Turkey Vacations Still Cheaper Than Russia’s Resorts Despite 30% Price Hike

Holidays in Turkey have jumped 30% in price for May 2026, but they remain more affordable than trips to Russian resorts, according to a report from Baza. The surge is tied to high inflation in Turkey, which has driven up costs for hotels, restaurants, transport, and services over the past year. Yet travel expert Mikhail Abasov says demand has barely budged. In fact, instability in other destinations is pushing more tourists toward Turkey, drawn by its visa-free entry, easy flights, and wide range of holiday options.

Foreign trips now account for over half of all summer bookings by Russians. Interest in Turkey has climbed 2.5 times compared to 2025, with travelers booking early to lock in lower rates. In 2025, nearly 6.9 million Russians visited Turkey—making it the top foreign destination. In the first two months of 2026, 392,000 Russian tourists traveled there, up 5.5% from the same period last year.

Price comparisons are steering many Russians abroad. A week-long all-inclusive package for a family of three at a four-star hotel in Antalya runs about 150,000 rubles. A similar stay in Sochi costs roughly 153,000 rubles. In Crimea’s Yevpatoria, the same hotel grade is around 133,000 rubles, but train tickets add another 40,000 rubles, plus the journey takes nearly a day and a half.

Travel expert Maya Kotlyar recently summed up the difference bluntly, saying a comparison of Sochi and Turkey prices “made her sick.” She noted that a trip to Bodrum with top-notch all-inclusive hotels and high service levels comes out cheaper than a Russian resort stay.