top 30 tourist countries in the world

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Most Visited Countries 2024

European countries, often rich in history, culture, beautiful beaches, and ocean views, attract the highest number of tourists.

France, leading in tourism for over 30 years, offers attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland Paris, drawing 38 million tourists to Paris alone in 2019.

Global travel and tourism, an $8.9 trillion industry in 2019, suffered a loss of $4.5 trillion and 62 million jobs in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Global travel and tourism was an $8.9 trillion (US$) business in 2019 . Moreover, though the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced that number to roughly a quarter of its previous value, all signs point to tourism continuing to grow, expand, and evolve. Every country on Earth has something to offer international visitors, from the pyramids in Egypt to the rainforests of Brazil or the sidewalk cafes of Paris —but which countries attract the most visitors of all? Most of the countries with the highest tourism rates are located in Europe , whose rich history, architecture, and cultural influence make it an appealing destination for many travelers. Countries positioned on or near a body of water are also very popular, particularly those that offer a relaxed, low-key atmosphere mixed with beautiful beaches and ocean views.

Top 10 Countries Most Popular with Tourists (by number of 2019 visitor arrivals)

The most popular tourist destination in the world for more than 30 years, France offers a myriad of attractions: the Eiffel tower, countless world-class restaurants, the Musée du Louvre, the Palace of Versailles, the Notre-Dame cathedral, the beaches of the Côte d'Azur, and of course, Disneyland Paris. Moreover, the lushly beautiful countryside is full of storybook villages, mountains, vineyards, and the occasional castle. One can even view prehistoric cave paintings in Lascaux. Paris, France's capital, is the most visited city in Europe, receiving 38 million tourists in 2019.

Spain is another tourist destination overflowing with interesting attractions. Antoni Gaudi's Sagrada Familia cathedral and other works in Barcelona , the Guggenheim museum, the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, Europe's largest aquarium (the lily-shaped L'Oceanogràfic), the beaches of Gran Canaria, and La Rambla in Barcelona. Spain is also home to El Teide, an ancient—but not entirely dormant—volcano, which visitors can hike around at the Parque Nacional del Teide on the Spanish island Tenerife.

England's capital city, London , attracts visitors with a wide range of sights including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum, which includes the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts outside of Cairo . Beyond London, England offers the mysterious Stonehenge, the Beatles' birthplace in Liverpool , the quaint beauty of the Cotswolds, the sci-fi botanical gardens of the Eden Project, and more. Speaking of more, the UK also includes three additional subdivisions. First is Scotland, with the charming city of Edinburgh , moody Loch Ness and Inverness , the scenic highlands, and the historic St. Andrews golf course. Next comes charming Wales and its castles, scenery, and capital city of Cardiff . Finally, Northern Ireland boasts attractions including Belfast 's bubbling nightlife, the glens and coastline of Antrim, and one of Europe's most compelling natural wonders: the Giant's Causeway.

The Mediterranean nation Turkey balances captivating man-made attractions such as Hagia Sophia mosque and Topkapı Palace with archaeological wonders such as the Biblical city of Ephesus, the fairy city of Cappadocia, and the desolate fallen splendor of Mount Nemrut. It also has more than its share of natural wonders, including the famous beaches at Ölüdeniz and Patara, the mineral pools at Pamukkale, and the Mediterranean coastline itself.

The South Asian country of Thailand is also known as the "Land of Smiles", and offers both modern comforts and wild adventure. Thailand's capital, Bangkok , receives over 20 million visitors every year. Popular attractions include the Grand Palace in Bangkok; beaches including Railay, Long, and Monkey beach; the ancient city Ayutthaya and ornate Buddhist wat Coi Suthep, and national parks including Khao Yai (where wild elephants roam) and the otherworldly Khao Sok.

The impact of COVID-19 on travel and tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020-21 had a devastating effect on the travel and tourism industry. According to a report released by the World Travel & Tourism Council , the pandemic cost the industry an estimated US$ 4.5 trillion in 2020, which resulted in the loss of 62 million tourism-dependent jobs. Data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization backs this up. Consider the following table:

International tourist arrivals (in thousands of visitors):

Compared to 2019, tourism dropped by approximately 74% in 2020, with a total of a billion fewer travelers over the course of the year--making 2020 the worst year on record for tourism. The UNTWO's own estimates registered a loss of US$ 1.3 trillion in lost revenues and 100-120 million jobs either lost or at risk.

The impact has been particularly damaging in countries that rely heavily upon tourism as part of their GDP. Lost tourism in Macau , one of China 's special administrative regions, led to a 79.3% drop in year-on-year gambling revenues , which caused overall GDP for 2020 to fall 43.1% compared to the previous year.

While tourism has picked up slightly in 2021, they still fall far short of the pre-pandemic numbers. Late 2020 projections were hopeful that the industry would be back on track by late 2021, but the ongoing nature of the pandemic has thwarted that optimism. As of late 2021, most estimates do not expect the industry to rebound to 2019 (pre-COVID) levels until sometime in 2023 at the earliest.

Visitor totals are displayed in 1000s. For example, South Africa 's displayed total of 3886.6 equals 3,886,600 visitors.

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What are the top 5 most visited countries?

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International tourism: the most popular countries

Drastic declines due to COVID-19

The most popular travel countries.

Germany is the world travel champion

Booming tourism and slump in 2020.

A look at the costs

The 30 Most Visited Countries in the World (in 2023)

Following up on the (admittedly, slightly more interesting) 30 least visited countries in the world , I thought I should also write about the 30 MOST visited countries in the world, including of course the number 1 most visited country in the world.

I know most of the followers of my blog are more interested in tours to Mauritania , Socotra (Yemen ), or maybe Abkhazia , but it’s also fascinating to see where the 1.5 billion tourists per year spend most of their time. The data comes from 2019, as any numbers in 2020 and 2021 are dictated solely by COVID-19 (booo).

Where on my article about the least visited countries , I had a little bit about each obscure country, and how to get in, but with this list of the most visited countries in the world, that’s pretty unnecessary – we already know all that. And ‘getting in’ involves little more than booking a flight! Visas are almost always unnecessary for most naionalities too.

So let’s have a look at the 30 most visited countries in the world, and how many visitors they have each year.

How are the numbers calculated, 30: czech republic – 11.9 million tourists per year, 29: indonesia – 12 million tourists per year, 28: singapore – 12.9 million tourists per year, 27: ukraine – 13.3 million tourists per year, 26: croatia – 13.8 million visitors, 25: india – 14.6 million visitors, 24: united arab emirates – 14.9 million visitors, 23: hungary – 15.3 million visitors, 22: macao* – 15.7 million visitors, 21: netherlands – 15.8 million visitors, 20: south korea – 17.2 million visitors, 19. poland – 17.5 million visitors, 18. saudi arabia – 18.0 million visitors, 17. canada – 20.0 million visitors, 16. japan – 24.0 million visitors, 15. russia – 24.6 million visitors, 14. greece – 24.8 million visitors, 13. hong kong – 26.6 million visitors, 12. malaysia – 26.8 million visitors, 11. austria – 28.1 million visitors, 10. turkey – 30 million visitors, 9. thailand – 32.6 million visitors, 8. mexico – 35.0 million visitors, 7. germany – 35.6 million visitors, 6. united kingdom – 35.8 million visitors, 5. italy – 52.4 million visitors, 4. china – 59.3 million visitors, 3. spain – 75.6 million visitors, 2. the united states – 75.6 million visitors, 1. the most visited country in the world: france – 82.6 million visitors., which of the most visited countries in the world would i recommend you visiting, final thoughts on the most visited countries in the world.

The strongest source is the United Nation’s very own World Tourism Barometer and the World Tourism organisation .

Why visit ? The vast majority of people who visited Czech Republic are Europeans on a city break to Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. he architecture, the local beers, and the castles draw in the tourists.

My visit ? I’ve been to Prague, and the Czech Republic twice. Once with my mum on my ‘ every country in Europe ‘ trip, and then again after finishing my ‘ every country in the world ‘ trip, one of my best mates and I flew to Prague after my last country in Norway , to get drunk with Pavel Nedved (see pic below!).

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The Best Destinations in the World: The Gold List 2022

By CNT Editors

There are three great lists annually in Condé Nast Traveler, all of which have changed due to the events of the last two years: the Readers’ Choice Awards , which you, our beloved audience, select; the Hot List , which compiles the new and notable of the previous year; and this one, which is ultimately about the places and experiences our editors carry in their hearts. This year, when we say our editors, we mean CNT ’s entire global crew, working in locations from California to Beijing ; we’ve also expanded the parameters of the list to include not just the hotels and cruises you’ve seen in years past, but also the destinations we treasure. The Gold List is, more than ever, made by humans for other humans—something we need more than ever in this day and age. Here, our favorite destinations in the world.

Read the complete set of Gold List winners here .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Puebla, Mexico

I love when I can feel familiar with a new place in 48 hours. In Puebla , Mexico’s historic, fourth-largest city, all the spots you want to hit are walking distance within its center, itself a tidy sprawl of bright pink and yellow villas and small plazas. That includes food markets for a crispy cemita (a schnitzel-style sandwich with all the fixings); the gilded Capilla del Rosario and the city’s famed talavera, or ceramic houses; I stayed for close to an hour watching the row of artisans hand-paint and hand-fire their mugs, plates, and vases at Uriarte Talavera. Before the pandemic, tourism was just starting to happen here, and the city was in that sweet spot of supporting a new breed of traveler, like with the artisanal-inspired Cartesiano hotel, but without muting any of its essence for international business. I liked that I had to use my shoddy Spanish with barkeeps and store owners. And that sitting in those plazas meant a front-row seat to daily Poblano life: vendors selling sliced cucumber spices with cayenne, old-timers playing dominos. Puebla felt like a special somewhere on the verge of discovery in a country with pockets already turned over to the masses. My guess with all that’s happened this past year is that it still does. —Erin Florio

Rio de Janeiro

If you were to hook the city of Rio de Janeiro up to a cardiogram, the needle would swing off the page. The city thrums with live samba and bossa nova at all hours of the day; the bustling streets, bookended by the dramatic rise of granite monoliths on one end and the pounding waves of the Atlantic on the other, have a pulse all their own. It's easy to feel this when you're amid throngs of colorfully clad cariocas —I feel it most swaying to the live music at Pedra do Sal on Monday nights, or when, perched in the leafy hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa, I hear people in neighborhoods below lean out their windows to cheer when Flamengo scores a goal. It's a complicated city, with plenty of issues—insecurity, corruption, inequity, to name just a few—but there's a premium on joy and celebration that isn't reserved for Carnaval . There are few places in the world where you know you couldn't possibly be anywhere else, and whenever I hear the whole of Arpoador beach break into applause as the sun sets in summer, I'm reminded that Rio is one of them. —Megan Spurrell

Alentejo, Portugal

I call the road to the sea through Portugal’s Alentejo region the place where the beatniks read Pessoa; you can imagine Kerouac breezing through its small hotels, surf camps, and villages scattered with craft shops, markets, and bohemian bars. For me it’s a place of happiness. There are boutique hotels like São Lourenço do Barrocal and Dá Licença and olive groves, cork oaks, and infinite horizons. The road ends at Vicentine Coast National Park, a wild, protected coastline in southern Europe. A paradise for surfers , it has electrifying sunsets, but the icy waters stop it from ever getting too crowded. —David Moralejo

Svalbard, Norway

Arctic Svalbard —whose capital, Longyearbyen, is the world’s northernmost town—is like nowhere else I’ve been. On the one hand, it’s a deep-nature Scandi fantasy of snowmobiles, Northern Lights, ski-touring along glacial valleys, and surprisingly smart boutiques with stacked wine cellars. But there’s also a compelling strangeness to this international settlement, where no one is born and no one dies. There are the Soviet mining towns with their Lenin busts, whether abandoned or (even weirder) still working; the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, which preempts a coming apocalypse; it’s advisable to leave Longyearbyen with a shotgun, in case of polar-bear attack. As much as a destination, it’s a journey into the heart of the climate crisis, with academics from across the world doing game-changing research here. I’m itching to go again—to escape but also to think and connect, which is what happens in all the best places. —Toby Skinner

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My first trip to Goa as a college student was wrapped in dreams of homemade chorizo and reliving moments from the cult Bollywood coming-of-age film Dil Chahta Hai . Many trips and feni cocktails later, Goa remained a respite for my city-weary bones. The state straddles its multicultural past and present, trading up ’60s hippie markets for hipster boutiques while keeping its old-world Indian and Portuguese traditions intact. Simple fish-curry plates, aunties doing an impromptu jig to fado, old-timers squabbling over their favorite Goan soccer club, and the right freshness of bread coexist with edgy global menus, alt-music gigs, and all that is artisanal and arty. The ocean changes color from one season to the next, the multi-color sunsets never repeat, and like many travelers, I continue to return and find my salve in sunshine, sea, and susegad —the quintessential Goan idea of the slow, easy, and good life. —Diya Kohl

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Plettenberg Bay is South Africa's summer playground, and I, a Capetonian, would drive the 186-mile coastal path along the scenic Garden Route each year to join the fun. The bohemian seaside town sits atop a sheltered bay, where a jumble of hipster coffee shops, seafood restaurants, and kitsch boutiques tumble down onto fynbos-covered cliffs—where a slew of new hotels like The Robberg Beach Lodge sit beside grandes dames like The Plettenberg Hotel . Pretty young things like to celebrate the end of matric student exams, where hedonism sweeps across the bay, while dolphin and whale watches come during the languid, warm winter months. Venture just outside Plett to find the luxury Tsala Treetop Lodge , a manicured Gary Player golf course, indigenous Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, the Plett Polo Club on the Kurland Estate, and a host of animal sanctuaries to meet cheetahs, elephants, and monkeys. But above all, come for the glorious golden beaches. Central Beach—dotted with bars—surfy Lookout Beach, and the eerie, mist-covered sands of Robberg Nature Reserve. Search hard enough and you might stumble on a sand dollar—the symbol of Plettenberg Bay, thought to bring eternal luck. —Isabella Sullivan

When I can’t take another minute of winter, I head to Scottsdale. As, historically, do the day-drinking spring breakers and the far less rowdy snowbirds. Recently, though, the Valley of the Sun has come into its own, claiming its stunning desert setting and Southwest culture in new ways. If I’m bringing the kids, the 1929 Frank Lloyd Wright–designed grande dame The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (on the border of Scottsdale and Phoenix), is my place. It has sprawling grounds and seven pools, one with a legitimate waterslide, and just underwent a much-needed facelift. Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort , terraced into the side of its namesake adobe-hued mountain, has my favorite spa in town. Its adults-only pool on weekends and easy access to sunrise hiking give me plenty of excuses to leave the kids at home. Solo or with family, I can always bank on sunshine, a great exhibit at Phoenix’s nearby Desert Botanical Garden, and excellent Sonoran-style Mexican food. —Rebecca Misner

Val Graziosa, Italy

I am a frequent traveler to Val Graziosa, a valley near the Pisan mountains and a part of Tuscany relatively unknown and terribly beautiful. Here there is Monte Pisano—“ che i Pisan veder Lucca non ponno, ” the poet Dante said, a small group of mountains that hides Lucca from Pisa and makes it impossible for the Pisan locals to see the city of Lucca. There are olive trees everywhere, producing the best olive oil on Earth in a splendid countryside. I love to walk around the surroundings of Montemagno—please read the book Maledetti Toscani, by Curzio Malaparte, and you will understand a lot about Italians from this region. I love to go to the grocery store in Patrizia for a glass of wine (the one and only épicerie of the village) and then to Certosa di Calci, a 14th-century monastery, and one of the many secret beauties in my crazy country of Italy. —Maddalena Fosati

Chiang Mai, Thailand

When I first went to Chiang Mai, I intended to stay a couple of nights and ended up staying more than a week; for me, that trip is a reminder of travel at its most impulsive and impetuous: the freedom to move on when you feel like it. There’s no beach pressure here, and inland Thailand always feels more interesting than the obvious hits of the beachfront. And, away from the beaches, there's the sense of a modern Thai city where young creatives are carving out a contemporary aesthetic, with the energy that a large student population gives a city. —Rick Jordan

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The best countries in the world: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Nicholas DeRenzo

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The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

For years, we’ve asked our readers to tell us their favourite countries in the world via our annual Readers’ Choice Awards . The list continues to capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from the best hotels in the world to the top airlines, cruises, islands, and luggage. This year, you travelled farther and deeper; seeking out remote properties; sailing on smaller, more intimate ships; and prioritising destinations you’ve been waiting years to visit. At least that’s what a staggering 526,518 of you told us in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey. Now, you can use the results to decide where you’re going next. Here are the best countries in the world, as voted by Traveller readers.

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All eyes will be on Paris this year, as the city prepares to host the Summer Olympics. Following the reconstruction of Notre-Dame and this year's much-publicised battle with bedbugs, the City of Light is embracing the spirit of reinvention. That means playful design hotel openings, Dominique Crenn’s first restaurant in her home country, renewed efforts to clean up the Seine (with the goal of making it swimmable, no less), and a slew of French Asian artisans and chefs shaking up the cultural scene. Well beyond the confines of the capital, there are new adventures to discover, from the low-key surf scene in Hossegor to a buzzy African-inspired restaurant in Nîmes to a wave of modernist-tinged openings in the perma-chic French Riviera. And much, much farther afield, the overseas territory of French Polynesia made our list of the 24 best places to go in 2024 . The 118-island archipelago, which is reinvesting in its native flora and restoring coral, will play host to the Olympic surfing competitions this year.

18. Sri Lanka

This South Asian nation packs a wallop into a single teardrop-shaped island only slightly larger than the state of West Virginia: Think high-elevation tea plantations that are eye-vibratingly green, national parks where sloth bears and endangered elephants roam, and friendly surf towns that, if you squint, might remind you of Costa Rica or Nicaragua some decades years ago. (May we suggest Ahangama, with its indie-music venues, locavore cafés, and eco-boutiques?) And then there’s the capital city of Colombo, where you can shop for local spices, fly kites along the waterfront, or even charter a yacht. As Sri Lanka has worked in recent years to secure its spot as a global tourism contender, it has faced quite a few challenges, from the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings to the pandemic. Now, it’s looking to regain the trust of visitors with its trademark hospitality and warm nature – not to mention an ever-expanding roster of new hotels and resorts.

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17. Austria

Vienna has long been a favourite stop on European grand tours, but despite the city’s Hapsburg-era pomp and splendour, it’s far from a dusty museum piece. Leaders recently announced plans to be carbon neutral by 2040, led by a hyperlocal culinary scene that has welcomed such innovations as a city snail farm and an urban collective that uses grounds from the city’s famed coffee house scene to grow mushrooms. Outside the capital, visitors still flock to alpine ski villages and jewel-box-like Salzburg, but other destinations are bubbling to the surface. Making our Hot List recently is The Cōmodo , an artfully repurposed 1960s health resort on the edge of the country’s largest national park in the mountain village of Bad Gastein. And, this year, the country celebrated its third European Capital of Culture – following Graz in 2003 and Linz in 2009 – the spa town of Bad Ischl, where the healing salt waters have been attracting royalty and other elites since the early 1800s.

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16. South Africa

South Africa has always been a favourite first stop on the continent for international travellers, and it’s becoming increasingly accessible thanks to new direct routes. But even if you’ve visited before, you might not recognise the place: joining the illustrious ranks of the country’s famed safari resorts and wineries are a slew of new openings, including a revitalised weekend market in Johannesburg and buzzy beach clubs in the heart of Cape Town. Beyond the wildlife watching that has made South Africa a favourite destination for generations of safari-goers, new adventures await around every corner: Take lessons with the country’s first Black African free-diving instructor, the mermaid-esque Zandile Ndhlovu ; retrace Viola Davis’s footsteps in the filming locations from The Woman King (South Africa stood in for the former West African Kingdom of Dahomey); or collaborate on your own bespoke African-print bomber jacket with local Joburg fashion designer Sebo Marobela.

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15. United Kingdom

Thanks to Brexit and a new monarch, it’s safe to say that the United Kingdom hasn’t seen such an intense period of transition since perhaps the Margaret Thatcher era. But despite the changes, most of the things we all know and love about the country are still intact, such as London’s dazzlingly diverse restaurant scene and its wide array of free museums (the National Portrait Gallery reopened its doors last summer after a three-year renovation). History is always being reimagined and remixed in these parts: take, for instance, the landmark Old War Office, which has been transformed into Raffles London at The OWO , or the renovated 1511 Thornbury Castle, where you can now make like a Tudor-era noble and book an overnight stay. Up in the north of England, Yorkshire made it onto our list of the best places to go in 2024, thanks to its emerging culinary scene, and adventures await beyond the borders of England as well – foraging for mushrooms in Wales , tapping into maritime history in Northern Ireland, or hopping between swimmable tidal pools on the coast of Scotland.

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14. Germany

With its fairytale castles , charming small towns , and festive Christmas markets , Germany has always loomed large as a tourist magnet, whether you’re exploring it by train, river cruise, or road trip. While the country may seem tradition-bound, it’s also not afraid of trying something new, which might mean immersive art shows taking over unexpected spaces in Berlin or a $120 million, high-tech medi-spa opening in the pastoral North Frisian Islands. There are new contemporary-art-filled places to stay, buzzy neighbourhoods (like Munich’s meatpacking district, Schlachthofviertel), and even an expanding fleet of ultra-eco-friendly, hydrogen-powered passenger trains that emit only steam and condensed water. Of course, the classics are just as beautiful as they’ve always been: when, for instance, you enjoy the healing thermal springs of Baden-Baden , you’re taking part in a millennia-old tourist tradition that dates back to the pre-Roman Celts.

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13. Croatia

The secret’s out: this Balkan country may have been off-the-beaten path a decade or so ago, but it’s rapidly gaining in popularity, thanks to increased direct flights, an influx of cruises, and especially the popularity of Game of Thrones . Croatia is feeling the growing pains of its success, with spots like Dubrovnik and Split becoming every bit as overtouristed as Venice or Amsterdam, but there are plenty of areas around the country that reward exploration: dining at family-farm restaurants and sampling local olive oil in Istria , zipping around by speedboat off the coastline of Trogir, road-tripping through vineyards and oyster farms on the Dalmatian Coast, or sailing among the restful Kornati Islands, which are dotted with oak forests, centuries-old churches, and fortified villages. The result? What local Dalmatians call fjaka – that sweet feeling of doing absolutely nothing.

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12. Iceland

Long celebrated as a rugged adventure outpost, Iceland is the kind of edge-of-the-world place where your trip just might be interrupted or postponed by a volcanic eruption or mini-earthquakes – but is worth the wait. These days, urban life is just as alive and exciting as the geothermal activity bubbling underground: Think pilgrimage-worthy restaurants (like Ox, a speakeasy-style tasting-menu spot), see-and-be-seen design hotels (The Reykjavík Edition), and a robust roster of new natural wine bars, cocktail lounges, and innovative food halls.

As the Golden Circle becomes increasingly crowded with international visitors taking advantage of IcelandAir’s “stopover” program, the country is gently nudging travellers off the beaten path. The relatively new Diamond Circle, for instance, weaves a 155-mile loop through northeastern Iceland, stopping at waterfalls, mud pits, lava caves, and hot springs . And in 2023, the fan-favourite Blue Lagoon – which boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant of its own, Moss – expanded its footprint with the new Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll, a cosy retreat in a part of the country’s rugged interior that’s so remote even many Icelanders haven’t stepped foot there.

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11. Australia

We’ll never stop loving Sydney and Melbourne and the Great Barrier Reef, but the overarching theme for Aussie tourism in the past few years has been a resounding: “But there’s so much more out there!” There’s almost a passing of the baton going on among the country’s creative-minded cities: way out west, Perth enjoyed its status as the country’s fast-growing boomtown, followed by Hobart, Tasmania, which welcomed a game-changing art museum and design hotel. Ready for its big close-up is Queensland’s oft-ignored capital city of Brisbane, which is newly accessible thanks to direct routes from the United States and will see such skyline-transforming additions as the Queen’s Wharf entertainment precinct (with a six-star Rosewood) and a $100-million performing arts venue. And when the first World’s 50 Best Hotels list was released back in September, Brisbane’s modernist-tinged The Calile ranked the highest in the region. On the exact opposite side of the country, Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region made our list of the world’s best places to go in 2024, thanks to increased cruise itineraries to the area and the newly launched Aboriginal Cultural Expedition.

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Istanbul has always sat at the crossroads of the world, where the thin ribbon of the Bosphorus divides Asia from Europe, and East from West. It's taken its position to new heights with a game-changing international airport that opened in 2019 and gained fandom among our readers for its modern design and impressive duty-free shopping zone. Returning visitors will find all the things they love about Istanbul still intact, from its minaret-filled skyline to its thrilling food scene, but there are plenty of fresh offerings, including a burgeoning contemporary gallery scene in artsy Karaköy . Farther afield, the Turquoise Coast attracts jet setters with its traditional hammams and party-centric resorts alike, while the surrounding Aegean region has seen an explosion of modern wineries amid its ancient ruins. And speaking of antiquity, there’s a brand new (yet very old) reason to head out east into Anatolia: In 2021, UNESCO inscribed the 8,000-year-old Arslantepe Mound on its list of World Heritage Sites.

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9. Switzerland

With its cow-studded green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and glitzy ski resorts, Switzerland is the kind of place that most people think they know. But this country in the heart of Europe is worth another look. Take, for instance, its notoriously expensive largest city, Zürich , which never seems to get enough credit for its progressive outlook, oft-overlooked art and music scenes, and a skyline shaped by staggeringly diverse architectural voices, including Le Corbusier, Santiago Calatrava, and Shigeru Ban. Its Alpine ski towns, with big names like Verbier, Davos, and Zermatt , meanwhile, are expanding their offerings beyond the snow season: The Engadin Valley, home to St. Moritz, has become a warm-weather hot spot, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, electric mountain bikes for rent, and all manner of adventure sports, including paragliding, kitesurfing, and even class-4 whitewater-rapids rafting through Giarsun Gorge. But, of course, the classics still sing. After tackling the country’s rugged terrain, you’ve earned a stay in the new Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, a stunningly remade Belle Epoque grande-dame hotel originally opened in 1906.

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Oslo has spent the past several years getting out of the shadow of its grander Scandinavian peers, like Stockholm and Copenhagen, with attention-grabbing openings like the Sommerro Hotel and the new National Museum and buzzy districts like harbour-side Bjørvika, home to the new Munch Museum. But the capital city is a mere gateway for exploring the country and its fjord-filled coastline – recently recalculated as the second-longest in the world after Canada. This year, a must-visit stop is Bodø, the first European Capital of Culture north of the Arctic Circle, which will see a lineup of cultural events celebrating Sámi culture and the opening of a new hotel made almost entirely out of wood. For the best way to get around these parts, you can’t beat Hurtigruten, a historic coastal ferry company that also doubles as a pleasure cruise line, a cargo vessel, a mail ship, and an expedition outfitter. The beloved institution celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2023 by partnering with renowned Norwegian chefs like Halvar Ellingsen for boundary-pushing onboard menus (think reindeer tartar and elk bone marrow) and introducing new itineraries to Svalbard and the North Cape.

Ferragudo. Lagoa Municipality. Faro district. Algarve. Portugal

7. Portugal

This Iberian Peninsula country has spent the past decade transforming from a budget-minded underdog destination to a major player that can rival the likes of Spain and Italy. From the start, even as it suffered under a forty-year authoritarian regime and a flailing economy, Portugal was brimming with delights that bordered on sensory overload: the intricate blue-and-white patterns of azulejo tiles, the intoxicating aroma of oven-fresh pastéis de nata, the mournful chords of live fado music, the bracing chill of a crisp vinho verde or the nectary sweetness of a port. With its jaunty yellow trams and hilltop São Jorge Castle, Lisbon is an easy-to-adore starting point for first-timers, but an increasing number of direct flights to Porto are inviting travellers to explore the second city’s contemporary cultural scene and must-try restaurants. And then? Portugal rewards repeat visitors with a choose-your-own-adventure that might include the terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley, the underrated wineries and burgeoning beach towns of the Alentejo region, the surfer havens of the Algarve , and the absurdly scenic hamlets scattered throughout. Now, thanks to new direct flights from the US, even the Hawaii-like volcanic landscapes of the Azores are right at your fingertips.

Image may contain Architecture Building Church Person Landmark and Tibidabo Barcelona

When the World’s 50 Best Bars list was announced earlier this year, the top spot went to an innovative Barcelona cocktail lounge called Sips, and it shared the top five with fellow Barcelona speakeasy Paradiso, which is hidden inside a pastrami shop in the trendy El Born district. If you’ve spent any time in the country, especially after nightfall, you probably already know this obvious fact: the Spanish know how to party, and they love to do it in style, from the sherry and flamenco bars of Andalusia to the beach clubs of bohemian Formentera to the tapas bars of Barcelona . In an ironic twist, some of the country’s most notoriously party-hardy spots are moving in the opposite direction, shedding their reputations for debauchery to become serious cultural hubs. A new generation of creatives in Mallorca, for instance, are getting back to the land, with homey design hotels and natural wineries, while a host of boutique hotels and Michelin-star restaurants in Marbella is enticing visitors to explore beyond the (admittedly gorgeous) beachfront and into the previously underrated Old Town.

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5. New Zealand

Ever since Peter Jackson cast his home country as Middle-earth in the Lord of the Rings film franchise, visitors have viewed this island nation as a place of almost mythical beauty, from the crystalline mountains lakes and sweeping fjords to misty rainforests and geothermal valleys. Culturally diverse Auckland remains the most popular point of entry for international travelers, but new lodges and trails are making it easier than ever before to venture far out into the country’s vast wilderness. Among the most dazzling openings in recent years is Flockhill Lodge, a 36,000-acre high-country sheep station in the Southern Alps that now doubles as an ultra-luxe retreat, while other properties are finding clever ways to honour the land (such as regenerative farming) and especially the country’s Māori heritage. And for something wildly unique, consider a flight on the world’s first winery airline, Invivo Air, which flies between Auckland and Queenstown and includes an eight-step wine tasting at 18,000 feet.

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For American travellers, Ireland has always felt a bit like an old cardigan: cosy, easy, and comfortable – the kind of place you can take multiple generations of family members to trace your genealogical roots or to scope out centuries-old castles and fireplace-warmed pubs. But there’s also a decidedly youthful wind whipping across the Emerald Isle. The capital city is emerging as one of Europe’s most forward-thinking tech hubs, nicknamed Silicon Docks for the prevalence of tech giants and startups headquartered along the Grand Canal Dock. This infusion of big thinkers (with big wallets) has blown the dust off the island’s traditionalist culture. Now, in addition to crossing Trinity College’s Long Room off your bucket list, you might also find yourself foraging for nettles and pears with Takingaleaf founder Miceal Murray or sipping whiskey at Teeling, the first new distillery to open within the city in more than 125 years. Beyond the capital, Ireland is dotted with remote hotels and Airbnbs that allow you to spend the night everywhere from an island lighthouse in County May to a Scandi-chic cabin in County Monaghan. And if you’re in the mood for something farther afield, it doesn’t get much more rugged than the Aran Islands, the filming location and inspiration for The Banshees of Inisherin .

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Greece is attracting record-breaking tourist numbers, and the crystal Aegean waters are beckoning us back to some of your favourite islands in the world : postcard-perfect Santorini , mythology-steeped Mykonos , and massive Crete , with its reemerging viticultural scene. That roster of dreamy islands is ever-expanding, with more and more visitors venturing out to under-the-radar Paros , car-free Hydra , blissfully secluded Zakynthos, beach-filled Ios, and wild, windswept Tinos . And be sure not to ignore Athens. As it rebuilt itself after a paralysing debt crisis, the ancient city leaned into a scrappy, creative energy that has yielded forward-thinking restaurants, avant-garde galleries, and hip hotels that rank Athens among Europe’s unexpectedly coolest capitals. And for those really looking for an adventure – albeit a slow one – consider a journey into Zagorohoria, a collection of 46 traditional stone villages scattered around the Pindus Mountains in Greece’s rugged northwest. Here, you’re likelier to encounter truffle hunters, bubbling hot springs, and monasteries with Orthodox frescoes than sun-seeking partiers.

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As Stanley Tucci ’s popular CNN travelogue proved, there aren’t enough days in the year to uncover all the dolce vita that Italy has to offer. Beyond the hotspots in Florence , Venice , Milan , and Rome , the country is blessed with seemingly infinite villages and underrated cities to explore and fall in love with. Palermo ’s stunningly restored Villa Igiea , for instance, brought the glitterati back to Sicily, which is still riding high off its role in HBO’s The White Lotus , while Bergamo and Brescia – two former rivals who were epicentres of the early pandemic – put aside their differences to jointly hold the title of 2023 Italian Capital of Culture. Of course, one of Italy’s enduring legacies is its world-renowned cuisine, which the government has officially nominated for inclusion on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. And you don’t have to look far to see what all the fuss is about: Italy is a food lover’s paradise, where you can immerse yourself in the millennia-old Jewish cuisine of Rome, take part in a transformative cooking class in Tuscany, or try something completely new-to-you (like torta al testo ) in landlocked Umbria.

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Japan was dealt a bad hand, when its turn at the Summer Olympics fell during an international pandemic. And though they were much-delayed, the Games reminded viewers worldwide what they loved – and missed – about the island nation: the traditions, the design culture, the futuristic innovation. Now that the country has reopened for visa-free tourism, you’ll still find the incredible restaurants, the ultra-relaxing onsens, the Shinto temples, the cherry blossoms, and the impeccably clean and efficient high-speed trains, which run along some of the most scenic rail routes in the world. But there’s always something new popping up in this whizz-bang nation of the future. A buzzy gin scene? Sure. A hilltop castle from 1599 where you can book overnight stays? Check. Oh yeah, new galleries and exhibits on Naoshima Island, ultra-stylish glamping resorts, and a growing roster of sushi bars helmed by female chefs are still a major rarity in this tradition-bound country. And now there are fantastic excuses to venture far out to the country’s extreme north and south: New UNESCO World Heritage designees include the Jomon Prehistoric Sites in the north and a chain of islands in the archipelago’s southwestern stretches that are entirely uninhabited by humans and filled with endangered species.

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20 Most-Visited Countries in the World

France is one of the most-visited countries in the world

Which countries of the world lure the greatest number of visitors?

According to rankings by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Europe boasts 12 of the 20 most-visited countries. But Asia and the Pacific, with five countries on the list, is the fastest-growing region (expect to see these countries climb the rankings in the future).

Read on to find out which nations made the cut.

20. Netherlands

Capital: Amsterdam

Population: 17.44 million

Yearly visitors: 19 million

*Due to the ongoing disruption of the travel industry from the COVID-19 pandemic, visitor numbers are from the 2019 United Nations World Tourism Organization report.

What Brings People to the Netherlands

Tourists visiting tulip fields in Netherlands

Tourism continues to be a big trend for the Dutch, with many of the travelers coming from surrounding nations ( 80 percent) , followed next by the Americas and then Asia.

When people think of the Netherlands, they often think of Amsterdam, home to historic canals, museums both impressive and quirky, and a thriving nightlife scene. But the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions wants visitors to discover it is so much more than its capital.

"We take people from Amsterdam elsewhere," Henk Philip, a partner with Tours & Tickets, has said of visiting the country. "But what we really want is for people to not even go to Amsterdam, but visit other tourist attractions in the Netherlands."

Must-See in the Netherlands

One of those fantastic attractions outside Amsterdam is Kinderdijk-Elshout. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features the bucolic landscapes and windmills the country is famous for, while serving as a historically important example of early water-management systems.

Capital: Warsaw

Population: 37.95 million

Yearly visitors: 19.6 million

What Brings People to Poland

Travelers seeking European panache without the crowds of stalwarts like Spain, France, Germany and Italy are increasingly turning to Poland, thanks to its illustrious history (including a rich Jewish heritage), collection of medieval castles, untouched nature and delightful cuisine (if you haven't tried pierogis, you haven't lived life).

Oh, and it's Central-Eastern Europe's home to the most UNESCO World Heritage sites — 15 cultural and one natural.

The Polish Tourism Agency notes that 85 percent of visitors surveyed during their exit from the country would recommend and return to it.

Must-See in Poland

Auschwitz Birkenau concentration camp, Poland

Auschwitz Birkenau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a former Nazi concentration and extermination camp that is devastating but necessary to see in person.

A museum tells the story of the horrors of the camp, while honoring the lives of those who died there — over 1.1 million men, women and children in total.

Capital: Ottawa

Population: 38.01 million

Yearly visitors: 21.1 million

What Brings People to Canada

Canada's tourism industry is so immense, it accounted for $33.9 billion of the country's GDP in the first nine months of 2018 alone. Most visitors come from the neighboring U.S., followed by China and the UK, which only recently got edged out of its long-held No. 2 position.

Of visitors to the 3.8-million-square-mile country, two-thirds arrive via Ontario, home to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and the thriving, progressive metropolis of Toronto. Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal are also big cities that get lots of love, as do resort towns like Banff, home to one of Canada's most spectacular national parks .

More adventurous travelers seek out the country's wide-open nature in places like Churchill, where polar bears and beluga whales reside; Newfoundland, home to staggering fjords, icebergs and glaciers; and the Okanagan Valley, Canada's answer to Napa with rolling vineyards and superb wine to spare.

Must-See in Canada

Niagara Falls is one of the Seven Wonders of the World for a reason.

The Canadian side overlooks Horseshoe Falls, featuring a 3,000-foot crest whose vastness can only be understood when seen up close.

17. Portugal

Capital: Lisbon

Population: 10.31 million

Yearly visitors: 22.8 million

What Brings People to Portugal

Portugal's location in Southern and Mediterranean Europe has contributed to it becoming a leader in European tourism growth. (Other countries growing swiftly include Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey and Croatia.)

That growth is no accident. In 2017, the country launched a 10-year tourism plan aiming to double tourism revenue by 2027, and so far, it's working. Many tourists are finding their way to Portugal's unspoiled beaches, history-steeped castles and Lisbon, the country's sophisticated urban hub. And it's safer than many other European nations to boot.

Portugal is also at the top of the rankings for European nations .

Must-See in Portugal

Ursa Beach is a hidden gem among many idyllic Portugal beaches.

Surrounded by craggy limestone cliffs, it offers seclusion and natural beauty equally.

Capital: Moscow

Population: 144.1 million

Yearly visitors: 24.5 million

What Brings People to Russia

Alexander Column and Palace Square, St. Petersburg, Russia

Many forces have converged to make Russia increasingly popular among tourists.

For one thing, Central and Eastern Europe witnessed an overall 5-percent increase in tourism last year.

Plus, after the country hosted the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the Russian Federation experienced double-digit growth in tourist spending and a 10-percent boost in visitors.

Finally, the country saw an influx of Chinese tourists following a change in Visa procedures. (As of July 2019, an additional 53 nations can use a new e-visa online program, ensuring still more growth in the coming months.)

Where to begin in this country spanning an extraordinary 6.6 million square miles? Moscow and St. Petersburg are of course excellent places to start, though you'd also be wise to explore overlooked gems like the ancient town of Sezdal. A ride on the storied Trans-Siberian Railway is a must as well.

Must-See in Russia

Catherine Palace, aka the Summer Palace, was the summer residence of the Russian tsars, and is every bit as opulent as you'd expect. More than 220 pounds of gold adorn the exterior, while the inside features expansive frescoes, sweeping staircases and elaborate sculptures.

The over-the-top palace is located south of St. Petersburg.

15. Malaysia

Capital: Kuala Lumpur

Population: 32.37 million

Yearly visitors: 25.8 million

What Brings People to Malaysia

Four Southeast Asian countries are featured on the list of the top 15 most-visited destinations of 2018. Malaysia is gaining in popularity thanks to its natural charms (rainforests, national parks and wildlife abound) and desirable tropical temps, which range from 68 to 86 degrees all year round.

Of visitors to Malaysia, the majority come from Asia. Vision 2020 , the country's tourism plan, aims to see 30 million travelers by the decade's end.

Must-See in Malaysia

Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur features not only a series of fascinating caves, but a century-old Hindu temple.

The temple is accessed via colorful rainbow steps, which are a popular tourist attraction themselves.

14. Hong Kong

Capital: N/A

Population: 7.482 million

Yearly visitors: 29.2 million

What Brings People to Hong Kong

Couple enjoying street food in Hong Kong

Political changes in Hong Kong have warded visitors away, but it remains one of the most visited places on the planet, largely due to its popularity among business travelers. The opening of the Hong Kong-Zuhai-Macao Bridge to connect the Greater Bay has also boosted Hong Kong's tourism industry by making automobile arrival an option for Asian travelers.

Whether visiting for travel or business, most tourists make their way to Hong Kong's wealth of shopping malls and highly rated restaurants.

Must-See in Hong Kong

More than being practical, the Hong Kong-Zuhai-Macao Bridge is awe-inspiring to witness in person.

At 34 miles, it's the longest sea-spanning bridge in the world.

Capital: Athens

Population: 10.72 million

Yearly visitors: 30.1 million

What Brings People to Greece

With its rich ancient history, Greece remains a hotspot for tourists, growing by 2 million visitors annually for the past 3 years. In fact, one in five Greeks work in the tourism industry, even following the country's economic crisis.

Some, though, fear that Greece is joining the ranks of over-touristed areas, especially its small islands. The mayor of Santorini, for instance, is limiting the number of cruise passengers disembarking on the island to 8,000 people per day.

Must-See in Greece

Despite contending with overcrowding, Santorini remains a must-visit place. With its whitewashed houses perched on cliffs overlooking the sea, it's precisely what you picture when you think of Greece.

See it before doing so becomes even more difficult.

12. Austria

Capital: Vienna

Population: 8.917 million

Yearly visitors: 30.8 million

What Brings People to Austria

People in public park Volksgarten, Vienna

Austria may be the 12th-most-visited country in the world, but it's No. 1 when it comes to per-capita tourism in Europe. Its capital, Vienna, offers an incredibly high quality of life .

Many think of Austria's Alps, which explains why hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter are the two top vacations for visitors (enjoyed by 41 and 53 percent of visitors, respectively). Many others spend their time mountain-biking and exploring alpine lakes.

But while the Alps are spectacular, there's so much more to see here. Austria's tourism campaign touts its nine diverse regions to explore.

Must-See in Austria

The baroque Schloss Hellbrunn palace outside Salzburg dates back four centuries. Exploring its vast interior is best paired with a stroll through its romantic courtyard.

Capital: Tokyo

Population: 125.8 million

Yearly visitors: 31.1 million

What Brings People to Japan

The third-most-visited Asian destination on this list received more than 30 million visitors last year. And these numbers are expected to increase as the country hosts the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the 2020 Summer Olympics.

The tourism board's goal is to hit 40 million international visitors by 2020, which should be easy to accomplish. In addition to hosting the world's largest games, Japan entices visitors with its first-rate cuisine (Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city on Earth), ancient shrines, rich sense of tradition and unique natural features like snow-capped Mount Fiji.

Outside of Asia, Americans and Australians are the nation's biggest admirers.

Must-See in Japan

Japan's cherry blossom season in early April adds magical beauty to the country's landscapes.

During the Hanami celebration to welcome spring, revelers eat, drink, sing and dance beneath the fragrant pink blossoms.

10. United Kingdom

Capital: London

Population: 67.22 million

Yearly visitors: 36.3 million

What Brings People to the U.K.

Made up of four countries (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) that all speak English, the UK has long been a beloved destination among international travelers. Though it slipped slightly between 2017 and 2018, moving from No. 7 to No. 10 on the most-visited-countries list, Visit Britain estimates a rebound this year, with tourism growing another 6 percent.

More than half of those who arrive to the UK head to London, famous for its seamless blend of history and modern urbanity (not to mention its exemplary, scot-free museums).

Wales is the least visited of the countries — just 2 percent of travelers make it here.

Must-See in the U.K.

The Tower of London is a medieval castle that houses the famed crown jewels, including dazzling scepters and crowns dating back centuries.

9. Thailand

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai Thailand

Capital: Bangkok

Population: 69.8 million

Yearly visitors: 38.2 million

What Brings People to Thailand

Thailand makes up the largest portion of Southeast Asia's travels. The country welcomed nearly 3 million more tourists in 2018 than 2017 and witnessed $6 billion in spending.

Renowned for being budget-friendly due to its exchange rate (1 USD = 30 THB), the nation is transforming into a luxury getaway with more resorts and high-end offerings pushing out the backpacking and disreputable businesses of Bangkok.

Must-See in Thailand

The Phi Phi Islands are so idyllic and popular that the Thai government closed them until 2021 to allow for recovery from over-tourism.

Plan a trip to the island for the future, and take care of the natural environment when you're there.

Capital: Berlin

Population: 83.24 million

Yearly visitors: 38.8 million

What Brings People to Germany

Germany's visitor count has been steadily climbing for nine consecutive years. In 2017 and 2018, Germany even ranked 1st in the world on the Nation Brands Index for its popularity.

The country is most beloved among other Europeans, particularly the Dutch. Travelers from the United States are the largest market from overseas.

Both Europeans and Americans rave about the country's thought-provoking historic attractions, spirited cities, vast forests ( they cover one-third of the nation! ) and — most importantly — excellent beer.

Must-See in Germany

Brandenburg Gate, which dates back to 1791, is the only remaining town gate in Berlin.

Famously, it was from here that Ronald Reagan proclaimed, "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!"

Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, the gate has become a powerful symbol of unity.

Capital: Mexico City

Population: 128.9 million

Yearly visitors: 41.4 million

What Brings People to Mexico

Mexico broke its tourism record in 2018 and took in more than $20.3 billion doing so. Travelers to the country spent, on average, nearly $500 while visiting, most of whom came from the United States and Canada. UK residents served as Mexico's most prolific overseas tourists.

Even post-pandemic, Mexico continues to be an accessible and incredible getaway in the Americas. Postcard-perfect beaches remain a major draw here, but the country's tourism board has also successfully highlighted its ancient history, cultural institutions, diverse cuisine and natural features beyond the shoreline, including butterfly sanctuaries, canyons and waterfalls.

Must-See in Mexico

Chichen Itza, the ancient Mayan settlement, is a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 750 to 1200 A.D.

Capital: Ankara

Population: 84.34 million

Yearly visitors: 45.7 million

What Brings People to Turkey

Before the pandemic, Turkey was experiencing surging popularity. In 2018, Istanbul saw a record number of visitors, luring travelers to explore its East-meets-West cultural attractions, colorful bazaars and imposing mosques.

But it's the coastal city of Antalya in the south that's really been surging. More than 12.4 million visited this Mediterranean area last year, and the Culture and Tourism Ministry is estimating 2019 will break the 50-million-visitors mark.

Must-See in Turkey

Antalya's Old Town features Ottoman mosques, Roman towers and an ancient harbor lined with bustling modern-day cafes. Splendid beaches also await in the area.

No wonder travelers are coming to Antalya in droves.

Capital: Rome

Population: 59.55 million

Yearly visitors: 62.1 million

What Brings People to Italy

Tourism is so big in Italy that long lines at places like St. Paul's Cathedral and the Colosseum in Rome are all but guaranteed, even if you've booked reservations in advance. Statistics show Italy's tourism growth is above the European average, with Rome attracting nearly 27 million of its visitors.

Europeans travel to Italy the most: Germans account for 14 percent of visitors, with French and UK visitors making up 3 percent each. Americans are the biggest overseas market, also at 3 percent.

Outside the throngs of Rome, Italy also boasts the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, the artistic pedigree of Florence, the natural wonders of the Amalfi Coast and the canals of Venice among its embarrassment of riches.

Must-See in Italy

Get away from the crowds by visiting Sicily's ancient ruins and temperate beaches.

Go now before it becomes overcrowded too. Sicily saw more than 7 percent growth in tourism in recent years.

The Great Wall of China, Jinshan Mountains

Capital: Beijing

Population: 1.402 billion

Yearly visitors: 62.9 million

What Brings People to China

Not only does China receive more visitors than most of the world, but its own inhabitants account for 10 percent of all world travelers. It is expected that 20 percent of the Chinese population — 300 million people — will have passports by 2027. Chinese tourists also spend more than any other country, nearly doubling that of No. 2 — a whopping $277 billion!

Those outside China who make their way to the country discover everything that comes with being the world's oldest continuous civilization, from villages dating back thousands of years to ancient marvels like the Great Wall. Plus, the nation's cuisine, as affordable as it is flavorful, can't be beat.

Must-See in China

Zhaoxing Village is flanked by mountains and touts five drum towers representing five good manners in Chinese tradition: benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom and trust.

3. United States

Capital: Washington, D.C.

Population: 329.5 million

Visitors: 79.6 million

What Brings People to the United States

Considering the United States is 3.8 million square miles, nearly as big as all of Europe, it's easy to see why it's the third-most-popular travel destination on Earth.

The country's mix of wildly diverse attractions don't hurt either, including some of the most iconic cities in the world (New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago) and a thriving national-park system .

While most visitors come for the cities, it's the country's diverse nature that sets it apart. The U.S. boasts superlatives like the largest cave system in the world, which you'll find in Kentucky, and the deepest canyon, located in Oregon. You'll find everything from snow peaks to dry desserts, gorgeous beaches to ancient mountains and deceitfully beautiful swamps.

Must-See in the United States

Get a taste of the country's natural frontiers by exploring Utah's Mighty Five: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reed and Zion national parks.

Flamenco dancers in Plaza de Espana, Sevilla

Capital: Madrid

Population: 47.35 million

Yearly visitors: 82.7 million

What Brings People to Spain

Many news outlets are reporting on the extreme over-tourism found in Barcelona, which hit a record 8 million visitors in 2018. But that represents just a tenth of the travelers who visit this expansive country that also includes the cultural hub of Madrid and the flamenco capital of Seville, as well as untouched countryside and gorgeous beaches.

The nation's largest tourist groups come from Germany and Britain, though people from these countries are increasingly heading to Turkey and Greece instead. In their place, Americans are filling the empty beds, with nearly 3 million people coming from the U.S. last year — an 11.8 percent growth.

Unfortunately, the influx of people has locals on edge, and the Spanish are considered to be developing " tourist phobia ," especially in Barcelona and the Catalan states.

Must-See in Spain

Forget the tourist cities and hike the Camino de Santiago, known as "The Way," for a pilgrimage across northern Spain.

Capital: Paris

Population: 67.39 million

Yearly visitors: 89.4 million

What Brings People to France

tourist in Les Gorges du Verdon, Provence, France

More people are visiting France than any other country in the world, and the country has a 100-million-visitors target for 2020. Think they'll hit it? We do, too, especially considering it hosted the FIFA Women's World Cup earlier this year.

Not only does France receive the largest number of tourists, but they make the most off of them too. Tourism brought in $62 billion last year!

Get your visit in while you can. Tourism is only going to rise, especially when France hosts the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

Must-See in France

Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre in Northern France, is a sight truly like no other: a medieval monastery perched atop a solitary island.

The World's Most Visited Countries

Paris, France is the most visited country in the world. Source: Shutterstock

France is the world's most visited country with 89 million tourists.
In 2019, 1.5 billion tourist arrivals were recorded around the world.
Tourism accounts for 12% of Spain's economy.

The World Tourism Organization recently reported that international tourism is continuing to grow and is "outpacing the global economy". In 2019, 1.5 billion tourist arrivals were recorded around the world, a 4% increase on 2018's figures. The Middle East is currently the fastest-growing region for international tourism, but European countries such as France, Spain and Italy remain the most visited. Find out the top 10 world's most visited countries below:

10. United Kingdom: 36 million tourists

In 2019, the United Kingdom welcomed 36 million tourists to its towns and cities. London is the country's most visited city, with approximately 12 million visitors each year. Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester are also popular city destinations. Tourism produces around USD 131 billion for the country and provides over two million jobs. American residents are the most frequent visitors, followed by those who live in France. Some of the UK's most popular tourist attractions include Big Ben, the Tower of London and Stonehenge .

9. Thailand: 38 million tourists

Thailand has been a popular tourist destination for decades thanks to its white-sand beaches, delicious cuisine and hot weather. Bangkok , Thailand's capital, frequently holds the top spot as the world's most visited city. It attracts around 22 million visitors each year. The 1,430 islands of Thailand draw in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, some of the islands are heralded as being some of the best in the world. Thailand's most popular spots include Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi and The Grand Palace of Bangkok.

8. Germany: 39 million tourists

Germany is famous for its beer, sausages and picturesque castles. The country welcomes around 39 million tourists each year, with approximately 13 million visiting Berlin, Germany's capital city. Tourism in Germany generates two million jobs for its residents and contributes over 4% towards the country's GDP.

7. Mexico: 41 million tourists

Mexico , located in the southern part of North America, is rapidly becoming a favorite tourist destination. People from all over the world are visiting the vibrant country to enjoy the pristine beaches, explore the deep history and culture, and discover UNESCO World Heritage sites. Over the last decade, tourism has significantly contributed to Mexico's employment and economy. In 2019, the government announced a six-year strategy to boost tourism and improve conditions for workers within the industry. Some of the country's most visited destinations are Cancun, Mexico City, and Playa del Carmen.

6. Turkey: 46 million tourists

Located on two continents, Turkey offers a unique blend of East and West. Edged by the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, Turkey has an abundance of stunning coastlines and charming resorts. Tourists also enjoy visiting Turkey's capital, Ankara as well as the resort-city of Antalya. It was reported that over 15 million vacationers visited Antalya in 2019. Antalya is popular thanks to its proximity to beaches and remnants of Turkey's rich history. Famous tourist attractions in Turkey include the Blue Mosque , Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sofia Museum.

5. Italy: 62 million tourists

Italy has culture, history and cuisine in abundance, making it a very popular tourist destination for people all around the globe. Italy has a varied landscape that suits all traveler types; there are snow-covered peaks, sprawling vineyards and glittering coastlines. Not to mention the beautiful cities like Rome, Naples and Florence. There are 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites dotted throughout the country showcasing the best of Italian history. Some of Italy's best-loved attractions include the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

4. China: 63 million tourists

China , the third-largest country in the world, is in the world's top five tourist destinations because of its natural landscapes, expansive history and delicious cuisine. Tourism in China is a growing industry that is becoming a significant part of the country's economy. In 2018, tourism contributed 11.04% of China's overall GDP, which increased a further 1.2% in 2019. Famous attractions include The Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square .

3. United States: 80 million tourists

Tourism is one of the United States ' biggest contributors to the country's GDP. The industry supports over 7 million jobs, and in 2017, tourism generated USD 1.6 trillion in economic output. Cities such as New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles experience high numbers of tourists all year round, with New York being the most visited city in the country. Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Japan and China are the top five countries that make up the majority of US tourism.

2. Spain: 83 million tourists

Spain is the second most visited country in both the world and Europe. Tourism accounts for 12% of Spain's economy and provides 13% of jobs. The majority of tourists who visit the country come from Europe; it is the warm weather, pristine beaches and bustling cities that attract millions of vacationers. Some of Spain's most famous landmarks include La Sagrada Familia , Park Güell and Alhambra.

1. France - 89 million tourists

Attracting over 89 million tourists each year, France is the world's most visited country. Paris, France's capital city, draws in around 17 million tourists a year; 7 million of those visit the Eiffel Tower. Tourism in France represents 9.7% of the overall GDP and provides 2.9 million jobs. The majority of France's visitors come from other European countries, with over 12 million coming from the United Kingdom. Disneyland, the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral are some of France's most visited attractions.

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Travel Updates

Epic Expeditions: Unravelling the Top Most Visited Countries in the World

Discover the most visited countries in the world with us where you'll get to see iconic tourist spots, rich culture and heritage, and a lot more that is definitely worth experiencing.

Hello, fellow wanderers, thrill-seekers, and adventure enthusiasts! We are here to take you on an exhilarating adventure through the fascinating realm of travel statistics. Brace yourself for the best, because today we’re embarking on a whimsical journey to explore the most visited countries in the world! Yes, you heard it right!

Picture this: a world where passports become worn-out trophies, and airplane windows show breathtaking landscapes like postcards brought to life. We’ll delve into the realms of history, culture, adventure, and awe-inspiring beauty, as we explore the most visited countries in the world.

Ever wondered which are the most visited countries by tourists? Our quirky compass is going to guide you through vibrant festivals, bustling marketplaces, and legendary tales that passed down through generations in some of the top countries of the world.

So, whether you’re an avid explorer or a traveller looking to have a relaxing time, we have something to offer to each one of you as we embark upon this journey of getting acquainted with some of the most visited countries in the world.

Get ready for a delightful ride where we explore the top countries to visit that have captivated the hearts of countless adventurers.

So buckle up, and let’s soar through this thrilling list of the top most visited countries together!

Table of Contents

Top 19 Most Visited Countries in the World

1. france – the crown jewel of elegance.

Ah, oui oui! Our first destination is none other than France, the epitome of romance, art, and sophistication. With the iconic Eiffel Tower standing tall in the City of Love, Paris; the breathtaking landscapes of Provence, and the French Riviera, it’s evident why France is one of the most preferred destinations when it comes to having a good vacation.

2. Spain – Fiesta and Flamenco

Next on our list of most visited countries in the world is the vibrant and vivacious land of Spain! From the colorful streets of Barcelona to the flamenco-infused nights in Seville, Spain offers an irresistible blend of culture, cuisine, and fiestas. And let’s not forget the stunning beaches of the Costa del Sol and the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudí, which beautifully capture hearts with their mesmerising beauty.

3. United States – The Land of Dreams

The United States offers a range of adventurous activities with its diverse landscapes and iconic cities. Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, enjoying the glitz of New York City, or immersing in the magic of Disneyland, the USA offers you an unforgettable adventure.

4. China – Where Tradition Meets Modernity

China has a lot to offer to someone who loves to discover

A land of ancient wonders and modern marvels, China’s allure is exceptional. The Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army in Xi’an are some of the many wonders that make China a top destination. And how can we forget the jaw-dropping skylines of Shanghai and the picturesque landscapes of Guilin?

5. Italy – La Dolce Vita

Every corner of Italy is loaded with magic

When it comes to living the ideal sweet life, Italy is the best! The birthplace of pizza, pasta, and gelato, Italy tantalizes taste buds and captures hearts which makes it an ideal destination for those who’re passionate about food. From the historic marvels of Rome and the artistic treasures of Florence to the enchanting canals of Venice, this Mediterranean gem keeps travellers coming back for more.

6. Mexico – Where Fiesta Never Ends

Get ready for a fiesta that goes on all year long in Mexico! From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, this country offers a range of colors, flavors, and traditions. The country is also home to the stunning beaches of Cancún and the vibrant celebrations of Dia de los Muertos.

7. United Kingdom – Where History Lives On

United Kingdom has some of the most amazing tourist attractions.

Get ready for a trip back in time as we venture to the United Kingdom. With its captivating history and captivating countryside, this land is home to some of the most amazing attractions. Here you get to explore the majesty of Buckingham Palace, the mystery of Stonehenge, and the literary wonders of Oxford.

8. Turkey – Where East Meets West

The tantalizing charisma of Turkey makes it one of the best places to visit.

Embrace the charm of Turkey, where two continents blend seamlessly. Istanbul, the magical city straddling Europe and Asia, boasts mesmerizing mosques, bustling bazaars, and delectable Turkish delights. Beyond the city, Cappadocia’s fairy-tale landscapes and the ancient ruins of Ephesus are a traveller’s dream come true.

9. Germany – From Castles to Oktoberfest

Germany’s diverse offerings promise a memorable time. Here you get to adore the beauty of fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein, sip on world-class beer at Oktoberfest in Munich, and wander through the historic streets of Berlin. With its warm hospitality and rich heritage, Germany has a special place in the hearts of travelers.

10. Thailand – The Land of Smiles

Thailand is the land of smiles and greenry

As we venture into Southeast Asia, Thailand greets us with open arms and lots of warm smiles. Here you get to explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Chiang Mai’s temples, and relax on the idyllic beaches of Phuket. Thailand’s charm and cultural richness make it a beloved destination for tourists.

11. Australia – Nature’s Wonderland

Kangaroos, koalas, and the Great Barrier Reef wait to embrace you in the sun-kissed land of Australia. Immerse yourself in the urban chic of Sydney, marvel at the vastness of the Outback, and dive into the blue wonders beneath the ocean’s surface. Australia’s natural beauty is a magnet for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts.

12. Japan – Where Tradition Meets Futurism

Get ready to be amazed by the magnificence of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology in Japan. The serene temples of Kyoto, the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, and the stunning cherry blossoms all contribute to Japan’s attractive appeal. It’s a beautiful blend of old and new attractions.

13. Hong Kong – The Gateway to Asia

A bustling metropolis that never sleeps, Hong Kong is an urban paradise. Skyscrapers kissing the sky, bustling street markets, and a culinary scene that’ll leave you craving for more – this is Hong Kong’s magic. What’s more? You get to experience the fusion of Eastern and Western influences in this vibrant city. This is indeed one of the top most visited countries by tourists.

14. Malaysia – Truly Asia

Diversity defines Malaysia , where a melting pot of cultures blends with harmony. Kuala Lumpur’s iconic Petronas Towers dominate the skyline, while the pristine beaches of Langkawi and the lush rainforests of Borneo offer moments of serenity. Malaysia’s warm hospitality and captivating landscapes leave lasting impressions.

15. Russia – A Land of Intrigue

The largest country in the world, Russia beckons with its enigmatic history and amazing landscapes. From the grand palaces of St. Petersburg to the majestic beauty of Lake Baikal and the iconic Red Square in Moscow, Russia is a captivating destination for curious minds.

16. Greece – Gods, Myths, and Islands

Greece lures travellers with its charm and timeless grace

Travel back in time to ancient Greece, where mythology and history come together to create magic. The Acropolis of Athens stands proudly as a testament to its glorious past. Also, Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos lure travellers with their azure waters and charming villages. Besides this, there is a lot more that makes Greece one of the most visited countries by tourists.

17. Canada – Wilderness and Urban Delights

Venture to the Great White North, where nature’s wonders unfold before you in all their splendour. Canada ‘s vast landscapes, from the Rockies to Niagara Falls, offer a delightful playground for adventurers. Don’t forget to explore vibrant cities like Toronto and Vancouver, where culture and diversity thrive.

18. Netherlands – Windmills and Tulips

Get ready to cycle through the picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands, where windmills and tulip fields adorn the scenery. Amsterdam’s historic canals and vibrant culture add to the country’s allure, making it a must-visit for any traveler.

19. South Korea – Tradition and Modernity Collide

Captivating blend of ancient traditions: South Korea

A captivating blend of ancient traditions and technological wonders, South Korea is a dynamic destination. Here you get to explore the palaces of Seoul, indulge in mouthwatering Korean barbecue, and dive into the world of K-pop and Korean dramas that dominate the hearts of today’s youth.

And there you have it, fellow travellers – the exhilarating list of the “most visited countries in the world”! Whether you’re drawn to the romance of Paris, the mystery of China’s ancient wonders, or the thriving energy of Thailand , these countries promise you loads of unforgettable experiences.

Concluding Remarks

We’ve embarked on a whirlwind adventure through the most visited countries in the world, and what a wild ride it has been! From stunning landscapes to rich cultural experiences, these countries have left an indelible mark on travellers from everywhere.

As we conclude our journey through the most visited countries in the world, one thing is evident: the beauty and diversity of our planet is simply awe-inspiring. So, pack your bags, gather your sense of adventure, and set off to explore these incredible destinations. Who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself making some of the best memories of your life which you’re going to cherish for a lifetime!

Ans. The city that attracts the most tourists can vary depending on various factors, such as the time period considered and the criteria used to define “tourist.” However, some cities consistently rank high in terms of tourist arrivals. For many years, Bangkok, Thailand has been one of the most visited cities in the world, with its vibrant culture, historical sites, and bustling markets attracting millions of tourists annually.

Ans. Tourism is indeed one of the world’s largest industries. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including transportation, accommodation, attractions, and hospitality services. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global travel and tourism sector contributes significantly to the global economy, generating jobs and driving economic growth. It is estimated that tourism accounts for around 10% of the world’s GDP and employs millions of people worldwide.

Ans. People from various backgrounds and demographics travel extensively, and there is no single type of person who travels the most. Traveling is enjoyed by individuals of all ages, professions, and interests. However, certain factors like age, disposable income, and personal preferences can influence travel habits. For example, young adults may be more likely to embark on backpacking adventures, while older individuals might prefer guided tours or luxury travel experiences. Ultimately, the desire to explore and experience new cultures and destinations transcends any specific demographic.

Ans. The ease of travel can vary from country to country, depending on factors such as visa requirements, infrastructure, safety, and accessibility. Several countries are known for their ease of travel due to lenient visa policies, efficient transportation networks, and developed tourism infrastructure. Some examples of countries that are generally considered easier to travel to include countries in the European Union, such as France, Germany, and Spain, where visa-free or visa-on-arrival access is granted to many nationalities. Additionally, countries like Japan, South Korea, and Singapore are known for their well-connected transportation systems and traveler-friendly services.

Ans. As per the latest information, the most visited country in Asia is Thailand. Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and modern cities make it a popular tourist destination. However, it’s important to understand that tourism patterns keep changing over time, and the most visited country in Asia could potentially shift based on evolving trends and preferences.

Ans. As per the latest information, India is currently ranked as the 43rd most visited country in the world. India’s rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, diverse landscapes, and spirituality attract a significant number of tourists. However, specific rankings can differ depending on different sources and the time period considered.

Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, culture, tradition, and exciting attractions? Let your explorer's spirit soar and make unforgettable memories as you explore the beauty of our diverse world.

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World tourism rankings by country: top 20 countries.

In this piece, we will take a look at world tourism rankings by country. If you want to skip our analysis of the tourism industry and recent trends, head on over to World Tourism Rankings by Country: Top 5 Countries .

Tourism is one of the key determinants of global economic health. And it's an industry that has grown alongside advances in air transportation that have enabled people to travel to far flung destinations while traveling at speeds of hundreds of kilometers per hour.

This industry is also among the few that were left completely devastated in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Estimates from the United Nations' World Tourism Organization (WTO) show that international travel shrunk by an absolutely stunning 72% in 2020 as lockdowns and stay at home orders led to the closure of hospitality establishments and restrictions on the number of people that could be crammed inside an enclosed space such as an airplane. The impact of the pandemic was so severe that even by the end of 2022, the industry had recovered to 65% of previous levels despite more than a year of near normalcy.

Yet, tourism is one of the biggest industries in the world. For instance, according to research from Industry Arc, the global travel and tourism industry is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% between 2021 and 2026 to be worth an estimated $8.9 trillion by the end of the forecast period. Another report from Allied Markets Research estimates that the business travel market was worth $696 billion in 2020 and will grow at a CAGR of 13.2% to sit at $2 trillion by 2028.

At the same time, business and leisure travel are not the only constituents industries of tourism. Two additional markets are adventure tourism and luxury travel. Estimates suggest that the former was worth $282 billion in 2021 and after growing at a CAGR of 15.1% is estimated to be worth $1 trillion in 2030. As far as luxury tourism is concerned, it was quite lucrative, being worth $1.28 trillion in 2022, and should have a CAGR of 7.6% to be worth $2.32 trillion in 2030.

Building on this, the next logical question to ask is which countries are the most popular for tourists and which are the most visited overall as well as in continents such as Europe and Asia. Well, on this front, data from the World Tourism Organization once again answer all our questions. Its World Tourism Barometer report for December 2020 (the latest version that is publicly available) shows that France was the most visited tourist destination in the world and in Europe in 2019. Broadening our approach to see which are the top ten most visited tourist countries in the world, we find out that after France, the list is dominated by Spain, the U.S., China, Italy, Turkey, Mexico, Thailand, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Astute readers will note that this also makes China as the most visited tourist destination in Asia. In terms of numbers, 83.5 million people visited Spain in 2019 - the second most popular tourist destination in Europe while China attracted 65.7 million people.

At this point, you might be wondering which is the most popular and most visited city in the world. Well, and perhaps unsurprisingly, just as France is the world's and Europe's most popular tourist destination, the most visited city in the world is its capital, Paris. This bit of information comes courtesy of Euromonitor International, which adds that in addition to Paris, some other popular cities for tourists are Dubai, Amsterdam, Madrid, Rome, and London. Crucially, Euromonitor's stats are for 2022, while the WTO's data shared above is from 2019, and these facts when taken together indicate that trends in the tourism industry tend to stay similar over the years - a crucial conclusion as you'll find out below.

China's role as the most popular tourist destination in Asia and a leading global economy merits a deeper look at what's in store for the country's tourist fortunes. China kick started 2023 by removing nearly all restrictions on travel and tourism, and after initially faltering, the pent up tourism demand roared back to life. Data compiled by McKinsey shows that visits to one of its most popular cities Shanghai nearly doubled to ten million visitors from the pre coronavirus 2019 peak. At the same time, China also has some of the biggest outbound tourism travelers in the world, and McKinsey estimates that pend up demand from these visitors as well carries with it a strong chance of injecting fresh vigor into the global tourism industry.

Finally, it's relevant to conclude our analysis of the global tourism industry by taking a look at what's happening on the ground. On this front, the management of Expedia Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: EXPE ) outlined during its first quarter of 2023 earnings call conference :

And I’m pleased to have started the year with strong performance. We posted our highest ever quarter for lodging gross bookings and free cash flow and our best first quarter for revenue. Throughout the quarter, we saw strong consumer demand with acceleration in international and big city travel and more of Asia reopening. The reemergence of major international cities has meant increased hotel demand, offset in part by flattening demand in vacation rentals as travel demand mix to urban destinations over extended beach and mountain trips. Similarly, air has continued to mix towards international travel and away from COVID era concentration in domestic. By and large, prices have held up quite well after several years of inflation. We’ve seen lodging ADRs hold fairly steady across geos. Air ticket prices, however, continued to increase as strong demand continues to outstrip capacity. The only area where we have seen any meaningful decline in average daily rate is in the car rental space where larger inventories have allowed rental companies to drive more volume at the expense of price. Overall, we are pleased to see broad travel demand remain strong in what appears to be a more structural post pandemic environment of people prioritizing travel above most other categories of spend. This has held up despite inflation and recession worries and even, more recently, bank system concerns. While economists continue to debate potential recession outcomes and clearly many unknowns are still out there, consumers have so far shaken it off and continue to travel.

With these details in mind, let's take a look at the world tourism rankings according to countries.

Pixabay/Public domain

Our Methodology

To compile our global tourism ranking by country, we used data from the 2020 version of the United Nations' World Tourism Barometer report. While it lists out international tourism receipts for 2019, this is actually helpful since 2019 was the last economically stable year for the global tourism industry which is still recovering. For our world tourism rankings, we have used international tourism receipts which is the amount spent by international visitors in a country. On a side note, both countries and special territories are included, since the spending is quite substantial.

World Tourism Rankings by Country

20. portuguese republic.

International Tourism Receipts: $20.6 billion

The Portuguese Republic is a Southwestern European country. It has a $257 billion economy and is famous for its Gothic architecture and diverse cuisine.

19. Republic of Korea

International Tourism Receipts: $21.6 billion

The Republic of Korea, commonly known as South Korea is a technologically developed Asian country. South Korea is quite popular with visitors from China - with thousands flocking to the country each year.

18. United Arab Emirates

International Tourism Receipts: $21.8 billion

The United Arab Emirates is not a surprising industry in our list of world tourism rankings. After all, its economic hub Dubai is one of the most highly visited cities in Asia.

17. Republic of Austria

International Tourism Receipts: $22.9 billion

The Republic of Austria is a Central European landlocked country. Some of its most popular tourist destinations include its capital Vienna, known for the Schönbrunn Palace.

16. United Mexican States

International Tourism Receipts: $24.6 billion

The United Mexican States, or Mexico, is a North American country. It is well known for historical tourism, being the birthplace of the Mayan civilization as well as beautiful beaches.

International Tourism Receipts: $28.0 billion

Canada is a prosperous North American nation. Canada is best known for its Niagra Falls, which has been a popular tourist destination for more than a hundred years.

14. Hong Kong SAR

International Tourism Receipts: $29.0 billion

Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic temples, and of course, Disneyland.

13. Republic of Türkiye

International Tourism Receipts: $29.8 billion

The Republic of Türkiye is an Asian and European nation. Its Istanbul International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world.

12. Republic of India

International Tourism Receipts: $30.7 billion

The Republic of India is one of the biggest countries in the world and is full of iconic tourist destinations such as the Taj Mahal, the Ganges River, and more.

11. People's Republic of China

International Tourism Receipts: $35.8 billion

The People's Republic of China is the most populous nation in the world. It has a centuries old culture lending it iconic destinations such as the Great Wall of China.

10. Macao SAR

International Tourism Receipts: $40.1 billion

Macao is another special territory of China. It is best known for its vibrant casino and gaming industry.

9. Federal Republic of Germany

International Tourism Receipts: $41.6 billion

The Federal Republic of Germany is Europe's largest economy It is known for its beer festivals and winter markets, that is quite a spectacle.

8. Commonwealth of Australia

International Tourism Receipts: $45.7 billion

The Commonwealth of Australia is a prosperous Oceanic country. It is known for having the world's largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef.

International Tourism Receipts: $46.1 billion

Like China, Japan is also a historic country full of ancient temples and a historic culture.

6. Italian Republic

International Tourism Receipts: $49.6 billion

Another unsurprising entry on our list is Italy. Known for its Roman culture and art galleries, it is one of the best destinations for cultural tourism.

Click to continue reading and see World Tourism Rankings by Country: Top 5 Countries .

18 Best Places to Visit in the World

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

Author Lana Law has traveled the globe extensively, including two year-long world trips, the most recent one in 2022/2023.

The world is filled with such a wide variety of wonderful destinations and beautiful places to visit, it can be difficult to compile a list of the best ones. Thinking about a traveler who, for whatever reason, has never set foot outside his or her hometown, where would be the first places they might visit?

The list of the world's best places to visit has to include great cities, like New York, Paris, London, and so on, each of which is filled with a multitude of individual sites or must-see places to visit. The list also includes specific sites, monuments, and locations, each also worthy of a visit in their own right.

For more ideas on where to go and what to see, read our list of the top places to visit in the world.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

2. the grand canyon, arizona, 3. rome, italy, 4. maui, hawaii, 5. masai mara, kenya, 6. new zealand, 7. istanbul, turkey, 8. angkor wat, cambodia, 10. london, england, 11. manhattan, new york, 12. paris, france, 13. montreal, canada, 14. san francisco, california, 15. marrakesh, morocco, 16. cartagena, columbia, 17. the canary islands, 18. hong kong, map of places to visit in the world.

Highlights : Ancient 700-year-old city with an incredible location high in the Andes

Located high in the Andes mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is now believed to have been a sacred royal retreat for the Incan rulers. Built in the 15 th century CE and abandoned less than 100 years later, the remote site continues to amaze with its perfectly joined, mortarless, intricate stonework. Huge multi-ton blocks of stone are perfectly joined with each other, without the use of mortar or cement.

The journey to Machu Picchu typically starts in the mountain city of Cusco , which was the capital city of the Inca Empire . Cusco is a fascinating place to explore-be sure to spend a few days there before or after your Machu Picchu adventure.

It's possible to hike the Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The full hike takes five days, but you can also start closer and do a one-, two- or three-day hike along the trail. Most people take the train from Cusco, which takes about three and a half hours.

Machu Picchu has taken steps to avoid over-tourism and has limited the number of visitors to the site each day. All visitors need a permit prior to visiting. They are easily available from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture reservation page up to four months in advance. Many websites, hoping to sell tours, do not share this information.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Highlights : The earth's geological history opens before your eyes in a mile-deep chasm

This incredible sight, one of the seven natural wonders of the world , is in the U.S. state of Arizona. It's one of those beautiful places for which photos or video just don't do it justice-its sheer size and scope are hard to comprehend.

With geology formed over the past two billion years, yes billion, the 277-mile-long canyon itself is believed to have been started around five to six million years ago. It was formed by the flow of the Colorado River, which still flows through it and continues to erode the geology along its course. The Grand Canyon is up to 18 miles wide in places and up to a mile deep. Imagine standing on the edge, looking down a sheer rock wall almost a mile to the river below.

Most visitors come to the area referred to as the South Rim . This is where a number of impressive hiking trails into the Grand Canyon begin and great overlooks are spread along the rim road, known as Desert View Drive. A range of accommodations is available here and nearby, from tents to a rustic luxury canyon-side resort built from logs. A few accommodations are also found on the remote North Rim .

Many visitors access the canyon via the historic Grand Canyon Railway , which runs from the town of Williams, Arizona. The 64-mile rail line provides an entertaining way to get to the canyon with food and live music onboard. For those who prefer to drive, see our articles on driving north from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon or driving from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon .

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

Highlights : History around every corner; the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon are must-sees

The Eternal City is more like a giant, living museum. Visitors are immersed in and surrounded by thousands of years of history. It's a relatively compact city, and a three-day itinerary gets you to the minimum number of must-see places.

These must-see sites for any visitor include the Colosseum and adjacent Roman Forum ; the Pantheon ; and Vatican City , a separate country in the middle of central Rome.

Take some time to explore the outskirts of Rome, too. Consider a hike along a tomb-lined section of the Appian Way, the ancient Roman superhighway, and a visit to one of the aqueduct ruins outside the city.

If you feel like hitting the beach after all your exploring, Rome has a wonderful assortment of beach towns just a short drive away on the Lazio Coast. Escape the heat, hustle, and bustle of the city to bathe in the cool waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

Highlights : A tropical paradise with stunning beaches and five-star luxury resorts

This Hawaiian island offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. You can surf, enjoy a meal on the beach at a five-star luxury resort in Wailea, ride a horse across a dormant volcano in Haleakala National Park , or hike through a rainforest in the West Maui Mountains. The natural scenery is amazing-it's truly one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

When it comes to accommodation, there is something for everyone here, from rustic hippie bungalow bed and breakfasts to five-star luxury resort hotels . Wailea has all the luxury resorts-it's like the beachfront Beverly Hills of Maui. If you're staying here, be sure to venture out and spend some time in Kihei, where the locals hang out.

Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Maui
Best Beaches on Maui

Highlights : Wild animals in their natural environment, luxury safari lodges

Kenya's Masai Mara is an incredible bio-diverse area and a popular safari destination. It's an opportunity to see the "big five" animals (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) all during one trip or, if you're lucky, during one afternoon.

The protected Masai Mara National Reserve park area is huge, with over 1,500 square kilometers of mainly grassland, extending all the way to the Serengeti Plain of Tanzania. The popular times to visit are during the twice-yearly migrations, the main ones being in July and August. Over a million wildebeest and other animals cross the area in huge groups to go from one feeding area to another. Most visitors fly into Nairobi , then take a small bush plane to the Mara.

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kenya
Best Game Reserves in Africa

Lupin blooming at Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Highlights : Amazing natural sights in one easy-to-visit country

With its striking natural beauty , friendly citizens, and recent popularity due to its use as the filming location for the Lord of the Rings films (as well as many others), this island nation is one of the world's great places to visit. The biodiversity here is amazing — it's believed New Zealand was one of the last places on Earth to have human inhabitants.

Start your visit off in Auckland , with its culture, history, and museums. Spend some time on the water and at the beach — Waitemata Harbour has beaches, along with a range of sailing and boating activities.

Visit the Rotorua area to learn about and experience Indigenous Maori culture and head to Queenstown to experience the country's wide range of outdoor extreme action sports. Remember, this is where bungee jumping was invented.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

Highlights : Shopping in the bazaars, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia are not to be missed

Turkey's capital city is another destination that offers a great mix of culture, food, and history. There are thousands of years of history here, starting with Ancient Greeks and Ancient Romans and leading up through the Ottoman Empire.

There's a mix of the new and the timeless here unlike anywhere else. You can spend the day shopping and the night at a wonderful restaurant eating great Turkish food and dancing to Turkish music, then rise (very early) in the morning to the sound of the Ezan or morning Islamic call to prayer. It echoes across the rooftops as it's broadcast from loudspeakers set atop the minarets of the city's mosques.

Istanbul has excellent public transit, which means it's easy to get around and explore all the major sites and monuments. Must-see places include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia , and Topkapi Palace.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Highlights : A stunning ancient jungle city with hundreds of intricately constructed temples

Located just outside the Cambodian city of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is the largest religious site in the world. Angkor Wat is Cambodia's top tourist attraction.

It was created originally as a Hindu temple and mausoleum for the Khmer ruler in the early part of the 12 th century and was converted to a Buddhist temple at the end of the 12 th century. Just part of an enormous ancient city. Angkor Wat is the temple area, and Angor Thom was the city and palace area. There are hundreds of other ruin sites in the area, all part of the ancient capital of Angkor.

Siem Reap and its temples and ruins are now very easily accessible via daily flights from Hong Kong and other large Asian cities. Accommodations range from inexpensive guesthouses to lavish luxury resorts, with everything in between.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siem Reap

Highlights : Tropical beaches, volcano hikes, ancient temples, and friendly people

The tropical Indonesian island of Bali is a lush, tropical destination that should not be missed. A bit of everything can be found here, from towering volcanoes and sun-kissed shores to lush jungles complete with mischievous monkeys.

Add in the cultural aspect of vibrant temples and the friendly Balinese people, it becomes very easy to spend longer here than you may have planned. Bali has a long list of interesting things to do including rice terrace tours, volcano climbs, surfing lessons, and handicraft markets.

In the evening, enjoy the delights of Balinese dining with a tasty plate of Nasi Goreng or satay followed up by the rhythmic beats of a Kecak dance performance.

Highlights : History, architecture, dining, and world-class shopping

This historic English city is another destination just filled with incredible places to visit. A trip to London is an opportunity to visit iconic places like the Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace , and the Tower of London .

Take advantage of the city being a cultural center as well by seeing a West End theater show or watching a musical performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Modern London is also a city of fine dining, luxury hotels, and world-class shopping.

Don't miss the museums, the vast British Museum is free, and usually quite crowded. Make time to visit The Wallace Collection , a free museum on Oxford Street. It has one of the world's greatest collections of furniture and porcelain, along with some important Old Master paintings.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Highlights : Shopping, dining, Broadway shows, museums, and the Statue of Liberty

One of the five boroughs of New York City, Manhattan is actually an island, bordered by the East River and the Hudson (and a little bit by the Harlem River). This island is a bit less than 23 square miles and is home to almost two million residents. Add in the daily influx of workers, and the island routinely holds close to four million people.

No other city in the world offers the frenetic energy of New York City. It's filled with the world's best shopping and dining, along with incredible museums .

Manhattan also has a giant green heart, Central Park . No matter the season, it provides a playground for the city's residents, offering a range of activities from museums to a zoo. There's also a lot of green space where you can play and relax, along with miles of running, biking, and skating trails. You can also enjoy plenty of things to do in winter in NYC , from skating and sipping hot chocolate, to shopping and Broadway shows.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

Highlights : Dining, shopping, the Eiffel Tower, museums, Seine River cruises

No visit to the French capital is complete without a trip to and a trip up its most iconic structure. The 300-meter-tall Eiffel Tower was quite simply, the tallest man-made structure in the world, from its opening in 1889 for 41 years until 1930.

Use your visit as a stair workout and climb the 300 steps from ground level to the first of three levels on the tower. If you're in great shape, climb another 300 steps to the second level. Then hop on the elevator here to get to the top. Aside from the workout, you'll also skip most of the crowd who want to take the elevator the whole way.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

Highlights : Notre Dame Cathedral, historic Old Town and waterfront, delightful dining options

As you listen to the sound of French being spoken around you and explore Old Montreal , wandering down its narrow cobblestone streets-you might think you're in France. The historic area is filled with quaint shops and cafés; this Canadian city can be a chance to experience a bit of Europe in North America.

The city also has a thriving food scene, with several popular farmers' markets, including the Atwater Market and the Jean Talon Market. It's also known for its bagels, cooked hot and fresh by several iconic must-visit bakeries.

Be sure to visit the beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica and take a drive up to Mount Royal, the big hill (or low mountain) the city is named after. You'll be rewarded with some amazing views extending all the way to the port.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montreal

The Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline

Highlights : The iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, historic streetcars

San Francisco is a truly unique American city and one of the world's great vacation spots. Explore its hills, ride the cable cars that climb them, and eat some seafood at Fisherman's Wharf . Also spend some time exploring Marin County on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge , including the picturesque town of Sausalito . The giant redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument are only 30 minutes away and also well worth a side trip.

Be sure to also make time for a visit to or even better, a drive across, the Golden Gate Bridge. This monument to modern engineering genius spans the strait that connects San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The almost two-mile-long, six-lane bridge connects the Northern California city with Marin County.

Opened in 1937, the bridge has a unique, geometric beauty and can be viewed from many areas on either side of its span. Some of the best views are from the Marin Headlands, a hilly part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, a national park that includes areas on either side of the bridge.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco

Highlights : Old walled city, shopping in the bazaars, and a sensory overload

Start your Marrakech adventure in the Jemaa el-Fnaa , the main, open square in the Moroccan city. It's the gateway to the medina or old walled city. The square is like nowhere else in the world, presenting a constant show of humanity. There are musical performers, snake charmers, monkey trainers, amateur boxing matches, and transvestite belly dancers.

It's also a giant food market, as well as a giant antique market and swap meet. You can even get a haircut or have some dental work performed. At night, there are fire performers, and an outdoor food fair is set up in the center, with rows of food stalls fronted by counters lined with chairs.

This exotic African destination is only a short flight (usually less than four hours) from most major European cities. As a popular getaway destination, there are frequent flights available. Accommodations range from riads , traditional houses remade into luxury boutique hotels in the medina to five-star luxury resorts just outside the city in an area called La Palmeraie.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Marrakesh

Highlights : Incredible 500-year-old walled city with historic 19th-century architecture and some of Colombia's best dining

Colorful Cartagena, one of the great historical Spanish cities of the Caribbean, pulses with life along the north coast of Colombia. Founded in 1533, its old walled city has seen its fortunes rise and fall through the centuries and has more recently experienced a resurgence and revitalization.

Significant restoration of the old city has resulted in once-dilapidated 16th-century buildings springing back to life as modern, yet historical hotels, world-class restaurants, and shops. Wander through the narrow city streets to see an impressive church, an open plaza with public works of art, or an eclectic shop selling that perfect souvenir.

Be sure to wander along the ancient city walls, and as you watch the sunset over the ocean, think back to what life used to be like here nearly 500 years ago.

It's easy to get to Cartagena from the United States, with daily flights from Miami and good connections through Panama City. This is the perfect destination for an exotic long weekend getaway from almost anywhere in North America.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia

Highlights : White-sand beaches, rugged mountains, luxury resorts, island adventures

Off the coast of northwestern Africa are a delightful chain of islands that should be on every sun-seeker's to-do list. The Canary Islands are all a bit different from one another, allowing the intrepid traveler to have four or even five (or more), experiences in one trip.

The Canary Islands are especially known for their beaches. Stunning white-sand beaches washed by crystal-clear waters are among the best beaches in Spain . Many people come here to stay at the multitude of luxury resorts that line the waterfront, and rarely venture off the property.

Those that have a taste for adventure will find towering volcanoes, stunning hiking trails, towering pine forests, and authentic old towns dating back to the time of Christopher Columbus.

Some of the most popular islands are Tenerife , Gran Canaria , Lanzarote , and Fuerteventura . Each of these offers its own unique experience and landscape.

Highlights : Star Ferry across Victoria Harbor, skyscrapers, Victoria Peak views, awesome dining

Asia's largest city can feel like an Asian Manhattan, with giant skyscrapers in a compact area and a serious focus on business. But venture deeper, and you'll find the city's unique mix of ancient Chinese culture and remnants of its British Colonial history as well. Gleaming skyscrapers are built with hand-assembled bamboo scaffolding in a fusion of new and old.

The city is divided into two main sections: Hong Kong Island and Kowloon , separated by Victoria Harbour . Take the Star Ferry across the harbor, still one of the great travel bargains, given the spectacular scenery on both sides. You can also venture into the more rural areas to discover the sparsely populated Outlying Islands , hiking trails , and beautiful beaches .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

More on Arizona

I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
In Ecuador, she climbed an active volcano, and in Guatemala, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I lived in Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Aztec or Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. In the future, I plan on hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: The true cost of Mexico's Maya Train

Main content

10 Safest Countries in the World

T raveling is inherently risky. Sure, you can run into danger in your hometown, but navigating the world can be much more intimidating in lands you don't know.

Of course, this doesn't mean you should stop traveling or that you should limit your destinations. Still, if feeling secure is a priority for you, knowing which countries have very low crime can help ease travel nerves.

These are the top 10 safest countries in the world (based on global murder rates)

Population: 1.4 billion

Murder rate: 0.6 (per 100,000 people)

Note: Ranking and statistics are based on a 2022 World Population Review report .

What Makes China Safe

China is definitely not the most peaceful country , but it is one of the safest. Murder rates are extremely low, not even reaching one person per 100,000 people.

While traveling through this gigantic nation, you won't really have to worry about being a victim of violent crime. As with murder, mugging is extremely rare, though pickpocketing may happen in some big cities.

That said, travelers should be very cautious about strictly following laws and rules . Even something like smoking weed can land you in jail for months or even years. Safety also doesn't mean freedom here, so wait until you've left to openly critique the government.

6. Norway (Tie)

Population: 5.4 million

Murder rate: 0.5

What Makes Norway Safe

Somewhat surprisingly, Norway is the only Scandinavian country to make it onto this list. The land of fjords and northern lights is a place where you can get lost in nature without fear — well, you should fear nature a little bit, but you won't have to fear other humans.

Oslo, the capital, is one of the most livable cities in the world . Quality of life, low poverty rates and a great system of social services keep people happy and satisfied here.

These factors translate to a lower risk of crime. Travelers report feeling at ease here, even when touring on their own.

6. Oman (Tie)

Population: 5.1 million

What Makes Oman Safe

The Middle Eastern nation of Oman is not yet a big tourist destination, but that's likely to change soon. Locals are reportedly very friendly and welcoming. Petty crimes like pickpocketing or overcharging can be common, but violent crime is extremely rare.

Pass the time touring the Wahiba Sands desert or the natural pools of Wadi Shab gorge. You can also sail in a traditional Arabian ship, admire the architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and walk around Nizwa Fort, the country's oldest castle.

We should point out, however, that this country had very strict gender dynamics. Solo female travelers should be a bit more cautious, as protection from harassment or assault is practically non-existent.

6. Switzerland (Tie)

Population: 8.6 million

What Makes Switzerland Safe

Alpine meadows where cows happily graze, pristine lakes and cities so clean they look unreal — this is Switzerland. The country is perfect almost to a fault. So much so that you may find yourself thinking you must be dreaming.

Swiss people are notoriously organized and follow rules to a "t." The government makes sure to take care of people, so poverty is low despite the high cost of living. Crime is such a rare occurrence that even relatively small things make the news.

For first-time solo travelers or anyone who wishes to travel with complete peace of mind, Switzerland is the place to visit.

6. United Arab Emirates (Tie)

Population: 9.9 million

What Makes the UAE Safe

Like Oman, the United Arab Emirates is a very safe nation. Unlike its next-door neighbor, however, it is a highly coveted tourist destination.

Much of the UAE's appeal lies in its lavish displays of wealth. People come to admire Dubai's Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, or to eat at restaurants where a single meal costs more than what some people make in a month.

Once again, we must put an asterisk on the safety level for solo female travelers. There have been notorious cases of women being jailed after reporting assault. Homosexuality is also illegal in the UAE, so the country is not safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers.

5. Indonesia

Population: 273.5 million

Murder rate: 0.4

What Makes Indonesia Safe

Indonesia is a favorite place for travelers, particularly the idyllic island of Bali. With more than 17,000 islands, you could spend a lifetime exploring the country and not even come close to seeing it all.

Tall active volcanoes, beaches so beautiful they make you feel like crying and jungles hiding endemic species are all part of the natural allure of the country. Then, there's the rich culture, which varies from island to island.

Add to this the fact that the country is incredibly safe, and you have a veritable paradise.

3. Hong Kong (Tie)

Population: 7.5 million

Murder rate: 0.3

What Makes Hong Kong Safe

Yes, we know Hong Kong is technically part of China. But given that the special administrative region has its own language, culture and currency, it's treated as independent.

It's rare for a city this dense and with so much inequality to be safe. And yet, Hong Kong has managed to keep its crime rates low. Come here for the numerous Michelin-starred restaurants or street food that tastes just as good. Spend time up in Victoria Peak or just ride the tram around the city.

The best part is that you won't have to worry about safety.

3. Luxembourg (Tie)

Population: 632,275

What Makes Luxembourg Safe

Despite bordering Belgium, France and Germany, Luxembourg doesn't receive as many visitors as it should. The small nation has pretty medieval towns without the large crowds. It also has many natural parks where you can go on hikes and enjoy the serenity of the country.

As in many other countries on the continent, pickpocketing is common. But you just need to be savvy about where you put your things in order to avoid it.

1. Japan (Tie)

Population: 125.8 million

Murder rate: 0.2

What Makes Japan Safe

Two Asian countries tie in the No. 1 spot as the safest countries in the world. Let's first go over Japan, whose rank should surprise absolutely no one.

The country is notorious for its safety, which makes it possible for people to sleep off a hangover on the street without worrying about having their possessions stolen. Yes, there are gangs, but they mostly keep to themselves (despite what Hollywood wants you to think) and very rarely come up from the underground to bother normal citizens.

Travelers absolutely love Japan for its food, culture and architecture. But there's no denying that not having to think about crime is also a major perk.

1. Singapore (Tie)

Population: 5.7 million

What Makes Singapore Safe

Singapore matches Japan in terms of safety. What makes it so interesting is that, unlike its contender, the micro-nation is very diverse. Within its limited borders, you'll find sizeable Hindu, Muslim, Chinese and Malay populations. In fact, the country is divided into neighborhoods that have a distinct personality based on the population that inhabits them.

Despite its numerous languages, religions and cultures, the nation has managed to keep the peace between groups. As a traveler, you'll walk through the streets and realize that getting along is, indeed, possible.

The rest of the world should learn something from Singapore.

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0 / 32 Fotos

The survey took into account six variables: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.

1 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.523

Ranking 25th last year, this year Singapore dropped a few positions, coming in 30th in the ranking.

2 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.561

The country makes a fresh entry into the top 30 of the World Happiness Report. Levels of happiness are higher among young people.

3 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.594

Ranking 30th in 2023, this year the Arab nation has claimed the 28th spot.

4 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.609

France scores high in most of the report criteria, but nonetheless dropped six positions since 2023.

5 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.611

The South American country just barely made it into the top 30 in 2023, at number 28. This year, it climbed up to the 26th position.

6 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.678

The country didn't make it into the top 30 last year, but things are looking better for Mexicans in 2024.

7 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.719

The country is known for its strong economy, which is why it usually ranks in the top 15. This year, however, it dropped down to number 24.

8 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.725

The North American country dropped a whopping eight positions in comparison to last year. The US has been steadily dropping in the ranking. It's worth remembering that the nation placed 11th in the first World Happiness Report in 2012.

9 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.733

The UAE strengthened its position in the ranking, climbing from number 26 to 22 in 2024. The country even has a ministry dedicated to happiness and well-being.

10 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.743

Coming in at number 21 is this beautiful Eastern European jewel. Slovenia is slowly climbing the ranking and has gone up one from 22nd to 21st in this year's ranking.

11 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.749

The UK has been consistently dropping in the ranking since 2020. In 2024, the nation dropped yet another position in comparison to last year.

12 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.818 The southernmost Baltic state climbs up one position in relation to last year's ranking.

13 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.822

The Czech Republic stands firm in 18th place for the world's happiest countries in 2024.

14 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.838

The Irish are known to be hospitable, humorous, and friendly. The country is safe overall and has a stable economy.

15 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.894

Ranking 17th last year, this year Belgium has climbed up one spot in the ranking.

16 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.900

Canada went down two positions but remains strong in the middle of the pack. The country's low unemployment rates might have something to do with it.

17 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.905

Vienna was once voted the best city in the world to live in because of safety and the price of quality housing, according to Mercer's ranking. The country has dropped from the 11th position since last year though, but still ranks a respectable 14th.

18 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.951

Kuwait debuts in this year's top spots of the ranking. Kuwait is one of the richest countries in the world.

19 / 32 Fotos

Score: 6.955

The nation's slogan is pura vida , which translates to "pure life." That says something about Costa Rica's way of life indeed.

20 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.029

New Zealand is considered one of the best places in the world to live, by both locals and foreigners.

21 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.057

Australians are satisfied with their well-being, have jobs, and have a high life expectancy. Incredible beaches also help, right?

22 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.060

In Switzerland, life expectancy goes beyond 80, and its citizens are quite cultured, many speaking several languages (including German, French, and English). It's also one of the most competitive countries in the world.

23 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.122

This European nation might be small in size, but Luxembourg sure has everything its citizens need, and then some!

24 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.302

This Northern European country usually places high in the ranking, particularly when it comes to the well-being of its citizens.

25 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.319

Overall, the Netherlands is an open country: it's inclusive of immigrants, has liberal policies, and offers security to its citizens.

26 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.341

Israel has a stable and sustainable economy. Most schools are public and offer quality education.

27 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.344

The Swedish economy is developed and diversified. Sweden is considered one of the most socially equal nations in the world. The nation climbed up from the 6th position last year.

28 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.525

The top three starts with this island nation. The country is known for providing good social support to its citizens, including an affordable healthcare system and free education.

29 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.583

Denmark scored high in all criteria, including low corruption and high social trust.

30 / 32 Fotos

Score: 7.741

The nation has topped the ranking for seven years in a row. Surely they must be doing something right!

Sources: (World Happiness Report 2024)

31 / 32 Fotos

Shutterstock

The US didn't crack the top 20 this year

19/04/24 | StarsInsider

LIFESTYLE Ranking

T he United Nations has released their World Happiness Report for 2024. The survey considered 143 countries, and saw that i t's not all doom and gloom. Once again, this year the Nordic countries dominate the top spots in the ranking, but there are also a few surprises in the top 30.

Curious? Click on to discover the happiest countries on the planet.

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Travel Tips

30 Most Visited Countries in the World and their most visited places

Julius Szabo · UPDATED October 3, 2023 · 131,750 views

30 Most Visited Countries in the World! There are many beautiful and interesting places in the world that you can visit for your next vacation. Some countries have a larger tourism industry than others, but just about all of them have something to offer.

Yachting in Balaton, Hungary - short 4k cinematic film And don't forget to give us a like! :)

Every year, tens of millions of tourists leave their home country in order to find a new adventure, romance, entertainment, shopping or other experience. Although each country has something to offer to its visitors, some destinations are still more popular than the other. The following countries are among the most visited in the world. And we have also added the most visited places for each country along with wonderful pictures!

30 Most Visited Countries in the World

1. france – 82.6 million visitors.

Each year millions of people all over the world visit France for its exquisite cuisine, historic sites, and beautiful scenery. Paris is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, and this country as a whole has a lot to offer those who are planning their next big trip.

France is a country of castles, it would be a pitty not to stay in one! Chateau de Codignat, Hotels in France There are lots of castles in France you will want to visit, but there are a few you can even spend a night at! Book a 16th century styled room e.g. at Chateau de Codignat and make your France expedition a special one! Feel like a royal (regardless of your blood’s colour) at this 14th-century castle!

You can surf along the beautiful white beaches of the Atlantic coast, or visit the lavender-scented Provence if you are looking for some romance, go to the French Riviera for relaxing on the beach, to the Alps for skiing or hiking, or to Paris for the mysterious history and the rich art collections… This country has something to offer for everyone, and it is a unique experience that will be sure to stay with you for a very long time.

Eiffel tower, Paris, France, Most Visited Countries in the World

Most visited places in France 1. Eiffel tower in Paris, the most visited city in France 2. St Tropez summer holiday destination 3. Chamonix ski resort 4. Palace of Versailles 5. Mont Saint-Michel #gallery-1 { margin: auto; } #gallery-1 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 25%; } #gallery-1 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-1 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */ St Tropez, France by bogitw / Pixabay Chamonix, Mont Blanc, France by websiteproud/Pixabay Palace of Versailles, France by ToucanWings/wikipedia Mont Saint-Michel France by werner22brigitte / pixabay Read more about Cities in France – 50 most beautiful cities and towns to visit in France . France is a popular and diverse destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. Here are several compelling reasons to visit France: Cultural Richness: France is known for its rich cultural heritage, including art, literature, philosophy, and music. Cities like Paris are home to world-renowned museums like the Louvre, housing iconic works of art like the Mona Lisa. Historic Landmarks: France boasts a wealth of historic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Mont Saint-Michel, and the Palace of Versailles. Each of these landmarks holds significant historical and architectural importance. Cuisine: French cuisine is celebrated globally. Indulge in delicious pastries, cheese, wine, and exquisite haute cuisine. France is a haven for food lovers, with diverse regional specialties to explore.

2. The United States – 75.6 million visitors

The United States is an extremely diverse place culturally and ethnically. New York City and Las Vegas are two of the most popular destinations in this country that people flock to each year for fun and adventure.

One of the best things about the U.S. is that there are quite a few nice warm places to go in the winter and cooler places to visit in the summer. The US is said to be a country of endless possibilities and it is indeed true. Whether you are looking for busy cities or, on the contrary, you prefer quiet, majestic countryside, you will find everything in America.

E.g. Yellowstone is a real pearl among the national parks in the world. The park was declared in 1872, which makes it the oldest national park in the world .

Grand Canyon, USA, Most Visited Countries in the World

Most visited places in the USA 1. Grand Canyon 2. Manhattan in NYC 3. Yellowstone National Park with its geysers 4. Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco 5. Niagara Falls at the borders with Canada. #gallery-2 { margin: auto; } #gallery-2 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 25%; } #gallery-2 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-2 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */ Manhattan, NYC, USA by Free-Photos/pixabay.com Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA by Free-Photos/pixabay Niagara Falls, USA by Pexels/pixabay Grand Prismatic, Yellowstone National Park, USA by shandianxiaojie_526/pixabay Read more about Best Places to Visit in the USA and their best tourist attractions! The United States is a vast and diverse country that offers a wide range of attractions and experiences. Diverse Landscapes: The U.S. features diverse landscapes, including national parks, mountains, beaches, deserts, and forests. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or relaxing on the coast, the U.S. has something to offer. Cultural Diversity: The United States is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting the diversity of its population. Each region has its own unique history, traditions, and cuisine. Iconic Cities: Cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco are iconic and offer a mix of cultural attractions, entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences. Historical Sites: The U.S. has numerous historical sites, including Independence Hall in Philadelphia, the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, and the historic districts of cities like Boston and Charleston. National Parks: The U.S. is home to stunning national parks, such as Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Zion. These parks showcase the country’s natural beauty and are popular for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.

Hawaii is the dream! Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas, Hotels in USA You surely heard about Hawaii, but it’s better to explore on your own! Book your dream vacation at Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas and make your dreams come true! Beautiful beaches and interesting history, volcanoes and ocean, great Hawaiian food and well-being.

3. Spain – 75.6 million visitors

Spain is one of the most visited European countries, at least in part because of its striking beauty. Some of the more popular tourist attractions in this country include Park Guell, which is a park made up of breathtaking sculptures, and Alhambra, which is a fortified hilltop Moorish complex. This country also has some spectacular white sand beaches to explore. And what about Barcelona, or the world-famous island of Ibiza?

Top-quality world-class wines, infinite coasts unspoiled by civilization, spectacular whole night parties, sun-drenched beaches, imposing architecture… These are just a few reasons why everyone should visit Spain!

Alhambra, Spain, Most Visited Countries in the World

Most visited places in Spain 1. Alhambra 2. Mezquita of Cordoba 3. El Escorial 4. Sagrada Familia in Barcelona 5. Ibiza island #gallery-3 { margin: auto; } #gallery-3 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 25%; } #gallery-3 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-3 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */ Mezquita of Cordoba, Spain by bogitw / pixabay El Escorial, Spain by Turismo Madrid Consorcio Turístico / wikipedia Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain by Mariamichelle / pixabay Cala Conta, Ibiza, Spain by Rosario Gomez Guerrero / flickr.com Spain is a diverse and vibrant country with a rich cultural heritage and a range of attractions. Cultural Heritage: Spain has a deep and varied cultural history, with influences from Roman, Moorish, and Christian civilizations. This is reflected in its architecture, art, and traditions. Historic Landmarks: Explore historic landmarks such as the Alhambra in Granada, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and the historic city of Toledo. Each of these places showcases Spain’s rich history and architectural brilliance. Beautiful Beaches: Spain is known for its beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. The Costa del Sol, Costa Brava, and the Balearic Islands (including Ibiza and Mallorca) are popular destinations for sunbathing and water activities. World-Class Cities: Visit vibrant cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and Valencia, each offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Enjoy cultural events, gastronomy, and a lively nightlife scene. Culinary Delights: Spanish cuisine is renowned worldwide. Try tapas, paella, churros, and indulge in a wide variety of regional dishes. Spain is also famous for its wines, including Rioja and Cava. Read more about the best places to visit in Spain here!

ShoreHouse Apartamento de primera linea en Playa Honda

4. China – 59.3 million visitors

Beijing and Shanghai are two of the more popular places for tourists to visit in China , though there are many other beautiful places with lots of interesting things to see and do.

The architecture of the larger cities, as well as the beauty of the countryside, make this a wonderful place for a vacation. The Karst hills and twin pagodas in Guilin are also worth seeing.

The Great Wall of China is the largest building of human history, and the numbers that describe it are fascinating. 25,000 watchtowers, 300,000 dead in the first phase of its construction, and an estimated length of about 8860 kilometers (although there is an archaeological survey saying that the wall is 21,196 km long). That’s something you can’t miss, can you?! 🙂

Great Wall of China, Most Visited Countries in the World by skeeze / pixabay

Most visited places in China 1. The Great Wall of China in Beijing 2. The Terracotta Army in Xi’an 3. The Forbidden City in Beijing 4. The Li River in Guilin 5. The Yellow Mountains in Huangshan #gallery-4 { margin: auto; } #gallery-4 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 25%; } #gallery-4 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-4 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */ The Terracotta Army, China by christels / pixabay The Forbidden City, China by Gisling / wikipedia.org The Li River, China by DEZALB / pixabay The Yellow Mountains / Huangshan, China by Miyasoy / pixabay China is a vast and diverse country with a rich cultural history, stunning landscapes, and a rapidly evolving modern society. Here are several compelling reasons to visit China: Great Wall of China: The Great Wall is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Visiting this ancient structure, which stretches across northern China, offers a unique historical and cultural experience. Historical and Cultural Heritage: China has a rich history that spans thousands of years, with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, and the ancient city of Pingyao. Traditional Chinese Architecture: Explore traditional Chinese architecture in cities like Beijing, with its historic hutongs (narrow alleys) and ancient temples. The contrast between modern skyscrapers and ancient structures is fascinating. Panda Conservation Centers: China is home to the giant panda, and visiting panda conservation centers, such as Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, provides an opportunity to see and learn about these adorable creatures. Scenic Landscapes: From the karst mountains in Guilin to the stunning landscapes of Zhangjiajie and the serene Li River, China offers a diverse range of natural beauty. Read more about 30 Best Places to Visit in China here!

Li River Resort, China

5. Italy – 52.4 million visitors

Located on the Mediterranean coastline, Italy offers some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Europe. The Coliseum of Rome and the canals of Venice are just two of the things that bring so many people here each year.

The Amalfi Coast, as well as similar Cinque Terre, have both some very charming villages and a beautiful coastline to explore for those who want a quiet getaway. The largest active volcano in Europe, countless historical sites and monuments, breathtaking cities and towns with narrow romantic streets, wonderful beaches and sea and funny but also very kind people…

The country with the Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world is here and waiting for every kind of traveler to offer everyone an experience you’ll never forget.

Colosseum, Rome, Italy, Most Visited Countries in the World

Most visited places in Italy 1. Colosseum in Rome 2. Grand Canal in Venice 3. Florence Cathedral 4. Piazza del Campo in Siena 5. Pompeii #gallery-5 { margin: auto; } #gallery-5 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 25%; } #gallery-5 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-5 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */ Grand Canal, Venice, Italy Florence Cathedral, Tuscany, Italy by DanielWanke / pixabay Piazza del Campo in Siena, Tuscany, Italy by bogitw / pixabay Pompeii, Italy by melvinf / pixabay Italy is a country that holds immense cultural, historical, and natural treasures. Art and Culture: Italy is home to some of the world’s most renowned art and cultural treasures. Cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice house iconic works of art, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael. Historical Landmarks: Italy is rich in historical landmarks, from the ancient ruins of Rome, such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, to the well-preserved city of Pompeii, showcasing life in ancient times. Architecture: Italy boasts stunning architecture, from the grandeur of the Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome to the historic and romantic canals of Venice. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is another iconic architectural marvel. Culinary Delights: Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide. Indulge in pasta, pizza, gelato, and regional dishes that showcase the diversity of Italian cooking. Each region has its culinary specialties and traditions. Wine and Vineyards: Italy is renowned for its wine regions, including Tuscany, Piedmont, and Veneto. Touring vineyards and tasting local wines is a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts. For more great tips in Italy read our article: The 30 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy and their Top Tourist Attractions

Canal View San Marco Luxury Rooms, Venice, Italy

Julius Szabo

Since 2010 I have created a lot of travel-inspiring websites, have written countless travel articles and made a hundred thousand pictures and videos. Govisity.com is the newest one, my other way to conquer the world! :)

The most beautiful city in the world

UPDATED July 31, 2023 · 1,103 views

Prague, Czech Republic, Most Visited Cities in the World

The 50 Most Visited Cities in the World and their Top Tourist Attractions

UPDATED October 4, 2023 · 26,197 views

34 Responses

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Hi. Your label and image for Singapore’s Botanic Gardens are wrongly paired. The image is rightfully Gardens by the Bay and not Botanic Gardens. Botanic Gardens does not have Supertrees.

Fascinating facts. Have you been to all these countries? I’d be interested in your personal view, especially of the UK which is where I am from. I do always wonder why certain places seem to be so much of an attraction – Stonehenge is fascinating, but you can’t get very close to the stones themselves and we have other sites where you can have a better user experience in my view (Avebury for example). What do you think?

Wow, what an amazing list of incredible countries! I am happy to have been to 12 of them so far, with many others on the list! It’s great to see the top attractions in each country – it has given me so much food for thought for my bucket list! Istanbul and Dubrovnik are the top hitters for me.

Wow. What a list you have compiled. As I read through the post, it was great to see how many places we have visited but I realized how many places I still want to see. Germany, Turkey, Poland, Malaysia and the Ukraine are countries we have not even touched. But in many of the others, there are still so many other sites to visit. Thanks for putting a few new ones on my long list!

This is a great list and I’ve been to 15 of them with plans to visit at least 3 more next year. How many of these countries have you visited? Do you have a favorite or favorites? As an American. I’m curious how that number of visitors to the U.S. has changed in the last 2 years??

this is soooo wrong…where did you put Portugal?!?!?!

What an absolutely fascinating post to read, of course we know these countries are popular but to see the hard visitor numbers, and broken down by sites, is very interesting. Of the top five, I need to explore more of Spain and China is near the top of my wishlist to visit.

What a fun read. I have been to 22 of them, so just another 8 to go 🙂 It’s really interesting just how many people visit these countries. I can’t believe how many people visit Saudi, but I guess that has to do with pilgrims visiting Mecca. I wonder what those annual figures are?

I am surprised Ibiza island beats out Barcelona for Spain’s Top 5 list. Also surprised Mexico is #8. It was fun to compare my tastes to the rest of the world, they are quite different!

Mexico is actually number 6 now according to the Tourism World Organization beating Germany and the Uk But don’t know why you are surprised.

I usually try to avoid mega popular places as I hate crowds but I’m really surprised France is the most popular country to visit! I guess it’s pretty big so doesn’t always seem that crowded unless you’re in Paris or on the south coast beaches in summer!!

A few surprises here! I knew France got lots of visitors but didn’t think it would be number one. Spain is another surprise. I do agree that it’s the natural beauty of Austria, my home country, that attracts visitors here.

for me Istanbul and Antalya are awesome that you should see it at least once

Are these figures representing the real number of different visitors or the total number of visits that can be the same visitors ? How did Malaysia get its figures ? Malaysia benefited many tourists who stop by for transit on their way to Thailand but it still don’t deserve to be no. 12. Just check Malaysia’s number of hotel rooms from those hotel booking websites. I think they count in those Singaporeans who are the same people who crossed over for just day trips during the weekends as well as the number of foreign workers.

India is best

india is suck

thank you so much for making this page. now i can do my studies!!

Italy and Maldives and has the most visited number of tourists as stated by the global tourism department and they will be continuing to rise in next years. The beauty of these two nations is preserved best and provide top accommodation and facilitation to their clients. Must see priser till maldiverna here.

Where is Portugal, literally the 17th most visited country in the world?

I think I have to make some update of this article. It is 2 years old already and some places have changed since then. Thanks for the comment!

As from my point of view the most visited place which everyone wants to visit is France because of its beauty and tall Eiffel tower which makes it most visiting places for tourists all over there are more places which you may consider as your second option for visiting in vacations.

Did you know Portugal existed? It should be the nr 20 or 19

Whole world are very beautiful place Enjoy our life

That’s definitely true! I fully agree!

Thanks for giving the best info who want to travel the world. This article is too useful to choose our best place to visit.

Nepal is called the Amazon of Asia. The hidden treasure of its rich biodiversity. Don’t forget to include Nepal this small country every year millions of travelers visit around the world.

This is so wrong…where did you put Portugal?!?!?!

It is fascinating to know that there are so much to explore in this world. I still have a lot in my bucket list just trying to take some inspiration from you Julius.

amazing information about world travel destinations to visit. Thank you for your contribution

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India is medium the most visited is china

I read it all in one breath. It is a wonderful travel and culture article.

Nepal is a land of contrasts, from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene beauty of the Annapurna range. It’s a place where adventure meets spirituality, where traditions thrive amidst modernity, and where every corner offers something new to discover.

France is the best tourist destination in the world which i have ever travelled.

It’s really informative. They are really nice article shared! Thanks a lot for taking the time to share with us.

Far fewer young Americans now want to study in China. Both countries are trying to fix that

David Moser, an American and associate professor at Capital Normal University in Beijing, poses for a photo at the university, Friday, March 22, 2024 in Beijing, China. Only about 700 American students are studying at Chinese universities, while there are nearly 300,000 Chinese students are at U.S. schools. Without these U.S. students, “in the next decade, we won’t be able to exercise savvy, knowledgeable diplomacy in China,” warned Moser, an American linguist who went to China in the 1980s and is now tasked with establishing a new master’s program for international students at Beijing Capital Normal University. (AP Photo/Dake Kang)

David Moser, an American and associate professor at Capital Normal University in Beijing, poses for a photo at a restaurant in Beijing, China, Friday, March 22, 2024. Only about 700 American students are studying at Chinese universities, while there are nearly 300,000 Chinese students are at U.S. schools. Without these U.S. students, “in the next decade, we won’t be able to exercise savvy, knowledgeable diplomacy in China,” warned Moser, an American linguist who went to China in the 1980s and is now tasked with establishing a new master’s program for international students at Beijing Capital Normal University. (AP Photo/Dake Kang)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Stephen Garrett, a 27-year-old graduate student, always thought he would study in China, but the country’s restrictive COVID-19 policies made it nearly impossible and now he sees interest among fellow scholars wane even after China reopened.

Common concerns, he said, include restrictions on academic freedom and the risk of being stranded in China.

These days, only about 700 American students are studying at Chinese universities, down from a peak of close to 25,000 a decade ago, while there are nearly 300,000 Chinese students at U.S. schools.

Some young Americans are discouraged from investing their time in China by what they see as diminishing economic opportunities and strained relations between Washington and Beijing.

Whatever the reason for the imbalance, U.S. officials and scholars bemoan the lost opportunities for young people to experience life in China and gain insight into a formidable American adversary.

And officials from both countries agree that more should be done to encourage the student exchanges, at a time when Beijing and Washington can hardly agree on anything else.

FILE - A Chinese flag is unfurled on the podium of a swimming event final at the 2020 Summer Olympics, on July 29, 2021, in Tokyo, Japan. An Australian newspaper said Saturday, April 20, 2024, 23 Chinese swimmers were cleared to compete at the Tokyo Olympics despite testing positive to doping because world governing bodies agreed with Chinese authorities and ruled that the tests had been contaminated.(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)

“I do not believe the environment is as hospitable for educational exchange as it was in the past, and I think both sides are going to need to take steps,” said Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell.

The U.S. has advised its. citizens to “reconsider travel” to China over concerns of arbitrary detentions and widened use of exit bans to bar Americans from leaving the country. Campbell said this has hindered the rebuilding of the exchanges and easing the advisory is now under “active consideration.”

For its part, Beijing is rebuilding programs for international students that were shuttered during the pandemic, and Chinese President Xi Jinping has invited tens of thousands of U.S. high school students to visit.

The situation was far different after President Barack Obama started the 100,000 Strong initiative in 2009 to drastically increase the number of U.S. students studying in China.

By 2012, there were as many as 24,583 U.S. students in China, according to data by the Chinese education ministry. The Open Doors reports by the Institute of International Education, which only track students enrolled in U.S. schools and studying in China for credit, show the number peaked at 14,887 in the 2011-12 school year. But 10 years later, the number was down to only 211.

In late 2023, the number of American students stood at 700, according to Nicholas Burns, the U.S. ambassador to China, who said this was far too few in a country of such importance to the United States.

“We need young Americans to learn Mandarin. We need young Americans to have an experience of China,” Burns said.

Without these U.S. students, “in the next decade, we won’t be able to exercise savvy, knowledgeable diplomacy in China,” warned David Moser, an American linguist who went to China in the 1980s and is now tasked with establishing a new master’s program for international students at Beijing Capital Normal University.

Moser recalled the years when American students found China fascinating and thought an education there could lead to an interesting career. But he said the days of bustling trade and money deals are gone, while American students and their parents are watching China and the United States move away from each other. “So people think investment in China as a career is a dumb idea,” Moser said.

After 2012, the number of American students in China dipped but held steady at more than 11,000 for several years, according to Open Doors, until the pandemic hit, when China closed its borders and kept most foreigners out. Programs for overseas students that took years to build were shuttered, and staff were let go, Moser said.

Amy Gadsden, executive director of China Initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania, also attributed some of the declining interest to foreign businesses closing their offices in China. Beijing’s draconian governing style, laid bare by its response to the pandemic, also has given American students a pause, she said.

Garrett, who is on track to graduate this summer from Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, said he is ambivalent about working in China, citing the lack of access to information, restrictions on discussions of politically sensitive issues and China’s sweeping anti-spying law. He had lived in Hong Kong as a teenager and interned in mainland China, and said he is still interested in traveling to China, but not anytime soon.

Some American students remain committed to studying in China, said Andrew Mertha, director of the China Global Research Center at SAIS. “There are people who are interested in China for China’s sake,” he said. “I don’t think those numbers are affected at all.”

About 40 U.S. students are now studying at the Hopkins-Nanjing center in the eastern Chinese city, and the number is expected to go up in the fall to approach the pre-pandemic level of 50-60 students, said Adam Webb, the center’s American co-director.

Among them is Chris Hankin, 28, who said he believed time in China was irreplaceable because he could interact with ordinary people and travel to places outside the radar of international media. “As the relationship becomes more intense, it’s important to have that color, to have that granularity,” said Hankin, a master’s student of international relations with a focus on energy and the environment.

Jonathan Zhang, a Chinese American studying at the prestigious Schwarzman Scholars program at Tsinghua University in Beijing, said it was more important than ever to be in China at a time of tense relations. “It’s really hard to talk about China without being in China,” he said. “I think it’s truly a shame that so many people have never stepped foot in China.”

Zhang was met with concerns when he deferred an offer at a consulting firm to go Beijing. “They’re like, ‘oh, be safe,’ or like, ‘what do you mean, you’re going back to China?’” Zhang said. “I feel like the (Chinese) government is trying with an earnest effort, but I feel like a lot of this trust has been broken.”

Gadsden said U.S. universities need to do more to nudge students to consider China. “We need to be more intentional about creating the opportunities and about encouraging students to do this deeper work on China, because it’s going to be interesting for them, and it’s going to be valuable for the U.S.-China relationship and for the world,” she said.

In China, Jia Qingguo, a professor of international relations and a national political adviser, has suggested Beijing clarify its laws involving foreign nationals, introduce a separate system for political reviews of foreign students’ dissertations, and make it easier for foreign graduates to find internships and jobs in Chinese companies.

Meanwhile, China is hosting American high school students under a plan Xi unveiled in November to welcome 50,000 in the next five years.

In January, a group of 24 students from Iowa’s Muscatine High School became the first to travel to China. The all-expenses-paid, nine-day trip took them to the Beijing Zoo, Great Wall, Palace Museum, the Yu Garden and Shanghai Museum.

Sienna Stonking, one of the Muscatine students, now wants to return to China to study.

“If I had the opportunity, I would love to go to college in China,” she told China’s state broadcaster CGTN. “Honestly, I love it there.”

Kang reported from Beijing.

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Top 40 Most Visited Countries By International Tourists, 1995 to 2018 [4K]
TOP 10 Most Visited Countries in the World (2023 Data)
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