Turkey Sees Tourism Surge with More than Five and a Half Million Foreign Visitors in October, Driven by its Increased New Arrivals from Germany and Russia

Published on November 22, 2025

The tourism industry in Turkey has been growing consecutively, and 5.6 million foreign visitors arrived in October 2025, up 4.32% from the same period in 2024. On Friday, Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy confirmed these positive results, further underlining the position of the country in the global tourism market. The data reflects a good recovery in international tourism and suggests that the diverse range of attractions offered by Turkey remains very appealing.

Strong Growth in Visitors from Key Markets

The most significant sources of foreign tourists continue to be Germany and Russia, with Germany maintaining its lead with a 6.2% increase in arrivals, while Russia posted an 11.44% growth in visitor numbers. These increases reflect the strong demand for Turkey as a destination for both vacationers and business travelers from Europe and Eastern Europe.

Britain also ranks among the top source countries, further contributing to Turkey’s robust tourism growth. These rising numbers from major international markets signal Turkey’s broad tourism appeal and increasing popularity as a destination for various traveler segments, from culture seekers and nature lovers to beachgoers and luxury tourists.

Year-to-Date Performance: Impressive Visitor Numbers

In the first 10 months of 2025, Turkey welcomed a total of 55.67 million visitors, including 47.25 million foreign tourists, with a continued upward trajectory in arrivals. This growth is not limited to European visitors; overseas arrivals, particularly from Asia, grew by 8.9%, with 137,411 travelers visiting the country. The diverse source markets—spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Asia—illustrate Turkey’s broad appeal and ability to attract global travelers to its rich historical and natural wonders.

Minister Ersoy attributed this growth to Turkey’s effective tourism strategies, its continued investment in infrastructure, and its ability to promote tourism offerings through global platforms. Turkey’s tourism industry has increasingly relied on international marketing campaigns, partnerships with key travel agencies, and the development of new tourism routes to maintain this growth momentum.

Cultural Tourism: A Key Growth Driver

Minister Ersoy also highlighted that 96.2% of foreign visitors come to Turkey for purposes such as culture, sightseeing, and holidays, underscoring the country’s position as one of the top cultural tourism destinations in the world. With iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Cappadocia, and the ancient cities of Ephesus and Perge, Turkey is deeply embedded in the global tourism circuit as a cultural mecca.

This strong demand for cultural experiences has also led to a rise in heritage tourism and religious tourism. Turkey’s Buddhist, Christian, and Islamic history continues to attract spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts from around the globe. Turkey’s ability to blend its ancient cultures with modern amenities has solidified its reputation as a destination where the past meets the present.

Sustainable Tourism and Eco-Friendly Travel

As global tourism evolves, sustainable tourism has become a central focus for Turkey’s tourism strategy. The country is increasingly promoting eco-tourism and green travel, ensuring that nature-based tourism is developed in a way that conserves its natural resources while offering travelers unique experiences. With destinations such as the Turquoise Coast, Mount Ararat, and Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, Turkey has significant potential to capitalize on the growing interest in eco-tourism and outdoor adventures.

The government is supporting initiatives that promote sustainable tourism, including the development of eco-friendly accommodations, the promotion of local cultures, and the preservation of historical sites. By creating a sustainable tourism framework, Turkey is positioning itself as a responsible and sought-after destination for eco-conscious travelers.

Impact on Turkey’s Economy

The tourism sector remains a significant contributor to Turkey’s economy, generating revenue not only from foreign visitors but also from the related industries such as hospitality, transportation, and retail. The steady increase in foreign visitors signals a positive economic impact for local businesses, as the growth of the tourism sector leads to increased demand for services and products.

Moreover, tourism-driven job creation is benefiting the country by providing employment in both urban and rural areas. This creates opportunities for small businesses, tour operators, and hospitality services, while helping to elevate the regional economy in areas that are traditionally reliant on tourism.

Looking Ahead: Turkey’s Tourism Outlook for 2026 and Beyond

Continuous investment in tourism infrastructure is positioning Turkey to continue its growth in 2026 and beyond. The government’s renewed focus on developing new tourist destinations, improving transportation networks, and promoting other forms of specialized tourism experiences, such as wellness tourism, adventure tourism, and medical tourism, secures the position of Turkey as an attractive option for travelers worldwide.

Furthermore, the strategic positioning of Turkey at the juncture of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East offers it an added advantage in terms of attracting international tourists who seek convenience in visiting multiple destinations with one journey. Such rich heritage, natural beauty, and a country committed to eco-tourism indicate that for years to come, Turkey’s tourism industry will keep pace with demand.