Every year, we get one official day to show our gratitude and appreciation for all the chicken soup, all the photos, all the phone calls, all the hugs, and all the love. We at The Guide Istanbul think that mothers deserve to be treated like queens on a daily basis, but this one day (May 13th this year) is the least we can do to pamper our mothers, show our love, and thank them for everything they’ve done for us.

Take her shopping: Istanbul is the world capital of shopping, thanks to the historic Grand Bazaar that is sprawling with over 4000 shops. Walk around the bazaar to enjoy the humdrum, pick a pashmina together at Sivaslı Istanbul Yazmacısı, browse through the ikat products at Muhlis Günbattı, buy some all-natural bath products at Abdulla (and don’t forget to buy a bottle of pomegranate molasses while you’re there, they’re to die for!), look through the excellent antique collection at Sofa, and have a coffee break at Fes Café (you’ll be amazed at how elegantly they serve Turkish coffee). Last but not least, depending on how your choose to spend the day, enjoy traditional Turkish food at Nar Lokanta. 

Spend an artsy day together: Pamper your mom with a historical exhibition and the delicious dishes of innovative Turkish chefs. Head to the Sakıp Sabancı Museum in the afternoon on Sunday, and start by touring the '1001 Faces of Orientalism.' Then enjoy dinner at the contemporary Turkish-Mediterranean restaurant müzedechanga, overlooking the Bosphorus. 

Cook for her: This is probably one of the best ways you can treat your mom. It’ll probably catch her off guard, and will certainly make her feel appreciated. For creative meal ideas, take a look at our Recipes or get a copy of Istanbul Contemporary Cuisine, or Cooking on the Boat, and cook up a feast for your mom.

Go away with her: When we say away, we mean on a relaxing trip to Bodrum. Now is the perfect time to enjoy the famous coastal town, before local and international tourists flock this popular vacation spot. (The Guide Bodrum is coming out at the end of June, so don’t forget to get your copy to see the best of Bodrum. In the meantime, click here to read about Bodrum.)

Pamper her with an appointment at the hairdresser or take her to a hamam: Every woman loves a new haircut, and Mother's Day is the perfect opportunity to make your mothers feel rejuvenated with a new haircut. We suggest you make an appointment at Erdem Kıramer or HH Hair Design. For a more thorough rebirth of sorts, take her to Kılıç Alı Paşa Hamam for a luxurious experience including full body srub and foam, oil massage, and more. 

Get her a piece of beautiful jewelry: For something contemporary, check out Ela Cindoruk and Nazan Pak’s collection. For an elegant piece, browse through the Bee Goddess collection.  For something extraordinarily beautiful with healing qualities, get a ring from Tohum. If you’re ready to splurge, check out Gilan’s collection.

Updated on May 10, 2013