Applying self-determination theory to understand cultural tourists’ behavioural intentions

Following the self-determination theory (SDT), the current research intends to explore the relationships between tourists’ subjective well-being (SWB), destination loyalty (DL), behavioural intentions (BIs) and basic psychological needs (BPNs). The theory, which has received increasing attention in the literature, is used to explain tourists’ motivations, destination decisions and BIs. In this context, a questionnaire was administered to cultural tourists visiting the historical sites of Istanbul. The questionnaire application resulted in 503 usable questionnaires. A total of 503 usable questionnaires were obtained as a result of the survey. According to the data analysis findings, fulfilment of the BPNs of tourists visiting the historical sites of Istanbul affects both SWB and DL. In addition, SWB and DL affect revisit and recommendation intentions (BIs).