TURKEY REPORTED RECORD TOURISM REVENUE IN 2025

Why It Matters

The surge cements Turkey’s position as a global tourism leader and fuels economic growth, attracting further investment in hospitality and travel services.

Key Takeaways

• 63.9 million visitors generated $65.2 bn revenue.
• Revenue grew 6.8% despite global travel challenges.
• Russian, German, UK tourists remain top source markets.
• Turkish diaspora contributed 17.5% arrivals, 18% revenue.
• B2B package tours drove $18.1 bn earnings.

Pulse Analysis

Turkey’s 2025 tourism performance reflects a broader post‑pandemic rebound across the Mediterranean region. With 63.9 million arrivals, the country outpaced most competitors, leveraging its diverse portfolio of beach resorts, cultural sites, and culinary experiences. The modest 2.7% rise in visitor numbers translated into a 6.8% jump in revenue, highlighting the effectiveness of higher‑margin offerings such as organized tours and B2B packages. This growth trajectory signals robust demand elasticity, even as global travel faces geopolitical and economic headwinds.

The composition of Turkey’s tourist base reveals strategic strengths. Russian, German and UK travelers together accounted for over a third of all arrivals, providing a stable European and Eurasian foundation. Meanwhile, the Turkish diaspora contributed 17.5% of visitors and 18% of revenue, demonstrating the power of cultural ties and targeted outreach. The surge in package‑tour spending—$18.1 billion—illustrates a shift toward bundled experiences that deliver higher per‑capita spend, benefitting hotels, transport operators, and ancillary service providers.

Looking ahead, officials aim for $68 billion in tourism revenue for 2026, a target that will require expanding into new markets while deepening existing ones. Continued investment in digital marketing, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainable tourism practices will be critical to maintain momentum. For investors, the data points to opportunities in hotel development, travel tech platforms, and B2B service ecosystems that can capture a larger slice of Turkey’s increasingly lucrative tourism pie.

TURKEY REPORTED RECORD TOURISM REVENUE IN 2025

Larry Brain · Feb 8, 2026

Turkey reached a new tourism peak in 2025. The country welcomed about 63.9 million visitors. These arrivals generated $65.2 billion in tourism revenue. This performance beat previous records and official expectations. It marked a strong rebound for the country.

The Turkish Statistical Institute and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism released the data. Total visitor numbers rose by 2.7 percent compared to 2024. This total reached 63.9 million, and some reports round this to 64 million. More than 11.1 million visitors were Turkish citizens living abroad. They made up about 17.5 percent of the total. Foreign tourist arrivals numbered around 52.78 million. This was a 0.3 percent increase but helped reach the historic high.

Tourism revenue climbed 6.8 percent to $65.2 billion. This amount beat the government target. It showed the sector remains strong despite global challenges. Turkish citizens living abroad provided 18 percent of this revenue. Visitors on tour packages generated another $18.1 billion. This figure proves the value of organized travel.

The business‑to‑business segment played a larger role in these results. Tour operators and package deals increased both arrivals and earnings. This shift shows a plan to expand beyond individual leisure travel.

Russia remained the top source market. It sent 6.90 million visitors to Turkey during the year. The Russian Federation drove demand for coastal destinations along the Mediterranean. These visitors supported extended seasons and high occupancy rates.

Germany held second place with 6.75 million visitors. This country is a traditional source for Turkish tourism. The steady numbers show market confidence. They also prove stability in this European segment.

The United Kingdom ranked third with 4.27 million tourists. Interest from the UK has grown since 2019. Travelers now seek cultural experiences, food, and city tours. They look beyond traditional beach holidays.

Russia, Germany, and the UK show Turkey's broad appeal. The country mixes sun‑and‑sea options with history and food. Istanbul serves as a leading entry point. Antalya is a major Mediterranean hub. Both cities benefited from these visitors.

The results from 2025 place Turkey as a global tourism leader. Its tourism revenue rank among the highest in the world. Officials set a target of $68 billion for 2026. They expect growth in both old and new markets.

This record year proves the success of targeted promotion. Product variety and adaptability also helped. These factors kept tourism growth steady.