Antalya has come alive: Expatriates filled the hotels!

Domestic market activity has started during the Eid al-Adha holiday. While Antalya is experiencing heavy crowds, it is learned that expatriates constitute the majority of the occupancy. With the approach of Eid al-Adha, there is a significant boost in domestic tourism in Turkey. Occupancy rates in hotels in coastal areas are approaching 90%, while thermal hotels aim for 100% occupancy. The strong interest from expatriate Turks has pushed accommodation prices in coastal regions starting from 3,500 TRY, and the increasing demand for wellness services is extending holiday durations. Experts note that this surge will also provide significant economic contributions to the health and retail sectors.

Coastal cities are favorites for holidaymakers

Popular coastal cities such as Antalya, Bodrum, and Marmaris have become favorites among Eid holidaymakers. Murat Akbal, Chairman of Akbaldan Tourism, stated that occupancy rates in coastal hotels are nearing 90%, and prices in boutique hotels with bed-and-breakfast concept start from 3,500 TRY. Half-board stays at sea-front hotels range from 8,000 to 20,000 TRY, while all-inclusive options vary between 5,000 and 15,000 TRY.

Akbal emphasized that a significant portion of this demand comes from Turkish citizens living in Europe. He stated that the number of Turkish visitors coming from abroad exceeded 12 million in 2024 and added, "The average spending per expatriate tourist is around 1,072 dollars, which is higher than that of foreign tourists. Their average stay duration is 18.4 days." Among Turks in Europe, 37% prefer Istanbul for holidays, 23% Antalya, 17% Kusadasi, Cesme and Alacati, and 11% Bodrum. These expenditures are said to create significant boosts in the service and retail sectors during the holiday periods.

Crowds are observed

Yusuf Narlı, Chairman of BN Hotel Executive Board, stated that a significant increase is observed in thermal tourism during the holiday period. Narlı expects their hotel reservation rates to reach 100% as last year. He pointed out that easy access and health-focused services influence guests’ preferences. It was emphasized that families especially choose thermal tourism to relax and support their health.

Turkish citizens living in Europe have a great influence on the interest in thermal facilities. Narlı noted that there is demand from countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands, as well as from CIS countries. He added that expatriate tourists prefer long-term health-based stays rather than short vacations. Interest in wellness services such as spa and thermal pools is prolonging the length of holidays.

-News Center