April 19, 2025, 9:09 am | Read time: 3 minutes
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) regularly publishes rankings of tourism statistics, including the most visited countries in the world. One particular nation has been at the top for many years. Which one is it, and how did Germany fare in the rankings? Find out on TRAVELBOOK.
Above all, the latest UNWTO report documents the recovery of international tourism from the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. In 2024, the industry recorded 1.4 billion international arrivals—almost the same as in 2019. There were a few anomalies, which TRAVELBOOK will discuss in more detail. First place in the ranking of the most traveled countries in the world remains unchanged. It even set a new visitor record in the past travel year.
Overview
1st Place Among the Most Traveled Countries in the World: France
Since the 1990s, France has defended its top position as the most traveled country in the world. According to the UNWTO report, it had around 100 million visitors in 2024. These record figures are due to the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games held in Paris. But even without such major events, France has an enormous appeal for tourists. The French way of life is synonymous with enjoyment, and the numerous sights and breathtaking landscapes do the rest.
2nd and 3rd Place
Spain is the second most visited country in the world. 94 million people visited the country in 2024—an increase of around 10 percent compared to the previous year. This upward trend looks set to continue. UNWTO analysts even predict that Spain could overtake its neighbor France as the most visited country in the world by 2040. The reasons for Spain’s growing appeal as a travel destination are not hard to see. Visitors can expect a wide range of activities—Spain not only delights with beautiful beaches, but also with picturesque old towns and excellent gastronomy.
Third place in the ranking goes to the USA. The country remains a strong magnet for visitors from all over the world, thanks to its diverse attractions and probably also because of its famous hospitality.
An Overview of the 10 Most Traveled Countries in the World
- 1. France
- 2. Spain
- 3. USA
- 4. China
- 5. Italy
- 6. Turkey
- 7. Mexico
- 8. Thailand
- 9. Germany
- 10. Great Britain
These are the 8 least visited countries in the world
This is Currently the Best City Destination in the World for Travelers, According to a Ranking
Why hardly anyone wants to visit this country in Europe
Europe Dominates the List — Germany in the Top 10
Overall, European countries lead the ranking of the most visited countries in the world. According to UNWTO data, around 747 million tourists visited the continent last year. Germany is also among the top 10, which is certainly due to the fame and popularity of the capital Berlin. Germany also benefits from its central location in Europe and remains an important port of call for international travelers, meaning that a visit is often a good idea as part of a larger tour.
In addition to Europe and Africa, the Asia and Pacific region also recorded conspicuous growth, according to the report. However, it has not yet reached the levels seen before the coronavirus crisis. The destinations of El Salvador, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, on the other hand, significantly exceeded their 2019 visitor numbers. Overall, the tourism sector is expected to continue to grow in 2025.