Hello, it’s Suzu here!
Looking for things to do with a long layover
Wondering how to pass the time at Istanbul Airport?
In this article, I’ll introduce some recommended cafes and souvenirs at Istanbul Airport.
This article is perfect for:
- Those looking for stylish, tasteful Turkish souvenirs
- Travelers with extra time wanting to relax in a cafe
- Anyone frustrated by the hard-to-read Istanbul Airport map
I’ve included a map to make things easier, so feel free to use this guide!
Prices mentioned are approximate.
Recommended Cafes
AVENUE CAFÉ BISTRO
A little oasis inside the airport
Located in the departure terminal of Istanbul Airport, Avenue Café Bistro offers a cozy place to unwind during your journey.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for a quiet moment before a long flight or while waiting for a transfer.
The café interior is modern and sophisticated, allowing for a peaceful break in between travels.
Menu and Pricing
At Avenue Café Bistro, you’ll find a wide selection of coffee, tea, light snacks, and desserts.
Highly recommended is their croissant
it’s huge!
With a variety of sandwiches and pastries, it’s a great spot for a quick bite.
Pricing: A cup of coffee is around 300 Turkish Lira, while a sandwich is about 400 Turkish Lira.
The photo shown here was 560 Turkish Lira total.
or an airport café, it’s fairly affordable!
Recommended for:
When you have a bit of time before your flight
When you want a relaxing spot during a layover
Stop by and check it out!
Starbucks
Plenty of unique drinks!
It looked like there were outlets available, but unfortunately, the seats were a bit messy, so I decided against it.
There are plenty of benches nearby, so even if you don’t buy Starbucks, you’ll find a place to relax.
McDonald’s
Adorable Minion-themed Happy Meals!
I bought a drink I’d never seen before, just to try it out.
Recommended Souvenirs
CAYKUR Altunbas Siyah Çay
Rich in flavor
CAYKUR’s Altunbas Siyah Çay is a black tea made from special tea leaves grown in Turkey’s Rize region.
Its key feature is a rich, full-bodied flavor with a slightly bitter, roasted aroma that delights tea lovers.
Altunbas Siyah Çay is made from only the top tea bud and the two youngest leaves, ensuring a high-quality product.
The tea leaves are delicate and fragrant, and it’s best brewed with slightly cooled boiling water to bring out the flavor.
It’s delicious served plain, but adding a bit of milk creates a mellow experience.
Packaging and Pricing
The packaging has a simple design, making it perfect as a gift. Tea lovers among your friends and family will surely appreciate it.
Price: Around 200 Turkish Lira for 500g.
Recommended for
Relaxed tea time with friends or family
A quiet moment to unwind with a good book and music
CAYKUR Organic Hemsin Cayi
Nature’s goodness preserved
For those who love organic products, CAYKUR Organic Hemsin Çayı is a must-try.
Using tea leaves grown without fertilizers or pesticides in the lush Hemsin region of Rize, this tea provides a natural taste that’s perfect for health-conscious or eco-minded individuals.
Hemsin Çayı has a rich yet naturally sweet flavor that is balanced and soothing.
Enjoyed as a straight tea, its gentle aroma fills the mouth, offering a relaxing effect.
Packaging and Pricing
The tea is sold in convenient 400g cans or carton packages.
As an organic product, it’s strictly certified by Ekotar for quality control.
Price: About 140 Turkish Lira for 200g, 200 Turkish Lira for 400g.
Best for
Health-conscious individuals and those following a natural lifestyle
Great as a straight tea, but also lovely with milk
Twix Minis
Small but satisfying!
Mini-sized version of the Twix chocolate bar.
The perfect combination of crispy cookies layered with sweet caramel and smooth milk chocolate!
Every time you eat it, you will feel happy
Souvenirs for dispersal!
They’re perfect as shareable souvenirs! Individually wrapped, they’re ideal for friends or coworkers.
The bite-size pieces are convenient to eat without mess and offer a satisfying sweetness in one pop.
Price: Around 60-70 Turkish Lira for 200g.
Stock up to share with friends or keep as a personal snack stash!
KURUKAHVECI MEHMET EFENDI
A respected brand in Turkish coffee
Founded in 1871 in Istanbul, Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi is Turkey’s most famous coffee brand, celebrated for preserving the tradition of Turkish coffee.
Turkish coffee is known for its finely ground beans, rich and aromatic taste, and slightly strong bitterness.
Adding a little sugar is recommended for those with a sweet tooth.
Packaging and Pricing
The traditional, simple packaging of Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi coffee makes it an attractive gift option with a classic, high-end look.
One of the most popular souvenirs from Turkey
Price: 120 Turkish Lira for 250g.
To be honest, you can order this from other countries.
But I recommend you to buy it because you usually don’t buy things you can buy at home after you get back home!
Best enjoyed
In a small cup, savoring the luxury of a quiet moment
Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi is perfect for those interested in Turkish culture and coffee enthusiasts!
Shop Map
I’ve created a map of the left side of the departure terminal floor with many shops marked.
The map machine at the airport, so hard to see and use.
The souvenirs mentioned are mostly in the “Old Bazaar” area, which is full of Turkish coffee accessories and other authentic items.
The staff are friendly, and there’s a great selection, so I highly recommend it.
The Twix Minis were only available in the Duty-Free area in the top right.
Starbucks is downstairs, McDonald’s is upstairs. On the McDonald’s floor, there’s also a Subway.
The food court in the bottom left is also a good stop, offering burgers, pizza, and more.
A quick note – there’s a free water dispenser around the center of this floor, though it’s not shown on the map.
Conclusion
Istanbul Airport offers plenty of cafes and souvenirs to make your trip memorable.
For tea and coffee lovers, CAYKUR and Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi products are high-quality gifts that will be appreciated.
Enjoy a relaxing coffee break at Avenue Café Bistro amid the hustle and bustle of travel.
Make the most of your time at Istanbul Airport and enjoy a wonderful experience!
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