Top 10 Most Visited Countries in 2023: Where to Travel After the Pandemic

1. France: 89.4 Million Visitors

France is the most visited country in the world in 2023. In fact, the country has 89.4 million international tourist arrivals. This is a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, which severely affected the French tourism industry in 2020 and 2021. France has managed to attract more visitors thanks to its effective vaccination campaign, its reopening of borders, and its promotion of domestic and regional tourism.

What France Offers to Travelers

France offers a myriad of attractions. To elaborate, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Palace of Versailles, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and Disneyland Paris. It also has a rich history, culture, cuisine, and wine. Whether you are interested in art, architecture, fashion, literature, or gastronomy, you will find something to satisfy your curiosity and taste in France.

Why France is the Most Visited Country in the World

Some of the reasons why France is the most visited country in the world are its diversity of landscapes, its artistic and architectural heritage, its romantic appeal, and its proximity to other European countries. On top of that, the capital Paris is also the city with the most visitors in Europe and the second in the world with more than 19 million visitors. When in France, you can enjoy the stunning scenery of the Alps, the Pyrenees, the Loire Valley, or the French Riviera. You can admire the masterpieces of Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, or Picasso. Besides that, you can stroll along the Seine River, visit Montmartre Hill, or watch the Moulin Rouge show. You can also easily travel to neighboring countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, or Switzerland by train or car.

2. Spain: 83.7 Million Visitors

Spain is the second most visited country in the world in 2023, with 83.7 million international tourist arrivals from January to June. This is a significant improvement from the COVID-19 impact. The pandemic caused a drastic drop in Spain’s tourism revenue and employment in 2020 and 2021. Today, Spain has bounced back from the COVID-19 impact. The country launched a recovery plan, which includes boosting its digital transformation, enhancing its sustainability, and diversifying its products and markets.

What Spain Offers to Travelers

Being one of the world’s most visited countries in 2023, Spain is a country with a lot of history, culture, art, and architecture. It has famous landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia, the Alhambra, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Prado Museum. It also has sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville. You can experience the flamenco dance, the bullfighting, or the fiesta. And you can taste the paella, the tapas, or the sangria.

Why Spain is the Third Most Visited Country in the World

Spain has clear reasons to be the second most visited country in the world. Some are its affordability, its diversity, its quality, and its safety. The country provides a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy hostels. You can explore the different regions and cultures of Spain, from the Basque Country to Andalusia, from Catalonia to Galicia. In addition, you can benefit from the high standards of service and infrastructure that Spain offers to its visitors. You will feel safe and secure when visiting Spain, as it has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.

3. United States: 79.3 million visitors

The United States is the third most visited country in the world in 2023, with 79.3 million international tourist arrivals. This is a significant improvement from the COVID-19 crisis. The pandemic affected the United States very severely in 2020 and 2021. The United States has recovered from the COVID-19 crisis by accelerating its vaccination program, easing its travel restrictions, and stimulating its economy.

What the United States Offers to Travelers

The United States is a country with a lot of diversity, opportunity, and innovation. It has famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Grand Canyon, and the White House. It also has a vibrant culture, entertainment, and lifestyle. You can visit the cosmopolitan cities of New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago. You can experience Hollywood glamour, Broadway musicals, or Silicon Valley startups. Particularly, you can enjoy the diverse United States cuisine with burgers, fries, donuts, coffee, etc.

Why the United States is the Sixth Most Visited Country in the World

Some of the reasons why the United States is the third most visited country in the world are its size, its variety, its quality, and its influence. You can take road trips in the United States to explore its vast territory, from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, from Alaska to Hawaii. Additionally, you can discover the different states and regions of the United States, each with its own identity and attractions. You can also benefit from the high quality of service and facilities that the United States offers to its visitors. Furthermore, you can feel the influence and impact of the United States on the world, as it is a global leader in politics, economy, and culture.

4. China: 65.7 Million Visitors

China is the fourth most visited country in the world in 2023. Yes, the world’s fourth-largest country has 65.7 million international tourist arrivals. This is a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, which originated in China in late 2019 and spread to the rest of the world in 2020 and 2021. China has recovered from the COVID-19 crisis by controlling the outbreak, developing and distributing vaccines, and supporting its tourism sector.

What China Offers to Travelers

China is a country with a long and rich history, culture, civilization, and innovation. It has famous landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and the Shanghai Tower. It also has diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cuisine. You can visit the ancient sites of Beijing, Xi’an, or Nanjing. You can admire the inventions of paper, gunpowder, printing, or compass. In particular, China has one of the world’s best cuisine. You can also enjoy the dumplings, noodles, tea, or hot pot.

Why China is the Eighth Most Visited Country in the World

The reasons why China is one of the world’s most visited countries in 2023 are its size, its variety, its quality, and its influence. Indeed, you can find a vast territory, from the Himalayas to the South China Sea, from the Gobi Desert to the Yangtze River. You can also explore the different regions and cultures of China, from Tibet to Xinjiang. You can also benefit from the high quality of service and infrastructure that China offers to its visitors. Moreover, you can feel the influence and impact of China on the world, as it is a global leader in economy, technology, and culture.

5. Italy: 64.5 Million Visitors

Italy is the fifth most visited country in the world in 2023. The country had 64.5 million international tourist arrivals. This is a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, which hit Italy very hard in 2020 and 2021. Italy has recovered from the COVID-19 crisis by implementing strict health and safety measures, increasing its domestic and regional tourism, and promoting its cultural and natural heritage.

What Italy Offers to Travelers

Italy is a country with a lot of history, culture, art, and architecture. It has famous landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Vatican City, and the Venice Canal. It also has delicious food, wine, and coffee. You can visit the ancient sites of Rome, Pompeii, or Herculaneum. You can admire the Renaissance paintings of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, or Raphael. The best part, you can enjoy pizza, pasta, gelato, or espresso right at its birthplace.

Why Italy is the Fifth Most Visited Country in the World

Because of its beauty, romance, quality, and diversity, Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world in 2023. You can find a variety of beautiful landscapes, from the Alps to the Mediterranean Sea, from the lakes to the volcanoes. You can also experience the romantic atmosphere of Florence, Verona, or Venice. Moreover, you can benefit from the high quality of service and products that Italy offers to its visitors. Besides that, you can discover the different regions and cultures of Italy, each with its charm and identity.

6. Turkey: 51.2 Million Visitors

Turkey is the sixth most visited country in the world in 2023, with 51.2 million international tourist arrivals. This is a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, which severely affected the Turkish tourism industry in 2020 and 2021. Turkey has recovered from the COVID-19 crisis by implementing effective health and safety measures, increasing its domestic and regional tourism, and promoting its cultural and natural diversity.

What Turkey Offers to Travelers

Turkey is a country that bridges Europe and Asia. It has a unique blend of cultures, religions, and civilizations. The country has stunning landscapes, such as Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Mount Ararat. It also has historical and religious sites, such as Istanbul, Ephesus, and Antalya. You can marvel at the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, or the Topkapi Palace. You can visit the ancient ruins of Troy, Pergamon, or Hierapolis. Also, you can enjoy the Turkish bath, the whirling dervishes, or the bazaar.

Why Turkey is the Fourth Most Visited Country in the World

Some of the reasons why Turkey is the sixth most visited country in the world are its affordability, its hospitality, its cuisine, and its adventure. You can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to traditional guesthouses. You can experience the warm and friendly service of the Turkish people, who are always ready to help you with a smile and a cup of tea. Also, you can taste the delicious dishes of kebab, baklava, or kofte. Moreover, you can have fun and excitement in Turkey, as it offers many activities such as hot air ballooning, paragliding, skiing, or rafting.

7. Mexico: 45 Million Visitors

Mexico is the seventh most visited country in the world in 2023. The country has 45 million international tourist arrivals. This is a remarkable achievement, considering that Mexico was one of the hardest-hit countries by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Mexico has overcome the COVID-19 challenges by implementing strict health and safety protocols, increasing its testing and vaccination capacity, and providing financial and social support to its tourism sector.

What Mexico Offers to Travelers

Mexico is known for its diverse natural and cultural heritage. There are the ancient Maya and Aztec ruins, the colonial cities, the colorful festivals, the beaches, and the cuisine. Visiting the country, you can explore the archaeological sites of Chichen Itza, Teotihuacan, or Palenque. You can admire the architecture and art of Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Oaxaca. You can celebrate the Day of the Dead, the Cinco de Mayo, or the Guelaguetza. Additionally, you can relax on the sandy shores of Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, or Puerto Vallarta. You can also enjoy the delicious dishes of tacos, enchiladas, mole, or pozole.

Why Mexico is the Second Most Visited Country in the World

Some of the reasons why Mexico is one of the world’s most visited countries in 2023 are its affordability, its accessibility, its hospitality, and its diversity. You can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget hostels. You can easily travel to Mexico by air, land, or sea from many countries, especially from the United States and Canada. Indeed, you can experience the warm and friendly service of the Mexican people, who are always ready to welcome you with a smile and a hug. You can also discover the different regions and cultures of Mexico, each with its charm and identity.

8. Thailand: 39.8 Million Visitors

Thailand is the eighth most visited country in 2023, with 39.8 million international tourist arrivals projected for the whole year. This is a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, which reduced the number of tourists to only 11.15 million in 2022. Thailand has recovered from the COVID-19 crisis by implementing effective health and safety measures, increasing its domestic and regional tourism, and promoting its cultural and natural diversity.

What Thailand Offers to Travelers

Thailand is a country that attracts travelers with its variety of cultural uniqueness: from exotic food to beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Thailand has famous landmarks such as the Grand Palace, the Wat Pho, the Phi Phi Islands, and the Khao Yai National Park. It also has a vibrant culture, entertainment, and lifestyle. You can visit the cosmopolitan city of Bangkok, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, or the mountainous city of Chiang Mai. You can experience the Thai massage, the Muay Thai, or the Songkran festival. Especially, Thai cuisine is amazing! You can enjoy pad thai, tom yum goong, mango sticky rice, or Thai tea.

Why Thailand is One of the World’s Most Visited Countries in 2023

Some of the reasons why Thailand is one of the world’s most visited countries in 2023 are its affordability, its hospitality, its cuisine, and its adventure. You can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget hostels. You can experience the warm and friendly service of the Thai people. They are always ready to greet you with a smile and a wai. You can also taste the delicious and spicy dishes of Thai cuisine, which are influenced by Chinese, Indian, and Malay cuisines. Furthermore, you can have fun and excitement in Thailand, as it offers many activities such as diving, trekking, zip-lining, or elephant riding.

9. Germany: 39.6 Million Visitors

Germany is the ninth most visited country in the world in 2023, with 39.6 million international tourist arrivals. This significantly improved from the COVID-19 crisis, which affected Germany moderately in 2020 and 2021. Germany has recovered from the COVID-19 crisis by maintaining its high standards of health and safety, increasing its domestic and regional tourism, and promoting its cultural and natural diversity.

What Germany Offers to Travelers

Germany is a country with a lot of history, culture, science, and engineering. It has famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Neuschwanstein Castle, the Berlin Wall, and the Cologne Cathedral. It also has a vibrant culture, music, and special beers. You can visit the historical sites of Berlin, Munich, or Dresden. You can admire the works of Bach, Beethoven, or Mozart. And if you like events and food, you can also enjoy the Oktoberfest, the Christmas markets, or the currywurst in Germany.

Why Germany is the Ninth Most Visited Country in the World

There are reasons why Germany is one of the world’s most visited countries. On top of that, its affordability, its efficiency, its quality, and its innovation are the main attractions. You can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy hostels. You can also travel easily and quickly in Germany by using its excellent public transportation system, such as trains, buses, or subways. In addition, you can benefit from the high quality of service and products that Germany offers to its visitors. Moreover, you can discover the innovation and creativity of Germany, as it is a global leader in technology, industry, and education.

10. United Kingdom: 39.4 Million Visitors

The United Kingdom is the tenth most visited country in the world in 2023, with 39.4 million international tourist arrivals. This is a significant improvement from the COVID-19 crisis, which affected the United Kingdom very severely in 2020 and 2021. The United Kingdom has recovered from the COVID-19 crisis by rolling out its vaccination program, easing its travel restrictions, and supporting its tourism sector.

What the United Kingdom Offers to Travelers

The United Kingdom is a country with a lot of history, culture, literature, and music. It has famous landmarks such as the Big Ben, the Buckingham Palace, the Stonehenge, and Edinburgh Castle. It also has a diverse culture, entertainment, and lifestyle. You can visit the historical sites of London, Oxford, or York. You can admire the works of Shakespeare, Dickens, or Rowling. And if you are a music lover, don’t forget the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, or Adele.

Why the United Kingdom is the Tenth Most Visited Country in the World

Some of the reasons why the United Kingdom is the tenth most visited country in the world are its affordability, its diversity, its quality, and its influence. You can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. You can also explore the different countries and regions of the United Kingdom, such as England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Plus, you can benefit from the high quality of service and facilities that the United Kingdom offers to its visitors. Moreover, similar to the United States, you can feel the influence and impact of the United Kingdom on the world, as it is a global leader in politics, economy, and culture.

How about the World’s Most Visited Countries in 2022?

The world’s most visited countries in 2022 were not very different from the ones in 2023, except for some changes in the ranking and the number of visitors. According to the UNWTO’s statistics, the top 10 most visited countries in 2022 were:

• France: 79.4 million visitors
• Spain: 71.7 million visitors
• United States: 50.9 million visitors
• Turkey: 50.5 million visitors
• Italy: 49.8 million visitors
• Mexico: 38.3 million visitors
• United Kingdom: 36.2 million visitors
• Germany: 28.5 million visitors
• Greece: 27.8 million visitors
• Austria: 26.2 million visitors

Compared to 2023, France, Spain, and Italy remained in the top five. Whereas, the United States and Turkey swapped places. Mexico and Greece moved up in the ranking, while the United Kingdom and Germany moved down. Austria entered the top 10, while China dropped out. Indeed, China was not on the list because the country didn’t open to international visitors until early 2023. The overall number of international tourist arrivals increased by 111% from 2021 to 2022. Nevertheless, it was still lower than the pre-pandemic level of 2019. This shows that the global travel and tourism industry was recovering gradually from the COVID-19 crisis, but it still faced many challenges and uncertainties.

In Contrast, There are the Least Visited Countries in the World

While many travelers flock to the most popular destinations in the world, such as France, Spain, or the United States, some adventurous souls seek out the least visited countries in the world. These are the places that offer a rare glimpse into unspoiled cultures, landscapes, and wildlife. They are also places that face many challenges and difficulties in attracting and hosting tourists. For example, remoteness, expense, lack of infrastructure, or safety issues. According to the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, below were the least visited countries in the world in 2019:

• Tuvalu: 3,700 visitors. A tiny island nation with pristine beaches and coral reefs.
• Marshall Islands: 6,100 visitors. A former nuclear testing site with a rich marine life and a sunken fleet of WWII ships.
• Niue: 10,200 visitors. A self-governing island with limestone caves and chasms.
• Kiribati: 12,000 visitors. A low-lying atoll nation that is threatened by rising sea levels and climate change.
• Micronesia: 18,000 visitors. A federation of four states with ancient ruins and tropical forests.
• Montserrat: 19,300 visitors. A British overseas territory that was devastated by a volcanic eruption in 1995.
• Solomon Islands: 29,000 visitors. A former battleground of WWII with diverse cultures and languages.
• Sao Tome and Principe: 34,900 visitors. An island nation off the coast of Africa with chocolate plantations and endemic wildlife.
• Comoros: 45,000 visitors. An archipelago in the Indian Ocean with a blend of Arab, African, and French influences.
• Guinea-Bissau: 52,000 visitors. A West African country with a rich history and culture.

The Challenges and Opportunities of Traveling to the Least Visited Countries in the World

If you are looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, you might want to consider visiting one of these least-visited countries in the world. You will not only discover new sights and sounds but also support their tourism industry and local communities. However, you should also be aware of the potential risks and challenges involved in traveling to these destinations. To illustrate, visa requirements, health precautions, transportation options, and security issues. Therefore, you should always do your research and plan before embarking on your journey.