Antalya, one of the world's most visited destinations, has hosted over 6.5 million foreign visitors since the beginning of the year. In the city, where the tourism sector is experiencing its busiest period, most visitors came from Russia, Germany, and the UK, while an increase was also recorded in the Ukrainian market compared to last year.

Activity Increased in Summer Season

Hakan Saatçioğlu, President of the Professional Hotel Managers Association (POYD), stated that the attacks by the US and Israel on Iran negatively affected the early booking period, but demand regained momentum with July.

In the first six months, 5,697,136 foreign tourists visited Antalya. As of July 20, this number exceeded 6.5 million, and is expected to approach 8 million by the end of the month.

Saatçioğlu said, "Our main market is still Russia. It is followed by Germany and the UK. Then come Poland, the Netherlands, and Ukraine."

Hotel Occupancy Above 90 Percent

Saatçioğlu stated that hotel occupancy rates in the city range between 90 and 100 percent, and that the domestic market also became active with the school holidays.

Saatçioğlu stated that July and August reservations are at last year's levels, and that reservations continue until the end of November.

Season Expected to Extend

Saatçioğlu reminded that many hotels postponed their closing dates during the winter season last year, and stated that they expect a similar situation this year.

Due to COP31, which will be held in Antalya until November 20, Saatçioğlu stated that there will be high occupancy, especially in Kaleiçi, the city center, Lara, and Belek, while holiday reservations will primarily shift to Manavgat and Kemer, and therefore, the season is already expected to extend.

Image: © AA