Türkiye’s Antalya awaits 18M tourists at hundreds of blue flag beaches
An aerial view of the coastline, which stands out with its sea, sand, sun, resorts, important ancient cities, and natural beauties, and where a diligent effort is underway to provide clean facilities for local and foreign guests, millions of tourists vacation every year in Antalya, Türkiye, on Mar. 24, 2025. (AA Photo)
Antalya, one of Türkiye’s most popular holiday destinations, is preparing for summer with intensive efforts across its 233 Blue Flag-certified beaches.
Following 2024’s record-breaking influx of international visitors, the tourism sector now aims to attract 18 million tourists in 2025.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Turkish Professional Hotel Managers Association (POYD) Chairman Hakan Saatcioglu said that holidaymakers can swim in Antalya’s waters all year round. Despite many hotels operating through the winter, preparations for summer have already begun in earnest.
“Maintenance and renovation work is underway across beaches, pools, and parks,” Saatcioglu said, adding that hotel operators are not only responsible for food and beverage services but also for ensuring the safety and security of their guests.
Tourists book early in Antalya ahead of summer
He added that lifeguard teams have completed their training, beaches are being groomed and cleaned, and sunshades and piers are being installed. “There’s a flurry of activity. Our goal was to complete preparations in time for the Ramadan Bayram (also known as Eid al-Fitr) holiday,” he said.
“We want to present guests with the same picturesque setting they remember from summer. Clean facilities, pools, and beaches will be ready to welcome them.”
Saatcioglu also emphasized that the majority of Antalya’s beaches hold the prestigious Blue Flag certification, expressing confidence that the region will set new records in tourism this year.
The Blue Flag is an international certification awarded to beaches and marinas that meet high standards of cleanliness, environmental management, safety, and accessibility.
Türkiye consistently ranks among the top countries with the most Blue Flag beaches, and Antalya is one of its leading regions in this regard.
According to Saatcioglu, current reservation trends are also promising, as bookings for April are particularly strong, while early reservations for May, June, and July are also progressing well.
