Cappadocia favors hearty stews and slow-cooked meats in clay pots. Breakfast, or kahvaltı, is a ritual: olives, white cheese, fresh tomatoes, honey, and simit accompany steaming tea. Street food varies by city: spicy beyran in Gaziantep, roasted corn along the Bosphorus, or stuffed mussels in Istanbul. Desserts tell their own stories—Gaziantep baklava is rich and nutty, künefe oozes sweet cheese, and Turkish coffee provides a bold, aromatic finish.
Sampling local produce, tasting spices in bazaars, or discovering a ceramic workshop transforms food and shopping in Turky into immersive experiences, where every alley, café, and stall carries the textures, tastes, and stories of its regions, making shopping and dining inseparable from the country’s cultural soul.
Recommended Tours in Turkey
Opening Hours in Turkey
Shops in Turkey generally open around 9:00 a.m. and close between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. In tourist areas like Istanbul and Antalya, many stores and bazaars also open on Sundays and stay open later in the evening during peak seasons. Museums and historical sites usually operate between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., but hours can vary by season and location.
Dining Hours in Turkey
In Turkey, breakfast is typically served between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m., with lunch starting around noon and continuing until 2:30 p.m. Dinner is usually eaten later, often between 7:30 and 10:00 p.m., especially in larger cities like Istanbul or Izmir. Restaurants in tourist areas often stay open later, and many offer small plates or snacks throughout the day.
Paying in Turkey
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Turkey, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops in cities and tourist destinations. Smaller vendors or rural areas may prefer cash, so carrying some Turkish lira is helpful. ATMs are widely available. Tipping is typically done in cash, even if the main bill is paid by card.
Tax Free Shopping in Turkey
Visitors who live outside Turkey can claim a VAT refund on purchases made at participating stores. The minimum purchase amount is usually 100 TRY per receipt. Look for shops displaying a “Tax Free” sign and ask for a tax refund form when paying. Refunds can be claimed at airports by presenting the form, receipts, and goods before departure.
What to Buy in Turkey
Walking through Turkey’s markets feels like stepping into centuries of living craft. Handwoven carpets and kilims vary by region, with wool or silk rugs from Cappadocia and Bursa showcasing traditional techniques. Quality and price reflect material, age, and craftsmanship, and vendors often share the stories behind each piece. Iznik ceramics, tiles and pottery with bold floral designs, continue to be produced in Istanbul and Selçuk studios using generational techniques.
Copperware is both functional and decorative, used for serving coffee or preparing meals, while jewelry in gold and silver frequently carries Ottoman and Anatolian motifs. Lightweight Turkish towels (pestemals) come in colorful patterns, ideal for gifts or travel. Spices, tea blends, and sweets like Turkish delight are popular edible souvenirs, best purchased vacuum-packed or sealed.
Markets across the country showcase local craftsmanship: Avanos pottery in Cappadocia reflects red clay and regional designs, while coastal towns like Antalya offer woven baskets, textiles, and jewelry incorporating shells and coral. Narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, and quiet artisan streets in Selçuk and Antalya old town create opportunities to explore, taste, and discover unique items. Every rug, tile, and copper pot carries the imprint of its region, giving travelers not just a purchase but a tangible connection to Turkey’s history and living traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some traditional souvenirs to buy in Turkey?
Popular items include handwoven carpets, ceramics, olive oil products, spices, Turkish delight, and textiles. These are widely available in bazaars and artisan shops in cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Cappadocia.
Can I use credit cards in shops and restaurants?
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores across Turkey. Smaller markets and local vendors often prefer cash, especially in rural areas or traditional bazaars.
Is it common to bargain in Turkish markets?
Yes, bargaining is expected in places like the Grand Bazaar or local markets. It is a friendly and accepted part of the shopping culture, especially for items like rugs, jewelry, and antiques.
What are typical dining hours in Turkey?
Lunch is usually between 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM. Dinner starts around 7:00 PM and can run late into the evening, especially in cities with lively dining scenes like Istanbul or Antalya.
Are there vegetarian options in Turkish cuisine?
Yes, Turkish cuisine offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes, including lentil soup, stuffed vine leaves, grilled vegetables, and various mezes made with eggplant, yogurt, and herbs. These are available across most restaurants and cafes.
Can I get a tax refund on my purchases?
Non-residents can claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases made at participating stores. A minimum spend may apply, and you’ll need to present receipts and completed forms at the airport before departure.
Our local expert in Turkey
How Finest Journeys Enhances Your Food and Shopping Experience in Turkey
Finest Journeys enhances your experience of Turkey by connecting you with trusted local guides, artisan producers, and authentic shops. Enjoy privately arranged tastings, curated market visits, and handpicked dining venues that reflect each region’s character. Every detail is planned to give you deeper insight into Turkish food traditions and local craftsmanship.