Record-Breaking Growth: UK Market Continues Its Tourism Surge in Antalya

Antalya is on track to close the year with an all-time record in the number of British visitors, as the UK market continues its steady rise. Known not only for its sea, sun and sand but also for its rich history, gastronomy, ancient cities, and health tourism, Antalya remains a top destination for both domestic and international travelers.

UK Visitor Numbers Set to Break All Records

According to data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Antalya welcomed 2,216,554 foreign visitors last month, marking the highest October figure in the city’s history. Between January 1 and October 31, the total number of international arrivals reached 16,308,937.

After Russia and Germany, the United Kingdom ranked third with 1,475,024 tourists visiting the city this year. The UK market, which has been contributing significantly to Turkey’s tourism growth, continues to expand each year.

In 2019—when the first major tourism record was set—Antalya welcomed 719,120 British tourists over 12 months. That number increased to 1,318,215 in 2023 and 1,574,167 in 2024. By year-end, Antalya is expected to surpass last year’s figures and set a new all-time record in UK arrivals.

 “The UK Market Is Now a Rising Star for Antalya Tourism”

Kaan Kaşif Kavaloğlu, President of the Mediterranean Touristic Hoteliers Association, noted that the UK market has become one of the strongest growth drivers for Turkey and Antalya:

He highlighted that British arrivals have gained remarkable momentum since 2019:
“We surpassed 1.5 million UK tourists for the first time last year. This year, the numbers are climbing again. We expect continued growth from England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. The UK is the world’s fourth-largest outbound travel market—and currently our third-largest source market.”

Kavaloğlu also emphasized the advantage of having direct flights from around 20 UK cities to Antalya, which greatly boosts accessibility.

He added that the UK leads the world in early booking habits, noting:
“We will close this year above last year’s UK numbers. Based on early bookings, 2026 is also showing signs of beating this year’s figures.”

Rising UK Share and a Strong Season for Antalya

Hakan Saatçioğlu, President of the Professional Hotel Managers Association, stated that the share of British tourists in Antalya has grown significantly—from 19% in 2019 to around 35% today.

He expressed satisfaction with the steady growth:
“We’ve matched last year’s numbers and continue to build on them. Next year, we expect at least a 5% increase in the UK market.”

Saatçioğlu also noted that, although the season began with challenges, hotels reached high occupancy levels by August.

Call for Early Bookings, Especially from Domestic Travelers

Saatçioğlu encouraged travelers—especially those in the domestic market—to take advantage of early booking opportunities:
“Early bookings can offer discounts of around 40–45%. These advantages should not be missed. Discounts will gradually decrease over time.”

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