An Experimental Study on Heritage Tourism Experiences Through Augmented Reality: A Case of Kaleiçi-Antalya
International Journal of Tourism Research, vol.28, no.3, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 28 Issue: 3
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1002/jtr.70360
- Journal Name: International Journal of Tourism Research
- Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, ABI/INFORM, CAB Abstracts, Geobase, Hospitality & Tourism Complete, Hospitality & Tourism Index, Index Islamicus, Psycinfo, Business Source Ultimate (EBSCO), Sociology Source Ultimate (EBSCO)
- Keywords: augmented reality, experimental research, heritage tourism experience, Kaleiçi-Antalya, place attachment, storytelling intention
- Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Despite the increasing use of augmented reality (AR) applications (apps) to enhance tourist experience, few studies have been conducted to determine their effectiveness. This case study, which was conducted at Antalya Kaleiçi, used a quasi-experimental post-test control group design to examine how the use of AR in a heritage site influences the associations between tourist experience, place attachment, satisfaction, and storytelling intention. The results showed that AR use significantly improves tourist experience and subsequent perceptions. Moreover, multi-group analysis revealed that the associations between the study variables differed between AR users (experimental group) and non-users (control group). These findings have theoretical and managerial implications for heritage tourism research and practice.