Over the past nine months, Turkey has witnessed a substantial increase in UK tourists, marking a 17% rise.

• In total, 3.7 million UK visitors travelled to Turkey, contributing to a 9% increase in overall tourist numbers.
• The growth in tourism has boosted Turkey’s revenue by 7%, reaching £38.7 billion, with a higher average spend per visitor.
• Istanbul and Antalya remain top destinations, drawing millions of international tourists, with Istanbul seeing a 7% rise.
• Turkey’s ambitious target for the year is 61 million arrivals, spurred by growth in key markets including the UK.

Over the first nine months of the year, Turkey experienced a remarkable growth of 17% in tourist arrivals from the United Kingdom. This increase brought the number to an impressive 3.7 million UK visitors, according to data shared by Turkey’s culture and tourism minister, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy. As a result, there was a notable 9% overall rise in tourist numbers, totalling 49.2 million visitors to the country.

This influx of international tourists has had a positive impact on Turkey’s economic landscape, with tourism revenue rising by 7% to £38.7 billion. Visitors’ average daily expenditure also grew, reaching £88. Such financial improvements underscore the importance of the tourism sector in Turkey’s economy.

Key cities like Istanbul and Antalya have been pivotal in attracting tourists. Istanbul alone welcomed over 14 million international visitors in the same period, reflecting a 7% year-on-year increase. Antalya also followed closely with significant tourist numbers, marking these cities as essential hubs for Turkey’s tourism.

The Turkish Tourism Board has adjusted its target, anticipating a striking 61 million arrivals by year’s end. This adjustment reflects the country’s strategic growth plans, seeking to expand across various markets significantly. The UK’s position as the leading source market for tourists, ahead of Russia and Germany, highlights the robust connection between the two nations in terms of travel.

In the first half of the year alone, nearly 1.8 million UK travellers visited Turkey, cementing the UK’s status as a vital contributor to Turkey’s tourism success. The Turkish government’s focus on enhancing their international appeal through strategic marketing and investment in tourism infrastructure is evident in these results.

Turkey’s strong growth in attracting UK tourists showcases its effective tourism strategies and highlights its role as a leading travel destination.