Night Tourism: Conceptual Framework and Theoretical Approaches
Chapter from the book: Ongun, U. (ed.) 2026. Current Research in Tourism III.

Yusuf Çuhadar
Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University
Çiğdem Kasalak
Akdeniz University

Synopsis

Night tourism generally encompasses tourism activities that take place from the evening hours through the early morning and is considered a tourism-focused component of the night economy. In this context, it emerges as a strategic tool that enhances the competitiveness of destinations, diversifies the tourist experience, and extends urban vitality to a 24-hour cycle. The study emphasizes that night tourism is not merely a temporal expansion; it is a multidimensional phenomenon that transforms spatial perception, intensifies sensory experiences, and deepens tourists’ interaction with the destination. In this context, key dimensions such as spatial presentation, atmosphere, activities, cultural displays, and social interaction have been explained in line with the “night tourism landscape” approach. Additionally, the historical development of night tourism has been evaluated as a process evolving from traditional night markets to technology-enabled experiences today. A literature review indicates that studies on night tourism have increasingly focused on tourist experience, sensory perceptions, and satisfaction in recent years. Furthermore, theoretical approaches such as Social Change Theory, the Experience Economy, and Emotional Cognitive Evaluation provide a significant framework for explaining both tourist behavior and the local population’s attitudes toward tourism. In conclusion, while night tourism offers significant opportunities in terms of economic vitality, increased employment, and the sustainability of destinations, it also presents challenges that must be managed, such as safety, noise, environmental impacts, and relations with the local community. Therefore, in the planning and management of night tourism, a balanced approach must be adopted that harmonizes experiential quality with social and environmental sustainability.

How to cite this book

Çuhadar, Y. & Kasalak, Ç. (2026). Night Tourism: Conceptual Framework and Theoretical Approaches. In: Ongun, U. (ed.), Current Research in Tourism III. Özgür Publications. DOI: https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub1364.c5515

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Published

June 30, 2026

DOI