Best Places for Golfing in Turkey

Turkey has opened many golf centres in recent years. These centres meet international specifications and have become the centre of international tournaments.

According to Turkey Golf Federation data in 2018, there are 36 golf courses in 18 on-site in the country. There are golf courses in Antalya, Mugla, and Istanbul. Antalya is Turkey's largest golf destination.

Golf tourism is also in Belek town, which is 30 km away from Antalya. Belek was awarded the Best Golf Region of the Year Award in 2008 by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), it has 27 golf courses in 11 tourist facilities. Belek, which hosts international tournaments, is also important because of its cultural, historical and natural structure.

Golf facilities in the country are mostly close to the beach. These locations are close to 5-star accommodation facilities, food and beverage places, shopping and entertainment properties.

Ministry of Culture and Tourism is planning to build 49 more golf courses, with approximately a 35,000-bed capacity. Plans are being made to build these golf courses in Antalya, Aydin, Mugla, Mersin, and Nevsehir.

The developments in golf courses, golf tourism, have helped Turkey to become an international actor in golf tournaments. The country has become a good place to host golf tournaments worldwide.

In 2010 the first leg of the European professional golf tour Challenge Tour was organised in our country along with 22 other countries. IGTM 2011 (International Golf Travel Market), which is considered the most important event of golf tourism in the world, was held on 14-17 November 2011 in Belek. In 2018 a total of 108 golf tournaments were held including national and international matches.