Shopping in Kalkan

Shopping in Kalkan :

Whether it’s sunglasses, watches, handbags, or beautifully handmade souvenirs you’re after, you can find them in Kalkan. The streets of the old town and surrounding are filled with quaint and colourful shops displaying their various goods for you to peruse freely.

Want something that says Turkey? There is an abundance of gift shops selling everything from handmade coloured glass candle holders to water pipes to chess boards with hand-carved figurines and, of course, the famous Turkish carpets renowned for their beauty and durability. Due to the use of the double knot, these beautiful Turkish kilims and carpets will last well over a century. From wool to cotton to silk, the prices are based on the knot count; the finer the material means more knots, which means more time. Many types come from numerous regions of Turkey, with various styles and stories that your salesperson can describe to you in detail. If you can’t afford a carpet or kilim this time, there are also shops that offer gorgeous high-quality articles made of kilims, such as cushion covers, bags, purses, wallets, and slippers.

If it’s jewellery you’re after, there are also fantastic silversmiths in Kalkan. They have stunning jewellery made only of the finest and strongest silver with colourful stones from all over the world. They can also custom-make jewellery based on your design, something extra special for someone special.

You will find many of the shops selling genuine fakes, which sounds like an oxymoron. What it means is that they have taken a genuine one and copied it right down to the stitching used, making it very difficult to spot the genuine fake from the original. Quite often, with handbags, the leather used is stronger and more durable than the original at half the price. Find labels like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Channel, Jimmy Choo, Mulberry, Hollister, Raybans, Oakley and much much more.

In some cities, shopping can be such a chore. You might find yourself being pulled from one shop to another, purchasing items which you didn’t really want or need. Unlike other commercialised Turkish towns, in Kalkan, you will not feel as though you are being pressured to buy, and you are free to just look. Like the restaurateurs, the shopkeepers are extremely friendly and have an excellent memory. They will remember your name and face, whether it be a week, a month, or a year later.

Local markets

For all your other shopping needs, you can find what you’re looking for at the local markets on the main road heading away from the old town. There are a couple of fruit and veg grocers selling an array of fresh local produce and butcheries selling quality halal meat cuts. You will also find great patisseries selling all sorts of freshly baked treats and the famously mouth-watering baklava. With regards to local markets, there are quite a few; however, Migros and Carrefour are probably the best and the biggest. You can find everything you need here in one shop as they also sell quite a variety of fruit and veg as well as a selection of raw and cooked meats.

Local Bazaar- Every Thursday

Kalkan local market is held every Thursday from 8.30 am to 7 pm and can be found on the right on the street that goes up from the junction with Kalamar Road to the garage. There, you will find an array of shaded stalls selling a variety of goods, from ‘branded’ clothing and watches, bags and household linens to traditional Turkish goods. The market is the best place to purchase quality local fruit and vegetables and beautiful honey, cheese and olives, as there is a wider variety and better value for money. Generally, the prices are quite reasonable, and as in most places in Turkey, you are expected to barter. It is quite a steep walk to the market area; however, car parks are usually available if you get there early. There are also local taxis at the entrance of the market that will take you and your shopping back to your accommodation.