After experiencing a dramatic decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, international visitor numbers have now returned to 99% of their pre-pandemic levels. In fact, an estimated 1.4 billion people travelled overseas last year.
Go2Africa has done the maths to find the biggest winners in this resurgence. These countries were the most visited in 2024, drawing tens of millions of visitors with their unique cultures, vibrant cities, stunning beaches and iconic landmarks.
Click through the gallery to discover the 20 most visited countries in 2024…
We start with Croatia, which had 21.3 million tourists in 2024 – a 4% increase on the previous year. The country on the Balkan Peninsula is filled with historic cities, standout beaches and stunning national parks.
Tourism is a major part of Croatia’s economy, and the destination has become a regular port of call on European cruise itineraries. Popular tourist spots include the cities of Zagreb, Dubrovnik (pictured) and Split. There's also the summer resort of Hvar Island and the beaches along the Dalmatian coast to explore.
The next country is Malaysia in Southeast Asia, which welcomed 25 million tourists in 2024. Figures continue to increase into 2025, with a 20% year-on-year rise in the first six months. Around half of Malaysia’s tourism comes from neighbouring countries such as Singapore.
Among the popular tourist destinations are capital Kuala Lumpur, which attracted 16.5 million international visitors last year, making it one of the world’s most-visited cities. Penang is another tourism hub, along with the country’s islands and beaches, such as Langkawi.
Next is the United Arab Emirates, which had 28 million tourists in 2024. It has become known as a safe tourist destination that offers a diverse and culturally rich travel experience.
The popular emirate of Dubai welcomed 18.72 million visitors last year, a 9% increase from 2023. Tourists come here to see the iconic Burj Khalifa tower, shop and dine in the glitzy shopping malls, visit historic sites and try out the many water sports on offer.
We stay in the Middle East with Saudi Arabia, which saw 30 million visitors in 2024. Its population is around 34 million – approximately three times larger than the UAE. Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is growing rapidly, as the country positions itself as a global travel destination.
Popular cities include Riyadh, which blends the modern and the traditional, and the coastal hub of Jeddah. Tourists are also drawn to AlUla (pictured), the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features ancient tombs and rock art dating back 7,000 years.
The next European country on the list is Austria, which had 30.9 million tourists in 2024. This diverse country features charming alpine villages, beautiful scenery and world-class ski resorts, in addition to the elegant cities of Vienna and Salzburg.
Particular draws for visitors include the annual Christmas markets and the excellent winter sports in regions like Tirol and Vorarlberg. During the 2024/25 winter tourism season, Austria recorded a total of 51 million overnight stays, notably from Germany and the Netherlands.
Next is China, which saw 32 million tourists in 2024 – though this is dwarfed by its population of over 1.4 billion. Visiting here can be more challenging than in some countries, with tourists recommended to be alert to China’s political and cultural sensitivities.
One of the country’s most popular tourist attractions is, of course, the Great Wall of China (pictured), which sees around 10 million visitors annually. Other draws include Beijing’s Imperial Palace and the Terracotta Army in the ancient capital of Xi'an.
We move on to Thailand in Southeast Asia, which welcomed 35.5 million tourists in 2024. Travellers are drawn to the stunning beaches, islands and cultural sites.
Popular destinations include the resorts of Phuket and Ko Samui, known for their laidback vibe and buzzing nightlife. Haad Rin Beach in Koh Phangan is the location of the infamous full moon parties. Tourists also flock to Bangkok’s Grand Palace, with eight million annual visitors.
Despite the strong 2024 numbers, Thailand is currently experiencing a tourism slowdown, as Chinese visitor numbers fall.
Next up is Japan, which welcomed 36.9 million visitors in 2024. A year-round destination, Japan offers a blend of contemporary cities like Tokyo, as well as cultural sites, skiing and even lovely beaches. Visitors can zip between destinations on the famous bullet trains.
One of the most popular attractions is Mount Fuji (pictured), with Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park drawing approximately four million people a year. Visitor numbers also get a boost during spring’s cherry blossom season – with regional festivals attracting around 63 million locals and tourists.
Taking the 12th spot is Germany, which had 37.5 million tourists in 2024. Travellers flock here to enjoy the charming towns and natural beauty of the Bavarian Alps and the Rhine Valley. Those seeking history, art and culture head for the cities of Munich, Hamburg, Cologne and the capital, Berlin.
One of the world’s most visited cities, Berlin had around 13.5 million visitors last year. Attractions include Brandenburg Gate, Berlin TV Tower – with its lofty views of the city – and Museum Island.
Just outside the top 10 is Greece, which had 40.7 million visitors in 2024. Tourists come to enjoy the country's sun-drenched islands, while history lovers head to the mainland and its many ancient sites, including Delphi and Olympia.
The country’s top tourist attraction is the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, dating to the 5th century BC, which saw 4.5 million visitors last year. Of the Greek islands, Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu and Crete are among the most popular with overseas visitors.
The 10th most visited country in the world is the UK, which had 41.2 million tourists in 2024. After recovering to nearly pre-pandemic levels, tourism is dipping slightly, partly due to cost of living impacts. But a recent Starring Great Britain campaign is aimed at promoting UK locations where high-profile movies and TV shows were filmed.
Among the most popular destinations for visitors are London (pictured) and Edinburgh. The attractions that welcome the highest tourist numbers are the British Museum and Stonehenge – around 1.4 million people visited the prehistoric site in Wiltshire last year.
Moving on to Switzerland, which had 42.8 million visitors in 2024. People flock here for winter sports and to enjoy the traditionally calm Swiss ambience. Meanwhile the city and banking hub of Zurich attracts tourists, as well as those working in the finance industries.
Among the most popular tourist attractions are Geneva, Lake Lucerne and charming Bern, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Jungfrau region (pictured) is a particular draw – it even features Europe’s highest train station, at 11,332 feet (3,454m).
At number eight is Hong Kong, which had 44.5 million tourists last year. A special administrative region of China, its draws for visitors include the vibrant city centre, Victoria Harbour and Temple Street Night Market. There are also regular ferries to the gambling resort of Macau.
Hong Kong’s top attraction is Victoria Peak (pictured), with around seven million visitors annually, offering panoramic views of the skyline and scenic trails. The adventurous can reach the summit via the Peak Tram, which has been operating since 1888.
In seventh place is Mexico, which had 45 million visitors in 2024. The North American country offers a unique blend of culture, historical sites and a diverse landscape. There are also lively cities to explore, such as Guadalajara, Oaxaca and Mexico City.
Many tourists head for the beach resorts of Cabo San Lucas, Cancun and Acapulco. Another popular destination is the island of Cozumel, home to a marine park that's excellent for diving and forms part of the world’s second-largest coral reef system.
Moving on to Türkiye, another country that attracts tourists with a mix of culture, history and relaxation. It welcomed 52.6 million visitors in 2024. The nation officially changed its name from Turkey to Türkiye in 2022 to better reflect its national identity.
Popular destinations here include Antalya and Cappadocia, while tourists also enjoy the resorts along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. The most visited location is Istanbul, with an estimated 18 million visitors last year.
The top five starts with Italy, which had 68.5 million visitors last year. The European country is filled with cultural highlights, historic cities and iconic sites. It’s also blessed with abundant natural beauty, including the Dolomites and the famous lakes of Garda, Como and Maggiore.
The most visited city is its capital, Rome (pictured), which enjoyed a record year for tourism in 2024, with 22 million arrivals. This record is expected to be broken in 2025, with the jubilee celebration for the Catholic Holy Year bringing millions more into the city.
Fourth on the list is the US, with 72.4 million visitors last year. The vast and diverse country offers everything from buzzing cities and national parks to beaches and epic road trips.
Among the most popular US tourist destinations are Los Angeles, Washington DC, Las Vegas and Florida. Not forgetting New York City (pictured), with Times Square attracting around 50 million annual visitors. Lesser-known cities that are seeing increases in tourism include Savannah, Georgia and Louisville, Kentucky.
Edging above its North American neighbour is Canada, which had 81.8 million tourists in 2024. The country boasts a wide diversity of experiences, from expansive national parks and the maritime east coast to the laid-back west coast, with its popular spots of Vancouver and Vancouver Island.
Tourists are also drawn to the characterful cities of Montreal and Quebec, as well as the modern metropolis of Toronto. The most visited attraction in Canada remains Niagara Falls – which also spans the US – with 14 million annual visitors.
In second place is Spain, which had 94 million visitors last year – almost double the size of the country's population of 48 million. It’s not hard to see why Spain appeals to so many tourists, with its great weather, beautiful beaches and attractive cities, such as Barcelona, Valencia and Seville.
Tourist numbers are also boosted by visitors to the Balearic Islands, including Mallorca and Ibiza, and the Canary Islands. Key destinations on the mainland include the country's capital, Madrid, and the Costa del Sol region – home to Málaga and Marbella.
The most visited country for 2024 is France, with an impressive 100 million tourists. From the elegant French Riviera to the countryside of Provence and the destination's many charming cities and towns, it’s not surprising that people travel here time and again.
One of the most popular destinations is Paris, with its landmark Eiffel Tower (pictured) welcoming around seven million visitors per year. The capital also received a significant boost in tourism during the 2024 Summer Olympics, which brought in 11.2 million visitors.
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