Turkey's tourism industry experienced a remarkable surge in 2023, attracting 57 million tourists and generating an impressive $54 billion in revenue. The trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2024, with the first six months already reflecting similar success.
Turkey’s 2024 tourism numbers
From January to June 2024, Turkey welcomed 25 million visitors, who contributed more than $23 billion to the economy. This marked a 9% increase in tourism revenue compared to the previous year, alongside a more than 10% rise in tourist numbers.
Visitors hailed from over 190 countries, underscoring Turkey's global appeal as a premier travel destination. Istanbul, which was the world's most-visited city in 2023, continues to lead the pack in 2024. The city remains the top draw for international tourists, while Antalya has secured the seventh spot globally. Other popular destinations within Turkey include Izmir, Muğla, and Aydın, each offering unique attractions that appeal to diverse traveller preferences.
Tourism spending in Turkey
On average, each tourist spent approximately $750 during their stay. The largest groups of visitors came from Russia, Germany, and Iran, solidifying these countries as key markets for Turkey's tourism sector. Turkey's continued success in tourism highlights its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and strategic efforts to maintain its status as a top global destination. As the year progresses, the country is poised to set new records, further bolstering its economy and international reputation.
Turkish citizens also travelling abroad
In 2023, Turkey not only attracted millions of international visitors but also saw a significant number of its own citizens travelling abroad for tourism. An impressive 11 million Turks embarked on international trips, spending a total of $7 billion. This growing trend of outbound tourism reflects the increasing affluence and global curiosity among Turkish travellers, whose numbers have been rising steadily over the years.
European destinations, particularly those in Western Europe, have emerged as the top choices for Turkish tourists. Countries in this region have become the preferred vacation spots, offering a blend of cultural experiences, historical attractions, and modern conveniences that appeal to Turkish travellers.
The steady increase in Turks traveling abroad highlights a shift in the country's tourism dynamics, with more citizens seeking to explore destinations beyond their borders. This trend is expected to continue, further integrating Turkey into the global tourism landscape, both as a top destination and as a source of enthusiastic travellers.
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