Turkish tourists set record with 11.4M trips abroad in 2024

Turkish tourists traveled abroad in record numbers in 2024, with 11.39 million people visiting foreign destinations for various purposes, including tourism, business, and family visits.

The increase reflects Türkiye’s growing role as both a major tourist destination and a significant source of outbound travelers.

Outbound tourism reaches new heights in Türkiye

According to data compiled by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK), the number of Turkish citizens traveling abroad has risen steadily since the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2018, the number of Turkish tourists was 8.38 million, increasing to 9.65 million in 2019. The pandemic caused a sharp decline, with numbers falling to 2.24 million in 2020 and 2.73 million in 2021. However, by 2023, the number rebounded to 11.07 million before reaching a record 11.39 million in 2024.

Antalya City Council Tourism Working Group Chairman Recep Yavuz noted the significant increase in Turkish tourists.

Last year, while attention was focused on the 1.5 million Turkish tourists visiting the Greek islands, the total number of citizens traveling abroad was actually much higher. Outbound tourism, or ‘outgoing,’ is as important as the number of tourists coming into the country.

Chairman Recep Yavuz explained

Where are Turkish tourists traveling?

The destinations preferred by Turkish tourists vary based on visa requirements and travel budgets. Yavuz categorized the travel preferences of different groups:

• Travelers with visas and green passports: Western and Central European countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Czechia, and Hungary.
• Visa-free cultural tourism enthusiasts: Egypt and Balkan countries, including North Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro.
• Beach vacation seekers: Egypt and Greece.
• Affluent travelers: Far East Asia and South America.
• Independent travelers: Georgia and Bulgaria.

Impact of outbound tourism on Turkish economony

Turkish tourists contributed significantly to the global travel market in 2024, spending an average of $680 per person. This led to a total expenditure of $7.74 billion, setting a new record for Turkish outbound tourism.

Yavuz stressed the economic impact of these travels, explaining that the rising number of outbound tourists reflects an increasing interest in international experiences despite economic challenges. He also noted that the most significant barriers Turkish travelers face are visa difficulties and fluctuating exchange rates.

2025 travel trends for Turkish tourists: Greek islands and Egypt remain popular

Experts predict continued growth in outbound tourism in 2025, with Greece and Egypt expected to attract the most Turkish travelers.

Yavuz emphasized the importance of visa policies in shaping travel trends.

The continuation of visa-on-arrival for Greek islands will increase demand. The Balkans are also drawing more interest due to their affordability and cultural appeal. Egypt remains a top destination for both tour operators and holidaymakers.

Despite Türkiye’s growing number of outbound travelers, the country also remains a leading global tourist destination. More than 60 million foreign visitors arrived in Türkiye in 2024, making tourism a crucial sector of the national economy.