“Turkey Travel for North Americans: Why Istanbul, Antalya & All-Inclusive Resorts Are Booming”

“For North Americans considering their next vacation, Turkey travel is not only safe but also full of options…”

Turquoise waters of Fethiye’s famous Ölüdeniz Lagoon, a signature view of the Turkish Riviera.

Planning your next international escape and not sure where to go? While North Americans often look toward Mexico or the Caribbean, there’s another destination making waves globally: Turkey. With record-breaking visitor numbers, two of the world’s most visited cities, and hundreds of all-inclusive beach resorts, Turkey has quietly become a tourism powerhouse. Yet many in North America still underestimate it. Here’s why the world is flocking to Turkey — and why you should, too.

Scenery & Landscapes

Turkey’s appeal starts with its diversity. Istanbul dazzles with minarets, palaces, and Bosphorus views, while the Mediterranean coast offers golden beaches backed by pine-covered hills. In places like Antalya, Fethiye, and Alanya, rugged mountains drop straight into turquoise bays. The Aegean adds another layer, with Bodrum and Marmaris offering marinas, nightlife, and ancient ruins alongside long sandy shores.

Culture & History

This isn’t just a beach destination. Turkey is home to layers of history spanning the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. In Istanbul alone you’ll find the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and bustling bazaars. On the coast, ruins like Ephesus and Perge sit just a short drive from modern resorts. It’s a place where you can swim in the morning and walk through 2,000-year-old streets by afternoon.

The iconic Blue Mosque in Istanbul, blending Ottoman grandeur with timeless beauty.

Beaches & All-Inclusive Resorts

Turkey has earned a reputation as the capital of all-inclusive resorts in Europe. Antalya alone hosts hundreds of beachfront hotels, many “ultra all-inclusive” with sprawling pools, kids’ clubs, waterparks, spa centers, and restaurants serving global cuisine. Resorts in Belek and Side are especially popular for families, while Bodrum and Fethiye cater to couples and upscale travelers. Compared to the Caribbean, these resorts often deliver more value for money — a five-star property in Antalya may cost less than a three-star package elsewhere.

All-inclusive luxury in Bodrum, where infinity pools meet the Aegean Sea.

Tourism by the Numbers

• 52.6 million international arrivals in 2023 – a national record.

• Istanbul welcomed over 20 million foreign visitors, making it the #1 most visited city in the world in 2023.

• Antalya drew more than 16 million tourists, ranking among the top 5 globally.

• Europeans lead the way: Germany, the UK, and Russia are top source markets, with millions visiting each year.

These statistics show that while some North Americans hesitate, the rest of the world is embracing Turkey at an unprecedented scale.

Bustling streets filled with visitors — a snapshot of Istanbul’s growing popularity.

Food & Nightlife

Turkey also shines with its hospitality. All-inclusive hotels serve endless buffets of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine, but venture outside and you’ll find authentic kebabs, meze spreads, and fresh seafood. In Antalya, family promenades line the coast, while Bodrum is known for upscale beach clubs and yacht parties.

A traditional Turkish meze spread with kebabs, hummus, fresh salads, and baklava.

Cost & Value for Money

Compared to Greece, Spain, or Italy, Turkey often comes out ahead on value. Whether it’s a boutique cave hotel in Cappadocia or a sprawling five-star resort on the Riviera, your dollar stretches further here. That’s one reason millions of Europeans return every summer.

Safety & Accessibility

Despite lingering myths, Turkey is safe and welcoming for tourists. Major destinations like Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia are as secure as other European hubs. In fact, 2023 saw the highest number of American visitors ever recorded, and as of 2024, U.S. and Canadian travelers can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Direct flights from New York, Toronto, and other cities make Turkey easier to reach than ever.

Why Turkey Deserves North American Travelers

North Americans often default to the Caribbean for all-inclusive holidays, but Turkey offers more variety, history, and cultural depth at comparable or better prices. Imagine sipping cocktails at a resort pool in Belek, exploring ancient ruins at Ephesus, and then watching the sunset over the Bosphorus — all in one trip. Few destinations can match that.

Dramatic cliffs and hidden bays along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.

Final Word

Turkey’s tourism boom isn’t just hype; it’s backed by numbers, infrastructure, and experiences that rival the world’s best. If you’ve ever dreamed of a vacation that blends luxury and authenticity, Turkey should be on your radar. With millions already discovering its charms, perhaps it’s time to join them — and see for yourself why Turkey is one of the most visited destinations on Earth.