(DDM) – A new tourism report has revealed the seven countries attracting the highest number of visitors worldwide.
DDM gathered that the latest United Nations World Tourism Organization UNWTO figures show global travel has not only recovered from the pandemic but surpassed previous records.
The data confirms that 2024 and 2025 produced some of the strongest tourism rebounds ever recorded.
The report lists France, Spain, the United States, China, Italy, Mexico, and the United Kingdom as the world’s top tourist destinations.
France leads the global ranking with 89.4 million visitors.
The country continues to dominate international tourism through its unmatched reputation for art, history, fashion, food, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Mont-Saint-Michel make France a year-round magnet for travellers.
Experts note that France’s railway network, airports, and well-developed hospitality sector also contribute to its tourism strength.
Spain ranks second with 83.7 million visitors.
The country’s warm climate, Mediterranean beaches, football culture, and vibrant cities like Barcelona and Madrid attract millions annually.
Spain’s UNESCO-listed sites and aggressive sustainability campaigns have boosted its global appeal.
The United States follows with 79.3 million international arrivals.
The U.S. remains one of the world’s most diverse destinations, offering everything from New York’s skyscrapers to Hollywood entertainment hubs and vast national parks.
Travel analysts say America’s strong branding, entertainment industry, and international flight connections continue to drive its massive tourism numbers.
China ranks fourth with 65.7 million visitors.
Despite previous travel restrictions, China has regained its position as a global tourism power.
The Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and fast-growing megacities like Shanghai and Shenzhen continue to attract visitors seeking a blend of ancient culture and futuristic development.
Italy sits in fifth place with 64.5 million visitors.
The country’s artistic heritage, Roman architecture, fashion centres, and globally celebrated cuisine remain irresistible to tourists.
Cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence remain top global travel favourites.
Mexico ranks sixth with 38 million visitors.
Mexico’s tourism strength is driven by ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins, UNESCO heritage sites, Caribbean coastlines, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Travellers also flock to its culinary destinations, with dishes like mole poblano, tacos, and guacamole gaining global appeal.
The United Kingdom completes the list with 30 million visitors.
The UK’s tourism landscape includes London’s famous attractions, Scotland’s highlands, the historical city of Bath, and cultural landmarks like Stonehenge and Edinburgh Castle.
Experts say the UK benefits from English-speaking accessibility, historical depth, and strong global branding.
UNWTO’s new figures indicate that global travel has fully stabilised and is entering a new era of tourism competition.
DDM gathered that analysts expect 2026 to push the numbers even higher as more countries expand tourism infrastructure.