Increasing tourism from Turkey on the Greek island of Lesbos

Increasing tourism from Turkey on the Greek island of Lesbos

Tourism Boom Between Turkey and Lesbos Strengthens Cross-Border Ties

The picturesque Greek island of Lesbos is experiencing a significant surge in tourism from Turkey, with over one hundred thousand Turkish visitors annually contributing to local economies and fostering stronger social and cultural ties.

Last year, around 120,000 people came to Lesbos by boat from Turkish ports, and the island aims to welcome even more visitors in 2025. This influx of tourists is due in part to the new Mytilene-Ayvalik line, which shortens travel time to under an hour and offers up to eight daily trips during summer.

Turkish visitors find the relaxed atmosphere, local cuisine (notably seafood and ouzo), accessible public beaches, and a welcoming reception where Turkish is often spoken, all contributing to an appealing experience markedly different from Turkish coastal resorts.

The deputy mayor of Mytilene, Nikos Giannakas, welcomed the Turkish mayor of Balikesir, Ahmet Akin, along with 150 tourists, on August 1 via a new catamaran route. According to Nikos Giannakas, the new line will help boost tourism and trade between Lesbos and Turkey, give travelers more options, and strengthen cross-border relations.

Takis, who runs a tavern in Gera Bay, appreciates the good food, friendliness, and relaxation of Turkish tourists. Families with children from Izmir, a group from Ayvalik, and a young couple from Istanbul are among the tourists dining in Lesbos.

The two fish restaurants on the coast of Lesbos are full, with most diners speaking Turkish. Lesbos is now cheaper than popular Turkish holiday destinations like Bozcaada, Bodrum, or Assos on the Aegean. The crossing from Turkey to Lesbos takes under an hour and costs €35 ($40).

Despite ongoing disputes over airspace and territorial waters, and political tensions between the two countries, Turkish tourists on Lesbos are enjoying the island and not bothered by the tensions. This cross-border tourism has had a positive impact on relations by fostering connectivity and mutual appreciation despite broader political challenges.

Tourism and cooperation on refugee and migration issues are the only enduring success stories in Greek-Turkish relations since the friendship and cooperation agreement in December 2023. As Lesbos continues to welcome more Turkish tourists, it is hoped that this trend will continue to promote grassroots goodwill and mutual understanding between the two nations.

References: [1] "Turkey-Greece Relations: Tourism Boom Between Lesbos and Turkey," Greek Reporter, 1 August 2024. [Online]. Available: https://greekreporter.com/2024/08/01/turkey-greece-relations-tourism-boom-between-lesbos-and-turkey/

[2] "Lesbos Welcomes Record Number of Turkish Tourists," The National Herald, 15 August 2024. [Online]. Available: https://thenationalherald.com/112418/lesbos-welcomes-record-number-of-turkish-tourists/

[3] "Turkish Tourists Flock to Lesbos: An Island of Goodwill," The Economist, 20 August 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2024/08/20/turkish-tourists-flock-to-lesbos-an-island-of-goodwill

[4] "The Mytilene-Ayvalik Line: A New Era of Cooperation Between Lesbos and Turkey," Travel Daily News, 25 August 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.traveldailynews.asia/articles/the-mytilene-ayvalik-line-a-new-era-of-cooperation-between-lesbos-and-turkey/

1. The increase in Turkish tourism to Lesbos, as reported by international media outlets, has brought about a positive shift in cross-border relations, with both nations benefiting from an improved lifestyle and strengthened ties.
2. In addition to contributing to the local economy, the growing migration of tourists from Turkey to Lesbos has also fostered a mutual appreciation for each other's environment, culture, and lifestyle.
3. Despite ongoing political tensions between the two governments, the recent tourism boom between Lesbos and Turkey indicates a promising avenue for international cooperation, as travelers from both nations seek enjoyable experiences that offer a unique alternative to traditional holiday destinations.

Read also: