Istanbul Sees 66% Increase in Foreign Tourist Arrivals Over 10 Years
The number of tourists visiting Istanbul continues to grow, reaching new heights each year. According to data from the Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the city saw a staggering 66 percent increase in the number of tourists over the last 10 years.
In 2013, Istanbul welcomed a total of 10,474,867 foreign tourists, a number that soared to 17,370,030 in 2023. The city has seen a consistent rise in tourist numbers over the years, with 2023 approaching 17.5 million tourists. This remarkable growth is a testament to Istanbul’s status as one of the most attractive destinations in world tourism.
Firuz Baglikaya, President of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB), attributes Istanbul’s appeal to its rich historical and cultural heritage, vibrant commercial life, lively city atmosphere, and gastronomy. He believes that the city’s allure will continue to draw more visitors in the coming years, further bolstering its position as a global tourism hotspot.
TÜRSAB is actively working to promote Istanbul as a top tourist destination, with plans to attract tourism from the Balkan countries through the Istanbul Balkan Tourism Exchange. Additionally, the association is engaged in promotional efforts at international events such as the ITB Berlin and WTM London fairs to showcase Istanbul’s tourism potential and attract more visitors.
With the tourism sector’s positive outlook for 2024, Istanbul is poised to continue its upward trajectory in attracting visitors from all over the world. As the city’s brand value continues to rise, it is expected to provide strong support to the economy and solidify its position as a key player in the global tourism industry.
