Target of 65 Million Tourists; Turkey's Tourism on the Path of Sustainable Growth
Tourism is considered one of the most important sources of income for countries, and Turkey is no exception. In 2025, the country has set a goal of reaching 65 million tourists and 64 billion dollars in tourism revenue. Diversity in coastal, natural, historical, and health tourism has made Turkey one of the most popular destinations in the world.
Due to its economic and social benefits, tourism is known as an “industry without smoke.” Besides its positive impact on the national economy and job creation, it also plays a role in enhancing cultural and international relations. For this reason, April 15 to 22 is celebrated annually as Tourism Week.
Turkey: The Tourism Giant of the Region
Turkey is one of the leading countries in the tourism industry. Its vast beaches, lush nature, and unique historical landmarks have made it an attractive destination for tourists. For example, tourists from Russia and Northern European countries mostly seek sun, sea, and beaches, while visitors from Southern Europe, America, and East Asia are interested in cultural tourism and archaeological treasures.
In recent years, Turkey has also seen a significant increase in health tourism. Many travelers from European and Middle Eastern countries visit Turkey for treatment or cosmetic procedures.
Raising Goals After the Pandemic
Despite the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to the tourism industry, this sector has strongly returned to the growth path. In 2021, Turkey successfully attracted 30 million tourists and earned 30 billion dollars in revenue. This figure rose to 62 million tourists and 61 billion dollars in revenue in 2024.
Now, the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism has set a target of 65 million tourists and 64 billion dollars in revenue for 2025. Last year, the average spending per tourist was 972 dollars, and the new goal is to raise this to above 1,000 dollars per person.
Tourists' Favorite Cities
İstanbul and Antalya are considered the two main tourist destinations in Turkey. After these two cities, areas such as Muğla, Aydın, Edirne, and Nevşehir also have high popularity.
In İstanbul, famous historical sites like Ayasofya and Sultan Ahmet Mosque, along with the Bosphorus Strait, attract tourists. Antalya is the center of beach tourism thanks to its beautiful coastlines and various recreational facilities. At the same time, Muğla is especially attractive with destinations like Bodrum and Datça.
Edirne is often preferred by tourists coming from Balkan countries such as Bulgaria, while Nevşehir, with the legendary Cappadocia region, has become one of the most visited domestic and international tourist areas.
