With its historical texture, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Tarsus offers visitors not only unforgettable memories but also unique and meaningful gifts. This ancient city, which has hosted many civilizations with its thousands of years of history, is a unique stop for gift shopping with both local handicrafts and regional delicacies. While visiting important landmarks such as St. Paul’s Well, Cleopatra’s Gate, and the Grand Mosque, you can also make your loved ones happy with the authentic products offered by this land.
Gifts that can be bought from Tarsus range from traditional flavors to natural cosmetic products, from handmade ornaments to historically themed items. These products, each reflecting the region’s culture, history, and natural essence, offer options that are both aesthetic and meaningful. Easily found in the bazaars and local markets of Tarsus, these gifts will create lasting and special memories for both yourself and your loved ones.
1. Tarsus Delight – Especially famous for its walnut and plain varieties.
Tarsus delight, one of the city’s most famous and traditional sweets, is appreciated by both locals and visitors. Standing out especially with its walnut and plain varieties, these delights are notable for their intense flavor and natural ingredients. Tarsus delight, with its soft texture crafted by skilled hands and balanced sugar content, goes beyond the classic concept of Turkish delight; it is a dessert tradition that carries its taste from the past to the present.
These delights unique to Tarsus are offered in elegant packaging in bazaars and local confectionery shops, making them a preferred gift option. Their long shelf life makes them easy to carry during travel without spoiling. Although there are varieties enriched with flavors such as rose water, mastic, or hazelnut, the walnut and plain types are the most popular. They offer a nostalgic taste and stand out as a sweet memory of a visit to Tarsus.
2. Hummus and Tahini – Tarsus’s famous hummus and stone-milled tahini.
Hummus, one of the indispensable flavors of Tarsus cuisine, holds a special place in the region. Prepared by blending chickpeas with tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon, this delicacy becomes a favorite on tables with its soft texture and intense flavor. Especially when baked in stone ovens and served hot, hummus in Tarsus can be offered plain or topped with pastirma or sautéed meat. This traditional dish is greatly appreciated by both locals and visitors to the city.
One of the key ingredients of hummus, tahini is also carefully prepared in Tarsus. Made from sesame seeds ground in stone mills, this tahini stands out with its thick consistency and natural aroma. Free from additives, it is used not only for hummus but also in breakfasts, desserts, and various dishes. As one of the most special and natural products to buy from Tarsus, tahini stands out as a healthy and versatile gift.
3. Turnip Juice – A regional beverage available in spicy and non-spicy options.
Turnip juice is one of the most unique and characteristic beverages of Tarsus cuisine. Made by fermenting purple carrots, bulgur flour, salt, and water, this drink is known for its refreshing quality as well as its distinctive sour and sharp taste. Traditionally prepared turnip juice is especially preferred alongside kebabs and meat dishes. The turnip juice made in Tarsus stands out with its intense aroma and balanced acidity, thanks to the natural ingredients sourced from the region.
Turnip juice is offered in two varieties: spicy and non-spicy, allowing it to appeal to a wide range of tastes. The spicy version delivers a strong and bold flavor for those who enjoy heat, while the non-spicy version caters to those seeking a lighter and more refreshing taste. Bottled and available from local producers, turnip juice is one of the most authentic and region-specific souvenirs to bring from Tarsus. With its natural ingredients and health benefits, this beverage makes for a flavorful memento at the table.
4. Keşkeklik Bulgur – Specially produced for the traditional Tarsus dish.
Keşkeklik bulgur is the main ingredient of the dish “keşkek,” which holds an important place in Tarsus cuisine, and it is specially produced for this unique flavor. Unlike other types of bulgur, keşkeklik bulgur has a coarser grain and slightly broken texture, giving the dish its characteristic consistency and richness. Traditionally made from wheat using local methods in Tarsus, this bulgur is especially used in keşkek dishes prepared for weddings, holidays, and special occasions.
Cooked slowly with meat or chicken broth, keşkeklik bulgur offers a thick and satisfying taste. Easily found in Tarsus’s local markets, this type of bulgur is an ideal gift for those who want to try regional dishes or prepare traditional recipes at home. With its natural quality, nutritional value, and cultural significance, keşkeklik bulgur is one of the most authentic and meaningful food products to bring from Tarsus.
5. Tarsus White Chickpeas – Famous for their small and flavorful grains.
Tarsus white chickpeas are considered one of the most delicious and high-quality varieties in Turkey. Although smaller in size compared to other types of chickpeas, they stand out with their rich flavor and texture that becomes tender easily when cooked. These chickpeas are especially preferred in homemade hummus, chickpea pilaf, soups, and meat dishes, and are grown naturally in the fertile soils of Tarsus. In addition to their taste, Tarsus white chickpeas are notable for their high nutritional value, being rich in protein and fiber.
This local product unique to Tarsus can be easily used in both traditional and modern recipes. When combined with regional wheat and grain products, it allows for the preparation of satisfying and healthy meals. Available in local markets, natural food stores, or directly from producers, Tarsus white chickpeas offer not only a delicious culinary experience but also stand out as a meaningful food gift that supports a healthy lifestyle.
6. Cezerye – A sweet snack made from carrots and walnuts.
Cezerye is one of the most beloved sweet snacks of Tarsus cuisine, made with natural and nutritious ingredients such as carrots and walnuts. Its name comes from the Arabic word “cezer,” meaning carrot. This dessert is prepared by cooking grated carrots with sugar until thickened, then adding a generous amount of walnuts to create a treat that is both nutritious and satisfying. It is often enriched with flavors such as cinnamon, coconut, or clove to appeal to different palates.
Tarsus cezerye is highly popular among both locals and visitors and is one of the most sought-after gift items from the city. Sold in sliced or rolled form, cezerye comes in elegant packaging that makes it visually and gastronomically appealing. Thanks to its long shelf life, it is easy to carry during travels and stands out as a sweet souvenir. With its energizing qualities, natural ingredients, and unique aroma, cezerye rightfully holds a special place among Tarsus’s distinctive flavors.
7. Olives and Olive Oil – Natural and regionally distinctive flavors.
Thanks to its fertile lands and Mediterranean climate, Tarsus stands out as a region known for producing high-quality olives and olive oil. With a centuries-old olive cultivation tradition, the olives grown in Tarsus are used both as table olives and for oil production. Black and green olive varieties are processed using natural fermentation methods, becoming delicious and healthy snacks. Especially favored at breakfast, these olives are an essential part of the local diet.
Tarsus olive oil is obtained through stone pressing or cold pressing methods, preserving its natural aroma and nutritional value. With its slightly fruity taste, clear color, and strong scent, this oil is widely used from salads to hot dishes. Rich in antioxidants, olive oil is also highly valued for its health benefits. Offered in elegant bottles, olive and olive oil products are among the most delicious and natural gift options to bring from Tarsus.
8. Local Spices – Natural products such as chili flakes, sumac, and za’atar.
The culinary culture of Tarsus is shaped by centuries-old traditional flavors and ingredients sourced from nature, with local spices playing a significant role in this heritage. Spices such as chili flakes, sumac, and za’atar are frequently used to enhance the taste of dishes and provide health benefits. Chili flakes add depth to meat and vegetable dishes with their heat and aroma; sumac is indispensable in salads and kebabs due to its tangy flavor; and za’atar (wild thyme) is consumed both as a spice and a tea, known for supporting the digestive system.
These spices are harvested from the mountainous and rural areas around Tarsus, dried using traditional methods, and carefully ground. Obtained entirely through natural processes and free of additives, they are especially preferred by those who prioritize healthy eating. Found in Tarsus’s markets and local herbal shops, these special spices allow you to explore new flavors in your kitchen and serve as natural and regional gift alternatives for your loved ones.
9. Tarsus Carpet or Rug – Handwoven items featuring traditional patterns.
Tarsus carpets and rugs are among the most authentic gift items reflecting the region’s deep-rooted hand-weaving tradition. Woven for centuries by women’s skilled hands, these textiles carry both artistic and cultural value. Traditional Anatolian motifs, nature-inspired figures, and symbolic patterns are often featured in Tarsus carpets. Each carpet or rug is not just a floor covering, but a piece of art that tells a story and holds traces of the past.
Made from natural wool yarns and dyed with plant-based pigments, these handwoven items are durable and long-lasting. Offered in various sizes and colors, the carpets and rugs can be used for decorative purposes or appreciated as cultural keepsakes. Easily found in Tarsus’s bazaars, carpet shops, or handicraft workshops, these items stand out as gifts that are both aesthetic and meaningful.
10. Wood Carving Products – Handmade decorative items crafted by local artisans.
Wood carving products are among the elegant and meaningful souvenirs that reflect Tarsus’s traditional handicrafts. Crafted by local artisans, these items are typically made from durable and high-quality woods such as walnut, olive, or pine. Hand-carved boxes, spoons, trays, table ornaments, and small figurines attract attention for being both aesthetic and functional. They often feature Anatolian motifs, nature-inspired patterns, or traditional figures.
These wood-carved items are not only used for everyday purposes but also serve as stylish objects for home decoration. Each piece, requiring unique craftsmanship and patience, offers personalized and culturally valuable gifts, far from mass production. Found in the bazaars and handicraft workshops of Tarsus, these distinctive pieces are a beautiful way to support both art and local artisans. Blended with the warmth and natural essence of wood, these items stand out as meaningful and lasting mementos to bring from Tarsus for your loved ones.
11. Calligraphy Products Featuring Quranic Verses – Preferred as gifts in this city known for its religious tourism.
In addition to hosting many civilizations throughout history, Tarsus is also a significant center for religious tourism. In this context, calligraphy products adorned with Quranic verses are among the souvenirs that hold both spiritual value and visual appeal. Created by master calligraphers, these works are presented as plaques, wall panels, bookmarks, or miniature paintings. Enriched with traditional decorative techniques such as gold leaf, marbling, or illumination, each item is a meaningful piece of art.
These calligraphy items are especially preferred by visitors who seek a deep connection with sacred texts. Sold in connection with the city’s religious sites, shrines, and mosques, they stand out as souvenirs that not only recall the city but also carry profound spiritual significance. These handmade products, where Quranic verses are expressed in artistic forms, are ideal gifts for leaving a lasting and meaningful impression from your visit to Tarsus.
12. Tarsus-Themed Magnets and Keychains – Decorated with symbols like St. Paul’s Well and Cleopatra’s Gate.
Tarsus-themed magnets and keychains are among the most preferred souvenirs, transforming the city’s historical and cultural symbols into small but meaningful objects. Iconic landmarks such as St. Paul’s Well, Cleopatra’s Gate, the Donuktas Temple, and the Grand Mosque are featured on these items in embossed, illustrated, or miniature forms. Made from colorful ceramic, wood, or metal materials, the magnets and keychains serve both as stylish decorative pieces and as special reminders of Tarsus.
Easily found in local markets, souvenir shops, and tourist areas, these items are frequently chosen for their affordability. Offered in various designs and sizes, Tarsus-themed magnets and keychains appeal to both collectors and those wishing to bring a special memento from the city to their loved ones. Despite their small size, the historical and cultural meaning they carry makes them powerful and memorable symbols.
13. Natural Essences with Cleopatra Perfume Notes – Aromas associated with legends.
Natural essences with Cleopatra perfume notes are among the mystical and elegant souvenirs that blend with the historical richness of Tarsus. According to legend, the captivating scents that surrounded Cleopatra during her visit to Tarsus inspired these natural essences. Blended with notes such as rose, jasmine, lavender, sandalwood, and musk, these essences stand out for their naturalness and refinement. Prepared using traditional methods, they are free from additives and are gentle on the skin.
Presented in elegant glass bottles or small flacons adorned with ancient motifs, these products offer a unique souvenir option that reflects the history of Tarsus. Especially ideal for aromatherapy enthusiasts and those who prefer natural products, Cleopatra-inspired essences are more than just fragrances—they are memories infused with the atmosphere of history. Found in local shops and souvenir stalls in Tarsus, these natural perfumes are an impressive way to offer your loved ones a graceful and meaningful gift.
14. Handmade Soaps – Made from natural extracts such as lavender and laurel.
Handmade soaps are among the most elegant and healthy gift items that reflect the natural richness of Tarsus. Made with natural extracts such as lavender, laurel, rosemary, rose, and olive oil, these soaps are free from additives, making them both skin-friendly and aromatherapeutic. Produced using traditional methods, usually through cold process techniques, the soaps are known for their soft texture, pleasant scent, and cleansing properties.
These soaps are ideal for daily use and can also serve as decorative items for bathrooms and sinks. Available in colorful, floral, or plain forms, they are typically packaged with linen cloths, ribbons, or jute strings. Found in Tarsus’s herbalists, natural product stores, and souvenir stalls, these soaps are both a healthy and aesthetically pleasing gift choice.
15. Tarsus Fig – Noted for its soft texture and aromatic flavor.
Tarsus fig is a special fruit grown in the region’s fertile soil, known for its soft texture and rich aroma. These figs ripen naturally under the sun-rich climate conditions and can be consumed both fresh and dried. With their large size, dense interior, and natural sweetness, Tarsus figs are frequently preferred both on their own and in desserts.
In particular, the dried form is ideal as a gift due to its long shelf life and easy portability. A natural source of fiber and energy, these figs are especially suitable for those who value healthy eating and can be found carefully packaged in local markets or shops selling regional products. As one of the most natural and delicious gifts to bring from Tarsus, Tarsus fig is both a satisfying treat and a reflection of the region’s agricultural richness.
16. Copper-Engraved Products – Handmade copper items such as coffee pots, trays, and pitchers.
Copper craftsmanship, which holds an important place among Tarsus’s traditional arts, is one of the most authentic and aesthetic souvenir options from the city. Handmade coffee pots, engraved trays, pitchers, and mugs are adorned with patterns crafted patiently and delicately by artisans. These items often feature traditional Anatolian motifs, geometric shapes, and botanical designs. The surfaces of the copperware are shaped with hammer strikes, offering both functional use and dazzling decorative appeal.
Copper products can be used as practical kitchen tools or as ornamental display items. Especially for coffee enthusiasts, handmade coffee pots offer an elegant way to experience traditional coffee culture. Found in local handicraft workshops or bazaars in Tarsus, these copper-engraved items stand out as special and meaningful gifts with both durability and cultural value. Each piece is shaped individually by hand, making them valuable keepsakes that reflect the craftsmanship heritage of Tarsus.
17. Traditional Women’s Jewelry – Beaded and handcrafted necklaces and bracelets.
Traditional women’s jewelry is among the handcrafted, aesthetic, and meaningful souvenirs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Tarsus. These pieces are original designs created by local artisans who blend traditional motifs with modern interpretations. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings adorned with colorful glass beads, natural stones, wooden details, and metal embellishments are each a unique work of art, carrying their own stories. Decorated with symbols and regional patterns specific to Tarsus, this jewelry is suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Appealing to women of all ages, these accessories are mostly handcrafted in small workshops, making each piece unique. Created with care and craftsmanship, they are not just accessories but also representations of Tarsus’s traditional artistic expression. Found in local markets, tourist shops, or women’s cooperatives, these jewelry pieces offer a special gift for loved ones and serve as a meaningful way to support local artisanship.
18. St. Paul Souvenirs – Specially designed items for Christian visitors.
St. Paul souvenirs are special and meaningful gifts that reflect the spiritual significance of Tarsus for Christian visitors. As Tarsus is believed to be the birthplace of Saint Paul, it attracts great interest from tourists with religious purposes. In this context, carefully designed items such as figures symbolizing St. Paul’s Well, St. Paul Church, and other religious sites, cross motifs, prayer cards, miniature icons, holy book bookmarks, and medallions are offered.
These souvenirs are typically made from materials like stone, wood, ceramic, or metal, and are sometimes enhanced with hand painting or embossed craftsmanship. Reflecting the city’s religious and historical atmosphere, these items are not just decorative objects but symbols carrying the spiritual value of the visit. St. Paul-themed souvenirs, sold in shops near the churches and in tourist areas of Tarsus, are an impressive and lasting option especially for those seeking a gift with deep spiritual meaning.
19. Traditional Clothing or Headscarves – Hand-embroidered, traditional fabrics.
Traditional clothing and headscarves that reflect the cultural heritage of Tarsus stand out among the elegant, handcrafted souvenirs with their traditional textures. Usually made from cotton, linen, or silk-blend fabrics, these items are adorned with embroidered traditional motifs, lacework, and colorful patterns. Headscarves are especially used by women as head coverings, shoulder wraps, or decorative pieces, while traditional garments are worn during weddings, festivals, and cultural events.
The motifs featured on these products often represent symbols of nature and life from Anatolia, each carrying its own meaning. These handcrafted textiles attract attention for both their aesthetic and cultural value. Easily found in the bazaars of Tarsus, local textile shops, and women’s cooperatives, traditional clothing and headscarves are ideal options for offering your loved ones a cultural trace and an elegant gift.
20. Tarsus’s Famous Lemons or Lemon Products – In the form of jam, cologne, or dried slices.
The famous lemon grown in the fertile lands of Tarsus has become one of the city’s symbols and is highly popular both as a fresh fruit and in its processed forms as souvenirs. With its thin skin, juicy content, and intense aroma, Tarsus lemon is rich in vitamin C and beneficial for health. Lemon jam made from this special fruit adds a sweet-and-sour balance to breakfast tables, while lemon cologne stands out as a classic gift with its refreshing effect and long-lasting scent.
Additionally, Tarsus lemon is offered in thinly sliced, dried form. These dried lemon slices can be used in teas, beverages, or for decorative purposes. Being natural, additive-free, and long-lasting makes them easy to carry and store. Carefully packaged and available in local markets, herbal shops, and souvenir stores, these products are both healthy and regionally distinctive gift options. Tarsus’s lemon-themed products stand out as a fresh and aromatic memory of your visit.