Tourism and Infrastructure Development in Turkey

Turkey features a variety of historical and natural tourism sites across different regions. In Zonguldak, visitors can explore the Gökgöl Cave, the mythological Cehennemağzı Caves in Ereğli, and the Harmankaya Waterfalls. In the Antalya region, ancient cities such as Perge, known for Roman and Hellenistic architecture, and Termessos, a well-preserved city on Mount Güllük, serve as major attractions. Additionally, the Lycian center of Olympos remains a destination for campers and nature enthusiasts due to its ruins and natural surroundings. Antalya is currently undergoing significant infrastructure and cultural development in preparation for the COP31 UN Climate Change Conference, scheduled for November 9–20. To support the event, which is expected to host over 100,000 visitors, officials have completed approximately 38 kilometers of new roads in the Belek tourism region, including four main arteries and 12 hotel connection roads. Ministers Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and Murat Kurum recently inaugurated these new roads, noting that such improvements position the city as a preferred hub for major international organizations. Minister Ersoy announced that 19.2 billion lira has been invested in Antalya’s culture and tourism sectors over the last 24 years. This has resulted in the number of licensed accommodation facilities growing from 523 in 2002 to 2,709, with bed capacity increasing from roughly 151,000 to over 619,000. Key projects include the Elmalı Muhammed Hamdi Yazır Cultural Center and the transformation of the EXPO 2016 area into a permanent international fair and congress center. As the summit approaches, preparations are accelerating at the former EXPO 2016 site, which has been renamed the ‘COP31 Area’. Beyond infrastructure, the summit will incorporate a cultural component featuring local culinary specialties, such as Antalya piyazı and various fish dishes.