Tourism is a powerful driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and global connectivity. Every year, millions of travelers venture across borders to explore new destinations, immerse themselves in different cultures, and experience the wonders of the world. The influx of tourists not only contributes to local economies but also fosters international relationships and understanding.
In this article, we explore the annual tourist arrivals by country, focusing on the destinations that attract the highest numbers of visitors. With an interactive map, top 10 rankings, and a comprehensive table, this guide provides insights into the trends and factors influencing global travel. Discover the countries leading the way in tourism and what makes them magnets for visitors worldwide.
Top 10 Countries by Annual Tourist Arrivals
- France – 117,109,000 arrivals
- Poland – 88,515,000 arrivals
- Mexico – 51,128,000 arrivals
- United States – 45,037,000 arrivals
- Thailand – 39,916,000 arrivals
- Italy – 38,419,000 arrivals
- Czechia – 37,202,000 arrivals
- Spain – 36,410,000 arrivals
- Canada – 32,430,000 arrivals
- Hungary – 31,641,000 arrivals
The list highlights a mix of established travel giants and emerging tourist destinations. France, with its rich history, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, and world-renowned cuisine, tops the chart. Poland’s significant numbers reflect its status as a cultural hub in Central Europe. Mexico’s beaches and archaeological treasures make it a favorite in the Americas, while the United States combines diverse attractions ranging from bustling cities to natural wonders. Southeast Asia’s gem, Thailand, stands out for its tropical allure and vibrant culture, while European classics like Italy and Spain continue to enchant travelers with their art, architecture, and gastronomy. Lesser-known but equally charming destinations like Czechia and Hungary also make their mark, reflecting a growing interest in Eastern Europe. Canada’s natural landscapes attract adventurers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.
Full Table (Source: World Bank)
| wdt_ID | wdt_created_by | wdt_created_at | wdt_last_edited_by | wdt_last_edited_at | Country | Annual Tourist Arrivals | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | France | 117,109,000 | 2,020 |
| 2 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Poland | 88,515,000 | 2,019 |
| 3 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Mexico | 51,128,000 | 2,020 |
| 4 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | United States | 45,037,000 | 2,020 |
| 5 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Thailand | 39,916,000 | 2,019 |
| 6 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Italy | 38,419,000 | 2,020 |
| 7 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Czechia | 37,202,000 | 2,019 |
| 8 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Spain | 36,410,000 | 2,020 |
| 9 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Canada | 32,430,000 | 2,019 |
| 10 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Hungary | 31,641,000 | 2,020 |
| 11 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | China | 30,402,000 | 2,020 |
| 12 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Croatia | 21,608,000 | 2,020 |
| 13 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Saudi Arabia | 20,292,000 | 2,019 |
| 14 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | India | 17,914,000 | 2,019 |
| 15 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Turkiye | 15,971,000 | 2,020 |
| 16 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Denmark | 15,595,000 | 2,020 |
| 17 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Slovak Republic | 15,299,000 | 2,018 |
| 18 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Austria | 15,091,000 | 2,020 |
| 19 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Egypt, Arab Rep. | 13,026,000 | 2,019 |
| 20 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Germany | 12,449,000 | 2,020 |
| 21 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Switzerland | 11,818,000 | 2,019 |
| 22 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | United Kingdom | 11,101,000 | 2,020 |
| 23 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Ireland | 10,951,000 | 2,019 |
| 24 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Virgin Islands (U.S.) | 8,612,000 | 2,020 |
| 25 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Kyrgyz Republic | 8,508,000 | 2,019 |
| 26 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | United Arab Emirates | 8,084,000 | 2,020 |
| 27 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Greece | 7,406,000 | 2,020 |
| 28 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Argentina | 7,399,000 | 2,019 |
| 29 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Netherlands | 7,265,000 | 2,020 |
| 30 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Uzbekistan | 6,749,000 | 2,019 |
| 31 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Russian Federation | 6,359,000 | 2,020 |
| 32 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Brazil | 6,353,000 | 2,019 |
| 33 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Macao SAR, China | 5,897,000 | 2,020 |
| 34 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Chile | 5,431,000 | 2,019 |
| 35 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Nigeria | 5,265,000 | 2,016 |
| 36 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Andorra | 5,207,000 | 2,020 |
| 37 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Romania | 5,023,000 | 2,020 |
| 38 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Bulgaria | 4,973,000 | 2,020 |
| 39 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Israel | 4,905,000 | 2,019 |
| 40 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Malaysia | 4,333,000 | 2,020 |
| 41 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Portugal | 4,208,000 | 2,020 |
| 42 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Cyprus | 4,117,000 | 2,019 |
| 43 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Japan | 4,115,800 | 2,020 |
| 44 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Indonesia | 4,053,000 | 2,020 |
| 45 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | South Africa | 3,886,600 | 2,020 |
| 46 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Puerto Rico | 3,882,000 | 2,020 |
| 47 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Viet Nam | 3,837,000 | 2,020 |
| 48 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Belarus | 3,598,000 | 2,020 |
| 49 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Hong Kong SAR, China | 3,569,000 | 2,020 |
| 50 | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | mfk97mfk | 20/12/2024 05:22 AM | Uruguay | 3,480,000 | 2,019 |
The Economic Impact of Tourism
Tourism is more than just leisure; it’s a significant contributor to global GDP. Countries that attract high volumes of tourists benefit from increased spending in hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors. Infrastructure improvements, job creation, and cultural preservation are among the positive impacts of a thriving tourism industry.
Emerging Trends in Global Tourism
In recent years, sustainable and experiential travel have become major trends. Travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences, opting for eco-friendly and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Countries that adapt to these preferences by promoting responsible tourism are likely to see continued growth in arrivals.