A new project has been launched in Antalya aimed at sustaining tourism throughout the year. Named "Discover the City," this initiative, spearheaded by the Muratpaşa Municipality, will be marketed by Anex Tour and aims to turn Antalya's city centre into a year-round tourist destination.
The project’s promotional meeting took place in Antalya and was attended by key figures in the tourism sector, including Muratpaşa Mayor Ümit Uysal, Anex Tour General Manager Yasir Karaçor and others.
Purpose of the Project
In his opening remarks, Mayor Ümit Uysal emphasized that Antalya was one of the leading global destinations for sun, sea, and sand tourism. However, he noted that solely focusing on all-inclusive hotels could lead to neglecting Antalya’s cultural and natural riches. The new project aimed to highlight the city centre as a tourist hub, encouraging visitors to spend at least four of their seven-day vacations there. Uysal pointed out that this project marked a turning point for winter tourism, declaring that October 7, 2024, would be an essential date in Turkish tourism.
Project Details and Supporters
The project will showcase Antalya’s historical and cultural heritage. Winter tours will be organized to encourage visitors to explore the city. Anex Tour General Manager remarked that Antalya was recognized globally as a resort hotel region, stressing the importance of attracting tourists in the summer and winter with cultural tours.
The initiative is significant not only for the tourism sector but also for the hospitality industry. A Hotel General Manager highlighted that occupancy rates dropped by 50% during winter months, which led to staff reductions. He expressed that ensuring year-round tourism would greatly benefit hotels and their employees.
Other partners expressed their full support for the project and pledged to contribute to Antalya’s development. Anex Tour Deputy General Manager Çağlayan Özbayık emphasized that this project took a non-profit approach and represented a long-term investment for Antalya.
Conclusion
The “Discover the City” project aims to spread Antalya’s tourism potential across all 12 months, transforming the region’s tourism model from one that relies heavily on summer visitors. Through this initiative, the city seeks to highlight its cultural values and attract tourists even in the winter months. Ultimately, the project positions Antalya not just as a holiday destination but also as a cultural hub, enhancing its value in the global tourism market.
