Turkey’s tourism industry is off to a strong start in 2025, welcoming over 2.1 million foreign visitors in January alone.
According to the latest figures from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the number of international arrivals increased by 6.06% compared to the same month in 2024, signaling continued growth for one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations.
Turkey’s Top Tourist Sources in January
While Turkey draws travelers from around the world, some nations contributed significantly more visitors than others at the beginning of 2025. According to official data, the top three countries sending the most tourists to Turkey in January were:
- Iran – 240,643 visitors
- Russia – 203,733 visitors
- Bulgaria – 165,792 visitors
Other major contributors included Germany and Georgia, which followed closely behind Bulgaria. The consistent flow of visitors from these countries reflects Turkey’s broad appeal, whether for cultural experiences, shopping, medical tourism, or leisure travel.
Why Turkey Continues to Attract Millions of Tourists
Turkey remains an all-season destination, drawing visitors for its diverse landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant cities. In winter, Istanbul, with its bustling bazaars, architectural marvels, and world-class gastronomy, remains a top choice. Meanwhile, destinations such as Cappadocia, known for its surreal landscapes and hot air balloon rides, continue to attract travelers seeking unique experiences.
For those seeking winter sports and mountain retreats, Uludağ, Palandöken, and Erciyes ski resorts provide world-class facilities, making Turkey an increasingly attractive winter sports destination.
Medical tourism also plays a key role in Turkey’s rising visitor numbers, particularly for travelers from Iran, Russia, and the Middle East, who come for affordable and high-quality healthcare services, including cosmetic and dental treatments.
A Positive Outlook for 2025
Turkey’s 6% tourism growth in January suggests another strong year ahead for the industry, building on the record-breaking numbers of 2024. With the country investing in infrastructure, new travel experiences, and marketing campaigns, it continues to position itself as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations.
Looking ahead, Turkey is expected to welcome even more visitors in the coming months as spring approaches, bringing mild weather, blooming landscapes, and major cultural festivals that attract travelers from all over the world.
