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Contents
- Table of Contents
- 1. What Are The Top 10 Most Visited Cities In The World In 2024?
- 1.1. Why Is Bangkok, Thailand So Popular?
- 1.2. What Hidden Gems Does Bangkok Offer?
- 1.3. Why Is Istanbul, Turkey So Popular?
- 1.4. What Hidden Gems Does Istanbul Offer?
- 1.5. Why Is London, United Kingdom So Popular?
- 1.6. What Hidden Gems Does London Offer?
- 1.7. Why Is Hong Kong, China So Popular?
- 1.8. What Hidden Gems Does Hong Kong Offer?
- 1.9. Why Is Mecca, Saudi Arabia So Popular?
- 1.10. What Hidden Gems Does Mecca Offer?
- 1.11. Why Is Antalya, Turkey So Popular?
- 1.12. What Hidden Gems Does Antalya Offer?
- 1.13. Why Is Dubai, United Arab Emirates So Popular?
- 1.14. What Hidden Gems Does Dubai Offer?
- 1.15. Why Is Macau So Popular?
- 1.16. What Hidden Gems Does Macau Offer?
- 1.17. Why Is Paris, France So Popular?
- 1.18. What Hidden Gems Does Paris Offer?
- 1.19. Why Is Kuala Lumpur So Popular?
- 1.20. What Hidden Gems Does Kuala Lumpur Offer?
- 2. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2023?
- 3. Which Were The Best Cities In The World In 2023 According To Euromonitor’s City Destination Index?
- 4. What Were The Best Cities In The World In 2022 According To Euromonitor’s City Destination Index?
- 5. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2021?
- 6. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2020?
- 7. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2019?
Table of Contents
- Top 10 Most Visited Cities in the World 2024
- Most Visited Cities in the World 2023
- Best Cities in the World 2023 (Euromonitor’s City Destination Index)
- Best Cities in the World 2022 (Euromonitor’s City Destination Index)
- Most Visited Cities in the World 2021
- Most Visited Cities in the World 2020
- Most Visited Cities in the World 2019
- Most Visited Cities in the World 2018
- What to Expect for Global Tourism in 2025
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Are The Top 10 Most Visited Cities In The World In 2024?
Bangkok leads as the top destination. The most visited cities in the world for 2024, according to Euromonitor International, include Bangkok, Istanbul, London, Hong Kong, Mecca, Antalya, Dubai, Macau, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur. These cities attract tourists with their unique cultural experiences.
Rank | City | Country | International Arrivals (millions) | Growth 2022-2023 |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Bangkok | Thailand | 32.4 | +37% |
2 | Istanbul | Turkey | 23.0 | +14% |
3 | London | United Kingdom | 21.7 | +7% |
4 | Hong Kong | Hong Kong, China | 20.5 | +19% |
5 | Mecca | Saudi Arabia | 19.3 | +20% |
6 | Antalya | Turkey | 19.3 | +17% |
7 | Dubai | United Arab Emirates | 18.2 | +8% |
8 | Macau | Macau | 18.0 | +26% |
9 | Paris | France | 17.4 | +2% |
10 | Kuala Lumpur | Malaysia | 16.5 | +73% |
1.1. Why Is Bangkok, Thailand So Popular?
Bangkok stands out for its cultural richness. The Thai capital, welcoming approximately 32.4 million international visitors, remains the most visited city, celebrated for its temples, vibrant street life, and diverse cultural heritage.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew | The former royal palace and Wat Phra Kaew house Thailand’s Emerald Buddha. |
Wat Arun | A riverside temple with colorful porcelain. |
Chatuchak Weekend Market | Over 15,000 stalls offering a shopper’s paradise. |
Ayutthaya Historical Park | Ruins of Siam’s ancient capital with majestic temples and palaces. |
1.2. What Hidden Gems Does Bangkok Offer?
Discover unique spots beyond the main attractions. The Artist’s House in Thonburi, known for traditional Thai puppet shows, and the Bang Nam Pheung Market, popular for traditional Thai foods, offer local experiences. Also, don’t miss the Erawan Museum, which features a giant three-headed elephant statue, and Wat Pariwat, known for its blend of traditional and modern art.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Artist’s House | A charming art gallery in Thonburi, set in a centuries-old wooden house, is popular for hosting traditional Thai puppet shows. |
Bang Nam Pheung Market | Known for offering traditional Thai foods, sweets, and exotic fruits, making it a popular spot among locals. |
Erawan Museum | A museum featuring a giant three-headed elephant statue and cultural artifacts. |
Wat Pariwat | Unique Buddhist temple known for its blend of traditional and modern art. |
1.3. Why Is Istanbul, Turkey So Popular?
Istanbul’s blend of history and culture makes it a top destination. With 23.0 million visitors in 2024, Istanbul is known for its rich history, architectural significance, and unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. The city’s cultural events and festivals enhance its appeal. According to the Turkish Statistical Institute, Istanbul saw a 14% increase in tourism revenue in 2023, attributed to its historical landmarks and cultural events.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque | An architectural marvel with a massive dome and mosaics. |
Topkapi Palace | Opulent palace, center of the Ottoman Empire for centuries. |
Blue Mosque | An iconic landmark with blue tiles. |
Grand Bazaar | A shopper’s paradise with carpets, jewelry, spices, Turkish delight, and more. |
1.4. What Hidden Gems Does Istanbul Offer?
Explore the colorful Balat Neighborhood, known for its historic homes and cafes, or escape to the serene Princes’ Islands, offering scenic views. Don’t miss the Bulgarian St Stephen church in Balat, one of the most underrated monuments in the city.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Balat Neighborhood | A colorful district with historic homes and quaint cafes, some over 200 years old. |
Princes’ Islands | A serene escape with car-free islands offering scenic views. |
Balat and Iron Church | The Bulgarian St Stephen church in Balat, a most underrated monument. |
1.5. Why Is London, United Kingdom So Popular?
London is consistently a popular destination. London is ranked 3rd in 2024 with 21.7 million international arrivals, highlighting its global appeal with landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. According to Visit London, the city’s diverse attractions and cultural events contributed to an estimated £15 billion in tourism revenue in 2023.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Buckingham Palace | The official residence of the British Monarchy; see the Changing of the Guard ceremony or explore the State Rooms. |
Houses of Parliament & Big Ben | Home to the British Parliament, featuring the iconic clock tower, Big Ben. |
Tower of London | A historic castle that served as a royal palace, prison, and armory; explore the Crown Jewels and learn about London’s dramatic past. |
British Museum | A vast museum housing a world-renowned collection of antiquities from around the globe, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. |
1.6. What Hidden Gems Does London Offer?
Explore the Jack the Ripper Museum in Whitechapel or enjoy the waterside cafes in Little Venice. The Sir John Soane’s Museum, with its unique collection of architectural drawings and antiquities, is also worth visiting.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Jack the Ripper Museum | Tells the story of the infamous killer through books, films, and artifacts in a Victorian house in Whitechapel. |
Little Venice | Home to various waterside cafes, pubs, and restaurants, the area comes alive in the summer months. |
Sir John Soane’s Museum | A unique museum with more than 20,000 architectural drawings and antiquities. |
1.7. Why Is Hong Kong, China So Popular?
Hong Kong’s unique blend of modernity and tradition draws many visitors. Hong Kong has shown a notable improvement in 2024, with 20.5 million international tourist arrivals. The city’s tourism industry has rebounded, benefiting from its dynamic mix of modernity and tradition.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Victoria Peak (The Peak) | Offers stunning city views from Hong Kong’s highest point. |
Temple Street Night Market | A bustling night market with a vibrant atmosphere. |
Star Ferry | An iconic ferry ride across Victoria Harbour for classic views of Hong Kong’s skyline. |
Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) | A majestic 34-meter bronze Buddha statue on Lantau Island. |
1.8. What Hidden Gems Does Hong Kong Offer?
Visit the serene Nan Lian Garden, known for its traditional Chinese garden design, or explore the tranquil Tai O Fishing Village, with its stilt houses and traditional seafood dishes.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Nan Lian Garden | A beautiful and serene public park in Hong Kong, known for its traditional Chinese garden design. |
Tai O Fishing Village | A tranquil village with stilt houses and traditional seafood dishes. |
1.9. Why Is Mecca, Saudi Arabia So Popular?
Mecca is the holiest site in Islam, attracting millions of Muslims annually for Hajj and Umrah. Mecca recorded 19.3 million international arrivals in 2024, maintaining its status as a top global destination for religious tourism. According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the city saw a 20% increase in visitors in 2023.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Masjid al-Haram | The holiest mosque in Islam, housing the Kaaba. |
Mount Arafat | Believed to be the place where Adam and Eve reunited on Earth after falling from Heaven, and where they were forgiven. |
Abraj Al-Bait Towers | The tallest building in Saudi Arabia, and the tallest hotel in the world, with a height of 601 meters (1,972 feet). |
1.10. What Hidden Gems Does Mecca Offer?
Discover the massive Al Wahbah Crater with stunning views or visit Taif’s Rose Gardens, famous for its rosewater production and scenic beauty. Don’t miss the Great Mosque of Mecca, considered the most significant mosque in Islam.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Al Wahbah Crater | A massive volcanic crater with stunning views. |
Taif’s Rose Gardens | Famous for its rosewater production and scenic beauty. |
Great Mosque of Mecca | Also known as the Sacred Mosque, is considered the most significant mosque in Islam. |
1.11. Why Is Antalya, Turkey So Popular?
Antalya is a popular Mediterranean resort destination. Antalya welcomed 19.3 million international visitors in 2024, solidifying its position as one of Turkey’s top travel destinations. Its ancient Roman-era Hadrian’s Gate, historic Kaleiçi (Old Town), and Düden Waterfalls are popular attractions. According to the Antalya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the city saw a 17% increase in visitors in 2023.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Old Town (Kaleiçi) | Antalya’s historic Old Town offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past. |
Düden Waterfalls | Where the Lower Düden plunges into the Mediterranean Sea. |
Antalya Beaches | Stunning beaches with options like Konyaalti Beach. |
1.12. What Hidden Gems Does Antalya Offer?
Visit the Antalya Museum, known for its vast collection of artifacts, or relax at Kaputaş Plajı, a stunning beach along the Turkish Mediterranean coast. Explore Termessos, built on a mountain platform surrounded by pine woods.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Antalya Museum | Renowned for its vast collection of artifacts spanning from the prehistoric period to the Ottoman era. |
Kaputaş Plajı | A stunning beach located along the Turkish Mediterranean coast. |
Termessos | Built on a mountain platform, surrounded by pine woods and an abundance of rare plants. |
1.13. Why Is Dubai, United Arab Emirates So Popular?
Dubai’s continuous investment in tourism infrastructure has brought more and more visitors every year. Dubai has increased its international visitors to 18.2 million in 2024. Known for its luxury hotels, futuristic infrastructure, and world-class attractions, Dubai blends tradition with innovation.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Burj Khalifa | The world’s tallest building, offering breathtaking views from its observation decks. |
The Dubai Mall | One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring over 1,200 shops, an indoor aquarium, and theme park. |
Palm Jumeirah | A man-made island in the shape of a palm tree, home to luxury hotels and restaurants. |
Dubai Marina | A stunning waterfront development with a marina, skyscrapers, restaurants, and nightlife. |
1.14. What Hidden Gems Does Dubai Offer?
Visit the serene Al Qudra Lakes, perfect for picnics and birdwatching, or explore Hatta, a mountainous area offering hiking and kayaking. Don’t miss The Coffee Museum, a unique museum dedicated to coffee culture.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Al Qudra Lakes | A serene desert oasis, perfect for picnics and birdwatching. |
Hatta | A mountainous area offering hiking and kayaking. |
The Coffee Museum | A unique museum dedicated to coffee culture. |
1.15. Why Is Macau So Popular?
Macau blends Portuguese colonial history with vibrant Chinese culture. Macau welcomed 18.0 million visitors in 2024, making it one of the most visited cities in the world. Macau’s Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features historical landmarks that reflect its unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese cultural heritage.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Ruins of St. Paul’s | Iconic facade of a 17th-century Catholic church. |
Macau Tower | Panoramic views and adventurous sky walking. |
A-Ma Temple | Historic Taoist temple dedicated to Mazu. |
1.16. What Hidden Gems Does Macau Offer?
Explore the quaint Coloane Village with its seaside views and pastel houses, or relax at Hac Sa Beach, known for its black sand. Visit the Lou Kau Mansion for its elegant Chinese-Portuguese architecture.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Coloane Village | Quaint streets, seaside views, and pastel houses. |
Hac Sa Beach | Black sand beach perfect for relaxation. |
Lou Kau Mansion | Elegant Chinese-Portuguese architecture. |
1.17. Why Is Paris, France So Popular?
Paris is renowned for its art, history, fashion, and romance. In 2024, Paris attracted 17.4 million international visitors, reaffirming its status as one of the most beloved cities in the world. Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Paris offers a magical experience for every international traveler.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Eiffel Tower | Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. |
Louvre Museum | Houses masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. |
Musée d’Orsay | Showcases French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. |
Notre Dame Cathedral | A stunning example of Gothic architecture, with its gargoyles and stained glass windows (currently under restoration). |
1.18. What Hidden Gems Does Paris Offer?
Explore the scenic Canal Saint-Martin with its charming bridges and cafes, or the Petite Ceinture Railway, now a green walking path. Don’t miss the Musée de la Vie Romantique, dedicated to romantic art.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Canal Saint-Martin | Scenic waterway with charming bridges and cafes. |
Petite Ceinture Railway | Abandoned railway now a green walking path. |
Musée de la Vie Romantique | Intimate museum dedicated to romantic art. |
1.19. Why Is Kuala Lumpur So Popular?
Kuala Lumpur is known for its iconic skyline, cultural diversity, and blend of tradition and modernity. Kuala Lumpur welcomed 16.5 million international visitors, cementing its reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Petronas Twin Towers | Iconic twin skyscrapers with a sky bridge and panoramic views of the city. |
Batu Caves | Stunning limestone caves housing a vibrant Hindu temple. |
Thean Hou Temple | A multi-tiered Chinese temple offering panoramic views of the city. |
1.20. What Hidden Gems Does Kuala Lumpur Offer?
Explore the authentic Kampung Baru village or the vibrant street art in Chinatown Backstreets. The Saloma Bridge, lit with colorful LED lights, is perfect for nighttime photography.
Hidden Gem | Description |
---|---|
Kampung Baru | An authentic Malay village where visitors can explore traditional stilt houses and local food. |
Chinatown Backstreets | Hidden laneways for vibrant street art and local street food vendors. |
Saloma Bridge | A pedestrian bridge lit with colorful LED lights, perfect for nighttime photography. |
2. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2023?
Istanbul led the charts in 2023. In 2023, the top 10 most visited cities worldwide included Istanbul, London, Dubai, Antalya, Paris, Hong Kong, Bangkok, New York, Cancún, and Mecca. Each city offers unique experiences.
Rank | City | Country | International Arrivals (millions) | Growth 2022-2023 |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. | Istanbul | Turkey | 20.2 | +26% |
2. | London | United Kingdom | 18.8 | +17% |
3. | Dubai | United Arab Emirates | 16.8 | +18% |
4. | Antalya | Turkey | 16.5 | +29% |
5. | Paris | France | 15.5 | +4% |
6. | Hong Kong | Hong Kong, China | 14.7 | +2495% |
7. | Bangkok | Thailand | 12.2 | +142% |
8. | New York | United States | 11.7 | +24% |
9. | Cancún | Mexico | 10.8 | +13% |
10. | Mecca | Saudi Arabia | 10.8 | +124% |
3. Which Were The Best Cities In The World In 2023 According To Euromonitor’s City Destination Index?
Paris topped the list based on various metrics. Euromonitor’s City Destination Index uses six key pillars to rank cities’ performances. Paris, Dubai, Madrid, Tokyo, and Amsterdam topped the list, showcasing diverse strengths from economic performance to sustainability.
Rank | City | Country |
---|---|---|
1. | Paris | France |
2. | Dubai | United Arab Emirates |
3. | Madrid | Spain |
4. | Tokyo | Japan |
5. | Amsterdam | Netherlands |
6. | Berlin | Germany |
7. | Rome | Italy |
8. | New York | United States |
9. | Barcelona | Spain |
10. | London | United Kingdom |
11. | Singapore | Singapore |
12. | Munich | Germany |
13. | Milan | Italy |
14. | Seoul | South Korea |
15. | Dublin | Ireland |
16. | Osaka | Japan |
17. | Hong Kong | Hong Kong, China |
18. | Vienna | Austria |
19. | Los Angeles | United States |
20. | Lisbon | Portugal |
4. What Were The Best Cities In The World In 2022 According To Euromonitor’s City Destination Index?
Paris maintained its top position. According to Euromonitor International’s City Destination Index 2022, Paris, Dubai, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Rome were the top cities based on tourism performance and infrastructure.
Rank | City | Country |
---|---|---|
1. | Paris | France |
2. | Dubai | United Arab Emirates |
3. | Amsterdam | Netherlands |
4. | Madrid | Spain |
5. | Rome | Italy |
6. | London | United Kingdom |
7. | Munich | Germany |
8. | Berlin | Germany |
9. | Barcelona | Spain |
10. | New York | United States |
11. | Prague | Czech Republic |
12. | Lisbon | Portugal |
13. | Milan | Italy |
14. | Los Angeles | United States |
15. | Singapore | Singapore |
16. | Vienna | Austria |
17. | Frankfurt | Germany |
18. | Dublin | Ireland |
19. | Stockholm | Sweden |
20. | Tokyo | Japan |
21. | Florence | Italy |
22. | Orlando | United States |
23. | Athens | Greece |
24. | Abu Dhabi | United Arab Emirates |
25. | Istanbul | Turkey |
26. | Seoul | South Korea |
27. | Venice | Italy |
28. | Zurich | Switzerland |
29. | Toronto | Canada |
30. | Miami | United States |
5. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2021?
Dubai led amidst the pandemic recovery. In 2021, Dubai, Shanghai, Paris, Guangzhou, and New York were the top cities, reflecting the cautious resumption of international travel.
Rank | City | Country | Forecasted International Arrivals (millions) |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Dubai | United Arab Emirates | 6.9 |
2. | Shanghai | China | 6.1 |
3. | Paris | France | 5.5 |
4. | Guangzhou | China | 4.7 |
5. | New York | United States | 4.6 |
6. | Shenzhen | China | 3.3 |
7. | Orlando | United States | 3.1 |
8. | Miami | United States | 3.1 |
9. | Las Vegas | United States | 3.0 |
10. | Berlin | Germany | 2.3 |
6. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2020?
Dubai still attracted many visitors despite the pandemic. In 2020, Dubai, Paris, New York, Shanghai, and Guangzhou were the top cities, showcasing their enduring appeal despite global travel disruptions.
Rank | City | Country | International Arrivals (millions) |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Dubai | United Arab Emirates | 5.5 |
2. | Paris | France | 3.8 |
3. | New York | United States | 2.4 |
4. | Shanghai | China | 2.3 |
5. | Guangzhou | China | 2.1 |
6. | Miami | United States | 1.8 |
7. | Orlando | United States | 1.7 |
8. | Berlin | Germany | 1.7 |
9. | Las Vegas | United States | 1.5 |
10. | Shenzhen | China | 1.1 |
7. What Were The Most Visited Cities In The World In 2019?
Hong Kong led the list before the pandemic. The most traveled to cities in the world in 2019 were Hong Kong, Bangkok, Macau, Singapore, and London, marking a high point for global tourism before the pandemic.
Rank | City | Country | Arrivals (millions) |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Hong Kong | Hong Kong, China | 26.71 |
2. | Bangkok | Thailand | 25.84 |
3. | Macau | Macau, China | 20.63 |
4. | Singapore | Singapore | 19.76 |
5. | London | United Kingdom | 19.55 |
6. | Paris | France | 19.08 |
7. | Dubai | United Arab Emirates | 16.32 |
8. | Delhi | India | 15.19 |
9. | Istanbul | Turkey | 14.71 |
10. | Kuala Lumpur | Malaysia | 14.07 |
11. | New York | United States | 14.01 |
12. | Antalya | Turkey | 13.33 |
13. | Mumbai | India | 12.44 |
14. | Shenzhen | China | 12.32 |
15. | Phuket | Thailand | 10.96 |
16. | Tokyo | Japan | 10.44 |
17. | Rome | Italy | 10.31 |
18. | Agra | India | 10.12 |
19. | Taipei | Taiwan, China | 9.98 |
20. | Pattaya | Thailand | 9.95 |
21. | Mecca | Saudi Arabia | 9.83 |
22. | Prague | Czech Republic | 9.15 |
23. | Seoul | South Korea | 9.10 |
24. | Guangzhou | China | 9.00 |
25. | Osaka | Japan | 8.99 |
26. | Amsterdam | Netherlands | 8.83 |
27. | Medina | Saudi Arabia | 8.82 |
28. | Denpasar | Indonesia | 8.58 |
29. | Miami | United States | 8.33 |
30. | Ho Chi Minh | Vietnam | 8.20 |
31. | Chennai | India | 7.93 |
32. | Shangai | China | 7.74 |
33. | Los Angeles | United States | 7.72 |
34. | Jaipur | India | 7.56 |
35. | Johor Bahru | Malaysia | 7.22 |
36. | Barcelona | Spain | 7.01 |
37. | Cairo | Egypt | 6.80 |
38. | Las Vegas | United States | 6.63 |
39. | Vienna | Austria | 6.63 |
40. | Milan | Italy | 6.60 |
41. | Athens | Greece | 6.30 |
42. | Ha Long | Vietnam | 6.24 |
43. | Berlin | Germany | 6.19 |
44. | Cancun | Mexico | 6.15 |
45. | Moscow | Russia | 5.96 |
46. | Orlando | United States | 5.72 |
47. | Venice | Italy | 5.59 |
48. | Madrid | Spain | 5.59 |
49. | Dublin |