Would you like to travel the world, but are still determining which countries to visit? Your search is over. This article by ScholarshipTab shares the 30 Best Countries For Tourism - Top Tourist Countries. By reading it, you get helpful recommendations on which sought-after destination should make your list.
When searching for top tourist countries to visit, it is not uncommon for places like France, Spain, and the US to consistently pop in the search results. In 2019 alone, France opened its borders to over 90 million tourists drawn to its romance, world-renowned cuisine and legendary landmarks like the Eiffel Tower.
These nations are the countries most visited by tourists, thanks to factors such as state-of-the-art tourism infrastructure, outstanding marketing efforts, and an array of attractions that entice the eyes. Furthermore, they house famous landmarks, cultural festivals and historical sites that enchant visitors from across the globe.
As a traveller, taking the tourism route is one of the best ways to get an immersive experience filled with diverse cultures, legendary landmarks, and a taste of different cuisines.
We understand that tourism requires preparation, so consider this article as your guide to safely exploring the world. In it, we share information about each country such as the currency and tourist attractions.
Read: 13 Best Countries for International Students to Study and Work 2024.
Table Of Contents:
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5 reasons why you should try tourism.
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Best countries for tourism - top tourist countries
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30 best countries for tourism-top tourist countries
5 Reasons Why You Should Try Tourism
Tourism is one of the most rewarding activities anybody can engage in. As a tourist travelling the world, you visit places and have experiences that most people will only experience by reading stories. You also get to learn about the most interesting places in the world.
If you intend to get into tourism but are not convinced that it is the best path for you, we have listed below, the 5 reasons why you should try tourism.
1. You’ll Gain A New Perspective
Travelling to different cities will spur you to take roads and paths you’ve never dared to take. Losing yourself in the beautiful scenery of nature, trying bars and restaurants, admiring wares, and learning about historic places, will open your eyes to just how much beauty is in the world.
2. Learn The History Of Famous Cities
Tourism is like taking a trip to the past because you’ll learn so much about the histories and secrets of every country you visit. You could read about the founders, visit museums, exhibits, and even guided tours. Doing these things will give you an understanding of a city’s heritage.
3. Meet New People
Being a tourist means you’ll get to interact with people from different parts of the world. By doing this, you can hear intriguing stories told to you by a stranger. These people like you are also looking to connect, and who knows you might even make a friend or two from it.
4. Scale New Heights (Literally!)
As a tourist, you accomplish feats like scaling the highest points of the world’s most famous mountains and buildings. You could also climb skylines to get a clear view of the city spread out underneath you.
5. Feel Rejuvenated
If you’ve recently hit a wall in your life or feel depressed, taking a trip to a different country, might help you feel alive again. You’ll leave behind the stress of work, isolation, and a repetitive daily routine to try things that’ll make your heart beat with glee.
Best Countries For Tourism - Top Tourist Countries
1. Italy
2. Spain
3. France
4. USA
5. India
6. Greece
7. Thailand
8. Australia
9. United Kingdom
10. Switzerland
11. Mexico
12. The Maldives
13. New Zealand
14. Egypt
15. Japan
16. The Netherlands
17. Canada
18. Singapore
19. Portugal
20. Sweden
21. Vietnam
22. Sri Lanka
23. Germany
24. Turkey
25. South Africa
26. Brazil
27. Namibia
28. Denmark
29. Austria
30. Mauritius
30 Best Countries For Tourism - Top Tourist Countries
Choosing a country to tour can be difficult, especially with hundreds of places to select from. Every nation is unique, and has tourist attractions and cultures to impress you, making it harder to pick a place.
Thankfully, the list has the 30 best countries for tourism - top tourist countries, carefully curated for you. Go through it, to find the best destination for you.
1. Italy
Italy is among the top 10 tourist countries in the world. This south-central European country has a boot-shaped border that extends into the Mediterranean Sea. Italy's historical cities, world-renowned cuisine and geographic beauty make it a popular destination for over 40 million tourists yearly.
This country houses Mount Etna, the tallest and most active volcano in Europe and has two countries within its borders - the Vatican and San Marino.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourists visit in a year - 40 million a year.
Top Tourist Attractions In Italy
2. Spain
Spain's treasure trove of captivating attractions is why it is considered the best tourist country in the world. This nation features masterpieces such as Antoni Gaudi's Sagrada Familia and Park Guell in Barcelona, the Alhambra, the El Retiro in Madrid, and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
Spain perfectly embodies passion and a good life. In 2022, it hosted over 71.6 million international visitors. Spain remains one of the world's most visited countries, with over 70 million tourists entering its borders.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourists visit in a year: Over 70 million a year.
Top Tourist Attractions In Spain
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The Great Mosque of Córdoba (La Mezquita).
3. France
In addition to being one of the top tourist countries, France's past and present influence on the world, cannot be overstated. Situated in Western Europe, France is one of the oldest countries in the world, and its reach spans the globe through fashion, politics, economics, science, and culture.
Beginning in the Middle Ages, this nation evolved from a kingdom, empire, and into the republic it is today. It was one of the first countries to advocate for individual rights. Today, France is a democratic country where power falls to the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourists visit in a year: 79.4 million+.
Top Tourist Attractions In France
4. USA
The United States Of America's charm earns it a spot as a top 5 tourist country in the world. The US is among the most visited countries in the world, attracting tourists with its rich blend of metropolises and small towns.
Sites to see when you are in the US, include the iconic New York City skyline, the glitz of Las Vegas, the cultural hotspots of Los Angeles, Chicago, and New Orleans, and the historical allure of Boston. America has vibrant cities that constantly evolve to deliver the best cultural and cuisine experiences.
Continent: North America.
Currency: Dollars.
Tourists visit in a year: 50.9 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In The US
5. India
Located in South Asia, India has some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. The country has deep cultural roots and a rich heritage that enchants any foreigner who visits. Famous for its forts and places, it is an excellent country for budget travel.
As a tourist in India, you can participate in yoga, go hiking in the Himalayas mountain, or walk into any of the ancient temples. There are also crowded bazaars, blaring traffic, good music, spices, a burst of colour, and cuisine that'll make your visit a memorable one.
Continent: Asia.
Currency: Rupees.
Tourists visit in a year: 7.2 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In India
Read also: 30 Cheapest Countries To Study Abroad For Indian Students.
6. Greece
Greece is an independent nation that has existed since the 19th century. It is among the cheap countries for tourism. Greece's civilisation is among the oldest and most influential in the world, renowned for creating the concept of democracy, the ancient Olympic Games, and laying the foundations for the West in science, arts and philosophy.
This country lies in the southernmost part of Europe's Balkan Peninsula, plus a group of islands that cover the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean seas. Greece's landscapes of mountains, hills and coastlines, plus its rich cultural heritage make it one of the most visited countries in the world.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourists visit in a year: Over 32 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Greece
7. Thailand
Thailand is one of the countries most tourists like to visit, and it is not surprising, as this country does a good job of maintaining its cultural integrity despite being a major tourist destination.
In Thailand, you can find everything, from sparkly beaches to dense forests, ancient monasteries, coral reefs, Buddhist monks and floating markets. It further tops this up with a generous serving of fragrant and rich food to excite your taste buds.
Continent: Asia.
Currency: Thai Baht.
Tourists visit in a year: Over 28 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Thailand
8. Australia
Australia is another of the countries most visited by tourists. The Commonwealth of Australia occupies the Australian continent, it also includes certain islands, notably Tasmania. Indigenous people have occupied the land for close to 40,000 years before the first British settlements of the 18th century.
This nation has a parliamentary democracy government that is the same as the United Kingdom. Although it divides its federal government into "three arms - parliament, executive, and judiciary, the executive answers to the parliament.
Continent: Oceania.
Currency: the Australian Dollar.
Tourist visits in a year: 7.3 million a year.
Top Tourist Attractions In Australia
9. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom earns a spot as a country with highest tourism visits. As one of the world's most visited countries, its popularity is thanks to its rich historical and cultural heritage, outstanding Christmas markets, festivals, and diverse attractions.
From the magnificent Buckingham Palace to the lush green countryside, the United Kingdom has so much to offer tourists. Additionally, it impresses with cities like London, Glasgow, Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Edinburgh and Manchester.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Pound Sterling.
Tourists visit in a year: 3.75 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In The United Kingdom
10. Switzerland
Switzerland is another one of the top 10 countries for tourism. This small nation in Central Europe consists of 16,000 square miles of glacier-carved Alps, lakes and valleys. It is one of the wealthiest countries in the world and has been renowned for centuries for its neutrality.
The Swiss Confederation has 26 cantons and its administrative capital in Bern. Swiss boasts of its diversity, and it houses regions with unique cultural identities. You'll find people from Germany, France, and Italy in these countries, amidst other nationalities.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Swiss Franc.
Tourist visits in a year: 11.9 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Switzerland
11. Mexico
Mexico has a unique spirit that only calls to those who visit this place, which is why it is one of the highest tourist countries in the world. Its diverse landscapes, stunning jungles, volcanoes, deserts, and coastlines provide a memorable adventure for hikers and divers. You can scale Oaxaca's mountainous ridges or go diving in the Caribbean.
It has street tacos, enchiladas and guacamole for those who love to sample foreign food. There are festivals like Dia de los Muertos and local fiestas for people who want to dance and let loose in Mexico.
Continent: North America.
Currency: Mexican Peso.
Tourist visits in a year: 31.9 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Mexico
12. The Maldives
The Maldives is the highest tourist country in the world. This archipelagic state in the Indian Ocean is famous for its lush water villas. A tropical paradise made up of white sand beaches, the Maldives rests in Sri Lanka and is perfect for adventure, a vacation, or a honeymoon.
When you're in the Maldives, you can have your room on a pier close to the ocean's shores, watch mata rays and reef sharks swim from its glass floor or even view the turquoise water from your room.
Continent: Asia.
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa.
Tourist visits in a year: 1.8 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In The Maldives
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National Museum, Maldives.
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Banana Reef.
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Gulhi Beach.
13. New Zealand
New Zealand is an exceptional country with striking nature, great food, and a rich culture. Offering some of the best hitchhiking and road trip adventures, New Zealand is easily on the list of the most popular countries for tourism.
Places to explore as a tourist in New Zealand, include Queenstown with its extraordinary nature experiences, Cook Islands, and the beautiful Aitutaki Island.
Continent: Oceania.
Currency: New Zealand Dollar.
Tourist visits in a year: 2.9 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In New Zealand
14. Egypt
Egypt is the most tourism country in the world, and visiting here makes for an enchanting experience. This regal country features pyramids, mysterious mummies, and lots of gold. However, there is more to Egypt than meets the eye, just these things.
In Cairo, its most popular city, there is the river Nile, desert adventures, temples, mosques, and a culture rooted deeply in history, that sweeps the entire country. If you ever want to feel like you're in another world, visit Egypt.
Continent: Africa.
Currency: Egyptian Pound.
Tourist visits in a year: 14.9 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Egypt
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Abu Simbel Temples.
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Great Sphinx Of Giza.
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Karnak.
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Valley of the Kings.
15. Japan
Japan is among the most tourist friendly countries you could ever visit. This East Asian country is one of the most educated and technically advanced nations in the world. Japan is made up of four primary islands and over 6,800 others.
While most of it is covered by mountains and thick woodlands, the Japanese lead an urban lifestyle. Due to the long-term influence of its neighbours, Japan today blends its traditions with a Western lifestyle.
Continent: Asia.
Currency: Japanese Yen.
Tourist visits in a year: 25 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Japan
16. Netherlands
The Kingdom of Netherlands was established in 1815 after years of Spanish and French occupation. In 2010, a group of island territories in the Caribbean known as the Dutch Antilles were disbanded, but Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten stayed as constituent countries in the Kingdom.
Now, located along the fringes of Western Europe, the Netherlands is a coastal lowland spotted with windmills characteristic of its development around the water. It is the most tourist visiting country in the world. There are three major European rivers - the Rhine, Meuse and Schelde running through neighbouring countries Germany and Belgium into the nation's busy ports.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourist visits in a year: 34.20 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Netherlands
See: 19 Cheapest Countries for MBBS 2024-2025.
17. Canada
Canada is a country that encourages all citizens to uphold their own cultures. In 1971, this country adopted a national policy of multiculturalism, celebrating its diversity. This type of feat is what makes Canada one of the most visited tourist countries in the world.
This North American country occupies two-fifths of the continent, making it the second-largest country in the world after Russia. It is sparsely populated, with most of its residents living within 125 miles of its border with the United States. Canada's wide wilderness to the north plays a large role in its identity, and so does its reputation for welcoming immigrants.
Continent: North America.
Currency: Canadian Dollar.
Tourist visits in a year: 22.1 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Canada
18. Singapore
Singapore is one of the most popular asian tourist destinations in the world. Established as a British trading colony in the 19th century, this nation is a busy metropolis in Southeast Asia and houses one of the busiest ports in the world. Singapore's 5.7 million citizens dwell on the eponymous capital island and other surrounding islands make up the city-state.
As one of the four economic tigers in Asia, Singapore has witnessed outstanding growth in recent years its well-organized manufacturing and production practices, paved the way for free-market innovation in the electronics and pharmaceutical industries. Singapore has a low unemployment rate and high Gross domestic product per capita making it one of the world's wealthiest nations.
Continent: Asia.
Currency: Singapore Dollar.
Tourist visits in a year: 2.74 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Singapore
19. Portugal
Portugal has a rich culture, vibrant cities and a stunning countryside, that makes it the number one tourist country in the world. This place is also among Europe's best-value destinations. Portugal's landscape is exceedingly versatile as you can watch it change from green mountains in the North to rocky cliffs and waterfalls in the Centre.
It also has a desert-like landscape in Alentejo and laidback beaches in Algarve. Surfing is something else Portugal is reputed for. This country is the place to visit if you want the best landscapes and culture that Europe has to offer.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourist visits in a year: 30 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Portugal
20. Sweden
Sweden is easily the no 1 tourist country in the world, thanks to cities like Gothenburg and Stockholm. Gothenburg is a ferry ride away from Nothern Jutland, while Stockholm with its enchanting islands is one of Europe's most beautiful cities.
Taking road trips in Sweden can make this country your favourite place in the world to visit. On your trip, you can enjoy its beautiful countryside.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Krona SEK.
Tourist visits in a year: 1.96 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Sweden
21. Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the most beautiful countries in Asia and among the popular tourist countries in the world. Renowned for its beauty and sufficiency of natural attractions like the wide paddy fields, limestone Islands in Halong Bay and the large cave system in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, this country offers a distinct experience you won't find anywhere else.
Additionally, authentic Vietnamese cuisine which is becoming rapidly popular around the globe, makes for a wholesome tourist experience for the willing traveller.
Continent: Asia.
Currency: Vietnam ??ng.
Tourist visits in a year: 18 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Vietnam
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Ho Chi Minh Museum.
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Thien Mu Pagoda.
22. Sri Lanka
Regarded as one of the safest countries for tourists, Sri Lanka is an island nation situated in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its picturesque beaches, thousand-year-old Buddhist temples, a copious amount of wildlife, and ample archaeological history.
When in Sri Lanka, there is an array of water sports to play, astonishing sunsets, sprawling tea gardens and delicious Sri Lankan food to gorge yourself on. These things are guaranteed to make you fall in love with this country.
Continent: Asia.
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee.
Tourist visits in a year: 1.5 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Sri Lanka
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Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Royal Temple.
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Udawalawe National Park.
23. Germany
Germany is a country that possesses an elite intellect and rich culture. It offers visitors an all-around experience featuring magnificent architecture, beautiful countryside, fun festivals and lip-smacking cuisine. All these qualities are what make it one of the most famous countries for tourism.
There is no set best time to visit Germany, you can take a trip in the Summer or Spring when it's blooming or Fall/Winter when everywhere is quiet, calm, and coated in snow. This place is always filled with festivities and thrilling experiences.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourist visits in a year: 96.8 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Germany
24. Turkey
Turkey is one of the biggest tourist countries in the world, captivating travellers with its distinct charm and diverse historical attractions. It possesses the fairytale-like hot air balloons of Cappadocia, the waterfalls of Pamukkale and the ancient marvels of Ephesus.
The country is further characterized by beach resorts, a beautiful Mediterranean coastline, and delicacies like spiced kebabs, oil-cooked vegetables, and baklava.
Continent: Europe and Asia.
Currency: Turkish Iira.
Tourist visits in a year: 29.93 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Turkey
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The Blue Mosque.
25. South Africa
South Africa is famous for its wildlife, safaris, beaches, and Winelands. These are the qualities that make it one of the top countries by tourism. This nation is called the 'Rainbow Country'', due to its high cultural diversity.
The country houses popular cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, which have a lot to offer tourists. South Africa shares borders with Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Mozambique. It has also been mentioned as one of the world's most megadiverse nations due to its biodiversity.
Continent: Africa.
Currency: South African Rand.
Tourist visits in a year: 8.5 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In South Africa
26. Brazil
Brazil is the largest nation in Latin America and the world's fifth-largest country. It is a highly diverse place with an array of cultures, geography, and ecosystems, making it one of the top countries for tourism 2024. When in Brazil, you can explore the wilderness of the Amazon rainforests, get sun-kissed at its tropical beaches, and join in the Grand Carnival celebration at Rio.
Remember to visit the colonial-era towns in Minas Gerais, immerse yourself in the culture of Bahia and tour the capital city of Brasilia. There is an array of options in Brazil you could indulge in as a tourist.
Continent: South America.
Currency: The Real.
Tourist visits in a year: 5.9 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Brazil
See also: 12 Best Countries to Study Abroad 2024.
27. Namibia
Namibia is a former German Colony that has done well enough for itself and culture, to be recognized among top country tourist destinations. Visiting here makes for a memorable trip filled with wonderful experiences. As a tourist, you can stay with the locals in Windhoek, journey to the Namib desert, or enjoy the Sossusvlei.
This country has some of the world's best nature and natural landscapes, and it is Earth's second least populated nation. Namibia shares lots of similarities with South Africa, but it's much safer. It also has astounding infrastructure and friendly citizens.
Continent: Africa.
Currency: Namibian Dollar.
Tourist visits in a year: 461,027.
Top Tourist Attractions In Namibia
28. Denmark
Denmark is among the top tourist countries to visit. It is one of the world's best countries in terms of quality of life. Four tourists, this country has a lot more to offer than just its cities. It has almost 80 islands which include the stunning Anholt, Avernako, Bornholm, Christianso and Livo.
Besides islands, Denmark's cities also aim to impress. From Denmark, Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg you'll find something that excites you. Other things to sample in Denmark include
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Danish Kroner.
Tourist visits in a year: 15.7 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Denmark
29. Austria
Surrounded by beautiful nature, Austria is one of the most popular countries for tourism in central Europe. Rooted in imperial culture, this nation offers more to tourists than just stunning scenery, including attractions like neo-classical architecture, good music, cafes, and exciting sports like skiing.
From its rustic backdrops to colourful mismatched houses, Austria is where to be when you want to unwind. Here you can simply relax and take in all of the country's beauty.
Continent: Europe.
Currency: Euro.
Tourist visits in a year: 26.2 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Austria
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St. Stephen's Cathedral.
30. Mauritius
Mauritius is a multi-cultural Island situated 2,000 kilometres from Africa in the Indian Ocean and lies to the southeast of Seychelles. Dorned by palm-fringed beaches, aquamarine waters, imposing mountains and lush national parks, the Republic of Mauritius is known as a popular destination for honeymoons and family holidays. It is one of the most popular tourist countries in the world.
Continent: Africa.
Currency: Mauritian Rupee.
Tourist visits in a year: 1.4 million.
Top Tourist Attractions In Mauritius
Conclusion:
While there are hundreds of other countries you can visit, these 30 best countries for tourism-top tourist countries, have gotten the most nods from other tourists like you. Therefore, you will not regret visiting any of them.
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