Russian Tourists in Turkey Swap Fur for Textiles and Sweets

Gone are the days when Russian travelers flocked to Turkish shops for leather jackets and fur coats. A tourism operator in Bodrum, speaking to RIA Novosti, says the shopping habits of Russian visitors have shifted dramatically. Instead of high-ticket leather goods, tourists are now filling their bags with textiles, perfume, cosmetics, and traditional Turkish delights.

Akın Beke, a member of the Turkish Association of Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB), explained that leather and fur stores used to be a staple on every excursion itinerary. Now, many travelers prefer everyday items like home textiles, towels, bed linens, and locally made clothing. The change, he noted, reflects both rising prices and a shift in consumer priorities.

Traditional sweets, coffee, tea, spices, and souvenirs remain top sellers—easy to carry and still reasonably priced compared to similar products abroad. Beke added that the shift isn’t just about cost. More tourists are coming to Turkey primarily for beach holidays, spending less time on shopping and choosing affordable buys over expensive leather goods. Turkey remains a major global producer of both leather and textiles, but the era of the fur coat as a must-have souvenir appears to be fading.