What Is the Most Popular Tourist Destination in the World?
Traveling has become mainstream, with people flying and driving worldwide. Whether it’s to see famous buildings, museums, natural landscapes, or another culture, travel is alluring. However, some destinations receive more visitors than others. Check out the top six most popular tourist destinations in the world and what makes them so special.
6. China
The sixth most popular tourist destination is China, with more than 65 million foreign tourists each year. China is home to several wonders, including the Great Wall of China. Millions visit Beijing, which is home to the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. Shanghai may be more of a financial center, but the city is dominated by the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Lastly, you can travel to Xi’an and see the Terracotta Army, diving into China’s rich past.
5. United Kingdom
The fifth most popular tourist destination is located in Europe, boasting more than 39 million tourists each year. The United Kingdom is home to several prominent cities, including London, Edinburgh, Bath, and Liverpool. Featured destinations include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum, Edinburgh Castle, Roman Baths, the Lake District, etc. With a blend of modern and ancient landmarks, the United Kingdom is a perfect destination for many.
4. Mexico
Mexico takes the fourth spot for the most popular tourist destination in the world, drawing in over 45 million visitors every year. Mexico City boasts historical and contemporary attractions such as the Templo Mayor, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Frida Kahlo Museum, and the Xochimilco Canals. Head to the shore at Cancún, which has white sand beaches and clear turquoise water. Or, if you are more into history, head to Tulum and Coba, two ancient Mayan ruins along the Riviera Maya.
3. Italy
Jumping into the top three most popular tourist destinations, Italy has over 64 million visitors annually. Rome is the centerpiece of Italy, featuring the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Vatican City with the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. If you’re looking for a water-based excursion, Venice is the best destination, known for its canals and gondola ride down the Grand Canal. Other notable places include the Florence Cathedral, Milan, the Amalfi Coast, and the Uffizi Gallery.
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2. United States
Ranking second on the most popular tourist destinations list is the United States, with around 66 million tourists each year. While New York City is known for landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, there are plenty of other great spots across the country. One example is California, boasting Hollywood, the Walk of Fame, Venice Beach, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Or, head down south to Florida, where you can enjoy Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Florida Keys.
1. France
Last but not least on our most popular tourist destination list is France, bringing in almost 100 million people each year. The focal point of the country is Paris, featuring attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. You can also travel to Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez for more Mediterranean environments, or Normandy to discover the rich history of World War II in the region. Plus, France boasts several ski locations like Chamonix and Val d’Isère, located near the French Alps.
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