6 Most Visited Countries in the World Based on 2023 UNWTO Data

In 2023, the world’s tourism industry saw a significant recovery, with countries such as France, Spain and the United States leading the way. These destinations offer diverse cultural heritage, natural wonders and rich culinary experiences, attracting millions of travelers eager to explore new places post-pandemic.

Global tourism rebounded sharply in 2023, with international travel almost back to pre-pandemic levels. The World Tourism Organization ranks the following six countries as the most visited this year: France, Spain, the United States, Italy, Turkey and Mexico. This article explores why each is so popular and what makes each unique.

\

rank nation Number of international tourists (millions)
1 France 100
2 Spain 85
3 USA 67
4 Italy 57
5 turkey 55
6 Mexico 42

1.France

France remains the most visited country in the world, attracting approximately 100 million foreign tourists. In addition to haute cuisine, it has an unparalleled cultural heritage and some of the world’s most famous monuments, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. From the rustic Provence countryside to the gorgeous beaches of the Côte d’Azur, it has everything to suit every kind of traveller’s needs.

Related stories

2. Spain

Next is Spain, with about 85 million tourists. Spain is home to many attractions, from vibrant cities like Barcelona and Madrid to historic sites like the Alhambra and Mediterranean coastline. Festivals, tapas and warm weather make Spain a favorite among tourists year after year.

Also Read | 10 Little Known Indian Vegetables You Should Try

3. United States

The United States ranked third with 66 million tourists. Its geographical scope encompasses a variety of attractive destinations, from natural attractions such as the Grand Canyon to cities such as New York City and Los Angeles. The United States offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to people’s various interests, such as national parks, cultural institutions, entertainment, and more.

4. Italy

Italy attracts approximately 57 million visitors for its history, art and architecture. No city in Italy has a very rich artistic and architectural heritage: Rome, Florence and Venice. As for Italy being famous for its food – whether it’s pasta, pizza or gelato – the country attracts a lot of people.

Also Read | Top 10 Historical Monuments in India

5. Türkiye

Due to its location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Türkiye has approximately 55 million tourists. The country is rich in history, with ancient ruins like Ephesus, and stunning landscapes like Cappadocia. The fusion of cultures is reflected in its cuisine, architecture and other traditions.

6.Mexico

The remaining country in the top six is ​​Mexico, with 42 million tourists. Beautiful beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts are a specialty of this country. Vibrant cities such as Mexico City, rich in history and culture, further increase Mexico’s popularity. The country’s archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza and its rich cuisine also increase Mexico’s popularity.

The travel industry will see a strong recovery in 2023 as travelers seek out new experiences in these diverse countries. France, Spain, the United States, Italy, Turkey and Mexico continue to attract millions of tourists each year with their unique attractions and culture, reaffirming their leadership in global tourism. As tourism continues to grow post-pandemic, these destinations will attract more visitors in the coming years.

Also Read | Top 10 Richest Countries in the World