As we move closer to 2025, Turkey is poised to solidify its status as a premier tourist destination, thanks to three of its most captivating cities: Istanbul, Antalya, and Alanya. In an exciting prediction, Istanbul is expected to reclaim its position as the most visited city in the world, while Antalya is projected to rise to fourth place, surpassing even iconic destinations like Paris. Notably, Antalya has recently been awarded the prestigious "2025 D-8 Tourism City Award," recognizing its outstanding achievements in tourism development, cultural preservation, and sustainability. With its breathtaking beaches and rich history, Alanya is also becoming increasingly popular among tourists. This blog will explore the factors behind this impressive growth and what it means for travelers.
Istanbul: The Jewel of Turkey
Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents, continues to captivate visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Known for its iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar, Istanbul offers a unique blend of East and West that attracts millions of tourists each year.
In 2025, Istanbul is projected to maintain its position as the most preferred global tourist destination. The city’s robust tourism infrastructure, including world-class hotels and extensive transport links, ensures a memorable experience for travelers. As Istanbul continues to evolve, its cultural richness and culinary diversity further enhance its allure, making it a must-visit city on any traveler’s itinerary.
Antalya: Rising Star of Mediterranean Tourism
While Istanbul shines at the top, Antalya is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, anticipated to rise to fourth place globally. This beautiful coastal city boasts picturesque beaches, luxurious resorts, and an array of historical and cultural sites. Antalya's recent recognition as the 2025 D-8 Tourism City underscores its commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural richness. The city’s natural beauty, coupled with a variety of activities—ranging from ancient ruins to vibrant nightlife—captures the hearts of tourists from around the globe.
By the end of 2024, Antalya is projected to welcome approximately 17 million tourists, with a target of 18 million set for 2025. The city’s focus on sustainable tourism practices and enhanced visitor experiences serves to attract a broad range of travelers, making it increasingly popular among beachgoers, history enthusiasts, and families alike.
Alanya: A Gem on the Turquoise Coast
Alanya, located on the stunning Turkish Riviera, is increasingly recognized as a must-visit destination. Known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, Alanya appeals to families and young travelers alike. The city's highlights include the striking Alanya Castle, Cleopatra Beach, and numerous water sports activities, making it a favorite for sun-seekers.
In recent years, Alanya has seen a rise in international visitors, thanks to affordable flight options and a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets. The city is also invested in sustainable tourism, with initiatives aimed at preserving its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As more travelers discover Alanya’s charm, this coastal gem is poised for significant growth in visitor numbers.
Visitor Demographics
All three cities draw tourists from a diverse array of countries:
Germany: Historically one of the largest markets, German tourists are expected to lead the influx into Antalya and Alanya, especially as Russians refrain from coming to Turkey.
United Kingdom: British travelers continue to flock to Istanbul, Antalya, and Alanya, enjoying the warm climate and rich cultural experiences that Turkey offers.
Poland and the Netherlands: These countries are seeing increasing numbers of travelers to Antalya and Alanya, aided by direct flight connections.
Ukraine: Many Ukrainian tourists are expected to return as conditions stabilize.
Other European Nations: Countries such as France, Italy, and various Scandinavian nations further contribute to visitor numbers in all three cities.
Exciting Flight Expansions by SunExpress
To accommodate the growing demand for travel to Turkey, SunExpress is expanding its operations significantly in 2025. The airline plans to increase its passenger capacity by 20%, operating a total of 178 flights from 11 UK airports.
Key highlights of this expansion include:
New Direct Flights: For the first time, direct flights will connect Glasgow and Liverpool to Antalya, as well as Glasgow to Dalaman, enhancing access to both Antalya and Alanya.
Enhanced Capacity at Stansted: The number of flights from London Stansted Airport will nearly double, introducing new routes to Dalaman and Kayseri.
Ongoing Newcastle Services: Connections from Newcastle to Antalya will continue, along with a new route to Dalaman.
Increased Frequency: Flights from London Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham to Antalya and Alanya will be increased to three daily departures, providing travelers with more flexibility.
Conclusion
With Istanbul expected to remain the world’s leading tourist city and both Antalya and Alanya on the rise, Turkey is gearing up for a vibrant future in international tourism. The diverse offerings, rich cultural experiences, and enhanced connectivity through airlines such as SunExpress make these cities top contenders for global travel. Whether you’re drawn to Istanbul’s historic charm or the sun-soaked shores of Antalya and Alanya, Turkey promises unforgettable adventures and experiences that resonate long after the journey ends. As travelers plan their next getaway, all three cities stand ready to welcome visitors with open arms and a wealth of experiences.
We at EasyApartAlanya welcome warmly travelers to explore its enchanting landscape during your next vacation in Alanya 2025. Long term or short term? We will help you with the right apartment in 2025 and beyond, welcome to Alanya / Turkey!
