11 Months of Increase in the Number of Travellers from the UK to Turkey: 10.8 Million Passengers

In the first 11 months of 2024, there was a remarkable increase in air travel from the UK to Turkey. According to the data released by the UK Civil Aviation Authority, air travel from the UK to abroad increased by 7.4% in total, reaching 237 million. While Turkey stands out as an important destination in these travels, it continues to compete with other popular destinations.

Increase in Travel from the UK to Turkey

Interest in Turkey increased by 15% in 2024, with 10.8 million travellers visiting the country. This shows that Turkey remains popular in the UK market, but also shows the loss of share in some regions.

• Istanbul: Travel from the UK to Istanbul continued to be Turkey's most popular destination in this market, up 15% year-on-year. Istanbul's share reached 34% of total trips.
  
• Antalya: Travel to Antalya increased by 17%. With a 31% share of the total, it remained the favourite beach destination for British tourists.
  
• Mugla (Bodrum, Dalaman and Fethiye): Travel to the Mugla region increased by 9.3%, proving that marine tourism is still a strong attraction.
  

Other Favourite UK Travel Destinations

According to the data of Tourism Databank, Spain maintained its leadership in international travelling from the UK. With 43.2 million visitors, Spain was the first choice of British tourists. The USA, Italy, France and the Netherlands were among the other countries where the most travelled from the UK.

• Spain: With easy access, affordable prices and a variety of holiday options, Spain continues to be a favourite destination for British tourists.
  
• USA: Continues to be popular for both business and leisure travellers. Cities such as New York, Miami and Orlando are among the most preferred destinations.
  
• Italy and France: With their culture, gastronomy and historical beauties, these two countries continue to be centres of attraction for British tourists.
  
• Netherlands: Amsterdam, in particular, remains popular for short city breaks.
  

Turkey's Share in the UK Market

In 2024, Turkey's overall share of the UK market declined slightly year-on-year from 30 per cent to 29 per cent. This may have been shaped by the increasing tourist flows in destinations that Turkey competes with.

Changes in Travel Preferences and Future Prospects

Despite the growing interest of British tourists in Turkey, the distribution of this interest is changing. For example, a large proportion of holidaymakers are starting to focus on cultural and gastronomic experiences rather than sea tourism. In this context, Istanbul, with its historical texture and unique cultural heritage, is becoming an increasingly preferred destination.

On the other hand, coastal regions such as Antalya and Muğla are still an attractive option for summer holidays. This diversity in the UK market enables Turkey to be at the forefront not only with sea-sand-sun tourism but also with cultural and city tourism.

Factors Affecting UK Travel to Turkey

• Transport and Prices: Affordable airfares between the UK and Turkey were one of the main factors supporting the increase in travel.
  
• Safety and Quality of Service: Turkey continues to be perceived as a safe destination for British tourists. The high standard of hotel and tourism services in the country plays an influential role in the British preference for this destination.
  
• Pound-TL Exchange Rate: The appreciation of the British Pound against the Turkish Lira makes Turkey an economical holiday option for British tourists.
  

Expectations for 2025 and Beyond

Tourism experts expect travel from the UK to Turkey to increase further in 2025. Increasing flight frequencies, new hotel investments and Turkey's promotional campaigns in the UK market indicate that this trend will continue.

It is estimated that Istanbul and ski resorts may become a new centre of attraction for British tourists, especially during winter holidays. In addition, British tourists' interest in cultural and gastronomic tours in Turkey is expected to increase.

The 15% increase in UK travel to Turkey in 2024 shows that Turkey continues to be an attractive destination for British tourists. Regions such as Istanbul, Antalya and Muğla, which cater to different types of holiday, are among the key factors behind this success. In 2025, this positive trend is expected to continue and Turkey is set to further cement its place in the UK market.