When visiting Antalya, tourists often look for unique souvenirs to bring home as a reminder of their trip or as gifts for friends and family. This article presents a list of top souvenirs to buy in Antalya, showcasing the city’s rich culture and traditions.
What to Buy from Antalya
1. Nazar Boncuk: The Evil Eye Protector
Nazar Boncuk, also known as the Evil Eye Protector, is a popular souvenir in Antalya and throughout Turkey. These blue glass amulets are believed to ward off bad luck and protect against the evil eye. You can find them in various forms, such as keychains, wall hangings, and jewelry.
2. Turkish Delight (Lokum)
Turkish Delight, or Lokum, is a sweet treat made from sugar, starch, and water, often flavored with rose, lemon, or mint and sometimes containing nuts or fruit. This delicious confectionery is a must-buy souvenir from Antalya and can be found in many local shops.
3. Handmade Pottery and Ceramic Plates
Antalya is known for its beautiful handmade pottery and ceramic plates. These decorative items often feature intricate designs and vibrant colors, making them a perfect souvenir to bring home. You can find a wide variety of ceramic plates and other pottery items in local markets and shops.
4. Traditional Turkish Textiles
Turkish textiles are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship. In Antalya, you can find a variety of textile products, such as kilim rugs, Turkish towels (peshtemals), and traditional clothing like Şalvar (blouse pants). These items make great souvenirs and showcase the rich textile heritage of Turkey.
5. Leather Goods
Leather goods are another popular souvenir from Antalya. High-quality leather bags, wallets, and belts can be found in local markets and shops. These items are both stylish and functional, making them a great gift or personal memento from your trip.
6. Turkish Tea and Coffee Sets
Tea and coffee are an essential part of Turkish culture, and beautifully designed tea and coffee sets make for a lovely souvenir. These sets often include ornate cups, saucers, and a teapot or coffee pot, allowing you to recreate the Turkish tea or coffee experience at home.
7. Gold and Silver Jewelry
Antalya is known for its exquisite gold and silver jewelry, often featuring intricate designs and precious stones. You can find a wide range of jewelry items, such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, in local markets and shops. These pieces make for a beautiful and lasting souvenir from your trip.
8. Turkish Spices and Dried Fruits
Turkey is famous for its aromatic spices and delicious dried fruits. In Antalya, you can find a variety of spices, such as saffron, sumac, and red pepper flakes, as well as dried fruits like figs, apricots, and mulberries. These items make for a tasty and fragrant souvenir to bring home.
9. Handcrafted Turkish Backgammon Board (Tavla)
Tavla, or Turkish backgammon, is a popular game in Turkey, and a handcrafted backgammon board makes for a unique souvenir. These boards often feature intricate designs and are made from high-quality materials, making them both a functional game board and a beautiful decorative item.
10. Turkish Olive Oil
Turkey is one of the world’s leading producers of olive oil, and Antalya is no exception. High-quality olive oil makes for a delicious and healthy souvenir, perfect for cooking or as a salad dressing. You can find a variety of olive oil products in local markets and shops.
In conclusion, Antalya offers a wide range of unique and memorable souvenirs for tourists to bring home. From traditional textiles and pottery to delicious treats and beautiful jewelry, there is something for everyone to enjoy and cherish as a reminder of their trip to this beautiful city.