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Most Visited Cities in Turkey

As a tourism paradise, Turkey hosts millions of visitors every year, thanks to its natural beauty and rich historical and cultural heritage. With its numerous important tourist destinations, Turkey, which has been home to many civilizations throughout history, has become a global name in various fields, from gastronomy to architecture, art to entertainment. According to TÜRSAB data, Turkey was visited by 56 million 693 thousand people in 2023. Among the most visited cities, Istanbul, which is a global favourite, ranked first. Let's take a look at the most visited cities in Turkey.

Istanbul

Istanbul, which connects the continents of Europe and Asia, fascinates visitors with its historical and natural beauties. The breathtaking view of the Bosphorus, the architecture of the Sultanahmet Mosque, the invaluable works at the Topkapi Palace, the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, and the delightful atmosphere of the Princes' Islands make Istanbul a favorite for many. Hosting 20 million 200 thousand tourists in 2023, Istanbul became the most visited city in the world. With its endless tourist attractions, Istanbul's museums, palaces, gardens, mosques, churches, and numerous other historical and natural beauties are waiting for you.

Antalya

Turkey's tourism paradise, Antalya, welcomed 15 million 700 thousand visitors in 2023, according to Euromonitor International data, making it the 4th most visited city in the world. Antalya attracts tourists from countries like Russia, Germany, the UK, and many others, in addition to domestic visitors. Its crystal-clear beaches, golden sands, mesmerizing waterfalls, lively nightlife, and vibrant city life captivate visitors. Konyaaltı and Kaleiçi are particularly popular during the summer months. The ancient cities of Olympos, Perge, and Aspendos, as well as the Manavgat, Kurşunlu, and Düden waterfalls, and the Köprülü, Sapadere, and Tazı canyons, offer an ideal experience for those looking to enjoy history and nature.

Muğla

When it comes to the sea-sun-sand trio, Muğla is a city that cannot be left out. Hosting 3 million 395 thousand 947 foreign tourists in 2023, Muğla is one of the most visited cities in Turkey. Its magnificent beaches, historical sites, lush nature, and delicious food leave visitors in awe. Muğla offers an unforgettable vacation experience with its crystal-clear waters for sea lovers, ancient cities and museums for history enthusiasts, and forests and waterfalls for nature lovers.

Bodrum and Marmaris are the districts of Muğla that attract the most visitors. Bodrum attracts tourists with its pristine coves, crystal-clear sea, entertainment venues, and historical sites. Cennet Cove, Bitez, Güvercinlik, and many other places are among the top choices for those looking to have a beach vacation in Muğla. Marmaris, with its rivers, waterfalls, hidden coves, and historical sites, especially welcomes many tourists during the summer months. In Marmaris, you can experience the ice-cold waters of the Azmak River, swim in the crystal-clear waters of Sedir Island, and enjoy the beautiful blue sea of Akyaka.

Aydın

With its historical, cultural, and natural beauties, Aydın holds great importance in tourism and was visited by 4 million 200 thousand tourists in 2023, making it one of Turkey's most visited cities. Popular vacation spots like Kuşadası and Didim host a large portion of these visitors. Known for its turquoise waters, warm sun, and natural coves, Aydın stands out as one of the essential addresses for a summer vacation.

Famous for its natural beauties, such as Dilek Peninsula, Zeus Cave, and Aquarium Cove, Aydın is also home to historical sites such as the Ancient City of Nysa, Kurşunlu Monastery, the Ancient City of Didyma, and the Temple of Apollo. Don't forget to explore Aydın and taste the delicious cuisine of the Aegean.

Edirne

Known as the city of museums, Edirne welcomes over 4 million domestic and foreign tourists annually, making it one of the most visited cities in Turkey. With its historical and cultural riches, Edirne is a favorite for both domestic and international visitors, offering numerous valuable works in museums such as the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, Selimiye Vakıf Museum, Edirne Archaeological and Ethnography Museums, and Ottoman Artifacts in the Balkans. Edirne also enchants visitors with its magnificent Ottoman-era mosques, such as the Selimiye Mosque.

Edirne is also famous for its crystal-clear sea and peaceful coves. During the summer months, you can enjoy the turquoise and refreshing waters in places such as Erikli, Yayla, and Mecidiye.

Nevşehir

Nevşehir, one of the first cities that comes to mind when thinking about tourism in Turkey, hosted 4 million 826 thousand local and foreign tourists in 2023. The symbol of the city is Cappadocia, a region formed by volcanic eruptions and millions of years of erosion. With a history dating back to the 4th century BC, it offers visitors unique experiences. Nevşehir, with its natural beauties like the Fairy Chimneys and historical landmarks such as the Göreme Open-Air Museum and its monasteries, is a top tourist destination. Cappadocia is also famous for its hot air balloon tours, offering ideal photo opportunities and unforgettable moments for tourists.

Izmir

Izmir, one of Turkey's most beautiful cities with its Kordon, Boyoz, sea, and nature, captivates visitors with its charm. With over 3 million domestic and foreign visitors, Izmir offers its magnificent sea, historical and cultural richness to its guests. Famous attractions such as the Ancient City of Ephesus, Izmir's Kordon, the Clock Tower, and the Agora are among its highlights. The crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, exquisite coves, and clean air make Izmir one of the top choices for a seaside vacation in Turkey. You can enjoy the sea in Çeşme, Urla, Seferihisar, and other districts, shop in Kemeraltı, and join the entertainment in Gazi Kadınlar Street.

Ankara

Ankara, hosts numerous visitors every year for business, education, leisure, and many other reasons. With over 3 million visitors, Ankara offers various alternatives to its guests, including Anıtkabir, Atakule, Kızılay Square, Hamamönü, and numerous buildings and works from the Republic Period. Known for its rich culture and history, Ankara is one of Turkey's popular tourist cities. With the wide range of opportunities it offers, Ankara's tourism volume is increasing every year. Approximately 2 million 228 thousand tourists visited the city's museums and archaeological sites. Additionally, natural beauties like Eymir and Mogan Lakes are popular spots.

Mardin

Mardin, one of the prominent cities of the Southeastern Anatolia Region, hosted 2 million 650 thousand visitors in 2023. The city is part of Turkey's popular tourism routes, with its beautiful ancient stone houses, streets that lead to new discoveries, and delicious food. Its historical sites such as inns, mosques, monasteries, and churches attract those interested in history. Notable places to visit include Kasımiye Medrese, Deyrulzafaran Monastery, Zinciriye Medrese, Mor Gabriel Monastery, and the Midyat Mansions. The recently popular Dara Ancient City, carved into the rocks, sheds light on the city's history.

Trabzon

With over 1.5 million visitors in 2023, Trabzon is one of the significant cities in the Black Sea Region. Known for its green nature, it offers a peaceful vacation experience and is rich in history and culture. The most popular tourist spot in Trabzon is Uzungöl, along with historical and natural beauties such as Sumela Monastery, Mavura Plateau, and Ayasofya Museum.

If you're looking to escape the stresses of the city and spend a peaceful holiday in nature, the highlands of Trabzon await. With its wooden houses, magnificent views, lush forests, and fun activities, don't forget to visit the "pearl of the Black Sea."

Bursa

Bursa, one of the most historically and culturally rich cities in Turkey, opens its doors to thousands of visitors each year. In 2023, a total of 1 million 368 thousand 163 tourists visited Bursa, including 320 thousand 15 foreign visitors. Bursa, where you can experience all four seasons to the fullest, offers historical sites like the Grand Mosque, Koza Han, Cumalıkızık, and 700-year-old Ottoman villages.

Bursa is also a prominent winter tourism destination with Uludağ, attracting many tourists. From luxurious ski resorts to wooden chalets and restaurants, Uludağ National Park offers a comfortable vacation opportunity for its visitors.

Diyarbakır

One of the key cities of Southeastern Anatolia, Diyarbakır welcomed 1 million 25 thousand visitors in 2023. You can experience peace in the Tigris River, savor the delicious liver dishes, and stroll through Hevsel Gardens in the spring. Known for its natural beauties and historical sites, Diyarbakır is home to many tourists every year. Its iconic city walls, inns, bazaars, and historical sites such as Hasan Paşa Inn, Diyarbakır Ulu Mosque, Sülüklü Inn, and On Göz Bridge are all must-visit attractions.