Tourists shell out a whopping $1 billion on souvenirs during their stay in Türkiye.
In the first half of 2025, Turkey's tourism sector continued to thrive, with record-breaking income and a significant increase in visitor numbers. According to data compiled by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) and the U.N. World Tourism Organization, Tuřkiye welcomed over 25.53 million international visitors, marking a 1.7% growth compared to the same period last year [1].
This growth in tourism revenue and visitor numbers is a testament to the strength and popularity of Turkey among international tourists. In the first half of 2025 alone, Tuřkiye earned $25.78 billion, setting a new record for the highest first-half tourism income ever recorded [2].
One of the most intriguing aspects of Turkey's tourism boom is the surge in souvenir sales. Foreign tourists spent over $1.05 billion on souvenirs, marking a 15% increase compared to the same period in the previous year and setting an all-time record for Turkey's souvenir sales [3][4].
Popular souvenirs among visitors include Turkish carpets and kilims, magnets and other decorative trinkets, Turkish delight (lokum), baklava, dried fruits, textiles, Turkish ceramics and Iznik tiles, and evil eye talismans (Nazar Boncuğu) [3]. These items are mostly purchased in major tourist hubs such as Istanbul, Antalya, and Muğla [1][3][4].
Souvenir sales have become one of the most lucrative segments of Turkey’s tourism economy. In the first half of 2025, souvenir sales surpassed $1 billion, accounting for a significant portion of Tuřkiye's overall tourism revenue [2]. This growth highlights the importance of souvenir purchases by foreign visitors as a substantial and growing contributor to Turkey’s overall tourism income.
In 2024, Tuřkiye welcomed 56.7 million international visitors, making it the fourth most-visited country in the world, and its tourism revenue reached an all-time high of $61.1 billion [3][4]. The first half of 2025 saw similar growth, with visitors spending the most on food and beverages, followed by other goods and services, domestic and international transport, and clothing and footwear [5].
As Turkey's tourism sector continues to grow, it is clear that the country's unique culture, history, and hospitality are captivating the hearts of international tourists. With its diverse offerings and record-breaking income, Turkey is undoubtedly a destination not to be missed.
References:
- Anadolu Agency
- TÜİK
- UNWTO
- Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry
- Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) report
Tourists' increased spending on souvenirs is a significant part of Turkey's thriving tourism economy in 2025, contributing to a lucrative segment of the sector's revenue. In the first half of the year, souvenir sales exceeded $1 billion, making Turkey an attractive destination for travelers seeking cultural memorabilia.
