There are 195 countries in the world and all have their own specific qualities. Some of those countries stand out as the most visited countries in the world for various reasons. People love to explore these countries and have a memorable time with their loved ones or alone. Here is the list of the 10 most visited countries in the world.
List of 10 Most Visited Countries in the World
- France
- Spain
- United States
- China
- Italy
- Turkey
- Mexico
- Thailand
- Germany
- United Kingdom
1) France
Almost 100 million people visit France each year, making it the most visited country in the world. With its famous attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris is a city that draws millions of visitors every year. The city’s charming neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais, as well as its lively art scenes and charming cafés, all contribute to its allure.
The French Riviera, which stretches beyond Paris, is home to opulent locations like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Travelers swarm to these opulent resorts and sun-kissed beaches to take advantage of the Mediterranean environment. Provence provides a charming getaway with its lavender fields and quaint villages. The magnificent Gorges du Verdon and the medieval Palais des Papes in Avignon are two of the region’s highlights.
In areas like Normandy, which is renowned for its involvement in World War II, and the magnificent Mont Saint-Michel, France’s cultural diversity is visible. Dubbed the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley is home to stunning châteaux like Chenonceau and Chambord. Bordeaux and Burgundy, two locations famous for their vineyards and fine wines, are a delight for wine lovers.
Skiers and hikers are drawn to famous resorts like Chamonix and Val d’Isère by the French Alps. In the meantime, Brittany offers a distinctive, off-the-beaten-path experience thanks to its coastline and Celtic heritage. Every traveler can find something to enjoy in France, from its varied landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine to its rich history and culture.
2) Spain
Over 85 million people visit Spain annually, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, two of Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, enthrall tourists to Barcelona, the energetic city of Catalonia. Every year, millions of people flock to La Rambla, a busy promenade brimming with stores and street entertainers.
Spain’s capital, Madrid, enchants tourists with its Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and bustling Plaza Mayor. The city’s exciting nightlife and tapas culture make for a memorable visit. Seville is well-known for its flamenco dancing and magnificent Moorish architecture. It is home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb and the magnificent Alcázar palace.
The Balearic Islands, which include Mallorca and Ibiza, draw party animals and sun worshippers. Ibiza is well-known for its exciting nightlife, but Mallorca has gorgeous beaches and quaint towns like Valldemossa. The Canary Islands offer a variety of activities, from trekking in Teide National Park to relaxing on beaches with black sand in Tenerife, thanks to their distinctive volcanic environments.
The Mezquita in Córdoba combines Moorish and Renaissance architectural elements, while the Alhambra in Granada, Andalusia, displays magnificent Islamic architecture. The region’s charm is increased by the white-washed communities nearby, like Ronda and Mijas.
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3) United States
With around 66 million tourists visiting each year, the United States is one of the most visited nations in the world. With famous sites like Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building, New York City is a top travel destination. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Broadway’s thriving theater culture also contribute to the city’s allure.
Millions of people visit California because of its varied attractions. Hollywood, the Walk of Fame, and Venice Beach can all be found in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world. Three must-see locations are Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. There are amazing views of the coast along the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway.
Families travel to Orlando to see Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld since Florida is well-known for its theme parks. Another popular destination is Miami’s South Beach, which features lively nightlife and Art Deco architecture. The Florida Keys offer a relaxed atmosphere, pristine waters, and a tropical escape.
Millions of nature lovers are drawn to Arizona’s Grand Canyon by its breathtaking views and vast expanse. Renowned for its vibrant casinos and shows, Las Vegas, Nevada, welcomes millions of tourists every year.
The nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is home to important historical sites like the White House, the Capitol, and the Smithsonian museums. On the other hand, outdoor experiences can be found at national parks with breathtaking scenery like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Great Smoky Mountains.
4) China
With more than 65 million foreign tourists visiting each year, China is one of the most sought-after travel destinations worldwide. Millions of people visit Beijing’s ancient attractions, such as the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. With its length of more than 13,000 miles, the Great Wall of China provides amazing views and an insight into ancient technical marvels.
Shanghai, a major international financial center, dazzles with its skyline, which is dominated by the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower. The Bund is a waterfront promenade that features a bustling nightlife and buildings from the colonial era. Areas such as the bustling Nanjing Road and the venerable Yuyuan Garden demonstrate the city’s blend of modernity and history.
The Terracotta Army, located in Xi’an, offers an enthralling glimpse into China’s past. Other noteworthy sights in the city are the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the old city wall. Nature enthusiasts and photographers are drawn to Guilin’s attractive scenery in the south, which includes the Li River and karst mountains.
Known for its Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Chengdu gives visitors a close-up look at these lovable creatures. The city is renowned for its fiery Sichuan cuisine, which includes foods like map tofu and hotpot.
The Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong blends natural beauty with urban bustle. Highlights are the vibrant Mong Kok markets and Victoria Peak, which offers breathtaking views of the city. The city’s varied food scene and cultural events showcase its fusion of Eastern and Western influences.
Travelers from all over the world are enthralled by China’s rich and varied travel experience, which includes everything from natural views and gastronomic delights to modern metropolises and ancient treasures.
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5) Italy
Italy is one of the most traveled countries in the world, with over 64 million visitors annually. The capital city of Rome is teeming with ancient wonders, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Vatican City, which is the location of the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Tourists swarm to view the old city’s breathtaking architecture and Michelangelo’s artistic creations.
Not to be missed are the Uffizi Gallery, the Florence Cathedral (complete with Brunelleschi’s famous dome), and the Accademia Gallery, home of Michelangelo’s David. The city is made more charming by its charming streets and the Ponte Vecchio bridge that spans the Arno River.
Venice, known for its canals, provides memorable experiences like trips to the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, as well as gondola rides down the Grand Canal. The city has a mystical atmosphere due to its labyrinth of little alleyways and old piazzas like Piazza San Marco.
Milan, the center of Italian fashion, is known for its magnificent Gothic Duomo di Milano, opulent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and The Last Supper, a masterwork by Leonardo da Vinci.
The Amalfi Coast offers a lovely getaway with its stunning cliffs and seaside villages like Positano and Amalfi. On the other hand, the Tuscan countryside provides a peaceful getaway with its undulating hills, vineyards, and medieval cities like San Gimignano and Siena.
6) Turkey
Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world, drawing in more than 51 million people a year. Millions visit Istanbul, the dynamic center of the nation, because of its unique fusion of old and new. The architectural magnificence of Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Hagia Sophia astounds tourists. With thousands of stores, the vibrant Grand Bazaar provides a memorable shopping experience.
Cappadocia enthralls both adventure seekers and photographers with its unusual rock formations and hot air balloon trips. The area’s ethereal charm is enhanced by its historic cave settlements and underground towns. With its breathtaking white travertine terraces and thermal springs, Pamukkale is a natural wonder that attracts lots of tourists looking for rest and healing.
History buffs are drawn to Ephesus, an ancient city on the Aegean coast, because of its well-preserved ruins, which include the majestic Theater and the Library of Celsus. Known as the Turkish Riviera, Antalya is home to opulent resorts, Hadrian’s Gate, and stunning beaches.
For people who enjoy both history and relaxing by the water, the Mediterranean town of Bodrum is appealing, especially with its charming marina and majestic Bodrum Castle. The Black Sea region provides a different but no less captivating experience with its green landscapes and historic settlements.
Turkey is a popular travel destination for people all over the world because of its varied landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine, which includes delicacies like baklava and kebabs.
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7) Mexico
With more than 45 million foreign visitors each year, Mexico is one of the most visited nations in the world. The vibrant capital of Mexico City draws tourists with a blend of historical and contemporary attractions. The Templo Mayor and the Metropolitan Cathedral are two notable landmarks in the historic center, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lively Frida Kahlo Museum and the vibrant Xochimilco Canals are two places to witness the city’s vibrant culture.
Millions of people visit Cancún, a well-known beach resort, because of its immaculate white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. Tulum and Coba, two ancient Mayan ruins, are located along the Riviera Maya, which stretches from Cancún to Tulum. It also features opulent resorts and coral reefs for diving and snorkeling.
A delightful getaway is offered inland in the ancient city of San Miguel de Allende, which is renowned for its vibrant arts community and well-preserved Spanish architecture. Guanajuato, which is close by, is impressive with its vibrant architecture, underground passageways, and the well-known Callejón del Beso.
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza, enthralls tourists with its magnificent Mayan pyramid, El Castillo. The Great Ball Court and the Temple of the Warriors are both located on the property. Oaxaca draws travelers seeking real Mexican experiences because of its rich indigenous culture and delicious foods like a mole.
8) Thailand
With more than 39 million tourists visiting each year, Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s top travel destinations. Bangkok, the dynamic metropolis, enthralls visitors with its lively street culture and historical sites. Must-see locations include the Grand Palace, which houses the Emerald Buddha, and the neighboring Wat Pho, which is renowned for its enormous reclining Buddha. The vibrant marketplaces in the city, such as Chatuchak Weekend Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, provide a distinctive shopping experience.
Northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai draws tourists with its ancient temples, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. The mountains that encircle the city offer chances for hiking and hill tribal visits. Attendees are drawn to the enchanting Yi Peng Lantern Festival, which is an annual event featuring thousands of lanterns lighting up the sky.
The beaches and islands in the south, like phu*ket, Koh Samui, and Krabi, are well known for their gorgeous shorelines and glistening oceans. The Phi Phi Islands, made well-known by the film “The Beach,” include breathtaking scenery as well as top-notch locations for diving and snorkeling. Another attraction is the Similan Islands, which are a sanctuary for divers.
Thailand’s rich history is exhibited by the magnificent ruins and temples of Ayutthaya, an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site, including Wat Mahathat and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
Gourmets are drawn to Thai food because of its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Internationally renowned foods include tom yum soup, green curry, and pad thai.
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9) Germany
Germany is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe, with over 39 million visitors a year. The capital city of Berlin enthralls tourists with its dynamic culture and extensive history. Both the Berlin Wall Memorial and the Brandenburg Gate, a representation of reunification, are must-see sites. Five internationally recognized museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Altes Museum, can be found on Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Millions of people visit Munich, known for its Oktoberfest, which is the biggest beer festival in the world. The Marienplatz in the city, with its magnificent Neues Rathaus in neo-Gothic style, and the Frauenkirche nearby are major points of interest. Combining history and leisure is possible at Nymphenburg Palace and the English Garden, one of the biggest urban parks in the world.
Through lovely ancient villages like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Würzburg, travelers can experience the charm of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg along the Romantic Road. One of the highlights of this journey is Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairytale fortification that served as the model for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Rhine Valley is home to breathtaking scenery interspersed with castles and vineyards. River cruises offer breathtaking views of the Lorelei rock and charming communities like St. Goar and Bacharach.
Germany’s largest port city, Hamburg, is impressive with its historic Speicherstadt warehouse district and concert hall Elbphilharmonie. All ages are entertained by the world’s largest model train, Miniatur Wunderland.
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10) United Kingdom
With more than 39 million tourists visiting each year, the UK is one of the most visited countries in the world. London, the vibrant metropolis, draws millions of visitors with its recognizable sites and cultural offerings. The Queen’s official residence, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London, which houses the Crown Jewels, are the main attractions. Two must-see museums are the Tate Modern, which features modern art, and the British Museum, which has treasures like the Rosetta Stone.
Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, enthralls with its rich cultural and historical legacy. Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline, rising on a hilltop and connected to the Palace of Holyroodhouse by the Royal Mile. Performers and spectators from all over the world travel to the city for the annual Edinburgh event Fringe, which is the largest arts event in the world.
Bath is a charming and historic getaway, well-known for its Roman-built baths and breathtaking Georgian architecture. The Pump Room and the Roman Baths provide insights into the city’s prehistoric past. One of the most well-known prehistoric structures in the world, Stonehenge, never ceases to amaze tourists with its enigmatic beginnings.
The Lake District, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, presents stunning scenery perfect for boating and trekking. The towns of Windermere and Keswick act as entry points to this marvel of nature. York offers a step back in time with its beautiful York Minster and well-preserved medieval walls.
The Beatles Story Museum and the historic Albert Dock are two of Liverpool’s many attractions. The city is well-known for being the birthplace of The Beatles. The Merseyside Marine Museum also honors the city’s marine heritage.
With its vibrant cities, ancient sites, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant cultural events, the United Kingdom provides a varied and enthralling journey for millions of tourists every year.
| No. | Country | Annual Visitors |
| 1 | France | 100.0 million |
| 2 | Spain | 85.1 million |
| 3 | United States | 66.5 million |
| 4 | China | 65.7 million |
| 5 | Italy | 64.5 million |
| 6 | Turkey | 51.2 million |
| 7 | Mexico | 45 million |
| 8 | Thailand | 39.8 million |
| 9 | Germany | 39.6 million |
| 10 | United Kingdom | 39.4 million |
Conclusion
The most visited countries in the world captivate travelers with their iconic landmarks and unique experiences. Each destination offers something special to its visitors. They inspire millions to explore the beauty of these places. This article listed the top 10 most visited countries in the world.
FAQs
In Which Country Do Most Tourists Visit?
France is the country that attracts the most visitors from around the world because of its romantic culture and beautiful architecture.
How Many Countries Are There in the World?
There are 195 countries in the world. 193 of them are member states of the United Nations. The other two non-member states are the Holy See and the State of Palestine.
What is the Tourism Capital of the World?
Paris is the tourism capital of the world with more than 100 million people visiting every year.
Which Country Earns the Most From Tourism?
The United States of America is considered to earn the most from tourism in the world. The country generated an estimate $214 billion in revenue from international tourists in 2019.
