Are you curious to know which country reigns supreme in attracting tourists? The country with the highest tourism is a title often vied for, and in 2024, it’s time to explore the latest data and insights. At SIXT.VN, we’re here to guide you through the world’s most popular destinations, helping you plan your dream trip to incredible places like Vietnam and beyond. We provide comprehensive travel solutions including airport transfers, hotel bookings, sightseeing tours, and flight arrangements, ensuring a seamless experience. Let’s dive in and discover the global tourism landscape with essential travel tips and recommendations.
Contents
- 1. Most Visited Countries: An Overview
- 2. Top 10 Most Visited Countries
- 2.1 France
- 2.2 Spain
- 2.3 United States
- 2.4 China
- 2.5 Italy
- 2.6 Turkey
- 2.7 Mexico
- 2.8 Thailand
- 2.9 Germany
- 2.10 United Kingdom
- 3. Top 50 Most Visited Countries in 2024
- 4. Vietnam: A Rising Star in Tourism
- 4.1 Hanoi: A Must-Visit Destination in Vietnam
- 5. Overview of Global Tourism Trends
- 6. Most Visited Countries in 2023
- 7. Most Visited Countries in 2022
1. Most Visited Countries: An Overview
Identifying the country with the highest tourism involves analyzing a range of factors, from the number of international arrivals to tourism revenue. In recent years, several countries have consistently topped the list, showcasing their unique appeal and robust tourism infrastructure. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourist arrivals reached 98% of 2019 levels between January and September 2024, with an estimated 1.1 billion arrivals recorded, an 11% increase compared to 2023.
Key Trends in Global Tourism
- France: Has traditionally been the most visited country, bolstered by events like the Paris Olympics.
- Spain: Consistently ranks high due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful coasts.
- United States: Offers diverse landscapes and iconic cities, attracting millions of visitors each year.
2. Top 10 Most Visited Countries
Based on the latest tourism statistics from Data Pandas, France leads with 89.4 million visitors, followed by Spain (83.7 million), the United States (79.3 million), China (65.7 million), Italy (64.5 million), Turkey (51.2 million), Mexico (45.0 million), Thailand (39.8 million), Germany (39.6 million), and the United Kingdom (39.4 million). These countries boast a combination of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that make them popular among global travelers.
2.1 France
For over 30 years, France has maintained its position as the most visited country, attracting 89.4 million arrivals.
Why France?
- Rich History and Culture: Home to 49 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Parisian Charm: Paris, the most visited city in Europe, saw 38 million tourists in 2019.
- Beautiful Countryside: Features stunning villages, mountains, vineyards, and castles.
Cultural Attractions in France
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux | Southwestern France | Wine tasting |
| Paris Eiffel Tower | Paris | City views from the top |
| Palace of Versailles | Versailles, Île-de-France | Hall of Mirrors, beautiful gardens |
| Alsace Region | Part of Rhine Valley | Fairy-tale villages, castles |
| Mont Saint-Michel | Normandy | Medieval abbey on a rocky island |
Natural Landmarks in France
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| French Riviera | Southeast France | Mediterranean beaches |
| The Alps | Eastern France | Skiing, hiking |
| Loire Valley | Central France | Beautiful gardens |
| Calanques National Park | Provence | Rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters |
2.2 Spain
Spain is the second most visited country, with 83.7 million international arrivals.
Why Spain?
- Historical Richness: A blend of historical and modern attractions.
- Sunny Coasts: Popular for its beaches and vibrant nightlife.
- Architectural Beauty: Home to architectural marvels in cities like Barcelona.
Cultural Attractions in Spain
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sagrada Familia | Barcelona | Barcelona’s most visited spot |
| Alhambra Palace | Granada | Architecture, history |
| Prado Museum | Madrid | World-class art collection |
Natural Landmarks in Spain
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Picos de Europa | Northern Spain | Rugged mountain range |
| Canary Islands | Off the coast of Africa | Volcanic landscapes, beaches |
| Doñana National Park | Andalusia | Wetlands, diverse wildlife, beauty |
2.3 United States
The United States ranks third, attracting 79.3 million international visitors.
Why the United States?
- Diverse Landscapes: From bustling cities to natural wonders.
- Iconic Cities: New York, California, and Florida offer endless attractions.
- Endless Tourist Attractions: A wide range of activities and sights.
Cultural Attractions in the United States
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Statue of Liberty | New York | Famous monument, cruises |
| San Francisco Bay | California | Cruises under the Golden Gate Bridge |
| The Metropolitan Museum of Art | New York City | Art collection spanning 5,000 years |
| Alaska | Alaska | Scenic flight |
Natural Landmarks in the United States
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Niagara Falls | New York | Majestic waterfalls |
| Grand Canyon | Arizona | Iconic canyon carved by Colorado River |
| Yosemite and Sequoia | California | California’s top national parks |
| Denali | Alaska | Tallest mountain in North America |
2.4 China
China secures the fourth position with 65.7 million tourist arrivals.
Why China?
- Ancient History: Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Diverse Culture: A blend of traditions and modern attractions.
- Iconic Landmarks: The Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Terracotta Army.
Cultural Attractions in China
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing City | Beijing | Iconic site |
| Great Wall of China | Jinshanling | Hiking, wonder of the world |
| Temple of Heaven | Beijing | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Mogao Caves | Dunhuang | Ancient Buddhist art and manuscripts |
Natural Landmarks in China
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Li River | Guangxi | Scenic river, karst landscapes |
| Jiuzhaigou Valley | Sichuan Province | Colorful lakes, waterfalls |
| Mount Huangshan | Anhui Province | Panoramic Views |
2.5 Italy
Italy ranks fifth, with 64.5 million arrivals.
Why Italy?
- Art and History: Known for its rich artistic heritage and historical sites.
- Fashion and Food: Renowned for fashion, cuisine, and wine.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Home to 60 UNESCO sites, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Venice.
Cultural Attractions in Italy
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vatican City | Rome | Holy Site |
| Cinque Terre | Liguria | Five cliff-edged villages |
| Leaning Tower of Pisa | Pisa | Romanesque architecture, Medieval ages |
Natural Landmarks in Italy
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Dolomites | Northern Italy | Stunning alpine mountain range |
| Mount Etna | Sicily | Active volcano, UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Amalfi Coast | Amalfi Coast | Scenic villages |
2.6 Turkey
Turkey is sixth, with 51.2 million arrivals.
Why Turkey?
- Cultural Mix: A blend of Eastern and Western cultures.
- Historical Sites: Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapı Palace.
- Archaeological Wonders: Ephesus and Cappadocia.
Cultural Attractions in Turkey
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | Istanbul | Byzantine architecture |
| Ephesus | Izmir Province | Ancient Greek-Roman city |
| Cappadocia | Eastern Anatolia | Hot air balloon flights |
| Troy | Çanakkale Province | Legendary city of the Trojan War |
Natural Landmarks in Turkey
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Ararat | Eastern Turkey | Turkey’s highest peak |
| Pamukkale | Denizli | Cotton castles |
| Patara Beach | Antalya Province | Sandy beach |
2.7 Mexico
Mexico ranks seventh with 45 million arrivals.
Why Mexico?
- Vibrant Culture: Lively markets and festivals.
- Delicious Food: Renowned cuisine.
- Mayan & Aztec Ruins: Historical significance.
Cultural Attractions in Mexico
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Teotihuacan Pyramids | Teotihuacan | Pyramids dating back to 100 B.C. |
| San Miguel de Allende | Guanajuato | Colonial City Tour |
| Tulum | Quintana Roo | Underground Cenotes |
| Chichén Itzá | Yucatán Peninsula | Major Mayan Ruins, 7 wonders of the world |
Natural Landmarks in Mexico
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cenotes | Yucatán Peninsula | Underground sinkholes with crystal-clear waters |
| Hierve el Agua | Oaxaca | Petrified waterfalls |
| Baja California Peninsula | Baja California Sur | Coral reefs and marine life |
| La Huasteca Potosina | San Luis Potosí | Waterfalls, turquoise rivers, and lush forests |
2.8 Thailand
Thailand is eighth, attracting 39.8 million arrivals.
Why Thailand?
- Royal Palaces: Grand architectural sites.
- Ancient Ruins: Historical significance.
- Beautiful Beaches: Known as the “Land of Smiles.”
Cultural Attractions in Thailand
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Bangkok Floating Market | Bangkok | Local daily life |
| Ayutthaya Historical Park | Ayutthaya | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) | Bangkok | Stunning riverside temple |
| Erawan Museum | Samut Prakan | Unique museum with intricate sculptures and Thai art |
Natural Landmarks in Thailand
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Phi Phi Islands | Krabi Province | Limestone cliffs and beaches |
| Koh Samui | Gulf of Thailand | Island Safari |
| Koh Tao | Gulf of Thailand (west) | Island for Scuba Diving |
| Chiang Mai | Chiang Mai | Hike and bike on the hills |
2.9 Germany
Germany is ninth, with 39.6 million visitors.
Why Germany?
- Picturesque Landscapes: Enchanting castles and landscapes.
- Historical Sites: Cologne Cathedral and Pergamon Museum.
- Oktoberfest: A world-renowned beer festival.
Cultural Attractions in Germany
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Berlin Wall | West Berlin | Germany’s history |
| Cologne Cathedral | Cologne | Gothic architecture |
| Neuschwanstein Castle | Schwangau | Iconic Castle that inspired Walt Disney |
| Munich Old Town | Old Town Hall, Munich | City with Historic Buildings |
| Rhine Valley | Middle Germany | UNESCO site with vineyards & villages |
Natural Landmarks in Germany
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Black Forest | Baden-Württemberg | Dense forests, scenic villages |
| Rhine Gorge | Rhineland-Palatinate | River valley with vineyards and castles |
| Wadden Sea | Northern Germany | Coastal tidal flats, UNESCO site |
2.10 United Kingdom
The United Kingdom completes the top 10, with 39.4 million arrivals.
Why the United Kingdom?
- Rich History: Historical landmarks and cultural wealth.
- Remarkable Sights: Stonehenge and the Tower of London.
- Regal Charm: The elegance of London.
Cultural Attractions in the United Kingdom
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| London Eye | County Hall, London | England’s Capital Views |
| Stonehenge | Salisbury | Historical Site |
| Tower Bridge | London | Story of London’s defining landmark |
| Edinburgh Castle | Castlehill, Edinburgh | Fantastical Castle Rock |
Natural Landmarks in the United Kingdom
| Destination | Regional Location | Famous Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lake District National Park | Cumbria, England | Scenic lakes, mountains, hiking trails |
| Jurassic Coast | Dorset and Devon, England | Fossil-rich coastline, dramatic cliffs |
| River Thames | England | Water Cruise |
3. Top 50 Most Visited Countries in 2024
The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts a record-breaking year for the travel and tourism industry in 2024, with an all-time high of $11.1 trillion in economic output. Here’s a list of the Top 50 Most Visited Countries in 2024, based on data from UNWTO:
| Rank | Country | Arrivals (million) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | France | 102 |
| 2 | Spain | 93.76 |
| 3 | United States | 72.39 |
| 4 | Turkey | 60.58 |
| 5 | Mexico | 45.04 |
| 6 | Germany | 37.5 |
| 7 | Japan | 36.8 |
| 8 | Greece | 35.95 |
| 9 | Thailand | 35.55 |
| 10 | Austria | 32.2 |
| 11 | Saudi Arabia | 29.69 |
| 12 | Malaysia | 25.02 |
| 13 | Hong Kong | 21.94 |
| 14 | Netherlands | 21.29 |
| 15 | Canada | 19.91 |
| 16 | Vietnam | 17.47 |
| 17 | Morocco | 17.41 |
| 18 | Korea(ROK) | 16.37 |
| 19 | Macao(China) | 16.04 |
| 20 | Egypt | 15.78 |
| 21 | Albania | 11.29 |
| 22 | Tunisia | 10.26 |
| 23 | South Africa | 8.92 |
| 24 | Sweden | 8.68 |
| 25 | Bulgaria | 8.62 |
| 26 | Dominican Rep. | 8.54 |
| 27 | Australia | 8.27 |
| 28 | Taiwan(pr. of China) | 7.86 |
| 29 | Iran | 7.04 |
| 30 | Brazil | 6.77 |
| 31 | Combodia | 6.7 |
| 32 | Agrentina | 6.6 |
| 33 | Ireland | 6.59 |
| 34 | Colombia | 6.39 |
| 35 | Philippines | 5.44 |
| 36 | Chile | 5.24 |
| 37 | Jordan | 5.22 |
| 38 | Georgia | 5.09 |
| 39 | Qatar | 5.08 |
| 40 | Andorra | 4.17 |
| 41 | Cyprus | 4.04 |
| 42 | Malta | 3.56 |
| 43 | Peru | 3.26 |
| 44 | El Salvador | 3.19 |
| 45 | Costa Rica | 2.92 |
| 46 | Finland | 2.9 |
| 47 | Estonia | 2.66 |
| 48 | Montenegro | 2.45 |
| 49 | Romania | 2.38 |
| 50 | Serbia | 2.38 |
Some countries have yet to release their official tourism data for 2024, so the rankings and figures may be updated as more information becomes available.
4. Vietnam: A Rising Star in Tourism
Among the top 50, Vietnam stands out as a rapidly growing destination, securing the 16th position with 17.47 million visitors.
Why Vietnam?
- Rich Culture and History: Ancient temples, historical sites, and vibrant traditions.
- Stunning Landscapes: From the rice terraces of Sapa to the beaches of Phu Quoc.
- Delicious Cuisine: A culinary paradise with unique flavors.
4.1 Hanoi: A Must-Visit Destination in Vietnam
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city that perfectly blends ancient charm with modern vibrancy. With its tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, and bustling Old Quarter, Hanoi offers a unique travel experience.
Top Attractions in Hanoi
- Hoan Kiem Lake: The heart of Hanoi, surrounded by historical sites and scenic views.
- Old Quarter: A maze of narrow streets filled with shops, street food stalls, and traditional houses.
- Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university, showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Why Choose SIXT.VN for Your Hanoi Trip?
- Convenient Airport Transfers: Start your trip stress-free with our reliable airport transfer services.
- Hotel Bookings: Find the perfect accommodation with our wide range of hotel options.
- Sightseeing Tours: Explore Hanoi’s top attractions with our expert-guided tours.
- Flight Arrangements: Book your flights with ease through our comprehensive travel services.
5. Overview of Global Tourism Trends
In recent years, the tourism sector has experienced fluctuating trends, especially with the significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as the world recovers, post-pandemic travel trends have begun to shape the industry’s future, with tourist arrivals and receipts gradually rebounding. Every corner of the globe has experienced remarkable growth, and this revival in global tourism has boosted travel across all continents, making many destinations the most popular countries for international travelers.
The chart above highlights the annual trends in international tourist arrivals, showcasing the industry’s steady expansion over the last decade. While the COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp decline in 2020, the sector has demonstrated strong resilience. As of 2024, international tourism has achieved approximately 99% recovery, signaling a near-complete rebound in global travel.
The chart above illustrates the trend in international tourist receipts over the years, showcasing the sector’s remarkable growth and resilience. In 2024, global tourism receipts are estimated to reach 1,400 billion, reflecting a 4% increase compared to the previous year. This steady growth highlights the ongoing recovery and strong demand for global travel.
Global travel statistics reflect an upward trajectory in both arrivals and receipts as countries adapt to new travel norms and markets. So far, international tourism has rebounded to 87% of pre-pandemic levels. According to UN Tourism, the tourism sector grew by 2.9% in 2024 and is projected to fully recover by December, surpassing pre-pandemic records and setting new global travel benchmarks.
6. Most Visited Countries in 2023
The tourism industry achieved remarkable progress toward recovery in 2023, reaching 87% of its pre-pandemic levels. This impressive growth represented an increase of 22 percentage points from 2022. Based on data from UNWTO, here’s a comprehensive tourism ranking of the most visited countries in the world for 2023, along with their estimated number of international tourist arrivals, tourist receipts, receipts per arrival, and tourism exports:
| Rank | Country | Region | Arrivals (million) | Tourist Receipts (USD billion) | Receipts per Arrival (USD) | Tourism Exports (USD billion) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | France | Europe | 100.00 | 71.2 | 712 | 81.2 |
| 2 | Spain | Europe | 85.17 | 92.20 | 1080 | 92.0 |
| 3 | United States | Americas | 66.48 | 189.1 | 2845 | 225.9 |
| 4 | Italy | Europe | 57.25 | 55.9 | 976 | 57.8 |
| 5 | Turkey | Middle East | 55.16 | 49.5 | 897 | 69.8 |
| 6 | Mexico | Americas | 41.95 | 30.7 | 732 | 33.5 |
| 7 | United Kingdom | Europe | 37.22 | 73.4 | 1971 | 73.4 |
| 8 | Germany | Europe | 34.80 | 37.4 | 1074 | 37.4 |
| 9 | Greece | Europe | 32.74 | 22.3 | 680 | 24.7 |
| 10 | Austria | Europe | 30.91 | 24.7 | 799 | 27.4 |
| 11 | Thailand | Asia Pacific | 28.15 | 29.7 | 1055 | 32.6 |
| 12 | Utd Arab Emirates | Middle East | 28.15 | 51.9 | 1845 | 51.9 |
| 13 | Saudi Arabia | Middle East | 27.42 | 36.0 | 1312 | 40.9 |
| 14 | Portugal | Europe | 26.54 | 27.4 | 1034 | 32.8 |
| 15 | Japan | Asia Pacific | 25.07 | 38.6 | 1539 | 42.3 |
| 16 | Netherlands | Europe | 20.30 | 20.7 | 1019 | 23.7 |
| 17 | Malaysia | Asia Pacific | 20.14 | 14.9 | 741 | 18.0 |
| 18 | Poland | Europe | 18.99 | 15.0 | 791 | 17.5 |
| 19 | Canada | Americas | 18.34 | 38.5 | 2097 | 38.5 |
| 20 | Hong Kong (China) | Asia Pacific | 17.16 | 20.9 | 1216 | 20.9 |
| 21 | Egypt | Africa | 14.91 | 14.1 | 944 | 15.8 |
| 22 | Morocco | Africa | 14.52 | 10.3 | 711 | 12.1 |
| 23 | Macao (China) | Asia Pacific | 14.23 | 32.6 | 2288 | 32.6 |
| 24 | Hungary | Europe | 12.93 | 7.9 | 609 | 11.3 |
| 25 | Vietnam | Asia Pacific | 12.60 | 9.2 | 730 | 9.2 |
| 26 | Korea (ROK) | Asia Pacific | 11.03 | 15.3 | 1388 | 20.6 |
| 27 | Albania | Europe | 9.67 | 4.5 | 467 | 5.0 |
| 28 | Tunisia | Africa | 9.37 | 2.6 | 274 | 2.6 |
| 29 | South Africa | Americas | 8.48 | 5.7 | 669 | 5.8 |
| 30 | Dominican Rep. | Americas | 8.06 | 9.8 | 1210 | 9.8 |
| 31 | Sweden | Europe | 7.53 | 9.9 | 1311 | 9.9 |
| 32 | Argentina | Americas | 7.29 | 5.5 | 753 | 5.9 |
| 33 | Australia | Asia Pacific | 7.19 | 46.1 | 6410 | 47.8 |
| 34 | Uzbekistan | Asia Pacific | 6.63 | 2.2 | 327 | 2.6 |
| 35 | Taiwan (pr. of China) | Asia Pacific | 6.49 | 8.7 | 1335 | 11.6 |
| 36 | Ireland | Europe | 6.30 | 7.5 | 1198 | 18.1 |
| 37 | Brazil | Americas | 5.91 | 6.9 | 1169 | 6.9 |
| 38 | Iran | Middle East | 5.87 | – | – | – |
| 39 | Colombia | Americas | 5.63 | 7.6 | 1342 | 9.0 |
| 40 | Bahrain | Middle East | 5.56 | 4.6 | 833 | 6.5 |
| 41 | Cambodia | Asia Pacific | 5.45 | 3.1 | 565 | 3.1 |
| 42 | Jordan | Middle East | 5.35 | 7.4 | 1384 | 8.7 |
| 43 | Puerto Rico | Americas | 5.05 | 5.4 | 1064 | 5.4 |
| 44 | Philippines | Asia Pacific | 5.0 | 9.1 | 1822 | 10.6 |
| 45 | Georgia | Europe | 4.67 | 4.1 | 883 | 4.5 |
| 46 | Qatar | Middle East | 4.05 | 8.8 | 2183 | 24.5 |
| 47 | Andorra | Europe | 4.05 | – | – | – |
| 48 | Cyprus | Middle East | 3.85 | 3.2 | 841 | 3.2 |
| 49 | Uruguay | Americas | 3.84 | 2.5 | 649 | 2.6 |
| 50 | Chile | Americas | 3.73 | 2.4 | 644 | 3.5 |
Note: If no data is shown, there’s no data available for the selected year. UNWTO ranks countries based on existing data for the selected year. As data will be updated regularly throughout the year, the rankings therefore will change as well.
7. Most Visited Countries in 2022
The pace of recovery accelerated in 2022, with international tourism rebounding to 66% of its pre-pandemic levels—a remarkable increase of 35 percentage points compared to the previous year. Based on data from UNWTO, here’s a list of the most visited countries in the world for 2022, along with their estimated number of international tourist arrivals, tourist receipts, receipts per arrival, and tourism exports:
| Rank | Country | Region | Arrivals (million) | Tourist Receipts (USD billion) | Receipts per Arrival (USD) | Tourism Exports (USD billion) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | France | Europe | 93.2 | 59.7 | 640 | 67.9 |
| 2 | Spain | Europe | 71.66 | 72.9 | 1.17 | 72.9 |
| 3 | United States | Americas | 50.87 | 142.9 | 2809 | 172.1 |
| 4 | Turkey | Middle East | 50.45 | – | – | 16.4 |
| 5 | Italy | Europe | 49.81 | – | – | 1.1 |
| 6 | Mexico |
