If you’re wondering where to travel in 2026, you can take some inspiration from the most recent report by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), where they’ve ranked countries based on international tourist arrivals. Here’s a list of the top 10 most-visited countries in the world. I’ve also included practical tips for visiting each country to help you plan your travels.
While noticing past trends, I realized that these countries consistently rank higher and remain favorites among travelers. Why do these countries stand out as the world’s best countries to visit? Well, it has to be their ongoing dedication to enhancing the tourist experience.
So, if you are excited to explore one of the most welcoming countries in the world, scroll down to check out the list to take your pick!
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Top Ten Most Visited Countries in the World
10. United Kingdom (UK): 39.4 million visitors
I’ve always been intrigued by the richness of the UK’s experiences. From the literary legacy, royal heritage, historical richness, and classic charm of England to the wild natural beauty of Scotland, the rugged coastline of Wales, and the natural wonders of Northern Ireland, the UK is a complete package.
London, Edinburgh, Manchester, York, Canterbury, Cambridge, Bath, Oxford, Belfast, Glasgow, Liverpool, and the Cotswolds are some of the best places to visit in the UK.
London is so full of iconic attractions such as the River Thames, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, and Tower Bridge, and is close to so many fascinating destinations that make for a great day trip like Stonehenge, Greenwich, Windsor Castle, and Dover that you can easily spend weeks exploring the capital city and around.
Visiting the royal castles, attending art festivals like Glastonbury, taking a literary tour, exploring the culinary scene, partaking in the ritual of afternoon tea, driving through the Scottish Highlands, discovering the magical Giant’s Causeway, catching a game of cricket at Wembley or Lords, exploring one of the best national parks in the country, and staying in the iconic accommodations like The Savoy, The Balmoral, Cliveden House, and Gilpin Hotel & Lake House are the must-have experiences in the UK.
9. Germany: 39.6 million visitors
Germany is famous for its lively cities, dreamy villages, strong brewing culture, authentic bread, Christmas markets, enchanting forests & mountains, fairytale castles, historic cathedrals, luxury cars, and hedonist techno scene.
It’s difficult not to be charmed by German cities, city slicker or not. Its capital city, Berlin, is home to world-famous landmarks such as the Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate. Munich is where beer lovers will find solace. It has countless breweries, and you must know, it hosts the world’s largest beer festival – Oktoberfest.
And if you’re into cars, visiting the BMW Museum in Munich or the Volkswagen Factory in Wolfsburg is a must.
About Frankfurt: it boasts one of the most stunning skylines of skyscrapers in the world, makes high-quality frankfurters (sausages), and is a central transportation hub with one of the largest airports in Europe.
Be ready to be wowed by Cologne. The city takes pride in its people who think with their hearts. While here, you can gawk at one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, sample chocolate from a colossal chocolate fountain at the Chocolate Museum, visit one of the oldest perfume factories in the world РFarina, and spend your evening drinking k̦lsch!
Germany is big on Christmas markets! Strasbourg & Nuremberg Christmas Markets are the oldest and most famous in the world. It’s a treat to visit Germany around Christmas time.
With its beautiful river, towering castles, lush vineyards, and quaint villages, the Rhine Valley is another gem in the country. It stretches from Bonn to Bingen, and its heart, the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, is so stunning that UNESCO protects it.
We can’t talk about Germany without talking about the Romantic Road. A scenic drive through this road takes you through medieval villages and dramatic landscapes. The showstopper on the route is Neuschwanstein Castle. Located in Hohenschwangau (Bavaria), this fairytale castle has been the inspiration behind Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
Last but not least, the Black Forest, a fairytale region dotted with lush forests, charming villages, spa towns, gushing waterfalls, and glassy lakes. It’s also famous for its traditional art form of making cuckoo clocks and Black Forest cake. I’ve been consuming black forest cake since childhood, but never knew that it’s associated with a region in Germany till the time I traveled there 🙂
Right next to the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, the Hotel Adlon Kempinski is our top pick for a stay that’s an equal dose of history and luxury. From Tsar Nicholas II, Thomas Edison, and Albert Einstein to Charlie Chaplin, Henry Ford, Josephine Baker, and Marlene Dietrich – the hotel has welcomed iconic guests since its inception in 1907.
8. Thailand: 39.8 million visitors
With incredible places to explore, Thailand is an insanely popular destination among travelers, especially backpackers. While Thailand is bestowed with world-class beaches, scenic islands, delicious traditional food, and beautiful temples, what makes it a hit among backpackers is its affordability, laid-back vibe, and intense party scene.
Counted among the most populated capital cities in the world, Bangkok is next-level. The city shakes your senses, in a good way, of course.
It feels like a bustling metropolis at first glance, but on a closer look, you’ll see how beautifully it holds onto its rich culture and history. Its centuries-old temples are a treat for those interested in cultural exploration.
Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise! I mean, it’s home to the world’s biggest weekend market. From high-end luxury malls to the vivacious street markets and flea markets, it lures every kind of shopper. You can find super fakes at dirt-cheap prices at the flea markets. During my trip to Bangkok, I literally shopped till I dropped!
Bangkok is famous for its tasty yet cheap street food (every traveler recommends local dishes such as Pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice) and traditional Thai massage centers.
For a perfect stay experience in Bangkok, you should go for accommodation along the Chao Phraya River for panoramic views and easy access to the city’s hotspots. The Mandarin Oriental and The Siam Hotel are the best of the lot.
Kanchanaburi is yet another intriguing destination in western Thailand. The River Kwai cuts through its heart with a historic bridge over it that played a crucial role in WWII. You can catch a train from Thonburi Station in Bangkok, running on the Death Railway, to Kanchanaburi Station or River Kwai Bridge Halt for a complete historical perspective.
Book a stay at the Float House River Kwai Resort in Kanchanaburi for a sublime experience. This one-of-a-kind Thai folk-style resort floats over the River Kwai – it’s the rustic beauty at its best!
And then there are the archeological ruins of Ayutthaya. The city was strategically located, allowing it to control trade between China, India, and the Malay Archipelago, making it one of the most prosperous cities of its time.
Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Tao are some of the most popular (read crowded) islands in Thailand.
They have some of the best beaches in Asia & the world, such as Patong Beach, Chaweng Beach, and the iconic Maya Bay, made famous by the Hollywood movie The Beach.
If you despise crowds, you can consider visiting Koh Lipe, known as the Maldives of Thailand. Koh Lanta is another hidden gem ideal for families seeking a quiet scene.
Adventure seekers can snorkel and scuba dive at one of the islands in Thailand. Similan Islands, Koh Tao, and Phuket are some of the best places for that.
Needless to say, you should book yourself a beachfront resort on any of the islands you choose to visit in Thailand. Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, Keemala, and Rayavadee are my top picks in Phuket and Krabi.
For those who crave authentic cultural experiences, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand offer plenty. Chiang Mai, aka the Rose of the North, has gorgeous historic temples that provide a glimpse into the country’s unique culture and history. Plus, there are vibrant markets and lush countryside.
You can even visit the Hmong hill tribe at Baan Doi Pui near Chiang Mai. The Chiang Mai Old Town, 137 Pillars House, and Buri Gallery House Resort are my recommendations for the best stay experience in Chiang Mai.
You can also explore some of the most breathtaking temples in the country in Chiang Rai, as beautiful as Chiang Mai, a bit more laid-back, though.
I loved the White Temple! You can plan a visit to the Golden Triangle, which lets you visit three countries at once – yes, it’s where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers.
Hire a boat to enjoy the beauty of the Golden Triangle. Speaking of staying in Chiang Rai, my vote goes to the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort.
Good time to go? It’s during the dry season that lasts from November to early April. I’d say plan around Songkran (the Thai New Year) or Loy Krathong (the beautiful festival of lights) to enhance your experience.
7. Mexico: 45.0 million visitors
Mexico is like a giant party, with something fun for everyone. Filled with sunny beaches, celebrated ancient ruins, tropical forests, and some of the tastiest food you’ll ever try. Here, you can swim in the ocean in the morning, explore a jungle in the afternoon, and dance to lively music at night – that’s Mexico for you!
With a good number of direct, budget-friendly flights from US cities to Mexico, over 34 million Americans alone travel there. And that’s also the reason international travelers to the USA add Mexico to their travel plans.
The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the top destinations in Mexico, and the major draws here are the Mayan archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam, and Uxmal, which are popular choices.
From Merida, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen to Tulum and Valladolid, Yucatán is home to the ancient Mayan culture, postcard-worthy beaches, tropical jungles, and exotic wildlife.
Our stay recommendations for the major cities on the Yucatan Peninsula are: Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana and Chablé Yucatan in Mérida; Hyatt Ziva in Cancún; Hotel Palmaïa – The House of AïA in Playa del Carmen; La Zebra in Tulum; and El Mesón del Marqués in Valladolid.
Mexico City, the capital of Mexico, is always bursting with life and colors. It has culture, history, and art to keep you busy for days. You can walk through the ruins of Templo Mayor, an ancient Aztec temple right in the heart of the city, then visit the Zócalo, one of the largest city squares in the world, discover rich artistic heritage at Frida Kahlo Museum and the Palace of Fine Arts, and venture a bit outside of the city to explore the Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan.
You can take on a challenging hike to the lookout point at IztaccÃhuatl – Popocatépetl National Park, home to two of the active volcanoes in Mexico. It’s an easy day trip from Mexico City.
For a stay in Mexico City, Hotel Zocalo Central, Casa Decu, and W Mexico City score.
A little over 270 km (168 miles) from Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende is one of the top Mexican cities. With 2 to 3 days on hand, you can stroll its charming cobblestone streets, discover its colonial architecture, and take in the lively art scene. Rosewood San Miguel de Allende and Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada are the best places to stay in the city.
A foodie in you will want to visit Oaxaca, Mexico’s gastronomic capital. It is famous for its chocolate, cheese, and a special sauce called mole. The colorful streets of Oaxaca are a delight to stroll. The artist in you will love Jalatlaco’s neighborhood. Oaxaca is also home to a variety of unique pottery traditions, including black- and red-clay pottery.
Set in a historic convent, right in the city center, Quinta Real Oaxaca is the perfect place to stay in Oaxaca.
Mexican food is another primary reason people love it here. Tacos, burritos, tamales, and guacamole might come to mind, but there’s so much more to try. Street markets are filled with delicious treats, and it’s all super colorful and flavorful.
And for those who love the outdoors, there are places like the Copper Canyon in Chihuahua and the jungles of Chiapas, where you can find hidden waterfalls and ancient ruins.
While December to April is the best time to visit Mexico, timing it around one of the unique cultural festivals, Dia de los Muertos (aka the Day of the Dead), makes it truly special. It’s unique in the way they celebrate and remember loved ones who have passed away, not with sadness but with a lot of colors, music, and food. Isn’t it a beautiful reminder that death is a part of life to be celebrated?
6. Turkey: 51.2 million visitors
Turkey (Türkiye) is one of the loveliest countries in the world. It’s not just me who’s smitten by the country; the consensus is, well, it keeps topping the charts (in fact, climbing up the ranks) repeatedly as the country with the most tourists.
The culture and tourism scene in Turkey shone in 2024, hitting a new high with a 10% growth rate. Looking ahead to 2025, the country introduced ‘Night Museums,’ a cool new idea that lets people visit museums at night, offering a different kind of experience.
Straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, it’s an incredible fusion of cultures, histories, and landscapes. From the world’s oldest sites to the unique natural wonders, the Martian landscapes, the exciting cities, the breathtaking coastline and dreamy beaches, and the super diverse cuisine, it’s jam-packed with fascinating experiences.
Istanbul is a darling. I never thought I could love a city so dense and crowded as Istanbul. But here I am, head over heels in love with it. It has a certain vibe that draws you in. The Bosphorus is the heart and soul of the city that gracefully bridges the two continents of Europe and Asia.
Historic jewels like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Galata Tower, and the Grand Bazaar invite you to dive deep into centuries-old stories; the colorful neighborhoods, such as Fener & Balat and Arnavutkoy, captivate the senses; and the age-old hammams indulge you in the best way possible.
Moreover, the spirit of Istanbul comes alive in everyday moments – the sound of prayer calls, the smell of freshly brewed Turkish coffee, and lively conversations that fill its bustling cafes and restaurants. Did you know Turkey has one of the best coffee cultures in the world?
I spent a day in Istanbul (I was so naive) on my first visit to Istanbul, and realized this city needs time to grow on you. So, you must plan to spend at least 2 or 3 days in the city. Though the more the better.
Coming to Cappadocia, I’m sure you must have heard about it or seen a picture of floating hot air balloons over unreal landscapes – it’s that famous. The landscapes might seem unreal, but the photos you see are 100% real. The region feels like you’ve landed on another planet. The element that gives the landscape its uniqueness is clastic rock formations called fairy chimneys.
Antalya, Bodrum, Kas, Kalkan, Izmir, Kusadasi, Alanya, Marmaris, Side, Canakkale, Fethiye, Oludeniz, Alacati, Ayvalik – packed with charming destinations, the Turkish Riviera aka the Turquoise Coast is so, so gorgeous. We took a road trip through Turkey and stopped by the beautiful towns & villages on the Riviera, relaxing on its pristine beaches and drinking in the stunning views of the turquoise sea – believe you me, it’s such stuff as dreams are made on.
Do you think that’s all? No. There’s the ancient city of Ephesus and the natural wonder of Pamukkale to sweep you off your feet. And the food’s heavenly, especially the sweet treat of baklava. A friend asked me why I kept going back to Turkey, and I answered, It’s the irresistible baklava 🙂
Oh, and don’t miss Konya, the hidden gem of Turkey, and when you visit, witnessing the Whirling Dervishes ceremony is essential.
As I genuinely believe that a choice of accommodation can make or break your trip, listen to my recommendations. When in Istanbul, choose to stay in a historic hotel in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, with views of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque (my choice is the Four Seasons Hotel), or in a hotel overlooking the Bosphorus (my vote goes to the Ciragan Palace Kempinski).
When in Cappadocia, stay at a cave hotel. Sultan Cave Suites in Göreme are the most famous. If you want to book it, you’ll have to do it well in advance because it’s always full. Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel is also good, just in case.
If you find yourself in Ankara, the vibrant capital city of Turkey, the Divan Cukurhan Hotel, set in a 16th-century caravanserai, is the address! I always thought Istanbul was the capital of Turkey. Is it just me, or a common mix-up?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to visit Turkey. You can time your trip around the vibrant Istanbul Tulip Festival or the artistic Istanbul Biennial for a richer experience.
5. Italy: 64.5 million visitors
Italy needs no introduction. It’s a bucket list-worthy country. It’s a perfect destination for travelers who cherish history, architecture, art, culture, literature, film, fashion, and opera, in short, all things elegant.
Italy is famous around the world for its culinary contributions (I know, you already pictured pizza and pasta), and the Colosseum in Rome. With 59 recognized locations, 5 of which it shares with neighboring countries, Italy is the country with the most UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Dubbed the Eternal City, Rome is where one of the most influential civilizations in world history began: the Ancient Roman Empire. Visiting the iconic attractions like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, and the Spanish Steps takes you back in time. While exploring Rome, you must not forget to make a wish at the Trevi Fountain. Head to Fassi Gelateria for the best gelato in Rome.
Rome also showcases a unique feature – It walls an entire country within it. Under the Pope’s authority, Vatican City holds immense religious and cultural significance for Catholics. It has one of the largest churches in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can find Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Pietà , and climb to the top of the dome for the far-reaching view of Rome.
Next to it is St. Peter’s Square, a sweeping plaza that hosts thousands of pilgrims and visitors, especially during papal audiences. The Vatican Museums house a vast collection of artifacts, most notable being the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgment fresco. The Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, and its historic Vatican Gardens are another highlight.
Your Italy itinerary is incomplete without riding a gondola on the romantic canals of Venice! The country is also dotted with charming countryside – Think Tuscany’s rolling hills and lush vineyards, Sicily’s sunny beaches, the picturesque Amalfi Coast sprinkled with breathtaking islands, the whitewashed hill towns of Puglia, and the colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre.
The capital of the region of Tuscany, Florence, is celebrated for Renaissance art and architecture. With its vast red dome, Florence Cathedral adorns the city’s skyline. It’s here that you can see the most famous sculptures and paintings in the world, like Michelangelo’s David, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, and Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise.
From Florence, you can take a day trip to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. After all, a classic, albeit cliché selfie pretending to keep the tower from toppling over is obligatory.
Then there’s Naples, the birthplace of Pizza. Whatever you do here, you must try authentic Neapolitan pizza and discover the ruins of Pompeii, one of the most famous historical sites in the world.
If you want to add a few lesser-known historical places, the ancient ruins of Herculaneum and the ancient cave dwellings of Matera offer a perspective on life in ancient times.
Located in the northern Lombardy region of Italy, Milan is the global capital of fashion and design. It hosts world-famous events like Milan Fashion Week and the Milan Furniture Fair. The city’s also rich in art and culture.
Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, is its most iconic landmark and took nearly six centuries to complete. Another must-visit is Santa Maria delle Grazie, where you can admire Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, one of the most renowned artworks in the world. For those interested in opera and theater, the La Scala Opera House is a must-visit, known for its world-class performances. You can add an easy day trip to Lake Como from Milan.
If the outdoors inspire you, the Dolomites in the Italian Alps region are your oyster. You can take on adventure activities like hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and paragliding in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter while enjoying the dramatic landscapes. The alpenglow, a natural phenomenon that turns the mountains a glowing red at dawn and dusk, is especially striking in this region.
Regarding accommodations, Italy is home to many iconic hotels. Our top picks are Hotel Danieli Venice, The Hassler Roma, Grand Hotel et de Milan, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como.
When to visit Italy? Now 😉 Summer is the peak season in most of Europe, so plan your vacation for spring or autumn for an unforgettable experience. Also, the Venice Carnival is a good time to prepare for a cultural extravaganza.
4. China: 65.7 million visitors
With a history that goes back more than 4,000 years, China is one of the leaders of ancient civilization. What makes China special is how it has nurtured its culture and traditions for centuries and held to them still. It’s one of the few places that has been important to the world for both ancient times and now, showing us how to stick together and keep going no matter what.
You can witness thousands of years of history and culture through its historical landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, the Potala Palace, the Summer Palace, the Mogao Grottoes, the Three Confucius Sites, Shaolin Temple, and the Temple of Heaven. It ranks 2nd in the world, after Italy, with 57 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Among the major cities in China, its capital, Beijing, is set to become the most extensive travel and tourism destination in the world, beating Paris, according to WTTC. You’ll find traditional Chinese architecture standing alongside modern buildings lit up with neon lights. The city is surrounded by numerous heritage sites, including one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
You must catch a traditional Chinese opera, or Peking Opera, in Beijing. It skillfully mixes singing, dancing, acrobatics, and acting, and features elaborate costumes and grand backdrops, narrating Chinese folklore.
Shanghai, with its world-famous skyline, the historic Bund area, and chic neighborhoods like Xintiandi, is a crowd-puller too.
Apart from the ancient Terracotta Army, Xi’an is also known as the starting point of the historic Silk Road. Chengdu offers a laid-back vibe and is home to adorable giant pandas. It’s also known for its spicy Sichuan cuisine and teahouses, making it a perfect place to experience one of the best tea cultures. Guangzhou is loved for its Cantonese food and the big Canton Fair.
A mountain city, Chongqing is known for its hot springs, foggy landscape, and spicy hot pot. It serves as a gateway to the Three Gorges on the Yangtze River, the third longest river in the world.
Hangzhou, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Kunming, and Yangshuo are other notable cities & towns in China.
Reflecting the deep-rooted Buddhist tradition, China is home to some of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, with the Spring Temple Buddha and the Leshan Giant Buddha among the most famous.
Whether an outdoor enthusiast or not, visiting Mount Huangshan, aka the Yellow Mountains, is highly recommended. You can easily see on a day trip from Shanghai.
Book yourself the legendary Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, loved by celebrities like Charlie Chaplin. In Beijing, you can consider staying at the Peninsula Beijing, which combines traditional Chinese architecture and futuristic design and is super close to the city’s landmarks.
As a massive proponent of visiting places during the shoulder seasons, I highly recommend planning your China visit to coincide with these times for a more soulful experience. Shoulder seasons, typically in spring and autumn, offer milder weather, fewer tourists, and often lower prices, allowing you to explore destinations more comfortably and intimately.
If you find yourself in China during the winter months of December, January, and February, schedule your visit around the Harbin Ice Festival, renowned as one of the coolest ice & snow festivals globally.
3. United States: 79.3 million visitors
50 states. 50 different colors. 50 different stories. The United States of America, much like India, is incredibly diverse. The overwhelming medley of landscapes, cultures, and experiences spread across 3,809,525 square miles is a reason why the US is a magnet for travelers. Plus, it’s also a gateway to the far-off wonders of the Americas, thanks to its strategic location.
The USA is known for its world-class cities, its diverse national parks, and iconic landmarks. If you are visiting the country for the first time, your itinerary should include New York City, after all, it’s the capital of the world; Las Vegas, well, because why not; Arizona, because it has one of the best national parks in the USA and world, Grand Canyon; Washington DC for its museums, national monuments, and the White House; Florida for its sunny beaches; and Los Angeles because Hollywood.
As a first-timer in the USA, there are specific experiences you can’t miss like witnessing the majestic Niagara Falls, taking a cruise to see the Statue of Liberty, paying respects at the 9/11 memorial, marveling at the World Trade Center, gawking at the panoramic view of the New York skyline from the top of Empire State Building, Exploring the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Yosemite, taking a Hollywood Tour, taking a scenic drive down California’s Pacific Coast Highway, and discovering the magic at Walt Disney World (super duper essential if visiting with young kids).
From jazz in New Orleans and blues in Chicago to country music in Nashville, the US music scene is thrilling. You can learn about how the USA was formed in the historic states of Philadelphia and Boston.
Alaska and Hawaii feel so so different from the rest of the USA. Alaska offers a majestic wilderness experience, whereas Hawaii is like a tropical dream come true.
Renting a car and road-tripping through the USA is the best way to explore the country, as it offers the freedom and flexibility to cover more ground in less time. It’s a vast country with significant distances that become apparent as you take to the roads.
On our drive through the country, I was amazed to find us on the roads where, for miles and miles, I didn’t pass a single soul. It struck me that the vastness of the area, coupled with its sparse population, could offer such solitude. This was a stark contrast to our experiences in India, where secluded spots are hard to come by.
Anytime is the best time to visit the USA. I mean, with such a vast size and varied climate, you’ll undoubtedly find a destination that matches your timing. Like if you are visiting during the autumn months, head to New England to see fall foliage, while in the spring season, plan to explore the Pacific Northwest, soak in the Christmas spirit at one of the best Christmas towns, or visit the ski resorts of the Sierra Nevadas, or the Northeastern US open for you during the winter months, and summer is a perfect time to visit the beach destinations like Florida, Hawaii, and California.
Culture vultures can schedule their trip around festivals like Burning Man or carnivals such as Mardi Gras.
To enhance your American experience, here are some of the iconic hotels in the USA: The Breakers Palm Beach, Chicago Drake, The Roosevelt New Orleans, The Plaza New Yor City, The Broadmoor Colorado Springs, The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square San Francisco, The Willard InterContinental Washington DC, The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Arizona Biltmore, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, The Peabody Memphis, and The Bellagio Las Vegas.
2. Spain: 83.7 million visitors
Spain is a country full of life, colors, and celebrations. It has elegant cities, sunny beaches, iconic landmarks, a mind-boggling food scene, an intriguing art & culture scene, incredible festivals, and more.
Barcelona and Granada are counted among Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Art & architecture fill these cities. Sagrada Familia by Antoni Gaudà and the Alhambra are masterpieces!
For the hotel recommendations in Barcelona, I go with Casa Fuster, El Palace, and the Hotel Arts. In Granada, the Hospes Palacio de Los Patos and Parador de Granada are great choices.
Madrid, the capital of Spain, boasts some of the best museums in the world, the Prado Museum being the most famous. The old town of Valencia endlessly charms its visitors. Located in the heart of Madrid, Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá is a lovely accommodation.
Seville is another charming Spanish city rich in culture, history, and traditions. Seville Cathedral, the Alcázar Palace, and Plaza de España are the highlights here. While strolling the neighborhood of Triana, you can experience authentic traditional flamenco performances. Where to stay in Seville? Choose Hotel Alfonso XIII!
You can explore the White Villages of Andalusia, aka Pueblos Blancos, with their charming, picturesque towns defined by whitewashed buildings, for a sneak peek into traditional Spanish life.
Laced in deep history and spirituality, walking the Camino de Santiago takes you through some of Spain’s most beautiful landscapes. Parador de Santiago de Compostela is one of the oldest hotels still open today, first built in the 15th century as a royal hospital for pilgrims heading to Santiago.
From tapas to paella to churros, the food is irresistibly indulgent here. The Balearic Islands, such as Ibiza and Mallorca, and the Canary Islands, such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, are world-renowned for their beaches.
Famous for its beautiful beaches, secret little bays, and cute coastal towns, Costa Brava is a perfect region for anyone who loves the sea.
With some of the world’s most famous football clubs, such as FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, Spain is a football powerhouse. Watching a football match in Spain or visiting one of its iconic stadiums is a must-do for anyone visiting the country to learn more about the Spanish football culture. The Camp Nou in Barcelona and the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid stand out as the best football stadiums.
The best time to visit Spain is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Carnaval in Cadiz, Semana Santa, La Feria de Abril in Sevilla, and Las Fallas in Valencia are the festivals you can attend during the spring season, and autumn brings the Madrid Autumn Festival.
If you’d love to enjoy the quirky La Tomatina or a wild Running of the Bulls, you’ll have to choose to travel during the summer season.
1. France: 89.4 million visitors
France holds the distinction. From towering mountains, breathtaking beaches, famous landmarks, heritage wineries, and culinary excellence to intriguing museums, pretty cities, and charming countryside – the country has something for everyone.
Also, it’s relatively small and has a well-organized transportation system, so getting around is easy. You can pack a lot of punch into a trip to France. Whether you’re hopping on a train or renting a car, you can cover a lot of ground without spending too much time traveling.
To add to it, the capital of France, Paris, is easily accessible, with direct flights available to and from most major cities worldwide.
Let’s talk about Paris. Do we need to say anything about Paris? The City of Light is a dream come true for art & culture lovers. Visiting the Eiffel Tower, the symbol of France, is a no-brainer. You can admire it from the ground, but I’d insist you must climb up for the unforgettable panoramic view of Paris.
Under renovation after the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The Arc de Triomphe at Champs-Élysées is another iconic landmark in the city. Don’t miss the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa and countless other masterpieces. You’d love strolling through the cobblestone streets of Montmartre and catching a show at the opulent Palais Garnier.
If walking isn’t your thing, you can still discover the city’s most famous landmarks from the water while you cruise on the Seine. For those traveling with kids (or who are young at heart), plan a day trip to Disneyland Paris.
I explored countless Parisian cafes during my time in the city, and I can say they are the heartbeat of Parisian art, culture, & history. If you are in Paris for a short time, make sure to stop by Café de Flore & Les Deux Magots for quintessential Paris charm.
While you walk around the City of Love, stop by one of the best patisseries to try classics such as croissants, macarons, and eclairs.
If time permits, take a day trip to the Loire Valley, aka the Garden of France. The region is home to some of the most beautiful châteaux in the world, like Chambord and Chenonceau.
If you can splurge, book yourself a luxurious stay at Le Meurice!
Visit Normandy, where you can witness the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel, explore the historic D-Day landing beaches, and marvel at the Bayeux Tapestry.
The charm of the French countryside is undeniable. With its lavender fields, sun-drenched vineyards, and ancient towns, Provence sums up the essence of the countryside in France. Located in a 17th-century hilltop village, Hotel Crillon le Brave combines history and beauty. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the countryside while staying in a beautifully restored stone house.
However expensive, the French Riviera or Côte d’Azur is one of the most sought-after regions in France. Full of stunning beaches, luxury yachts, and glamorous nightlife, a visit to one of its chic towns like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez is a sine qua non. A road trip along the French Riviera is the best way to experience its picture-perfect coastline.
Located on the Promenade des Anglais, with its distinctive pink dome and artsy interiors, Hotel Negresco in Nice comes highly recommended.
Outdoor lovers shouldn’t miss the French Alps experience. Offering some of the best skiing and hiking spots, Chamonix and Annecy are famous in the region.
And let’s not forget about the world-class wines produced in regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne, where vineyards stretch across rolling hills, all basking in the sunshine.
Beyond its vineyards, Bordeaux has beautiful cycling routes that take you through medieval villages along the river.
Every part of France, from Carcassonne’s medieval streets and Versailles’ beautiful palace to the charming villages of Alsace, is equally fascinating.
Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, now part of the Grand Est region, is where you can experience a mix of French and German cultures. I literally felt like I was in a fairytale while strolling through its historic center (La Petite) peppered with picturesque half-timbered houses, and charming canals. We enjoyed our stay at Pavillon Régent Petite France.
For a relaxing day, the hot springs and spas in towns like Dax in Aquitaine offer the perfect retreat.
Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the food capital of France, combines 2,000-year-old history and beloved culinary traditions, making it a must-visit to soak up the heart of French culture.
So, here’s a wrap-up of this year’s lineup of the top international tourism destinations by the UNWTO. These rankings not only show us current travel trends but also invite us to explore them for ourselves to know what makes these countries resonate so strongly with visitors year after year. What are your thoughts on this year’s top travel destinations? Any place you’re particularly drawn to or surprised by? Where do you want to go in 2026?
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