Have you ever wondered which are the most visited countries in the world? Or rather, which are the most chosen by today's tourists? And why certain countries are more visited by travellers than others with the same attractions and interesting locations? We'll let you find out with the latest ranking of the most visited countries in the world.
NB: The ranking is based on the latest pre-pandemic report published by UNTWO, the World Tourism Organisation.
10 - United Kingdom: 39 million tourists a year
The UK is a timeless evergreen: it is always popular, and not just its capital! English culture permeates so many things even outside Her Majesty's realm and is rich in so many peculiarities that it is unique and absolutely recognisable. And let's not forget that this nation is thriving with enchanting landscapes and beautiful cities. Moreover, it is a country that forges fashions that then rage everywhere. The country is suitable for fashion victims, ladies who like to drink tea in the garden, students looking to improve their English, businessmen and nature lovers. In short: a perfect country for any kind of tourist!
SEE ALSO: England's most famous cities
Peak season: Summer
Most visited destinations: London, Dublin, Edinburgh
9 - Thailand: 40 million tourists a year
A much-loved destination that only developed into a tourist destination during the 20th century. Its beautiful temples, magnificent beaches and ancient culture will give you unforgettable moments. Word from many travellers!
SEE ALSO: When to go to Thailand - climate and best time
Peak season: Winter (November to February)
Most visited destinations: Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui
8 - Germany: 40 million tourists a year
Europe's most populated state offers its tourists centuries of history, fine religious architecture, culture, new trends, art, sports, nature and tasty food. Germany is loved by tourists of different age groups precisely because of the breadth of its offerings.
SEE ALSO: Germany's most beautiful cities
Peak season: Spring-Summer (May-September)
Most visited destinations: Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt am Main
7 - Mexico: 45 million tourists a year
Its vast culture, which includes pre-Columbian and modern history, gives this state a very special charm, enhanced by its beautiful beaches and resorts. It is a country loved by different types of tourists: from those in search of cultural destinations, to the nightlife lover, to the visitor-lover who wants nothing more than to soak up the sun in postcard-perfect scenery.
SEE ALSO: The most beautiful places to visit in Mexico
Peak season: Winter and Spring (October-May)
Most visited destinations: Mexico City, Cancun, Acapulco
8 - Turkey: 51 million tourists a year
What attracts tourists most are the beautiful Istanbul, Cappadocia and ancient Troy. But that's not all: Turkey offers a lot of culture and really interesting locations. On the other hand, if almost 40 million tourists a year choose to visit there must be a reason!
SEE ALSO: What you must see in Istanbul
Peak season: Spring and Autumn
Most visited destinations: Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara
5 - Italy: 65 million tourists a year
Our wonderful country is visited throughout the year by an enormous number of tourists. On the other hand, we lack nothing: sea, mountains, lake, countryside, traditions, culture, nature, art and the best food in the world!
People have a thousand and one reasons to come and visit Italy. True, we could do much more to attract even more tourism and quality, but this excellent ranking is well deserved!
SEE ALSO: The best Italian cities to visit in a weekend
Peak season: Spring-Summer
Most visited destinations: Rome, Milan, Venice
4 - China: 66 million tourists a year
Another Asian country in this ranking. China, with its millenary culture and industries, has entered the elite of the world's most visited nations, despite its crazy pollution rate. The most populated country on the planet is also gradually becoming one of the most popular with tourists.
SEE ALSO: What you must see in Shanghai
Peak season: Spring-Autumn
Most visited destinations: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an'
3 - USA: 79 million tourists a year
There are so many reasons to visit the United States: work, spectacular scenery, breathtaking tours, beautiful nature, beautiful cities, deserts, gambling, wild fun, testing the waters for the opportunity of a lifetime, art, events, fashion... you name it.
SEE ALSO: The most famous cities in the US
Peak season: Spring
Most visited destinations: New York, Washington, Las Vegas
2 - Spain: 84 million tourists a year
Sun, sea, great climate and delicious food. But also culture, traditions and art. It goes without saying why this gigantic mass of people decide to pay a visit to this beautiful southern European country every year. What's more, on average, each tourist spends around €1,000 here and this means considerable revenue for the government: not bad, right?
SEE ALSO: Spain's most famous cities
Peak season: Spring-Summer
Most visited destinations: Madrid, Barcelona, Seville
1 - France: 89 million tourists per year
And in first place is her: France! 15 million tourists visit Paris alone in a year, the rest are distributed between wine and food tours, the sea and beaches, and small villages in the beautiful countryside.
Almost 10 million tourists come from the United States! On the other hand, how can one fail to appreciate a country so rich in charm, history and culture? Vive la France!
SEE ALSO: France's most famous cities
Peak season: Spring-Summer
Most visited destinations: Paris, Marseille, Lourdes