This summer, Greek islands are expected to attract increasing numbers of Turkish tourists, according to estimates from Turkey’s tourism sector, reported by the opposition newspaper Karar. The reason? Turkey has become expensive—even for tourists, with rising costs in restaurants and hotels outpacing those in neighbouring countries.
Turkish economists are warning that the outlook for the country’s tourism industry—one of its key sources of foreign currency—is no longer as bright. Economist İnan Mutlu told Karar that “tourist numbers are falling, and Turkey has become expensive,” highlighting a sharp surge in hospitality prices. “We are no longer cheap—not even for foreign tourists,” he added, pointing to data showing that Turkey is losing its competitive pricing advantage.
Fellow economist Hakan Kara, citing data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), noted that the number of tourists is declining for the first time since the pandemic. “Tourists now find Turkey expensive,” he said.
A price index for restaurants and hotels, compiled by Mutlu using Eurostat data, shows that between April 2023 and now, prices in Turkey’s hospitality sector have jumped by 178% in just two years. In contrast, the increase in Greece during the same period was only 12%. Given that the exchange rate has not risen significantly, the price hikes are even more striking.
Mutlu expects Turkish holidaymakers to return to Greek islands this summer, as price-performance balance in Turkey has tipped unfavourably. Industry experts echo his sentiment, warning that Turkey’s loss of its identity as a budget-friendly destination could push middle-income travellers, especially from Europe, to explore alternative destinations.
The report concludes with concerns from tourism representatives that unless Turkey regains its affordability, it risks losing a significant share of the international market to cheaper, high-value alternatives such as Greece.
Also read: Tourism set for another record year – Soaring first four months
Photo source: mizenplace.com
Source: CNA
