Turkiye has been a trading centre for centuries, so you won’t struggle to find traditional Turkish gifts and souvenirs. The stores and bazaars brim with unique items and keepsakes, making a guided shopping trip with 360 Yachting ideal for picking up pieces to mark your time spent along the Turkish coast.

QUALITY TRADITIONAL TURKISH GIFTS

From exquisite Turkish carpets and kilims to handmade Bodrum sandals, designer Turkish jewellery and elaborate silverware, here’s a look beyond the usual suggestions of Turkish Delight and sweet baklava. See below our specially curated list of high-quality traditional Turkish gifts that should impress even the most discerning superyacht guest!

Traditional Turkish Carpets and Kilims

Did you read our article on traditional Turkish carpets? If not, do, as many consider these exquisite silk or wool rugs and carpets the best in the world!

The most prized Turkish carpets use organic dyes and are hand-woven by skilled artisans using age-old techniques. Fine Turkish kilims (flat-woven rugs) typically feature elaborate symbolic patterns and motifs, each telling a story about its weaver and origin. Using silk and wool threads and natural dyes means the rugs retain their vibrance, look fabulous, and age gracefully in the home, making them perfect gifts for yourself or others.

Many regions in Turkiye are famed for traditional carpet making, with Konya referred to as “the cradle of carpet weaving”, Bergama (Aegean) carpets known for their striking patterns, Kayseri recognised for its high-quality blended wool and silk kilims, and Hereke silk carpets considered some of the finest handmade rugs in existence.

Owning a traditional Turkish carpet is like owning a piece of art, as each is unique and tells a story. If you are interested in shopping for top-quality Turkish carpets, we can arrange a guide to take you on a private trip to the best Turkish carpet stores or the Grand Baazar in Istanbul. Alternatively, we can arrange a more immersive experience by visiting smaller workshops in Cappadocia or Bodrum, where you learn more about the patterns and designs and get a detailed explanation of each carpet. ASK US for details.

Bodrum Sandals

Worn by  Russel Crowe in “Gladiator” and as featured in the film “Troy”, one stylish traditional Turkish gift for yourself or others is a pair of Bodrum sandals. With their strappy style, comfort, and versatility, they ooze Mediterranean chic and can be dressed up for an evening out, dressed down with jeans, or worn daily on trips ashore.

The tradition of making Bodrum sandals dates back to the mid-20th century. Ancient Greco-Roman designs inspired them, each pair made from high-quality leather, often sourced locally and crafted by hand. The artisans cut, stitch, and form the leather to create designs that perfectly complement the foot. The best Bodrum sandals feature natural, organic dyes and threads and minimal buckles and embellishments to enhance the sandals’ simple aesthetic.

You can purchase Bodrum leather sandals throughout Turkiye, but of course, the most authentic ones are found in Bodrum’s boutique stores, particularly around the marina and in high-end shops in the Old Town. Next time you are in the vicinity, take a look and pick up a pair – some of the best craftsmen can even make a custom pair, allowing you to choose the colour and style so you can design it yourself!

Traditional Turkish Silverware

Whether you opt for an elaborate, hand-engraved tea set, a minimalist modern serving tray, or a beautifully engraved mirror, Turkish silverware makes a timeless and memorable gift or item for use around the home or the yacht.

Silversmithing in Türkiye dates back to the Byzantine and Ottoman times when silver was prized for its elegance and association with wealth and the elite. At that time, artisans would create a wide range of intricate repoussé and filigree designs featuring geometric Islamic patterns or motifs inspired by flowers, trees, vines, or pomegranates. Many modern silversmiths in Turkiye still use these original techniques, yet they have introduced a stunning contemporary twist to the designs.

You can purchase local silverware throughout Turkiye, from beautifully crafted candlesticks and trays to jewellery boxes, mirrors, tea sets, and coasters. The best is made from sterling silver, although you can now find more affordable silver-plated items in many resort and town stores.

The best place to source top-quality Turkish silverware is Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar or the smaller (high-quality) boutique stores and galleries in Bodrum, Izmir, and along the coast.

Turkish Designer Jewellery

Turkish designer jewellery makes a meaningful gift or statement, be it a diamond-encrusted Bee Goddess talisman or a contemporary Kismet by Mikla bracelet. Turkiye has long been home to incredible goldsmiths and jewellers, but today, its jewellery designer scene has hit the spotlight with items that appeal internationally.

We have previously mentioned Bee Goddess and Kismet by Mikla in 360 Yachting blogs and articles, as these talented Turkish designers have elevated their brands to receive global acclaim. Worn by A-list celebrities on a regular basis, their creations are not your average accessories—they’re thoughtfully crafted works of art that tell stories, with each elegant piece having a meaning.

Both Bee Goddess and Kismet by Mikla are Turkish brands celebrated for their innovation and use of 18-karat gold, sterling silver, and ethically sourced gemstones. Bee Goddess is renowned for its spiritually inspired designs, blending mythology and mysticism with modern aesthetics. Kismet by Mikla is known for its bold, minimalist, and striking designs, with subtle Anatolian and Ottoman nods ideal for everyday wear, red carpet, or occasional wear.

Both brands have flagship stores in Istanbul, and you can also find Bee Goddess and Kismet by Mikla (as well as other quality Turkish brands) in high-end boutiques in Bodrum and Yalikavak Marina and some of the high-quality resorts along the coast. To add a trip jewellery shopping stop to the itinerary, LET US KNOW.

Iznik Ceramics

Bring a touch of Ottoman grandeur to the yacht with Iznik ceramics. These beautiful, handmade plates, tiles, vases, and serving platters feature intricate traditional patterns, vibrant colours, and have a timeless appeal.

Iznik ceramics make the perfect traditional Turkish gifts. They are conversation pieces steeped in history that became common in the 15th and 16th centuries, when they adorned the grand Ottoman palaces and mosques. They are famed for their bold geometric and floral designs, featuring tulips, carnations, and intricate patters in vibrant cobalt blues, coral reds, and emerald greens.

Iznik ceramics are handmade and hand-moulded, then fired at high temperatures to create their signature look. The result is a masterpiece that embodies Türkiye’s artistic legacy.

While the town of Iznik itself remains the heart of the Inzik tradition, Istanbul, Bodrum, Antalya, and quality boutiques along the coast offer plenty of opportunities to purchase Inzik (and other high-quality) local ceramics. Take a look next time you are shopping for traditional Turkish souvenirs and gifts, or ASK US to point you in the right direction.

Turkish Wine

Whether enjoyed onboard or bought as a gift, a bottle or case of good quality wine hardly ever fails to impress.

Turkiye is one of the oldest wine countries, with a winemaking history stretching back over 6,000 years. Although Turkish wine may not be as well known as wine from other countries, it has gained recognition over recent years due to its quality.

Today, we can arrange a private tour of incredible boutique vineyards in regions like Bodrum, Urla, Bozcaada, and Cappadocia. Here, you can sample and select a wide range of red and white wines straight from the source. From crisp whites to velvety reds, local wineries use international and indigenous grape varieties to produce an impressive selection that appeals to the majority.

If the idea of spending a few hours ashore sampling wine at a quality vineyard in Turkiye appeals, CONTACT US or see our article on the best Turkish vineyards for details.

Turkish Silk Scarves

Made from the finest silk threads and dyed using traditional and modern methods, Turkish silk scarves are delicate, luxurious, and elegant. These beautiful items showcase Turkiye’s textile heritage, making them an excellent choice for traditional Turkish gifts.

Silk scarves are versatile and can be used as an accent or accessory, draped over the shoulders, worn as a headscarf, or simply displayed to add sophistication to the wardrobe.

Silk scarves in Turkiye come in many traditional and contemporary designs, with motifs often inspired by Anatolian flowers, Ottoman patterns, and abstract art.

You can purchase Turkish silk scarves throughout Türkiye, and there’s a great array at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. Many agree the best are found in the luxury boutiques in Bursa, a city renowned for its silk production since Ottoman times. The beautiful artisan stores in Cappadocia and Bodrum also showcase many stunning hand-crafted silk scarves, some made by local weavers.

As Turkish souvenirs and gifts go, Turkish silk scarves are perhaps the most practical take-homes, as they are light, easy to pack and transport, so they arrive to the recipient in perfect condition.

If you would like us to suggest where’s best to buy Turkish silk scarves or arrange a visit to a boutique whilst you’re in town, please LET US KNOW.

Shop for Traditional Turkish Gifts and Souvenirs

The traditional Turkish gifts listed are just a few treasures you can find on a shopping trip ashore.

360 Yachting can arrange a bespoke shopping excursion to all the best boutiques, galleries, workshops, vineyards, and bazaars. Whether you’re searching for a piece of Turkish artwork for yourself, a beautiful Iznik plate as a gift for a friend, or simply a meaningful memento of your travels, let us guide you to find the perfect item to take home. CONTACT US to add a shopping tour to the itinerary or for more gift inspiration, see our Turkish souvenirs post.