Top 10 Most Visited Destinations/ Countries in The World 2016 vs 2023

Statistics source and infographics – United Nations World Tourism Organization

5. Italy – 57.5 million international tourists annually 

Italy stood at the 5th position in 2016 vs 4th in 2023, despite most hit in Europe during covid-19. All due to its most favorable temperate climate, huge coastal line, old heritage, and architectural and archaeological sites. And Italy is incomplete without talking about Venice.

Fun fact – Italy has 53 World Heritage Sites, the highest of any country.

4. China – Covid crashed international tourists

The crouching tiger has a lot more to give to its connoisseurs than their beautiful culture and innumerable royal palaces, and history boasting of great warriors. Meanwhile, China’s annual international tourism was hit by a huge speed bump called COVID-19, arguably originating from China. China’s international arrivals hit a mark of 60 million, ranking no 4 in the world in 2019.
Fast forward to 2023, not even in the top 10 list. It isn’t a big surprise that they joined and exited the list so abruptly. Is justifiable after the communist country has made a mark in the field of scientific exploration, development, and economic advancement all by itself. They are a global powerhouse by their terms, and soon they are vying for the coveted title of the most developed nation in the world. It will surely bounce back in the next few years.

3. United States – 66 million international tourists annually

The largest economy on the planet in terms of gross domestic product, America is also one of the most diverse nations with a diverse population due to centuries of immigrants from all over the world.

America was the host of international tourists with 76 million visitors in 2016, but this number fell to 66 million per year.
The workforce is the primary source of employment for many developing countries that are looking for a more settled life in the United States. Also, “The American Dream,” which a majority of the world’s population aspires to when they finally get an opportunity to settle in America, is a reality. Nature lovers are able to visit and take a month-long vacation to take in the fresh atmosphere of American life. The American tourism industry is among the biggest in the world. It earns more than $190 billion in International tourist revenue.

2. Spain – 85 million international tourists annually

Spaniard has superseded in the list as a new number 2 beating the United States in 2023.

The country is loved mostly for its Mediterranean and Atlantic climatic conditions, about 85 million tourists arrive here every year and forms about 12% of Spain’s GDP. Spain is the second-largest tourist destination in the world ($ 100 billion in International tourism receipts) in terms of spending.

On average, each tourist spends about $1200 per visit. The country also attracts many young students looking for financial management courses which the country provides at a very cheap rate as well as easily available scholarships for the bright ones.

1. France – All-time champion hit a mark of 100 million international tourists annually

Though the city of Love and Romance – Paris has been the most visited in the world, France has still taken over the world as a storm, earning it the top spot for the most visited country. France’s reputation as the friendliest destination and its close ties make it the most visited country and a favorite place for investors to start their businesses. France is also known for its French castles called “Château,” lush green vineyards, coastal resorts, and small villages dotting the countryside, making it a tourist’s paradise.

France is also famous for its French castles called “Château”, lush green vineyards, coastal resorts, and small villages doting the whole countryside idle for it a tourist’s paradise.