Türkiye ends first quarter of 2026 with record tourism (Turkmenistan News Portal)

Türkiye ends first quarter of 2026 with record tourism (Turkmenistan News Portal)

According to the latest reports from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, the tourism industry of the country demonstrated stable growth in the first three months of 2026.

According to official statistics, the number of foreign visitors in the first quarter increased by 4.2% to 9.2 million, relative to the corresponding period in the previous year. Total industry revenue grew at a similar rate, reaching $9.9 billion.

The analysis by the Ministry shows that, despite geopolitical instability and regional tensions, the tourism model of Türkiye demonstrates a high degree of resilience.

While the country welcomed 64 million tourists and generated $65.2 billion in revenue in 2025, the results of the first quarter of this year demonstrate the country's ability to maintain this strategic milestone.

One of the most significant statistical indicators is the growth in average overnight spending by tourists. While this figure stood at $68 in 2017 and $99 in 2025, it rose to $102 in the first quarter of 2026. This is seen as a result of the sector's strategy to transition to a high-income segment. According to the Ministry, the largest markets during the reporting period were Germany (678,000), the Russian Federation (651,000), and Bulgaria (539,000 visitors).

Furthermore, international events such as the UEFA Europa League final in İstanbul and plans to return Formula 1 to the calendar in 2027 contribute to the diversification of tourist flows and strengthen the country's global image.