This year, the European market will be dynamic
The President of the Mediterranean Touristic Hoteliers and Operators Association (AKTOB), Kaan Kaşif Kavaloğlu, stated that this year will be very active for the European tourism market, saying: “The German and British markets will end this year on a positive note.”
Kavaloğlu explained that 90% of the tourism season is shaped by ITB Berlin, adding:
“Even the possibility of the Russia-Ukraine war ending has a very positive impact on us. Ukrainians cannot travel from their own country but come via Europe to vacation here. Since Russia is our number one tourism destination, we expect that with an increase in the welfare level of Russians and the end of their isolation, they will be able to travel more freely for holidays this year.”
A VERY SUCCESSFUL APRIL AHEAD
Pointing out the growth in demand from the UK and Germany, Kavaloğlu continued:
“2025 will be a very dynamic year for the European market. The number of tourists from the UK will exceed 1.5 million, while those from Germany will approach 4 million. Looking at all this, we will surpass our target of 18 million tourists. The Easter holiday has shifted from March to April, so we will have a very strong April. By April 30, more tourists will have arrived in Antalya compared to last year.”
He emphasized that April will be the busiest month, saying:
“After Easter, Belgium and the Netherlands will enter their holiday periods. However, there is currently some stagnation in the Benelux countries. We are investigating the reasons, carrying out marketing activities, and holding discussions with tour operators. We might also stimulate growth in these markets. The domestic market will also be lively. The weather conditions are much better than in previous years. By the end of March, during Ramadan Bayram, we will also host Turkish visitors. Hotels will officially open the summer season with both the Easter and Ramadan Bayram holidays.”
IMPORTANCE OF RESERVATIONS FROM GERMANY, RUSSIA, AND THE UK
Rıza Perçin, President of the Antalya Sports, Tourism, Culture, Solidarity, and Assistance Association, stated that there was strong interest in Antalya at ITB Berlin, particularly from Germany, Russia, and the UK, and highlighted that early reservations from these markets were a positive sign.
He also emphasized that, beyond historical and cultural assets, gastronomy, healthcare, sports, and nature tourism, the increasing promotional activities of the Turkish Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) are making Turkey even more attractive for tourists from Europe and the Middle East.
Perçin added that at tourism fairs, sustainable tourism policies, eco-friendly hotels, carbon footprint reduction projects, and AI-powered booking systems have been attracting significant attention.
