Türkiye has reported 56.7 million international visitors in 2023, a 10 pc increase year-on-year, accounting for a ‘record-breaking year in 2023.’ Building upon this success, Türkiye says it aims to attract 60 million tourists and generate USD 60 billion in tourism income by 2024. 

According to a press statement by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the country’s tourism income rose 17 pc year-on-year to USD 54.3 billion while average spend per night for overnight visitors reached USD 99.

It says that prioritising market diversity within its tourism strategies, Türkiye will continue its activities in current strategic markets while focusing on new target markets in 2024.

The ministry says that the number of international visitors and the tourism income are announced as the country’s ‘record-breaking figures.’

First country to sign the Sustainability Protocol

The ministry says that behind Türkiye’s tourism success lies a strategic and forward-thinking policy which transformed the tourism sector into a more resilient and inclusive structure with responsible and sustainable policies.

The statement says that Türkiye became the first country in the world to reach an agreement with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) at a government level in 2022 and to implement it as a sectoral requirement.

The Türkiye Sustainable Tourism Programme, resulting from a signed cooperation agreement with the GSTC, rewards the actual practitioners of sustainable tourism and builds trust and credibility among visitors to ensure diverse, sustainable experiences, including eco-friendly accommodations, cycling and trekking, all aimed at fostering a deeper connection between the country’s heritage and the people who uphold it.

The statement adds that Türkiye stands out as a year-round, versatile travel paradise renowned for its unique geographical location, surrounded by azure seas on three sides and historical richness.

The statement adds that Türkiye’s tourism offerings extend beyond its well-known landmarks, encompassing hidden gems like archaeological marvels, which it is committed to preserving to ensure the sustainability of cultural heritage.

In that light, Türkiye had increased its archaeological projects to 720 in 2023, the statement adds. It says that these projects are expected to reach 750 in 2024, solidifying Türkiye’s leadership in preserving cultural heritage.

The statement adds that Türkiye illuminates its popular archaeological sites like Ephesus in İzmir, Hierapolis in Denizli, Patara and Side in Antalya for night visits, transforming these historical treasures into breathtaking spectacles under the evening sky.