Turkey has had a record year in 2023. The country received a total of 56.7 million international visitors, an increase of 10 percent compared to 2022. Tourism revenue rose 17 percent to $54.3 billion. Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism aims to attract around 60 million tourists and generate $60 billion in tourism revenue by 2024. Turkey is committed to market diversity and will continue its operations in current strategic markets, while this year it will focus on new target markets. Turkey is committed to sustainable tourism and has developed the Sustainable Tourism Program, which focuses on environmentally friendly accommodations and activities such as cycling and hiking. In addition to the popular destinations, Turkey also focuses on hidden gems such as archaeological finds. Turkey has expanded its archaeological projects to 720 in 2023. That number will rise to 750 by 2024. Many well-known popular archaeological sites are illuminated at night, such as Ephesus in İzmir, Hierapolis in Denizli, Patara, and Side in Antalya. “These not only showcase Turkey’s historical heritage, but also offer visitors a unique opportunity to get a more intimate and magical connection with the country.” Photo: Ephesus in Turkey (Photo Shutterstock).
