In Istanbul’s heart, the Blue Mosque stands tall, its blue tiles reflecting the sky’s majesty / Credit: AXA Photography
In recent years, Türkiye has emerged as a top travel destination, captivating tourists with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the serene beaches of the Aegean, the allure of Türkiye is undeniable. Canadians are becoming enchanted by the unique blend of cultural experiences and stunning scenery that this diverse nation offers.
Breaking Records: Over 300,000 Canadians Visited Türkiye in 2024
In 2024, a record-breaking 302,728 Canadians visited Türkiye, over 20% increase over 2023. This marks the second year in a row that Canadian travellers have broken the previous year’s inbound numbers. Tourist arrivals from other countries are up too.
In 2024, Türkiye welcomed 62,269,890 overseas tourists, a 9.8% increase from 2023 and a 20.3% rise compared to 2019. This number exceeds the 60 million visitor goal set for 2024 and has increased tourism income by 8.3% from last year, totaling $61.1 billion. Since 2023, UN Tourism has listed Türkiye among the world’s top five most-visited destinations.
Türkiye’s Appeal: Natural Beauty and Historic Sites
Many Canadians are visiting Türkiye because of its rich history. The country has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the ancient city of Ephesus, the rock formations of Cappadocia, and the beautiful Hagia Sophia. These sites show the diverse civilizations that have lived there for thousands of years. History lovers can explore stories connected to the Ottoman, Byzantine, and early Christian eras, making each trip feel like a visit to a living museum.
Breathtaking Natural Landscapes
Beyond its rich history, Türkiye’s breathtaking natural landscapes captivate travelers. From the dramatic Mediterranean cliffs to the lush green valleys inland, the country’s diverse geography offers countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Thrilling experiences like hot air ballooning over Cappadocia’s unique rock formations, hiking the scenic Lycian Way, or unwinding in the thermal waters of Pamukkale invite Canadians to embark on unforgettable adventures in nature.
A Taste of Türkiye: From Grilled Kebabs to Sweet Treats
Moreover, Türkiye’s cuisine is a major attraction for Canadians. It offers a rich blend of flavours and aromas that captivate food enthusiasts. From savoury kebabs and snacks to sweet baklava and fragrant Turkish coffee, each dish showcases the country’s agricultural heritage and diverse cultural influences.
Awe-inspiring balloon flight over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia / Credit: Unma Desai
Canadians can now easily explore Türkiye
Canadians can visit Türkiye for up to 90 days without a tourist visa. However, visas are still needed for work, business, study, or medical reasons.
Direct flights from Canada to Türkiye are available through Turkish Airlines, departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), and Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Istanbul Airport (IST).
For more information on planning your trip, contact the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA).
