top tourist countries 2019

International tourism: the most popular countries

Drastic declines due to COVID-19

The most popular travel countries.

Germany is the world travel champion

Booming tourism and slump in 2020.

A look at the costs

• The World's Most Visited Countries

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

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

10. United Kingdom: 36 million tourists

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

9. Thailand: 38 million tourists

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

8. Germany: 39 million tourists

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

7. Mexico: 41 million tourists

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

6. Turkey: 46 million tourists

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

5. Italy: 62 million tourists

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

4. China: 63 million tourists

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

3. United States: 80 million tourists

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

2. Spain: 83 million tourists

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

1. France - 89 million tourists

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

More in Travel

13 Most Underrated Towns In New York To Take A Trip To

Tales in Transit: The Twists & Turns of World Travel

13 Most Underrated Towns In Massachusetts To Take A Trip To

9 Most Underrated Towns In Washington To Take A Trip To

Riding The Rails Across Europe: A Haphazard Adventure

An American's Guide for the Camino de Santiago

13 Most Underrated Towns In Upstate New York To Take A Trip To

Explore The Most Charming Spots To Visit Around Lake Constance

The 25 best countries for tourists in 2019, ranked

• The World Economic Forum released its ranking of the best countries for tourists in 2019.
• The organization looked at factors including business environment, safety and security, tourist infrastructure, cultural resources, and price competitiveness.
• Spain , France , Germany , and Japan tied for the top spot.
• The US , the UK , Australia , and Canada all made the top 10. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

The World Economic Forum has ranked the best countries for tourists in 2019.

In its Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019 , the organization analyzed data from international organizations and conducted a survey of executives, looking at five main factors in 140 countries:

• Business environment
• Safety and security
• Health and hygiene
• Human resources and labor market
• ICT (information and communications technology) readiness

The WEF also looked at a country's prioritization of tourism, international openness, tourist infrastructure, cultural and natural resources, and price competitiveness.

Read more : Forget Champagne and infinity pools: High-end travelers today want to make an impact on the places they visit, according to a luxury safari operator

Each country was given an overall score between 1 and 7; because the top score was shared by four countries equally, there is no No. 1 entry in the ranking below. 

Most of the countries that made the top 25 are in Europe, but Japan, the US, Australia, and Canada all made the top 10 too.

Here are the top 25 countries for tourists in 2019, ranked.

T25. Greece

• Travel tips for Greece:
• Forget Mykonos and Santorini. I found a little-known island in Greece that's twice as beautiful and half the price.
• A secluded cove on the beach in Crete is the perfect spot to surf the waves
• A local in Greece gave me a tip to visiting the country, and it's the opposite of everything you've been told

T25. Belgium

Travel tips for Belgium:

• A restaurant in Belgium is at the bottom of a pool
• Belgium has opened the world's first beer pipeline that pumps 1,000 gallons per hour every day

T23. Luxembourg

Travel tips for Luxembourg:

• Here's what it's like to visit Luxembourg — which is the richest country on the planet and smaller than Rhode Island
• Luxembourg just became the first country to offer free public transportation, but the policy might not work as planned

T23. Sweden

Travel tips for Sweden:

• You can now sleep in a floating hotel in Sweden that offers incredible views of the Northern Lights
• This glass cabin in Sweden takes you closer to nature
• We tried all the unique menu items at Swedish McDonald's — including the McVegan
• Stockholm's subway stations make you feel like you're in actual caves

T23. Denmark

Travel tips for Denmark:

• 10 places to visit in Denmark that aren't Copenhagen
• Here's what life is like in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, one of the world's smallest capital cities
• Denmark's 150-foot spiral observation deck is an architectural masterpiece, but the photos show it's not for the faint of heart

T23. Norway

Travel tips for Norway:

• I took my family of 6 on a trip to Norway, one of the most expensive countries in the world, for under $7,000
• This picturesque Norwegian town has so many more books than residents that roadside libraries and bookshelves line the streets
• Stunning photos show what life is like in the northernmost town in the world, where it's dark 4 months of the year and you're told to carry a rifle because of polar bears
• An island of tiny homes in Norway is available to rent for $3,500 a week. People call it a 'slice of heaven.'

T19. Mexico

Travel tips for Mexico:

• There are 1.5 million Americans living in Mexico — here are 8 things Americans wished they'd known before they moved
• 10 ways Cinco de Mayo is celebrated differently in the US and Mexico

T19. New Zealand

• Travel tips for New Zealand:
• You can now rent a replica of the Apollo 11 spaceship that landed on the moon for $61 a night on Airbnb
• The 3 best places to travel every month of 2019

T17. Singapore

Travel tips for Singapore:

• I visited Singapore, the outlandishly wealthy setting of 'Crazy Rich Asians,' and was surprised by how much fun you can have even without billions
• 50 mouthwatering photos of street food in Singapore
• The world's best airport just unveiled a $1.25 billion glass dome mall with a rainforest, waterfalls, and bejeweled clouds
• What it's like living as a billionaire in Singapore, the most expensive city in the world, where wealthy residents are worth a combined $1 trillion and limited land makes owning a house the ultimate 'status symbol'

T17. South Korea

Travel tips for South Korea:

• What it's really like inside a South Korean 'prison' hotel, where guests pay to spend up to 48-hours locked in a jail cell without their phones
• 10 things to do in South Korea, from a raccoon café to a fresh seafood market
• The world's busiest air route is between Seoul and the 'South Korean Hawaii'

T17. Netherlands

Travel tips for the Netherlands:

• Dutch farmers are installing fences around tulip fields to stop Instagrammers from trampling the flowers for selfies
• 24 of the most underrated things to do in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam is giving tourists the chance to 'marry' a local for the day and explore the city on 'honeymoon'

T17. Hong Kong

Travel tips for Hong Kong:

• I stayed at Hong Kong's first 'capsule hotel' to see what it's like to live in micro — and the experience was a nightmare
• Inside the most expensive neighborhood in the world's most expensive city — a billionaire enclave where Alibaba founder Jack Ma may have bought a $191 million mansion
• What it's like living in Hong Kong as a billionaire, where the ultra-rich live in high-security mansions and spend $16 billion a year betting on horse racing

Travel tips for China:

• After riding China's superfast bullet train that could go from New York to Chicago in 4.5 hours, it's clear how far behind the US really is
• One photo shows that China is already in a cashless future
• I visited the tallest and longest glass bridge in the world — which spans China's 'Grand Canyon'

T13. Portugal

Travel tips for Portugal:

• 12 tips to make the most of your trip to Portugal
• I visited the Portuguese castle called 'Disneyland for adults,' and it's a magical, real-life fairy-tale setting you can't miss
• 2 photos show how different it is visiting Portugal in the high season vs. the low season

T11. Austria

Travel tips for Austria:

• The 10 most livable cities in the world — and why Vienna made it to the number one spot this year
• The 6 best things to do in Vienna and Austria
• A Michelin-starred restaurant in Austria cooks one of their fish dishes with melted beeswax

T11. Switzerland

Travel tips for Switzerland:

• I bathed in cheese in the Swiss mountains — here's what the experience was like
• Soak in a transforming hot tub that overlooks the Swiss Alps
• 22 photos that show what it's like to eat at the lavish Swiss restaurant voted the world's best by private jet fliers

Travel tips for Canada:

• 15 photos that will make you wish you lived in Canada
• The ultimate guide to seeing Montreal in a day
• Travel company exposes you to the vast Canadian wilderness during helicopter tours

Travel tips for Italy:

• We visited the Vespa headquarters in Italy to see how the world-famous scooters are made
• Venice is cutting back on cruise ships. Disappointing photos show what the Italian port city looks like in real life, from extreme overcrowding and devastating floods to cruise ship accidents
• Inside the exclusive Italian resort that plays host to Google Camp, the secretive and star-studded annual conference that draws billionaires, CEOs, and celebrities
• Positano — the colorful, Instagram-famous town on Italy's Amalfi Coast — is almost comically beautiful, but be prepared to deal with hordes of tourists and sky-high prices

T9. Australia

Travel tips for Australia:

• An Australian city is spending $279,000 on a public toilet for Instagrammers flocking to a blue boat shed
• Australia is the most popular destination in the world for migrating millionaires
• 12 places to visit in Australia that aren't Sydney

6. United Kingdom

Travel tips for the United Kingdom:

• 16 places you should visit in the United Kingdom that aren't London
• Here's what 6 abandoned UK castles looked like in their prime
• 10 differences and similarities between American and British daily routines

5. United States

Travel tips for the United States:

• 10 surprising US tourist destinations worth a visit this year
• 27 underrated US destinations everyone should visit in their lifetime
• The best road trips from 10 major US cities
• Glamping has come to NYC. I took an 8-minute ferry ride to an island in New York Harbor where people pay up to $1,200 a night to sleep in luxe tents and cabins — here's what it looks like.

Travel tips for Japan:

• Japan eats 10,000 tons of this poisonous puffer fish delicacy
• We tried 15 unique menu items at McDonald's in Japan — here's what they were like
• 13 of the best and most underrated things to do in Japan

T4. Germany

Travel tips for Germany:

• 32 things everyone should do in Germany
• The 52 most incredible places to visit

Travel tips for France:

• Inside France's Élysée Palace, the French presidential residence that's larger than the White House and the Palace of Versailles
• Take a look inside the luxury French farmhouse where the Obama family is currently vacationing that costs $62,000 per week
• 13 foods you shouldn't leave Paris without trying

Travel tips for Spain:

• You can now sleep inside a lighthouse turned into a luxury hotel on a remote Spanish island
• 14 foods you need to try if you visit Spain
• 10 things in Spain to put on your bucket list

• Main content

These are the top countries for travel and tourism in 2019

Global tourism is set to rise by 50% over the next decade. But who goes where on holiday? Image:  REUTERS/Albert Gea

.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo{-webkit-transition:all 0.15s ease-out;transition:all 0.15s ease-out;cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:none;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:hover,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:focus,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-focus]{box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(168,203,251,0.5);} Anna Bruce-Lockhart

.chakra .wef-9dduvl{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-9dduvl{font-size:1.125rem;}} Explore and monitor how .chakra .wef-15eoq1r{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;color:#F7DB5E;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-15eoq1r{font-size:1.125rem;}} Travel and Tourism is affecting economies, industries and global issues

.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;color:#2846F8;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{font-size:1.125rem;}} Get involved with our crowdsourced digital platform to deliver impact at scale

Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

Spain, France, Germany, Japan and the United States are the world’s most travel-ready nations, according to the latest travel and tourism ranking of the World Economic Forum.

There’s little change since the last edition was released two years ago, with only one country altering its position: the United Kingdom has slid to sixth place, behind the United States.

So what makes these destinations so attractive to visitors? In the case of Spain, which has claimed the top spot in the index since 2015, its popularity is bolstered by a world-class ranking in natural and cultural resources – from its vibrant cities to sunny beaches, and a diverse cultural programme that spans medieval festivals to contemporary art.

Infrastructure is another important measure of a country’s travel competitiveness, and on this criteria Spain rates highly, having spent millions of euros in the past decade on updating roads, railways and airports.

Tourism on the rise

The travel and tourism industry contributes 5% towards Spain's overall GDP, a figure that looks set to rise over the next decade as the global middle class – particularly in regions such as Asia – continues to grow.

In fact, travel and tourism as a global industry has flourished since the last report in 2017, and its contribution to global GDP (currently at 10%) is expected to rise by as much as 50% over the next decade. At the same time, one of the big findings of this year’s report was that growth in tourism-friendly infrastructure – roads, ports, airports and hotel accommodation, for example – has languished at only 1.4%.

“As international connectedness continues to rise, we see travel and tourism competitiveness continue to grow,” says Christoph Wolff, Head of Mobility, World Economic Forum. “Increased tourism is bringing great benefits to many economies but must be managed properly by both policymakers and businesses for a sustainable future.”

Have you read?

Sub-saharan africa has all the natural capital it needs to grow its tourism industry, why tourism policy needs to use more imagination.

Overwhelmed by their own success

The problem is that wherever large numbers of tourists go, difficulties soon follow. Take the scenic cove in Thailand popularized by the movie The Beach , which has now been forced to close indefinitely following extensive ecological damage to corals, seawater and plant life. Or Venice, which is planning to reroute cruise ships to other ports to avoid damage from overcrowding.

In Barcelona, the annual influx of visitors – 32 million versus the city’s 1.2 million residents – has caused a groundswell of anti-tourist sentiment among locals. Competition for accommodation has driven up real-estate prices and crowds have overwhelmed the city's coastal areas, in some cases accelerating shore erosion.

For these destinations and elsewhere, learning how to manage the flow of people is key. The report suggests various ways to do this, such as encouraging visitors to come at off-peak times, consulting residents about tourism-related policy decisions, and charging visitors a fee for entry, as has started happening in Venice. On the other side of the world, New Zealand and the island of Palau even made the bold move of asking new arrivals to sign an eco-pledge in order to safeguard their embattled ecosystems.

But one of the most important strategies outlined by this latest Travel and Tourism report centres on infrastructure. The surest way for a country to benefit from its tourist industry, it explains, is to invest in infrastructure that keeps the needs of local residents as well as visitors in mind.

Don't miss any update on this topic

Create a free account and access your personalized content collection with our latest publications and analyses.

License and Republishing

World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

The Agenda .chakra .wef-n7bacu{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-weight:400;} Weekly

A weekly update of the most important issues driving the global agenda

.chakra .wef-1dtnjt5{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;} More on Travel and Tourism .chakra .wef-17xejub{-webkit-flex:1;-ms-flex:1;flex:1;justify-self:stretch;-webkit-align-self:stretch;-ms-flex-item-align:stretch;align-self:stretch;} .chakra .wef-nr1rr4{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;white-space:normal;vertical-align:middle;text-transform:uppercase;font-size:0.75rem;border-radius:0.25rem;font-weight:700;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;line-height:1.2;-webkit-letter-spacing:1.25px;-moz-letter-spacing:1.25px;-ms-letter-spacing:1.25px;letter-spacing:1.25px;background:none;padding:0px;color:#B3B3B3;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;}@media screen and (min-width:37.5rem){.chakra .wef-nr1rr4{font-size:0.875rem;}}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-nr1rr4{font-size:1rem;}} See all

How Japan is attracting digital nomads to shape local economies and innovation

Naoko Tochibayashi and Naoko Kutty

March 28, 2024

Turning tourism into development: Mitigating risks and leveraging heritage assets

Abeer Al Akel and Maimunah Mohd Sharif

February 15, 2024

Buses are key to fuelling Indian women's economic success. Here's why

Priya Singh

February 8, 2024

These are the world’s most powerful passports to have in 2024

Thea de Gallier

January 31, 2024

These are the world’s 9 most powerful passports in 2024

South Korea is launching a special visa for K-pop lovers

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

share this content

• Share this article on facebook
• Share this article on twitter
• Share this article on linkedin
• International Tourism Highlights, 2019 Edition
• All Regions
• ISBN 978-92-844-2115-2

International Tourism Highlights presents a concise overview of international tourism in the world based on the results for the year 2018.

Category tags

Related content.

• Topics ›
• Travel and tourism in the U.S. ›

The Most Popular Destinations for U.S. Travelers Abroad

According to the National Travel and Tourism Office at the U.S. Department of Commerce, Mexico and Canada were by far the most popular destinations for U.S. resident travelers in 2019. While 39.3 million U.S. residents visited Mexico in one year, 15 million made a trip to Canada.

Third on the list is the UK with 3.9 million visitors in 2019, followed by the Italy with 3.2 million and France with 3.1 million travelers. The top 8 list is dominated by European countries with the exception of the Dominican Republic in sixth place.

Another Caribbean nation scored the top spot for most increased traveler volume between 2014 and 2019. Barbados saw six times the amount of U.S. visitors in than it did five years before, while visitors to Iceland and Morocco increased threefold. In line with the trend of more travel to Europe, Portugal and Croatia also increased traveler volumes.

Description

This chart shows the most popular destinations for U.S. resident travelers in 2019 as well as the countries where traveler volume most increased between 2014 and 2019.

Can I integrate infographics into my blog or website?

Yes, Statista allows the easy integration of many infographics on other websites. Simply copy the HTML code that is shown for the relevant statistic in order to integrate it. Our standard is 660 pixels, but you can customize how the statistic is displayed to suit your site by setting the width and the display size. Please note that the code must be integrated into the HTML code (not only the text) for WordPress pages and other CMS sites.

Infographic Newsletter

Statista offers daily infographics about trending topics, covering: Economy & Finance , Politics & Society , Tech & Media , Health & Environment , Consumer , Sports and many more.

Related Infographics

Southeast asia, southeast asia's preferred ally switches in favor of china, cultured meat production, lab-grown meat isn’t for everyone, solar eclipse, solar eclipses to hit major u.s. metros within the century, american, delta & united are the trinity of u.s. air travel, alcohol use, how widespread is underage drinking, health and diseases, the world's deadliest behavioral risk factors, the leaders of u.s. neobanks and payments, lack of solidarity within nato, national beer day, america's favorite beers, hydro power, the world’s biggest hydro powers, alcoholic beverages, beer beats wine in regular consumption, china is the world leader in battery recycling.

• Who may use the "Chart of the Day"? The Statista "Chart of the Day", made available under the Creative Commons License CC BY-ND 3.0, may be used and displayed without charge by all commercial and non-commercial websites. Use is, however, only permitted with proper attribution to Statista. When publishing one of these graphics, please include a backlink to the respective infographic URL. More Information
• Which topics are covered by the "Chart of the Day"? The Statista "Chart of the Day" currently focuses on two sectors: "Media and Technology", updated daily and featuring the latest statistics from the media, internet, telecommunications and consumer electronics industries; and "Economy and Society", which current data from the United States and around the world relating to economic and political issues as well as sports and entertainment.
• Does Statista also create infographics in a customized design? For individual content and infographics in your Corporate Design, please visit our agency website www.statista.design

Any more questions?

Get in touch with us quickly and easily. we are happy to help.

Feel free to contact us anytime using our contact form or visit our FAQ page .

Statista Content & Design

Need infographics, animated videos, presentations, data research or social media charts?

More Information

The Statista Infographic Newsletter

Receive a new up-to-date issue every day for free.

• Our infographics team prepares current information in a clear and understandable format
• Relevant facts covering media, economy, e-commerce, and FMCG topics
• Use our newsletter overview to manage the topics that you have subscribed to

• Side Hustles
• Power Players
• Young Success
• Save and Invest
• Become Debt-Free
• Land the Job
• Closing the Gap
• Science of Success
• Pop Culture and Media
• Psychology and Relationships
• Health and Wellness
• Real Estate
• Most Popular

Related Stories

• Food, Travel and Tech These are the 10 most welcoming cities   for 2024—only 1 is in the U.S.
• Food, Travel and Tech New report: Top 10 destinations for   international travel in 2023
• Food, Travel and Tech These are the 10 most sustainable   travel destinations in the world
• Life The World Happiness Report: The happiest   country for Gen Z, millennials
• Food, Travel and Tech Tokyo, Bogota, Kuala Lumpur: Top 10 trending   global travel destinations for 2024

These are the best countries for tourists to visit in 2019, according to the WEF

Spain has topped the World Economic Forum (WEF)'s ranking of countries best equipped to welcome tourists in 2019.

The Mediterranean country, which has been named the most "travel-ready" nation by the WEF since 2015, was followed by France and Germany in the index. Japan and the United States rounded out the top five.

The United Arab Emirates was the most attractive Middle Eastern country, while Mauritius, in 54th place, was the highest-ranking country in Africa.

A total of 140 countries were included in the ranking, which the WEF publishes every other year.

The index was compiled by measuring 90 individual indicators in each country, which fell into categories such as environmental sustainability, health and hygiene, natural and cultural resources, and international openness.

However, in its report, published Wednesday, the WEF also warned that many countries were at a tourism "tipping point" — meaning surges in visitors threatened to overwhelm or damage the resources that attracted tourists in the first place.

This was particularly true for developing nations, the report said, calling for more work to be done by the tourism industry to help preserve cultural and natural assets.

One example of this was Thailand, the WEF said, where authorities were forced to close the famous Maya Bay cove after a rise in tourism caused extensive ecological damage to the area.

The 10 most attractive countries for tourists in 2019

10. switzerland.

Switzerland's position in the top 10 hasn't changed since 2017, with the small European nation scoring highly for its business environment, environmental sustainability and labor market.

The country isn't just appealing to tourists, however — in HSBC's 2019 expat survey, Switzerland was named the best place in the world to live and work , and the Swiss city of Zurich topped Deutsche Bank's 2019 quality of life ranking .

The WEF gave Canada the top scores in the Americas for safety and security, environmental sustainability and air transport infrastructure.

In August, data from Statistics Canada showed the number of American visitors to Canada during the first six months of 2019 was the highest it had been for that period since 2007.

Italy's ranking in the 2019 report was unchanged, with tourists flocking to its famous cultural sites like Rome and Florence.

The report's authors noted that authorities in Venice have plans to redirect cruise ships away from the city's central islands following public discontent.

"It is vital that policy-makers pay attention to these trends," they said. "Failure to adequately address issues related to rising tourism numbers has the potential to negatively impact future competitiveness, making nations victims of their own success."

7. Australia

Australia, famed for its diverse landscapes and unique wildlife, scored well for safety and tourist infrastructure but fell short in the price competitiveness category.

In May , Australia was named the top dream vacation destination in a survey of U.S. travellers.

6. United Kingdom

The U.K. slipped one place lower in this year's ranking, receiving a low score for its price competitiveness.

Britain's departure from the EU is expected to impact travel to the U.K., with experts at Oxford Economics predicting a no-deal Brexit may lead to a 4% increase in inbound tourism due to a weaker currency. Outbound tourism, however, would decline by 5%, economists said.

5. United States

The U.S. overtook Britain this year to claim fifth place in the WEF's ranking.

In June , U.S. News & World Report named three American locations in its 10 best vacation spots in the world: Yosemite National Park, the Grand Canyon, and Maui, Hawaii.

A record 31 million tourists visited Japan last year, according to the country's tourism minister .

On Wednesday, a report by Mastercard showed that Tokyo was the ninth most-visited city in the world in 2018, with 12.93 million people traveling to the Japanese capital. Mastercard forecasted a 10% increase in tourism to Tokyo for 2019.

In third place, Germany has been in the WEF's top three most attractive tourist destinations since 2017.

Lonely Planet's top recommendations for visitors to the country include trips to the cities of Berlin and Munich, as well as the Black Forest in southern Germany.

Paris was the second-most visited city in the world last year, Mastercard's research showed, with more than 19 million tourists flocking to the city.

The French capital also topped the U.S. News & World Report's annual Best Vacation Destinations ranking.

According to data from the French government, nearly 90 million tourists travelled to France in 2018, marking a new visitor record for the country, which hopes to welcome 100 million foreign tourists in 2020.

"Spain is both a stereotype come to life and a country more diverse than you ever imagined," Lonely Planet says , highlighting the historical Alhambra in Granada and the beach resort of San Sebastian as must-see destinations.

The WEF said Spain remained the most competitive country for attracting tourists thanks to its rich natural and cultural resources.

20 Most-Visited Countries in the World

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

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

Read on to find out which nations made the cut. 

20. Netherlands

Capital:  Amsterdam

Population:  17.44 million

Yearly visitors:  19 million

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

What Brings People to the Netherlands

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

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

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

Must-See in the Netherlands

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

Capital:  Warsaw

Population:  37.95 million

Yearly visitors: 19.6 million

What Brings People to Poland

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

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

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

Must-See in Poland

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

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

Capital:  Ottawa

Population:  38.01 million

Yearly visitors: 21.1 million

What Brings People to Canada

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

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

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

Must-See in Canada

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

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

17. Portugal

Capital:  Lisbon

Population:  10.31 million

Yearly visitors: 22.8 million

What Brings People to Portugal

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

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

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

Must-See in Portugal

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

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

Capital:  Moscow

Population:  144.1 million

Yearly visitors:  24.5 million

What Brings People to Russia

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

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

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

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

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

Must-See in Russia

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

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

15. Malaysia

Capital:  Kuala Lumpur

Population: 32.37 million

Yearly visitors:  25.8 million

What Brings People to Malaysia

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

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

Must-See in Malaysia

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

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

14. Hong Kong

Capital:  N/A

Population:  7.482 million

Yearly visitors: 29.2 million

What Brings People to Hong Kong

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

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

Must-See in Hong Kong

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

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

Capital:  Athens

Population:  10.72 million

Yearly visitors:  30.1 million

What Brings People to Greece

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

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

Must-See in Greece

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

See it before doing so becomes even more difficult. 

12. Austria

Capital:  Vienna

Population:  8.917 million

Yearly visitors:  30.8 million

What Brings People to Austria

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

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

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

Must-See in Austria

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

Capital:  Tokyo

Population:  125.8 million 

Yearly visitors:  31.1 million

What Brings People to Japan

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

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

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

Must-See in Japan

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

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

10. United Kingdom

Capital:  London

Population:  67.22 million

Yearly visitors:  36.3 million

What Brings People to the U.K.

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

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

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

Must-See in the U.K.

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

9. Thailand

Capital:  Bangkok

Population:  69.8 million

Yearly visitors:  38.2 million

What Brings People to Thailand

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

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

Must-See in Thailand

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

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

Capital:  Berlin

Population: 83.24 million 

Yearly visitors:  38.8 million

What Brings People to Germany

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

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

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

Must-See in Germany

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

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

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

Capital:  Mexico City

Population:  128.9 million

Yearly visitors:  41.4 million

What Brings People to Mexico

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

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

Must-See in Mexico

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

Capital:  Ankara

Population:  84.34 million

Yearly visitors:  45.7 million

What Brings People to Turkey

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

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

Must-See in Turkey

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

No wonder travelers are coming to Antalya in droves.

Capital:  Rome

Population:  59.55 million

Yearly visitors:  62.1 million

What Brings People to Italy

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

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

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

Must-See in Italy

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

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

Capital:  Beijing

Population:  1.402 billion

Yearly visitors:  62.9 million

What Brings People to China

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

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

Must-See in China

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

3. United States

Capital:  Washington, D.C.

Population:  329.5 million

Visitors:  79.6 million

What Brings People to the United States

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

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

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

Must-See in the United States

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

Capital:  Madrid

Population:  47.35 million

Yearly visitors: 82.7 million

What Brings People to Spain

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

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

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

Must-See in Spain

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

Capital:  Paris

Population:  67.39 million

Yearly visitors: 89.4 million

What Brings People to France

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

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

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

Must-See in France

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

Countries With the Most International Tourists

As tourism rebounds from pandemic lows, the United Nations reports these countries welcomed the most visitors last year.

(Getty Images) |

Tourism is Rebounding

Two years after the COVID-19 pandemic essentially shut down international travel worldwide, the tourism industry is bouncing back as summer arrives in the northern hemisphere.

International tourism saw a close to 200% year-over-year increase in the first quarter of 2022, and although several related statistics are still well below 2019 levels, gradual recovery is expected to continue throughout the year, according to June analysis from the United Nations World Tourism Organization . Nearly 50% of experts surveyed by the organization said they expect international tourism to return to those pre-pandemic levels from three years ago in 2023, while 44% said it could be 2024 or later.

This is especially good news for countries whose economies are the most reliant on the tourism industry. Those countries include Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba and St. Lucia, according to 2021 gross domestic product data released in June by The World Travel & Tourism Council.

[ RELATED: These Countries Are the Best for Tourism ]

But the countries most supported economically by tourism aren't necessarily the ones that welcome the most visitors. The United Nations compiles several metrics related to inbound tourism by country , including international tourist arrivals, with the most recent data being from 2021. The statistics show that industry recovery still has a ways to go: The most-visited country in 2021 had about 32 million international arrivals. France, the top-ranked country in 2019 – before the pandemic hit – had 90 million.

Here are the countries that welcomed the most international tourist arrivals in 2021, according to the U.N. Included for each are other pieces of tourism-related data, such as GDP contribution percentages from the WTTC.

10. Hungary

2021 international tourist arrivals: 7.9 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 16.9 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 4.6%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 10.6 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 17.4 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 16.1%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 11.7 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 35.2 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 6.4%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 12.7 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 22.7 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 7.1%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 14.7 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 31.3 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 14.9%

5. United States

2021 international tourist arrivals: 22.1 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 79.4 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 5.5%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 26.9 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 64.5 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 9.1%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 29.9 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 51.2 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 7.3%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 31.2 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 83.5 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 8.5%

2021 international tourist arrivals: 31.9 million 2019 international tourist arrivals: 45 million 2021 percentage contribution of tourism to GDP: 13.1%

The Countries With the Most International Tourist Arrivals in 2021:

• United States

More From U.S. News

Assessing Politically Stable Countries

The 25 Best Countries

10 Countries With the Best Health Care Systems

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed daily on the latest news and advice on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

You May Also Like

Switzerland is world's best country.

Julia Haines Sept. 6, 2023

Photos: Best Countries Around the World

Sept. 6, 2023

The 25 Best Countries in the World

Elliott Davis Jr. Sept. 6, 2023

Philippines' Marcos Says 'Not One Person Died' as Police Make Huge Drug Bust, in Dig at Predecessor

Associated Press April 16, 2024

Technical Outage Crippled Dutch Air Traffic for Hours, Authorities Say

Reuters April 16, 2024

Best Countries

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My Portfolio
• Stock Market
• Biden Economy
• Stocks: Most Actives
• Stocks: Gainers
• Stocks: Losers
• Trending Tickers
• World Indices
• US Treasury Bonds
• Top Mutual Funds
• Highest Open Interest
• Highest Implied Volatility
• Stock Comparison
• Advanced Charts
• Currency Converter
• Basic Materials
• Communication Services
• Consumer Cyclical
• Consumer Defensive
• Financial Services
• Industrials
• Real Estate
• Mutual Funds
• Credit Cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash-back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Personal Loans
• Student Loans
• Car Insurance
• Options 101
• Good Buy or Goodbye
• Options Pit
• Yahoo Finance Invest
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Yahoo Finance

World tourism rankings by country: top 20 countries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pixabay/Public domain

Our Methodology

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

World Tourism Rankings by Country

20. portuguese republic.

International Tourism Receipts: $20.6 billion

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

19. Republic of Korea

International Tourism Receipts: $21.6 billion 

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

18. United Arab Emirates

International Tourism Receipts: $21.8 billion 

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

17. Republic of Austria

International Tourism Receipts: $22.9 billion 

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

16. United Mexican States

International Tourism Receipts: $24.6 billion 

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

International Tourism Receipts: $28.0 billion 

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

14. Hong Kong SAR

International Tourism Receipts: $29.0 billion 

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

13. Republic of Türkiye

International Tourism Receipts: $29.8 billion

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

12. Republic of India

International Tourism Receipts: $30.7 billion

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

11. People's Republic of China

International Tourism Receipts: $35.8 billion

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

10. Macao SAR

International Tourism Receipts: $40.1 billion

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

9. Federal Republic of Germany

International Tourism Receipts: $41.6 billion

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

8. Commonwealth of Australia

International Tourism Receipts: $45.7 billion

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

International Tourism Receipts: $46.1 billion

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

6. Italian Republic

International Tourism Receipts: $49.6 billion

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

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

Suggested Articles:

Top 15 Luxury Travel Agencies in the World

20 Most Dangerous Countries for LGBTQ+ American Travelers

Top Supersonic Travel Companies in the World

Disclosure: None.  World Tourism Rankings by Country is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Map Options

Most Visited Countries 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The impact of COVID-19 on travel and tourism

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

International tourist arrivals (in thousands of visitors):

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

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

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

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

Download Table Data

Enter your email below, and you'll receive this table's data in your inbox momentarily.

What are the top 5 most visited countries?

Frequently asked questions.

• UNWTO Tourism Data Dashboard - United Nations World Tourism Organization
• World Tourism Barometer - United Nations World Tourism Organization
• Trending in Travel - World Travel & Tourism Council
• Economic Impact Reports - World Travel & Tourism Council

The 19 Best Places to Go in 2019

By CNT Editors

There's a phrase we like to use at Traveler to describe certain destinations: "It's having a moment." It comes up a lot—that near-impossible-to-pin-down, can't-put-our-thumb-on-it logic as to why you should visit somewhere, now. We feel an urgent need to get to Namibia; to visit Japan before the crowds do in 2020; to return to Egypt, finally. Travel can be a meaningful way to be an ambassador. So do your part: These 19 editor-endorsed destinations—vetted by editors from both Traveler U.S. and Traveller U.K. —are the best places to go in 2019.

With its otherworldly landscapes (see: above) and elemental emptiness (this is one of the most sparsely populated countries on earth, ranking only marginally behind Mongolia), Namibia has always enthralled us. But there’s a fresh focus on the Southern African nation in 2019 as a pack of lodges have just opened across the country. Serious new safari outfit Natural Selection , whose founders previously set up the much-respected Wilderness Safaris, is behind two of them: tented Hoanib Valley Camp in Kaokoland in the remote north-west, and high-design Shipwreck Lodge on the Skeleton Coast.

A joint venture between local communities and the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, Hoanib Valley Camp was designed by Cate Simpson of Reflecting Africa, riffing off the color and textures of the setting. The interiors also incorporate the geometric patterns of the Himba people, whose temporary settlements dot the landscape between roaming endangered rhino, desert-adapted elephant and giraffe, onyx, springbok and jackal. Farther west, on the windswept sands, Shipwreck Lodge’s striking architecture is inspired by the numerous washed-up boats that are scattered along these wild shores. Just a kilometre from the rolling Atlantic Ocean, it’s a base for dune-climbing, beach-combing for whale bones, and spotting seal colonies. And right up in the Skeleton Coast’s northernmost reaches, where Namibia meets Angola, Wilderness Safaris’ Serra Cafema camp has reopened in the oasis of the Kunene River after a top-to-toe overhaul, with new thatched lodges on stilts above the riverbank.

Back near the capital Windhoek, Omaanda has just opened with 10 traditional-style round thatched huts set within the Zannier Reserve by N/a’an ku sê, a new 9,000-hectare private animal conservancy. It’s the first of two Namibian camps from French hotelier Arnaud Zannier, who was introduced to the country by Angelina Jolie , a fan of his exquisite Phum Baitang hotel near Siem Reap in Cambodia . The second, a tented camp called Sonop, will land in the southern Namib Desert in early 2019. Meanwhile, globetrotting members’ club Habitas has set up a dramatic hillside camp of contemporary, open-to-the-elements lodges in the wilderness of a 35,000-hectare reserve, about an hour from Windhoek airport, cementing Namibia’s place as the most exciting African destination right now. —Fiona Kerr

Istanbul and Bodrum, Turkey

We've heard it from our readers , and we happen to agree: It's time to go back to Turkey. Istanbul's new airport—expected to be the world's largest when it's finished— has opened its first phase and can start receiving 90 million passengers annually. On top of that, major cruise lines have announced they'll return to Turkey after hitting pause on visiting the country over the last three years; welcoming them back is a new cruise port planned on the city's Galata waterfront, also expected to open next year. The Galata waterfront is part of a larger development that will house the new Istanbul Modern museum as well as a new luxury hotel, from what we hear.

Down on the coast, meanwhile, a smattering of recently opened hotels are injecting new life into Bodrum—the glitzy resort spot long popular with vacationing Europeans for its sweeping views of the Aegean, luxurious hammams, old stone buildings, and drooping bougainvillea. Following the arrival of Six Senses Kaplankaya and a full renovation of the Mandarin Oriental earlier in the year, Ian Schrager's Bodrum EDITION arrived this past summer, complete with three buzzy restaurants, rotating pop-up shops, visiting DJs, and one of the most impressive infinity pools in town. Bonus: You can tack on a few days in Greece, too, as Kos is just a 45-minute ferry ride away. —Corina Quinn and Lale Arikoglu

Siargao, The Philippines

The desire to skip town for a white-sand tropical paradise is universal—and for a time, everyone’s paradise was Boracay . The semi-remote island in the Philippines had a small stretch of sand, low-strung hammocks, and pastel sunsets every day. It was picture perfect...until it became the poster child for overtourism , with overcrowding, pollution, and, eventually, a complete closure to tourists for six months. Now, Siargao is Boracay before everyone found out—and better managed. This teardrop-shaped island has long been a surf mecca, with more than 15 world-class breaks (including the legendary Cloud 9) and a handful of locally run surf schools to keep beginners busy. The see-your-toes water is heaven for snorkelers, with healthy coral reefs teeming with life.

A handful of smaller, equally idyllic islands off the coast of Siargao, like secluded Mamon Island and non-sting jellyfish sanctuary Bucas Grande, are perfect for island hopping. Siargao is slightly harder to get to than other destination islands in the Philippines—there are no international flights, and travelers must connect through Manila or Cebu—but that’s a good thing. There are luxe accommodations, like the chic villas of Nay Palad Hideaway (formerly Dedon Island Resort ), but it hasn’t been overbuilt (yet). Our readers voted Siargao the world’s top island in 2018 . Go now—before everyone else does. —Megan Spurrell

Berlin, Germany

In under 30 years, Berlin has gone from a bleak, gritty, and divided city to one of Europe’s buzziest cultural capitals with a thriving art, music, and food scene. The East Side Gallery Wall Museum , a raging nightlife, and eclectic food markets where you can get traditional German fare, mezze, and BBQ all in one place are reasons enough to visit anytime. But in 2019 Berlin will also be one of the epicenters of the Bauhaus Centennial , a series of events celebrating 100 years of the Bauhaus school of design—Germany’s most significant 20th-century cultural export and one of the most influential movements in modern design. Founded in Weimar in 1919, before moving to Dessau and finally to Berlin where it was shut down by the Nazis in 1933, the Bauhaus school promoted an interdisciplinary approach combining crafts with fine arts, architecture, and design. There are centennial festivities planned year round—the Opening Festival , Bauhaus Week , the Bauhaus-Archiv / Museum für Gestaltung’s special exhibit "Original Bauhaus" at Berlinische Galerie (while the museum itself gets a new wing), and more . So no matter when you go, you’re likely to catch at least one major event. When you need a break from all the art gazing, there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants and bars to choose from. Some of our current favorites include Buck and Breck , Ernst , 893 Ryōtei , and Bone in the not-to-miss Markthalle Neun . — Laura Giannatempo

Bhutan, for many (including some of our office’s most seasoned travelers), is still a Shangri-La of sorts: a mystical, possibly fictional place where the air is thick with incense and pristine hillside villages remain blissfully free of tourists. Thanks to the kingdom’s “High Value Low Impact” tourism policy , where visitors pay a daily fee, Bhutan has received—and educated—select guests each year, delivering guided, super-small group tours (5-10 people) around Bhutanese culture and values while remaining true to itself. Certified local guides double as the trip concierge. Itineraries and hotels are highly customized. Guests may choose to spend one night at a rustic local farmhouse, and the next at an exclusive resort (with upgrade costs) like one of Aman's five lodges or the new Six Senses Bhutan , which has five individual resorts coming in 2019 that will start accepting reservations from February 1—one of the biggest and best reasons to visit next year. Activities range from visiting the massive dzong temple-fortresses that dot the country, to bird-watching in the many pine forests, to tackling the Snowman Trail, one of the Himalayas’ toughest treks . It's all part of being in the Kingdom. —Lester Ledesma and Laura Dannen Redman

Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatan with a fraction of the tourism, this Central American country on the world’s second largest living coral reef has been buzzing with new openings that are transforming this one-time backpacker haven into a luxury destination. Much of the activity has been focused in the southern town of Placencia, a laid-back fishing village with a new air strip and the world’s narrowest main street. In the last year Itz’ana Resort and Residences , a Hemingway-inspired retreat with 50+ cottages and suites finished in boho-chic decor and vintage finds by fashion-pack favorite Samuel Amoia, and the offshore Gladden Private Island , a rustic-luxe, 3,000-foot, two-bedroom villa, have joined Francis Ford Coppola’s pioneering Turtle Inn .

Up north in Ambergris Caye, Mahogany Bay from Hilton’s Curio Collection is a family-friendly jumping off spot for fly-fishing, exploring caves and Mayan temples, and scuba diving Belize’s famous Great Blue Hole . Meanwhile, Leonardo DiCaprio’s private island eco-resort Blackadore Caye , with its own wildlife preserve, is rumored to be opening imminently; then 2020 will see the opening of Alaia Belize, a Marriott International Autograph Collection hotel fronting a 1,000-foot pristine white beach, followed by the Four Seasons Caye Chapel in 2021, with 30-some overwater bungalows on a sandy atoll reminiscent of the Maldives. The major advantage, of course, is that Belize is only a five-hour flight from New York, with a blend of Mayan, Creole, Mestizo, and European cultures that will guarantee we’ll soon see English-speaking Belize turning up on everyone’s Instagram feeds. —Alex Postman

The Andes have lured travelers to South America for decades—and if you haven’t been, bump it to the top of your bucket list ASAP. With most travelers heading straight for Peru , Chile , or Argentina , neighboring Bolivia has too often been disregarded as inaccessible. Of course, for the vanguard of travelers that’s been the greatest appeal; paired with the allure of La Paz’s mystical Witches’ Market, Incan ruins on the shores of massive Lake Titicaca, treks up the 20,000-foot Huayna Potosi, or otherworldly rock formations of the Atacama Desert (to name a few of the country’s highlights). Now, at long last, Bolivia as a destination is teetering between undiscovered and approachable—and the time to go is now.

The first spots on our list? The otherworldly Salar de Uyuni (the country’s iconic salt flats, pictured), which are receiving their first luxury accommodation this February. This new Amazing Escapes project, Kachi Lodge , will be a collection of glamping domes sprinkled across the infinite white plains, with gourmet dining from La Paz’s Gustu (Noma co-founder Claus Meyer’s fine-dining restaurant). Read: We’d go just to stay there. We’re also keeping a close eye on Bolivia’s Tarija wine region, where a slew of vineyards and wineries are turning out high-quality Tannat red wines and attracting the traveling oenophiles who’ve taken notice. —M.S.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Okay, it’s never not a good year to do Cabo, Mexico’s Pacific Coast playground. But 2019 ushers in so many big-deal openings on the peninsula you that you can expect a whole new fleet of infinity pools cramming your Instagram. In March, Zadún , an oceanfront Ritz-Carlton Reserve hotel, will debut 115 high-design rooms along the Puerto Los Cabos coast, the Sea of Cortez visible from the private plunge pools. This follows on the heels of Hot List 2018 winner Chileno Bay’s push into wellness, with a set of spa guest rooms that give travelers unlimited use of the facilities and fitness classes (though, being on the only swimmable beach in Cabo, you could just blow off the gym and spend your day doing laps in the Pacific). But the most anticipated opening in 2019? The international debut of eco-brand 1 Hotel , arriving at the tip of the peninsula in Cabo San Lucas. Expect paddleboarding, a cooking school, and some of the freshest Mexican seafood around at Edith's, which is located right next door. —Erin Florio

The opening of the game-changing Grand Egyptian Museum has been delayed again (parts of it will open in 2019, the rest in 2020). And yet, the news from the ground is for the first time in eight years, there’s a waitlist for city hotels and boat trips along the Nile. After a tumultuous few years, Egypt, it seems, is back on the map. It had been hoped that the $1 billion, sleek, marble temple to the country's antiquities would have swung open its doors by now, revealing, amongst a wealth of other national treasures, most crucially King Tutankhamun's entire burial collection—more than 5,000 pieces— displayed to the public in an exact replica of the tomb itself. Which means visitors will be able to see everything—bejeweled sandals, embroidered tunics and the Boy King’s death mask—just as Howard Carter did when he made his milestone discovery in 1922. And yet, while everyone waits patiently, elsewhere in the country the momentum mounts. Nile cruise liner Sanctuary Retreats has just launched weekly sailings of its boutique wooden boats, kitted out with art deco fixtures and leather deck chairs to sink into while gazing at Nubian sandstone cliffs and the teeming ancient tombs and temples of Luxor. Oberoi ’s ship in the meantime, the Philae, has been given a top to bottom refurb, including a rooftop pool and much fewer, more spacious rooms as well as a spa with views out to Medinat Habu, the resting place of Rameses II and one of the new spots on their itinerary. And in March the much-talked about St Regis will open right on the river, injecting Cairo's dusty hotel scene with a much-needed dosage of glamour; it's floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto terraces that offer the sharpest views of Cairo's pedestrian-friendly Corniche promenade anywhere around.. —E.F.

Wait, Japan in 2019? Isn’t Tokyo hosting the Summer Olympics in 2020? Yes, and some 60 million people may have the same idea as you to visit that year; but as the country preps for your arrival, 2019 also looks to be a very exciting time to get to the Land of the Rising Sun. Japan’s first Ace Hotel will open in Kyoto courtesy of architect Kengo Kuma, who designed The Opposite House in Beijing and is also the lead on Tokyo’s forthcoming Olympic Stadium; the Rugby World Cup arrives in September; and the Setouchi Triennale—or the Setouchi International Art Festival, a new-since-2010 contemporary art explosion—returns from April to November across a dozen islands in the Seto Inland Sea . The country also got a new World Heritage site in August—the hidden Christian sites of Nagasaki—and thanks to one writer’s experience , skiing in remote Honshu is now on the bucket list of more than one Traveler staffer. And Tokyo ? Tokyo was named the world’s top city for the third year in a row in our 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards , in large part due to its status as the most Michelin-starred city in the world , and its thrill of contradictions: ultramodern, neon-lit skyscrapers and tranquil temples, unmatchable street style and centuries-old etiquette (the Tsukiji Fish Market now has a shiny new location, too). If that’s not enough to convince you, perhaps royalty will: The country is even getting a new emperor on May 1. —Katherine LaGrave

Grand Canyon, Arizona, U.S.

Of the 6.2 million people who made it to the Grand Canyon last year, only some 300,000 actually hiked into it. This February, North America’s biggest chasm celebrates the centennial of its designation as a national park , making it prime time with more tours planned to dip below the rim for a proper Grand Canyon immersion. “Even a small hike into the Canyon's rock layers creates a much deeper understanding of how enormous and intricate it is,” says longtime Arizona Outback Adventures guide Annemarie Kruse, who equates the descent to a walk back in time through the earth’s crust. Favorite deep-dive trails include the switchback-laden South Kaibab, a hike to the rushing Colorado River that ideally includes at least two nights below the rim (don’t rush there and back in a day); Bright Angel with its easy-to-miss Indian pictographs just after the first rock tunnel; and North Kaibab, a more challenging descent with a loss of 4,000 feet in the first five miles from the remote, alpine North Rim (closed for the winter until May 15). Whatever you do, stay long enough to see the changing light cast deep shades of red and purple. Even better, check out the astronomer-led Star Party from June 22­ to 29 and camp overnight in this future International Dark Sky Park (expected to be confirmed in 2019), one of the last places in America to see the Milky Way. —Nina Kokotas Hahn

Whitsunday Islands via Brisbane, Australia

You never have to convince us to visit the Whitsunday Islands, home to some of the world’s prettiest beaches (visit Whitehaven at least once, please) and a stretch of southern Great Barrier Reef that’s way less snorkeled and scuba’d than the Cairns hub up north. But as of December 20, there’s a new way to do it all: Book a for-a-lifetime stay at the Elysian , a new boutique eco-lodge that practically defines secluded (private cove, rainforest all around, 20 guests max at any time). You get ferried around by the resort’s boat, the Lotus, to Whitehaven Beach or picnics on neighboring islands, and you feel like you have the Barrier Reef to yourself, rather than competing with pontoon boats of nature-starved tourists. And the best new way to get to the Whitsundays? Dare we say it: via Brisbane. The once-stodgy business hub has been popping up on our radar all fall, with super-cool city hotels like the Westin Brisbane (seriously—think ten-gallon metal tubs in guest rooms and Aussie high tea), Ovolo The Valley , and The Calile, a James Street spot that seems shipped from Palm Springs, opening. Looks like it’s going to be a big 2019 for Queensland. —L.D.R.

Palermo, Italy

If you've only ever used the Sicilian capital as the airport for the island's coasts and vineyards, this is the year to stick around for a few days after landing . An ambitious mayor, Leoluca Orlando, is helping to breathe new life into the ancient city's food and cultural scene (he’s largely to thank for Palermo's run as host of European biennial Manifesta ). This year, 17th-century Palazzo Butera will reopen as an art gallery after a mega renovation by Milanese art collector Massimo Valsecchi. And inspired by what they’ve seen in Rome and London, younger Palermitani have taken over their city's hospitality scene, pushing it beyond poorly it taverns selling decent eggplant alla norma. Bocum does exceptional negronis in a split-level space near Cala while the top local wines are paired with small plates at central Vinoveritas (save room for the sausage ragu at Bisso Bistrot later). Even the hotels are getting a redo. Rocco Forte just announced that he will take over the Grand Villa Igea, already the hottest hotel around, in time for a 2020 debut. —E.F.

Tahiti has long seemed a far-away tease, of exquisite pearls, vanilla- and tiare-scented breezes, and powdery white sand beaches. Except, well, it's really not that far away: The islands of French Polynesia are an eight-hour nonstop from the U.S. west coast, making them more convenient than Europe, and a recent spate of new routes and airline updates have made Tahiti more accessible—and affordable—than ever. Both United and low-cost carrier French Bee recently launched new routes from San Francisco , while Air France and Air Tahiti Nui upgraded their planes flying between Los Angeles and Tahiti. And though Zika concerns persist in other tropical destinations around the world, Tahiti is home to The Brando , a private island eco-resort that managed to get rid of the problem, in addition to pioneering eco-conscious practices that’ve elevated it as a model for sustainable luxury tourism. Built in the Tetiaroa atoll—bought by Marlon Brando back in the 1960s—the resort is just a 20-minute flight north of Tahiti’s airport; Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen DeGeneres, Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, and this under-the-radar guy Barack Obama have all made the trip. Now it’s your chance. —Cynthia Drescher

Chengdu, China

Chengdu’s tourist lure has long centered on two Chinese clichés: giant pandas and hotpot. The Sichuanese capital is home to the world’s largest concentration of those doe-eyed bears, and its cuisine has been ravenously exported worldwide. Yet there’s nowhere better to glimpse the future of New China than here, the Middle Kingdom’s coolest city. Domestically, it has a reputation for locals who are both laid-back and cosmopolitan—it was on the Silk Road, after all. In a country where the LGBT population is often invisible, Chengdu is a rare, rainbow-colored exception . Come here to experience the cutting edge of contemporary Chinese culture: Check out the Higher Brothers, a local rap group at the vanguard of the emerging domestic hip-hop scene, and the city’s independent boutiques, like the months-old Kerry RC, more adventurous than their coastal counterparts. Head to the Eastern Suburb Memory complex for an impressive roster for fashion and art; some of those artists double up as tattooists, making Chengdu’s adventurously inked millennials strolling around the new Tai Koo Li luxury mall, the center of the country’s new tattoo culture. Stay at the Temple House next to that mall, and book dinner at the Bridge, a Neri & Hu–designed cocktail bar and restaurant inside a converted walkway that spans the local river. —Mark Ellwood

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico spent the first half of 2018 in post-Maria recovery mode—all that mattered was getting the lights on, clearing the roads, and returning to normalcy. But now, more than a year after the storm made landfall, Puerto Rico has not only recovered: It’s been reborn. The need to rebuild inspired many hotels to undertake indulgent renovations, and as of this fall, nearly all have opened their doors. For the former Rockefeller hideaway, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , more than 300,000 native plants were reintroduced to the grounds, along with a complete refresh of all 114 guestrooms; at the iconic El San Juan Hotel , a pre-storm $65-million renovation was followed by another restoration of its oceanfront villas, pools, and notoriously lush landscaping. A ton of new Airbnbs have popped up—everything from beach bungalows in the surf town of Rincon to chic lofts in San Juan’s graffiti-covered Santurce. But there’s one reason alone that could convince us to fly down: Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony-winning musical Hamilton is heading to San Juan this January, with Miranda reprising the title role. The show will run January 8-23 at the University of Puerto Rico. You can still snag tickets from his Flamboyan Arts Fund , which will use a majority of the hefty $5,000 ticket price to rebuild arts programs on the island. This year, Puerto Rico is the statement trip to take. —M.S.

Houston, Texas, U.S.

Despite being the largest city in the state, Houston’s always been excluded from the list of “cool” Texas cities. (We see you, Austin. ) But if you look past the mile-wide freeways and strip malls, the city is finding a way to create its own cool—and 2019 looks to be its standout year. In July, the city (or, rather, the universe) will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing with the restoration of the Apollo Mission Center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. On the arts side, the Museum of Fine Arts and Holocaust Museum will complete expansions, joining the newly renovated Menil Collection and its drawing institute , the first of its kind in the U.S. And then there’s the food... Next year, not one, not two, but five food halls will open in the city, including a Chelsea Market–style warehouse and the world's first "chef hall," a 9,000-square-foot warehouse with five full-on restaurants, each with a 30-seat counter and with people like Gary Ly, former chef de cuisine at Underbelly, in the kitchen. As the most diverse city in the U.S.—nearly a quarter of the population was born outside the country—it’s a multicultural city keeping up with the cool kids. Even a born-and-bred Dallasite like myself can get behind that. —Meredith Carey

Singapore loves to flaunt its assets. This city-state burns bright with light shows and flash designer shopping malls (shopping is the national sport), and made the perfect diamond-studded backdrop for Crazy Rich Asians . The all-Asian blockbuster may have ignited a flame for Singapore as more than just a stopover city, for its tropical British colonial grandeur and futuristic architecture, for street food in the night markets and skyscraping sundowners in Marina Bay Sands’ rooftop pool , and for slings at Raffles , the original grande dame of the Far East, which is undergoing a full facelift and will reopen with a bang in 2019. Joining the fray is the fabulous new Six Senses Maxwell , opening 1 December 2018 in a restored colonial building. There’s desert-island fun here, too, with a bunch of incredible private islands nearby. Hottest spots are eco-chic Cempedak, with its curving, modernist grass-roofed bungalows set among beach and jungle (hotelier Andrew Dixon also opened Nikoi island in the same archipelago), tiny driftwood-charming Pulau Joyo, and beautiful Bawah Reserve , accessed by seaplane from Singapore, with 35 suites that include 11 bamboo overwater bungalows in the bright lagoons of a marine conservation zone. —Laura Fowler

Cruise the Northeast Passage

The Northwest Passage , where vessels slice through previously impassable stretches of the Canadian Arctic (an unfortunate side affect of climate change), has been big news in the cruise industry the past couple years. But for 2019, we are shifting focus to its eastern sister route, the Northeast Passage. In August, Silversea will set sail for the first time ever from Nome, Alaska, to Tromsø in Norway . Passengers with 25 days and $37,260 to spare will tick off a veritable bucket list of near-impossible-to-reach sites, including the polar bear haven of Wrangel Island (pictured) and Murmansk, Russia, the largest city north of the Arctic Circle. (An objective of the Silver Explorer ? Venture as far north as possible with the hopes of spotting walrus and seals on the ice.) In between the Zodiac expeditions along the icebergs, the ship's 144 passengers can expect all the bells and whistles that come with a five-figure price tag, including personal butlers, silver service dining, and whip-fast Wi-Fi so they can make loved ones back home, sick with jealousy every day out at sea. —E.F.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

16 Countries That Travel The Most (And Their Top Destinations)

A s more people become more interested in places different from their countries of birth, there has been an increase in international travel. Whether it’s for work, school, adventures, or other reasons, there are certain countries around the world that travel the most. This is an interesting thing to study, especially since most people traveling from one place are usually headed for the same destination. This piece aims to inspire travelers by revealing the top countries that travel the most according to the latest outbound travel report by Research and Markets and also reveal the destinations they mostly travel to.

UPDATE: 2023/07/10 20:42 EST BY REENA JAIN

Countries That Travel The Most (And Their Top Destinations)

As mentioned in the UNWTO study, the first half of 2023 saw a revival in international travel, and the same pattern is anticipated for the months ahead. Two more countries that travel the most and spend the most on international tourism have been added to the list to reflect current trends.

The happiest country in the world , Finland, also deserves to be on this list for spending a lot on outbound travel. The Finnish people like exploring their own country as the nation is full of natural beauty, history, stunning water bodies, and modern marvels, but they prioritize traveling to different international destinations. Sweden is the most popular foreign travel destination for them followed by Estonia, Spain, and Norway.

From eateries where travelers can try tasty cuisine to fun and exciting activities and attractions that leave visitors amazed, there is so much to do and see in Denmark . Yet, residents travel to neighboring countries for leisure and to explore new international destinations. As mentioned in GlobalData’s report, there is a steep rise in international tourism in Denmark. And Danish residents travel the most to other European countries, specifically Sweden, Spain, Germany, France, and Italy.

Even though China has eased some of its COVID restrictions and is moving toward a tourism recovery, outbound travel has recovered more quickly than inbound travel to the area. Although China has countless beautiful beaches, mountains, islands, cities, and many natural and modern wonders , Chinese people also love to travel abroad. They prefer visiting nearby Japan, Thailand, and Korea for a short international trip, though other popular destinations include the Philippines, Thailand, and the United Kingdom.

According to GlobalData's report , outbound travel from Canada in 2022 increased by 312% to reach 22.3 million, the highest number since 2019. Although Canada is full of fantastic destinations, Canadians, after the pandemic, prefer to spread their wings and travel to distant regions, particularly in the United States, Thailand, Indonesia, and Europe. However, the majority of Canada's top ten international travel destinations are in the United States.

Following the Japanese government's decision to lower its travel warning for 34 countries and territories, Japan's outbound market is regaining strength, with an increasing number of people traveling abroad. According to data from Japan's Immigration Service Agency, there were 1045.7% more Japanese tourists abroad in February 2023 than in the same month in 2002. Furthermore, South Korea, the United States, Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan are among the top international destinations for Japanese travelers.

Singapore is a traveler's dream destination with numerous breathtaking natural beauties as well as of man-made marvels . However, the people of this lovely nation also look for chances to travel to nearby countries for a short trip and faraway destinations for a long break. According to the e-Conomy SEA 2022 report , 52% of Singaporeans intend to travel abroad in 2023, an increase of 13% from 2022. And the majority of them spend three to four days on vacation in Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Taiwan, which are their preferred international vacation destinations.

Since restrictions were lifted, outbound travel in Austria has continued to skyrocket. It now seems more people are trying to get out of the country than ever. For Austrians, Croatia is the favorite destination for outbound travel, although Italy and Germany are also favorite destinations for according to Statista’s outbound tourist numbers for Austria in 2021 .

Switzerland

There are plenty of interesting things to enjoy in Switzerland , but that does not stop millions of people from leaving the country every year and spending their vacations in European destinations. In 2019 before the pandemic, approximately 19.8 million people traveled abroad, and their favorite destinations are France and Germany.

Related: Switzerland Vs Austria: Which Has The Better Alps?

Italy has everything a person needs, from a destination, from archaeological sites to beautiful beaches and delicious food , and while those are popular among Italian travelers, they also love to travel abroad and check out some of their favorite destinations. In July, outbound travelers from Italy amounted to 3.2 million, and Romania was the country’s most beloved travel destination. Spain and France, however, are popular destinations among Italian travelers.

France has been responsible for the most outbound travels from Belgium. In 2019, approximately 4.5 million trips originating from Belgium landed in France, and although the number may have reduced, one can still expect this trend as more people resume outbound travel.

Russian outbound travel may be on a downward trend, but it remains a country with huge outbound tourism numbers. In 2022, Turkey was the main place of interest for Russian outbound travelers , and the UAE is also popular among Russian travelers.

The Netherlands

Before the pandemic hit, outbound trips from the Netherlands in 2019 were 22 million, and even though the country may not recover its previous number till 2024, the Netherlands remains one of the countries where people travel the most. Wellness travel is popular among travelers from the Netherlands; Germany is the country’s favorite destination, while Spain and Belgium are also popular among Dutch travelers.

United Kingdom

The Royals , castles, museums, and delicious food are not enough to keep people in the UK from being among the top outbound travelers in the world. In 2019, the country saw an outbound tourism number of 84.7 million, and according to GlobalData , this number is set to reach 86.9 million by 2024, and Spain remains the favorite holiday destination for UK travelers.

Being the most visited country in the world does not mean people in France just sit around and let other people do the traveling. They also travel in huge numbers, and French people typically prefer to visit other European destinations such as Spain, the U.K., and Germany.

Related: Want To Know A Secret? Here Are Some Strange France Facts

Germany’s numerous natural and man-made attractions have made it one of the most visited countries in the world, but it has not prevented people from traveling to other destinations for more experiences. In 2019, German travelers took up to 99.5 million trips abroad , placing the country at the top of the list of outbound tourism worldwide. Even though the pandemic reduced global travel, outbound tourism in Germany remains on the high side. German travelers love destinations in the Baltic Sea, although Spain and Italy also rank among the top destinations for German travelers.

United States

Inbound travel in the US is high as the country has some of the world’s most sought-after attractions. Americans, however, also love visiting other destinations in the world, which is why outbound tourism in the country is on the high side, making it the country that travels the most. US travelers love Europe and the Caribbean, but Mexico has remained at the top of the US favorite destination list as it received approximately 24 million US travelers as of September 2022.

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

Vote for your favorite luxury rv resort!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

A stay at these 20 luxury RV resorts, nominated by an expert panel as the best in the U.S, gives you the best of both worlds — the comforts of your own RV with the amenities of a five-star resort. The perks go far beyond full hookups and Wi-Fi; many include extras like swimming pools, movie theaters, tennis courts, private docks, and full-service spas.  Which luxury RV resort would you most like to visit? Vote for your favorite once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 6 at noon ET. We'll announce the 10 winners on Wednesday, May 15.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

A stay at these 20 luxury RV resorts, nominated by an expert panel as the best in the U.S, gives you the best of both worlds — the comforts of your own RV with the amenities of a five-star resort. The perks go far...   Read More

Best Luxury RV Resort Nominees

Photo courtesy of Denise Barlock

Bluewater Key RV Resort

Key West, Florida

Bluewater Key RV Resort in Key West welcomes RVers with near-perfect weather throughout the year, easy access to nearby attractions and golf courses, and stellar amenities. Enjoy conveniences like a temperature-controlled swimming pool, private tropical tiki huts, a dog park, clubhouse, private docks, and high-speed fiber internet.

Photo courtesy of Camp Fimfo

Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country

New Braunfels, Texas

Located in scenic Texas Hill Country, Camp Fimfo aptly describes itself as “a Texas-sized retreat on the Guadalupe River," with 1,000 feet of river frontage. The luxury campsite is family friendly and has monthly rates for those who want to make it a real home away from home. Some on-site amenities include a heated pool, water playground, hot tubs, mini golf, waterslides, and pickleball courts.

Photo courtesy of Matt Theriault

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins

Auburndale, Florida

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort invites guests to “get into the island state of mind” in central Florida. Located conveniently between Orlando and Tampa, their oversized sites have plenty of room to accommodate all RV sizes and include full hookups, free Wi-Fi and cable access, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table. Each week, the resort features live music and entertainment with delicious food trucks and fun activities for all family members.

Photo courtesy of Disney

The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort

Orlando, Florida

Equipped with 750 acres of lush Sunshine State land, The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort are perfect for a little relaxation in between hitting the parks. While wildlife and walking trails abound across the area, guests can also take advantage of the archery classes, canoeing sessions, and on-site pool complete with a lengthy waterslide.

Photo courtesy of Vima Productions

Dark Sky RV Campground

Kanab, Utah

A paradise for astronomy aficionados, Dark Sky RV Campground offers a spectacular perspective on the scenic Utah city of Kanab. In addition to amenities like private bathroom suites and an outdoor kitchen complete with a grill, the site offers 40 acres of pristine land that are almost totally free of light pollution, providing the perfect opportunity for stargazing on clear nights.

Photo courtesy of Austin Marvel

Firefly Resort

Fredericksburg, Texas

During a lengthy journey across Texas Hill Country, Firefly Resort serves as the perfect base for a few days of relaxation. While the massive two-tiered pool complex serves as its centerpiece, there's a wealth of other amenities to enjoy during a stay, with options spanning from a bookable private chef experience to a playground for younger guests to enjoy.

Photo courtesy of Drazen Zigic / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground

Buellton, California

Fire pits, massive pools, and a sprawling playground are just a few of the amenities that await guests at Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground, a lauded property in the heart of Santa Ynez wine country. Visitors can swing by on-property dining venue Feather & Fire for some ultra-flavorful pizza, and any canine pals can enjoy the dog park.

Photo courtesy of skynesher / E+ Getty Images

Hilton Head Island Motorcoach Resort

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head is renowned for its incredible golf courses, but there's a lot more to do across the island than just hit the driving range. For those who prefer to stay in, the on-property spa tub, pool, and gym are all top spots, while bike rentals and outdoor pickleball and tennis courts are available for anyone in need of some fresh air.

Photo courtesy of Nena Quick

Las Vegas Motorcoach Resort

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas Motorcoach (LVM) Resort offers Class A Motorcoach facilities across 41 acres in the heart of Las Vegas. Some 400 landscaped sites are shaded with more than 1,000 palm trees, while amenities include a 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, resort-style swimming pools, a spa, pickleball courts, and a fitness center.

Photo courtesy of Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Townsend, Tennessee

Located on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is a top spot for basking in the verdant beauty of Appalachia. Incredible hiking opportunities abound all around the site, while activities like bingo and trivia are perfect for befriending fellow travelers — and to sweeten the deal, spa services can be booked for guests as well.

Photo courtesy of Irina Velichkina / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Luxury RV Resort

Gulf Shores, Alabama

The southern shores of Alabama are renowned for their idyllic beauty, and Luxury RV Resort is perfectly equipped to showcase its wonders. Beyond the 97 RV sites scattered across the property, visitors can play a few rounds of cornhole or shuffleboard, use the kitchen in the on-site clubhouse, or do a few loads of laundry after a long day lounging at the beach.

Photo courtesy of Motorcoach Country Club

Motorcoach Country Club

Indio, California

The Motorcoach Country Club in the Palm Springs area features scenic beauty and the amenities of a five-star resort. Regular activities and events — like bocce ball tournaments, billiards nights, pickleball, and golf outings — keep the community active and engaged.

Photo courtesy of Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort

Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort

Lake Toxaway, North Carolina

Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort, located in the mountains of western North Carolina, gives visitors easy access to Lake Toxaway and the surrounding waterfalls, lakes, streams, and parklands. On-site amenities include pickleball courts, bocce ball, a fitness facility, two swimming pools, and a dog park.

Photo courtesy of Naples Motorcoach Resort

Naples Motorcoach Resort

Naples, Florida

The Naples Motorcoach Resort is one of the only motorcoach resorts with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Features like a large infinity pool, spa, fitness center, dog park, private theater, two card rooms, and outdoor pickleball courts lend the feeling of a five-star resort.

Photo courtesy of Kristine Daniels

Normandy Farms

Foxboro, Massachusetts

Normandy Farms, deep in the woods between Boston and Cape Cod, has been serving RVers since 1971. Facilities include a bike park, creative arts center, disc golf course, dog park, fitness center, playgrounds, swimming pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and a wellness center.

Photo courtesy of welcomia // Getty Images

Resort at Canopy Oaks

Lake Wales, Florida

Featuring 200 acres of green space, Resort at Canopy Oaks hosts five styles of RV sites, including waterfront, premium, and platinum. All sites come with concrete pads, full hookups, and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Visitors can enjoy amenities like a resort-style pool, pickleball courts, clubhouse, tiki bar, and an on-site pizza and sandwich shop.

Photo courtesy of Kampgrounds of America, Inc.

Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Holiday

Summerland Key, Florida

For visitors exploring the beauty of the Florida Keys via RV, Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Holiday offers particularly lavish accommodations. Rental boats, paddleboards, and kayaks are available for guests who want to explore the sparkling shores, while those who prefer to stay inland can hop on a rental bike or spend their time lounging by the property's pool.

Photo courtesy of Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains

Granby, Colorado

Kayaking, bowling, and gold panning are just a few of the activities available for guests at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains, a sprawling RV camping site in Colorado's Grand County. During the warmer months, guests can take full advantage of the rushing Colorado River with fly-fishing and bocce ball, while skiing is a top activity for visitors during the winter.

Photo courtesy of The Waves Signature RV Resort

The Waves RV Resort

The Waves RV Resort offers guests easy access to the Gulf Cost’s nearby white sand beaches. As a 55+ active lifestyle resort, the gated, 56-acre RV destination has amenities like a clubhouse, a fitness center, billiard room, and a tiki lounge with fire pits. Lakefront RV sites offer full hookups with cable and Wi-Fi.

Photo courtesy of SeventyFour // Getty Images

Winding River Resort

Grand Lake, Colorado

Just west of Rocky Mountain National Park, Winding River Resort highlights the spectacular beauty of the Centennial State at its best. All throughout the year, RV owners arrive in droves to take advantage of the massive array of outdoor activities, with fishing, hiking, farm visits, snowmobiling, and horseback trail rides all available for guests.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel...   Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.