Yalıboyu Craft and Souvenir Row

The Yalıboyu Craft and Souvenir Row runs along the north bank of the Yeşilırmak river in the Hatuniye Mahallesi neighbourhood of Amasya, forming the most scenic shopping strip in the province. The row of small shops and open-fronted stalls on Hazeranlar Sokak faces the famous riverside Ottoman timber houses of Yalıboyu directly across the water, making it a destination as much for its setting as its merchandise.

The predominant goods are handcraft items tied to Amasya's Ottoman heritage. Copper trays, serving sets, and decorative pieces are the signature category; both hand-hammered workshop pieces and smoother factory-finished imports are stocked, so buyers should examine construction quality carefully. Kilims and small woven textiles in traditional Pontic patterns sit alongside miniature painted wooden models of the iconic Ottoman houses visible directly across the river — a popular and genuinely place-specific souvenir. Locally painted ceramics, silver jewellery with Ottoman motifs, and calligraphy prints fill out most stalls.

The row operates daily from 09:00 to 20:00 during the main tourist season (April through October); several permanent shops remain open year-round but with reduced hours outside peak season. Prices span a wide range — simple printed items from ₺50 and hand-hammered copper trays from ₺300 to ₺2,000 or more depending on size and workmanship. Bargaining is accepted and expected for copper items, kilims, and larger decorative pieces; printed goods and ceramics at the lower end of the price range tend to have fixed prices. Most stallholders accept card payment for purchases above ₺200, though cash ensures the best negotiating position.

The riverside location means the row is particularly pleasant in the late afternoon and evening when light falls on the Ottoman house facades opposite, attracting as many photographers as shoppers. The Yalıboyu setting makes this the most atmospheric shopping experience available in Amasya province.