MTCON’25 in Istanbul, Türkiye from April 30 to May 3 to Revolutionize and Boost Tourism Practices for a Better World

Written By: Vienna Kayshap

Vienna Kayshap

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April 29, 2025 9:30 AM

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MTCON’25 in Istanbul, Türkiye from April 30 to May 3 will unite global tourism leaders to boost sustainable practices and shape the future of tourism for a better world.

The 6th edition of the Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25) is all set to take place in the dynamic and culturally vibrant city of Istanbul, Türkiye, from April 30 to May 3, 2025. Organized by the Turkish Association of Tourism Academics (TUADER) in collaboration with esteemed academic institutions, this international conference will unite global tourism scholars, industry experts, and thought leaders under one banner to advance the shared goal of creating a better world through tourism.

MTCON’25 continues to evolve as a flagship academic and professional gathering, offering a multidisciplinary platform for participants to delve into contemporary challenges, fresh perspectives, and innovative solutions within the global tourism and hospitality sectors. The conference encourages robust dialogue and collaborative action by showcasing cutting-edge research and facilitating meaningful interactions across continents.

A Truly Intercontinental Experience for Tourism and Hospitality Leaders

At MTCON’25, attendees will immerse themselves in a comprehensive conference program designed to inspire, educate, and connect. From insightful keynote panels led by internationally recognized speakers to hands-on workshops hosted by leading tourism scholars, the event promotes both theoretical and practical development.

Key program elements include:

• Keynote Speaker Panels – Hear from globally renowned voices in tourism.
• Journal Editors Panel – Gain valuable insight into academic publishing.
• Workshops – Learn from the best in specialized, skill-focused sessions.
• Conference Paper Presentations – Share your work and contribute to international tourism discourse.
• Networking Sessions – Build meaningful professional connections.
• Social Activities in Istanbul – Experience the city’s cultural richness with curated events, including a welcome reception, a gala evening, and guided exploration of Istanbul’s historical and modern attractions.

Why You Should Attend MTCON’25 in Istanbul

Expand Your Global Network:
Meet and collaborate with leading tourism academics, researchers, and practitioners from different parts of the world.

Present Your Research Internationally:
Showcase your academic work at one of the most respected intercontinental tourism conferences, offering global visibility.

Get Constructive Feedback:
Engage with a diverse and experienced audience eager to provide feedback and fresh insights to improve your research.

Explore Istanbul – A Living Crossroad of Cultures:
Experience the magic of Istanbul, a city that seamlessly merges Eastern and Western influences, rich history, and architectural splendor.

Enhance Your Skills with Expert Workshops:
Attend high-impact workshops conducted by top-tier scholars, designed to advance your academic and professional expertise.

Unlock Publication Opportunities:
Pave the way for your research to be published in quality academic outlets, including SSCI-indexed journals or edited volumes with ISBNs.

A Celebration of Knowledge, Culture, and Global Unity

By hosting MTCON’25 in Istanbul, organizers aim to create a dynamic space where tourism professionals and academics can collaborate across borders, promote sustainability, and craft innovative approaches that support responsible tourism development worldwide.

With its rich blend of East and West, Istanbul serves as the perfect backdrop for a conference that encourages global exchange and cross-cultural understanding. Whether you’re a scholar aiming to publish, a student seeking mentorship, or a professional eager to engage with the latest tourism insights, MTCON’25 promises a transformative experience.

Prepare to contribute, connect, and be inspired at one of the most influential gatherings in the world of tourism. Istanbul awaits you with open arms.

Estimated Turnout for MTCON’25 in Istanbul, Türkiye

Based on the success of previous editions, the 6th Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25) is expected to attract between 300-500 delegates. The event will bring together top tourism scholars, industry experts, and thought leaders from around the globe, providing an ideal platform for sharing ideas, fostering collaboration, and driving the future of sustainable tourism.

This strong turnout reflects the growing importance of the conference in the global tourism community, with participants eager to engage in discussions and contribute to advancing tourism practices for a better world.

Turkey’s tourism sector continued its strong growth in 2024, attracting 60.58 million international visitors, marking a significant increase from 55.16 million in 2023. This represents a 9.8% rise year-over-year, solidifying Turkey’s position as a top global travel destination.

Key highlights include:

• Tourism Revenue: The influx of visitors contributed to a record-breaking $61.1 billion in tourism revenue, an 8.3% increase from 2023.
• Top Source Markets: Russia remained the largest source of international tourists, despite a 50% decline due to geopolitical tensions. Germany and the United Kingdom followed closely, with notable increases in visitors from the United States, India, and China.
• Popular Destinations: Cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Muğla continued to attract significant numbers of visitors, offering a unique mix of cultural heritage and modern attractions.

This growth highlights Turkey’s resilience and the effectiveness of its tourism strategies, reinforcing its status as a leading destination in the global tourism industry.

Airports in Istanbul, Turkey for Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25)

Istanbul, one of the world’s most prominent global gateways, offers two major airports for travelers attending the Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25) conference in April 2025. These airports serve as critical hubs for both international and domestic travel, providing convenient access to the city for the event.

Istanbul Airport (IST)

Istanbul Airport is the primary international airport in the city and the largest airport in Turkey. Located in the Arnavutköy district on the European side of the city, it plays a pivotal role in global air travel.

• Passenger Traffic: In 2023, Istanbul Airport handled over 76 million passengers, making it the 2nd-busiest airport in Europe and the 7th-busiest airport globally. With more than 58 million international passengers, it also ranks as the 6th-busiest airport in the world for international traffic.
• Airlines: Istanbul Airport serves as the hub for Turkish Airlines and Turkish Cargo, offering extensive flight networks across 122 countries.
• Facilities and Services: The airport offers world-class amenities, including luxury lounges, shopping, dining options, and seamless connectivity, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience for all visitors.

As the most crucial gateway for international travelers to Istanbul, Istanbul Airport provides excellent connectivity for those attending MTCON’25. It is ideally positioned to accommodate the influx of attendees, with easy access to the city’s various attractions and the event venues.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)

The second major airport in Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), is located on the Asian side of the city and serves as a key hub for low-cost carriers and international flights.

• Passenger Traffic: Sabiha Gökçen handles millions of passengers annually, complementing the traffic at Istanbul Airport.
• Location: Conveniently located near Pendik, it offers an alternative point of entry to the city, especially for those staying or visiting the Asian side of Istanbul.

Both airports offer modern infrastructure and efficient transit services to facilitate smooth travel for delegates attending MTCON’25. Whether arriving through Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), participants will enjoy easy access to the conference location and Istanbul’s rich cultural offerings.

Airlines Flying to Istanbul, Turkey for Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25)

Istanbul, as a major international hub, offers a wide array of flights from global destinations, making it easy for delegates attending the Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25) conference to reach the city. Several prominent airlines operate direct flights to Istanbul, ensuring seamless connectivity from various parts of the world.

Turkish Airlines

• Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
• Overview: As the national flag carrier, Turkish Airlines is the largest airline in Turkey, known for its exceptional service and global reach. The airline operates flights to over 300 destinations across the globe, connecting Istanbul to cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and beyond. Turkish Airlines is also the primary carrier for MTCON’25 attendees, with a well-established network, ensuring that delegates can easily travel from virtually any major international city.

SunExpress

• Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
• Overview: SunExpress, a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, is a popular low-cost airline operating routes between Istanbul and major cities in Europe, the Middle East, and Turkey. With its affordable services and comprehensive route network, SunExpress provides a great option for budget-conscious travelers heading to Istanbul for the conference.

Pegasus Airlines

• Hub: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
• Overview: Pegasus Airlines is a leading low-cost carrier in Turkey, primarily operating out of Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side of Istanbul. Offering affordable flights from various European and Middle Eastern cities, Pegasus Airlines makes travel to Istanbul easy and cost-effective for MTCON’25 participants.

With these reliable airlines offering flights to Istanbul, conference attendees can enjoy a smooth and efficient journey to the vibrant city, ensuring they can focus on the exciting and insightful sessions at MTCON’25. Whether flying with the national carrier, a budget-friendly option, or a hybrid airline, delegates will find easy access to Istanbul from numerous global destinations.

Best Restaurants to Dine at in Istanbul, Turkey for Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25)

Istanbul, a city known for its rich culture and diverse cuisine, offers a wide array of exceptional dining options for delegates attending the Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25) conference. Whether you are looking for traditional Turkish flavors or modern culinary experiences with breathtaking views, Istanbul has something for every taste. Here are the top 10 restaurants that are perfect for indulging in a memorable meal during your visit.

Roof Mezze 360

• Cuisine: Turkish, Mediterranean
• Highlights: Located on the top floor, Roof Mezze 360 offers panoramic views of Istanbul, including views of the Bosphorus Strait. The restaurant features an extensive selection of mezze and traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist.

Tuğra Restaurant

• Cuisine: Ottoman, Turkish
• Highlights: Set in the iconic Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Tuğra serves an exquisite Ottoman-inspired menu. It combines traditional recipes with contemporary influences and offers a truly luxurious dining experience with views of the Bosphorus.

BESO Rooftop Restaurant

• Cuisine: International, Mediterranean
• Highlights: BESO is known for its stylish ambiance and rooftop views overlooking Istanbul. It offers a wide variety of international dishes, as well as Mediterranean-inspired options, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed, chic dinner.

Galata Rooftop Ocakbaşı Restaurant

• Cuisine: Turkish, Barbecue
• Highlights: Situated in the Galata Tower area, this restaurant serves traditional Ocakbaşı (Turkish barbecue) dishes. The rooftop setting provides stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and Golden Horn, making it a perfect place for a flavorful, casual meal.

Sultanahmet 360 Panorama Restaurant

• Cuisine: Turkish, International
• Highlights: Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, this restaurant offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Istanbul’s historical sites, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. It serves a fusion of Turkish and international cuisines.

GRACE Rooftop Restaurant

• Cuisine: Mediterranean, International
• Highlights: Perched on the top floor of the Grace Hotel, this rooftop restaurant offers beautiful views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul’s iconic skyline. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes with fresh local ingredients.

Hidden Garden Restaurant

• Cuisine: Turkish, Organic
• Highlights: This charming spot is nestled in a lush garden in the heart of Istanbul’s historical area. Hidden Garden offers organic, fresh Turkish cuisine and is the ideal setting for a relaxed, intimate dining experience.

Garden 1897 Restaurant

• Cuisine: Turkish, International
• Highlights: Known for its vintage ambiance and diverse menu, Garden 1897 offers both Turkish and international dishes. The garden setting creates a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back dinner after a busy day at the conference.

6th Floor 360 Panorama Roof

• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish
• Highlights: As the name suggests, this restaurant offers panoramic views from its sixth-floor location. It provides a delightful combination of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes, ideal for enjoying the cityscape while savoring exquisite cuisine.

Yiğit Sofram Gözleme ve Kahvaltı

• Cuisine: Turkish, Breakfast, Brunch
• Highlights: Famous for its authentic Turkish breakfast and Gözleme (Turkish flatbread), this quaint eatery offers a cozy and authentic experience. Ideal for a morning visit before heading to MTCON’25, Yiğit Sofram is a must-try for breakfast lovers.

These restaurants offer not only exceptional food but also incredible views and ambiance, making them perfect places to unwind and network with fellow delegates or enjoy a relaxed meal during your time in Istanbul for MTCON’25. Whether you prefer a traditional Turkish experience or modern international flavors, Istanbul has a rich culinary scene to explore.

Best Hotels to Stay at in Istanbul, Turkey for Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25)

Istanbul, with its rich history and modern amenities, offers a wide range of hotels to suit every traveler’s needs for the Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25) conference. Whether you’re seeking luxury, convenience, or a more affordable stay, Istanbul has a variety of excellent options. Here are 10 top hotels where delegates can stay for an unforgettable experience.

Midtown Hotel

• Location: Taksim Square
• Overview: A stylish and contemporary hotel, Midtown Hotel offers a prime location near Taksim Square, making it ideal for those looking to stay in the heart of Istanbul. It features modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and excellent customer service.

YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport – Airside

• Location: Istanbul Airport (IST)
• Overview: For those with a layover or arriving for the conference from Istanbul Airport, YOTELAIR offers the convenience of staying within the airport. Located airside (beyond security), it offers compact, smartly designed rooms perfect for a quick and comfortable stay.

Swissotel The Bosphorus, Istanbul

• Location: Beşiktaş
• Overview: A luxurious 5-star hotel with stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait, Swissotel combines contemporary comfort with exceptional service. Its vast selection of wellness facilities, fine dining, and spa services make it ideal for relaxation during the conference.

Pera Palace Hotel

• Location: Beyoğlu
• Overview: Pera Palace is one of Istanbul’s most iconic hotels, steeped in history and elegance. It blends old-world charm with modern luxury and is located close to the cultural and historical attractions of Beyoğlu and Istiklal Street.

Hotel Yasmak Sultan

• Location: Sultanahmet
• Overview: A charming hotel offering easy access to Sultanahmet Square, Hotel Yasmak Sultan is perfect for those who want to explore the historic side of Istanbul. With great value for money, it offers comfortable rooms and is a short walk from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus

• Location: Beşiktaş
• Overview: Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus boasts a prime location along the shores of the Bosphorus. With luxurious rooms, a range of dining options, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, this hotel offers both relaxation and sophistication, making it ideal for business travelers.

DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul – Moda

• Location: Kadıköy
• Overview: Situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul – Moda offers a more tranquil stay while being close to lively neighborhoods. With spacious rooms, a rooftop terrace, and stunning views, it’s perfect for those looking for a mix of business and leisure.

Titanic City Taksim

• Location: Taksim Square
• Overview: A sleek and modern hotel offering excellent facilities, Titanic City Taksim is located in the heart of Taksim Square. It’s ideal for guests who want to be close to Istanbul’s shopping, cultural, and entertainment centers.

Crowne Plaza Istanbul – Florya, An IHG Hotel

• Location: Florya
• Overview: Crowne Plaza offers a convenient location near Ataturk Airport and Florya Beach, making it perfect for travelers with flights to catch. This hotel combines modern luxury with excellent service and provides a range of facilities, including an outdoor pool and meeting spaces.

Intercontinental Istanbul by IHG

• Location: Taksim Square
• Overview: Intercontinental Istanbul is a world-renowned hotel located near the vibrant Taksim Square. With impeccable service, luxurious rooms, and stunning views of the Bosphorus, this hotel offers guests a top-tier experience for both business and leisure stays.

These hotels provide a variety of options for delegates attending MTCON’25, ranging from luxurious 5-star accommodations to more affordable yet comfortable options. Regardless of your preferences, each of these hotels offers easy access to conference venues and allows you to enjoy all that Istanbul has to offer.

Top Tourist Attractions in Istanbul, Turkey for Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25)

Istanbul, a city where East meets West, offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. As you attend the Managing Tourism Across Continents – Tourism for a Better World (MTCON’25) conference, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the iconic landmarks and hidden gems the city has to offer. Here are the top three must-see tourist attractions in Istanbul:

Basilica Cistern

• Overview: One of Istanbul’s most captivating historical sites, the Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. This underground marvel, once used to store water for the city, features impressive columns and serene lighting that create a mystical atmosphere. The cistern’s Medusa heads, carved into two of the columns, are a fascinating highlight.
• Why Visit: The Basilica Cistern offers a unique opportunity to step into the past and experience the grandeur of Byzantine engineering. It’s a perfect escape from the bustling city above and offers a cool and peaceful atmosphere to relax.

Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)

• Overview: Ayasofya, or Hagia Sophia, is one of the most iconic buildings in the world, famous for its stunning architecture and rich history. Originally built as a church in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was later converted into a mosque and is now a museum. The building’s awe-inspiring dome, intricate mosaics, and magnificent minarets draw visitors from around the globe.
• Why Visit: As one of the most recognized symbols of Istanbul, Ayasofya is an absolute must-see for its architectural splendor and its significance as a cultural and religious crossroads between Christianity and Islam. Its massive scale and the beauty of its interior will leave you speechless.

Topkapı Palace

• Overview: Topkapı Palace was the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. This sprawling palace complex, perched on a hill overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, is home to exquisite courtyards, gardens, and historic chambers. Highlights include the Harem, the Imperial Treasury, and the Sultan’s private chambers.
• Why Visit: The Topkapı Palace is a treasure trove of Ottoman history and royal opulence. The collections of jewels, swords, clothing, and religious artifacts offer a fascinating insight into the wealth and power of the Ottoman Empire. Its location provides stunning views of Istanbul and its waterways.

While attending MTCON’25, these iconic attractions provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich history, incredible architecture, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the underground wonders of the Basilica Cistern, marveling at the monumental Ayasofya, or experiencing the grandeur of the Topkapı Palace, Istanbul has something remarkable to offer every visitor.

In conclusion, MTCON’25 in Istanbul, Türkiye from April 30 to May 3, 2025 will provide tourism experts, scholars, and industry leaders with a unique opportunity to collaborate and drive positive change in global tourism. By focusing on boosting sustainable practices, fostering innovation, and tackling key challenges, the conference will actively shape the future of tourism for a better world. Attendees will gain valuable insights, form new partnerships, and leave inspired to make a lasting impact on the tourism industry.