The largest cities of foreign Europe visited by foreign tourists. Most visited countries in the world

An experienced traveler tries to choose an interesting and original place for each new trip, but everyone was once a beginner. When I first started traveling, like most ordinary tourists, I first of all visited those countries that I heard and knew the most about. So what are the most visited countries today? Where are the crowds of tourists?

No. 10. Mexico - 29.1 million visitors per year

Mexico is the 10th most visited country in the world. In the ranking of countries on the continent of America, Mexico ranks second in terms of attendance after the United States, even ahead of Canada! The number of visitors to Mexico in a year is more than visitors to the entire Caribbean (22.8 million people per year). The most visited region in Mexico is the Yucatan Peninsula. People come here for the magnificent beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, lush rainforests and bustling nightlife.

No. 9. Russia - 29.8 million visitors per year

In recent years, Russia has been in the top 10 most visited countries in the world, only slightly behind the UK. There are 26 sites in Russia that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Lake Baikal, the volcanoes and geysers of Kamchatka, the Black Sea coast, the snowy mountains of Altai are just a few of the thousands of famous places to visit.

Russia is rich not only in natural objects, but also in cultural attractions. The main cultural centers - Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Novgorod, Kazan, etc. - are famous for their numerous churches, museums, historical buildings, theaters, palaces, fortifications and other objects with a rich centuries-old history.
The popularity of Russia as a country to visit is growing every year. About a million people in the Russian Federation work in the tourism sector.

No. 8. United Kingdom - 32.6 million visitors per year

The tourism business annually brings $ 17.2 billion to the state treasury. Most of the UK tourists are Europeans, the second largest group of tourists comes to the UK from the USA and Canada. London is the most visited city in the United Kingdom and the Tower is the most visited place.

No. 7. Germany - 33.0 million visitors per year

Germany is considered one of the safest tourist countries in the world. Tourism is developed in Germany both for its own citizens and for foreign ones. According to statistics, 30% of Germans prefer to rest within the country.

In Germany, 2 million people work in the tourism sector, and the share of tourism in the country's GDP is 4.5%. The cultural tourist centers of Germany are Berlin, Munich and Hamburg, they are also the most visited cities in the country. Of the natural attractions in Germany, the most famous are: Saxon Switzerland National Park, Western Pomeranian Lagoons National Park, Jasmund National Park. These parks are visited by millions of tourists every year.

No. 6. Turkey - 39.8 million visitors per year

Turkey is in 6th place in terms of attendance. This country is known for its rich cultural heritage and ethnic diversity. Turkey has a large number of historical, cultural and archaeological sites, and in addition to this, charming seaside resorts on the shores of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. Istanbul is the most visited city in Turkey.

In 2015, the tourism industry in Turkey suffered losses due to a number of accidents related to the activities of terrorist groups. Turkey has lost a third of the entire flow of tourists.

No. 5. Italy - 48.6 million visitors per year

Visiting Italy is a dream of many people. 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, countless cultural artifacts, Roman and Renaissance archaeological sites, the Mediterranean coast and more! Italy rightfully occupies the 5th place in terms of attendance.

The most visited cities in Italy: Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan. 48.6 million tourists a year bring huge funds to the country's treasury.

No. 4. China - 55.6 million visitors per year

The Great Wall of China, the Holy Mountains of China, the Shaolin Monastery, Huangguoshu Waterfall, the Forbidden City, the Three Gorges Power Plant and many other attractions make China one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. According to the World Trade Organization, by 2020, China will take the first place in the world among the countries in terms of attendance.

No. 3. Spain - 65.0 million visitors per year

Tourism is the main industry in Spain. The share of tourism is 11% of the country's GDP. People go to Spain to visit Barcelona and Madrid, to the resorts of the Mediterranean Sea, to participate in Carnivals and Ensierro (Spanish national custom, which consists in running away from bulls, cows or calves specially released from the corral).

15 national parks attract nature lovers. Spain is also famous for its ski resorts. 13 Spanish cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and attract tourists from all over the world.

No. 2. USA - 74.8 million visitors per year

The huge country of the USA can surprise both beginners and experienced travelers. In cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, the flow of tourists does not stop all year round. Of the natural attractions of the United States: the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, the wonderful landscapes of Alaska, the beaches of Hawaii and much more. In 29 US states, tourism is the main industry that brings a lot of money to the treasury.

In the United States, the largest flows of tourists come from Mexico, Canada, and the UK. According to statistics, by 2025 the US will earn $2.5 trillion. dollars for tourism.


No. 1. France - 83.7 million visitors per year

For the most part, people are attracted by the local color and special atmosphere, in addition, France is famous for its fine cuisine and wines.

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world thanks to the Eiffel Tower. In addition to Paris, people go to Lyon, Strasbourg and other cities. France is famous for its magnificent ski resorts, Alpine mountains, beaches, picturesque French villages, beautiful gardens and parks, and much more.

The World Tourism Organization provided statistics showing which regions and countries were especially popular among tourists. Over the past year, 1.087 billion people made tourist trips. Europe has traditionally been the most attractive region with almost 564 million people or 51.8%. The rating is based on the number of tourists in the country per year.

1. France (84.7 million people)

In the 90s of the last century, France took the first position of the most visited countries by tourists, and since then it has been holding it. A very small proportion are transit travelers who cross France in passing, such as, for example, vacationers from northern Europe who are heading to the resorts of Spain. The majority purposefully goes to France. Tourists in this country are attracted by many famous sights of various kinds, beautiful nature, powerful artistic and historical heritage, favorable climate, developed transport infrastructure, excellent hotels, entertainment places and excellent European service. In fact, every French department has become a tourist department, since everywhere there are their own attractions.
In France, tourists most often visit Paris, Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel, Loire castles, the historical centers of Lyon and Bordeaux, Chartres and Reims cathedrals, French Riviera, Strasbourg Christmas market, Mont Blanc and Chamonix, architectural structures (Eiffel Tower, Millau Viaduct) , amusement parks (Asterix, Disneyland, Futuroscope, Vulcania).

2. Spain (60.7 million people)

The first peak of the tourist boom in Spain began in the 60s, when tourists from Western European countries began to flock here, and the second - in the 90s, when guests from Eastern Europe began to visit here. First of all, Spain is famous for its beach holidays. It all started with him, and today he is the most profitable article in the country's tourism industry. The excellent climate of the Iberian Peninsula and two archipelagos (the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean) has become an excellent attraction for travelers from Northern Europe. Beach holidays are associated with such places as the Costa Brava, Costa del Maresme, Costa Dorada (all - Catalonia), Europe's largest lagoon Mar Menor and Costa Calida (Murcia), Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca) , Canary Islands.
Spain boasts a rich culture and history. On its territory there are the remains of settlements of different peoples who lived in the Pyrenees in prehistoric times. The main tourist centers of the country - Barcelona and Madrid - can offer cultural, historical routes, all kinds of entertainment, educational programs and a souvenir sector. A dozen historic cities in Spain have been included in the UNESCO list. The once “most Catholic country in the world” has many Catholic shrines, for example, Santiago de Compostela is compared to Mecca, since there are the relics of the Apostle James, second only to the relics of Jerusalem and the Vatican in importance.

3. Italy (47.7 million people)

About one and a half thousand years after the defeat of Ancient Rome, a new country, Italy, arose on its ruins. She became a guide for tourists seeking entry into the ancient world. Hellas and Rome were the cradle of European civilization. Modern Italy does not spare money for the preservation and restoration of ancient historical monuments, seeking to preserve them for mankind. One restoration project of the Leaning Tower of Pisa cost about 25 million euros. Covering the Roman Altar of Peace with a glass dome cost 20 million. Rome, Venice, Florence and Milan are recognized as the main centers of tourism in Italy. But the details of the assessments differ: Sardinia was ranked first in terms of safety and hospitality, Rome leads in the number of historical values, Valle d'Aosta in ecology, Trentino in providing tourist information, Campania, Calabria and Abruzzo lead in the diversity of local cuisine.

4. Turkey (37.8 million people)

In recent decades, tourism has become an increasingly important contributor to the development of the Turkish economy. And for the further development of this industry, there are all prerequisites. Turkey is washed by the Black, Marmara and Mediterranean Seas (called the Aegean Sea from Greece). Turkey is the seventh country in the world in terms of the presence of thermal springs, of which there are 1300. There are many attractions of the ancient period (Greek, Roman, for example, Troy), as well as later periods of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Inside the country there is a dense transport network, thanks to which it is very easy to get to anywhere in the country. Most visited places in Turkey:

  • Istanbul, which keeps monuments of Christian Byzantine and Islamic architecture.
  • Cappadocia with cave cities and unusual volcanic formations.
  • Turkish Riviera - this is the name of the resorts on the southern shores of the country, where there are ruins of ancient Greek and Roman cities and monuments of that time.

5. Germany (31.5 million people)


Many women prefer shopping tourism as the best option to relax, have fun and enjoy shopping. What can be nice...

Until now, Germany is considered one of the safest holiday destinations in the world. Health tourism is especially developed here, since the activities of many German resorts are associated with the presence of hot springs, prevention and treatment with mineral waters and the use of spa treatment methods. Since the 1930s, local Nazi authorities began to develop a variety of thematic routes that introduce travelers to this region, its natural and cultural attractions.
In Germany, the most visited cities are Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt am Main, Hamburg, Dresden, Dusseldorf, Cologne. Oktoberfest is a very popular holiday, where beer flows like water. Of the attractions, the most visited are the Cologne Cathedral, the Reichstag and the Munich Hofbräuhaus.

6. United Kingdom (31.5 million people)

As you know, the United Kingdom united 4 different countries, between which the difference lies not only in geographical location and climatic features, but also in particular historical development. Therefore, tourism in the British Isles is particularly diverse. Here the tourist season starts in April and ends in October. For the treasury, it is very profitable, contributing annually its 10% to the common piggy bank.
The main tourist attraction in the UK is London, which is visited by both foreign and domestic tourists. London has a lot to offer tourists. In its central districts, there are several spacious squares (the most famous are Trafalgar and Piccadilly), wide streets with expensive shops and modern office centers (Strand, Oxford Street, Regent Street), the medieval stern Tower, large parks (Green Park, Hyde park, St. James Park) and small church squares, the Queen's residence - Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral and various museums.
Foreigners are especially interested in Scotland, many of whom come to Edinburgh to look at the castle of Mary Stuart, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Museum of Art and admire the old Scottish architecture. England has a number of popular spa resorts in Bath, Cheltenham, Leamington, Harrogate and Buxton.


To determine the standard of living of people, several methods have been invented, but they mainly use the one that operates in the UN. On behalf of this organization...

7. Russia (28.4 million people)

The enormous natural diversity and rich cultural heritage make Russia one of the most attractive countries for tourism. There are only 26 objects under the protection of UNESCO. Numerous peoples live in different parts of the country, having their own distinctive traditions. Basically, tourist routes in Russia capture its capital, as well as St. Petersburg. In addition, resorts and sanatoriums in the Stavropol and Krasnodar Territories, the Kaliningrad Region, Caucasian ski resorts, a tour of the Golden Ring of Russia, cruises along the rivers of the Volga basin or on an icebreaker to the Russian Arctic National Park, a long journey along the Trans-Siberian Railway with a stop to Baikal and the Altai mountains. The most persistent tourists even get to the volcanoes of Kamchatka. In St. Petersburg, you can watch the "white nights", and admire the polar lights beyond the Arctic Circle. But most tourists still come to Moscow.

If you love to travel, be sure to check out this article. In it you will find photographs of European cities, the beauty of which every traveler simply must see.

Each of these photographs can be a hallmark of the city that is depicted on it. Watch and enjoy!

Prague

Prague and its historic center with its huge squares and winding and narrow streets paved with cobblestones are included in the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage sites.

Budapest

The Hungarian capital is a place for educational sightseeing tourism, for relaxing in the famous thermal baths, as well as for getting to know hearty Hungarian cuisine and delicious Tokay wine.

London

The capital of Great Britain attracts several million tourists every year who want to see the great historical buildings and places, monuments and sights known throughout the world.

Florence

Florence is a beautiful and fleeting dream! Florence is a city that gives inspiration - it is one of the most beautiful, artistic and intellectual cities in Italy.

Many tourists make a wish to return here again, because in Florence they leave a piece of their soul.

Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo is the administrative region of the Principality of Monaco. Despite its small size, Monaco has many attractions, and thanks to this, thousands of tourists visit the country every year.

Venice


Today, Venice is one of the most touristic and romantic cities not only in Italy, but also in Europe and the whole world. Numerous cultural events of world significance take place here: carnivals, theatrical performances, exhibitions, film festivals, in which world stars and artists take part. All this makes Venice attractive for tourists. And cozy streets, unusual silence, splashing water and historical sights of the city create its romantic atmosphere.

Istanbul


Istanbul lies on the border between Asia and Europe and is a unique place where East and West meet. A feature of the layout of Istanbul is that it is divided into two parts - European and Asian, which are connected by numerous bridges and ferries. This amazing city is one of the oldest in the world and has a rich historical past.

Paris


There are a lot of attractions in Paris that make a stunning impression on tourists: majestic monuments, famous towers, the Louvre and much more. However, in addition to the world-famous places in this beautiful city, there are many nice quiet corners, remote from the Grands Boulevards, and areas where people come to play bowls, numerous bakeries and cafes of Paris.

Barcelona


Holidays in Barcelona will appeal to various categories of tourists. There are beaches, unique attractions (there are several hundred of them), nightclubs and discos, excellent shopping centers and markets, numerous restaurants and bars, water parks and attractions for children. And, of course, everyone's favorite football club.

According to the World Tourism Organization for International Travel, more than one billion people around the world travel to another country every year. Where are these people going, where are they, you ask? So, let's see the rating that determines most popular countries in the world in terms of tourism. When compiling the rating, the number of arriving foreign citizens in each individual country was taken into account. Moreover, when compiling this list, transit passengers were not taken into account, only people who arrived in the country and stayed in it for some time (who spent at least one night in the country) were taken into account.

As a rule, it is customary to think that European countries are the most attractive for tourists. Maybe for the Russians this statement is true, but in general, a slightly different picture is emerging around the world. The TOP-10 most attractive countries for tourism include not only European countries, but also Asian countries, as well as the United States.

So let's get started. The top three, along with the United States, included two European countries, France and Spain.

Next come two Asian countries (China, Turkey) and Italy. Everyone knows that China is famous not only for a large number of attractions left over from the famous Chinese dynasties, but also for its cheapness. Turkey also attracts with its low price level. For this reason, many tourists prefer Turkey and China when choosing a tourist destination.

The rating of the ten most popular countries among tourists is closed by very interesting in terms of available attractions, but very expensive European countries. First of all, this concerns England, as for many it is very desirable, but not available for visiting because of the high prices for accommodation and food, and because of the need for a British visa. Germany also cannot be called a cheap European country. About Russia, which is one of the most expensive European countries, everything is also clear. In addition to high Russian prices, foreigners are deterred from visiting Russia by the need to obtain a tourist visa, which is mandatory for both US citizens and EU citizens.

The last, tenth place in the ranking is Thailand. The tourist advantage of this country, as in the case of other Asian countries mentioned above, is cheapness. In addition, tourists travel to Thailand to admire the Buddhist temples and the beauty of nature.

Rating "the most popular countries in the world" 2013:

1. 83.0 million people visited France in 2013

2. USA - 69.8 million

3. Spain - 60.7 million people

4. China - 55.7 million

5. Italy - 47.7 million people

6.Turkey - 37.8

7. Germany - 31.5 million people

8.Great Britain - 31.2

9. Russia Federation - 28.4

10. Thailand - 26.5 million people

What countries have you visited and where did you like the most?

10 carefully selected cities competed for the prestigious title of Europe's Best Destination 2014! For three weeks, everyone voted for the best city in Europe, in their opinion, worthy of the closest attention of tourists. And according to the voting results, the best and most attractive place for tourists is ... drum roll ...!

#1 PORTO

Amazingly beautiful city! It was Porto that won the title of the Best City for Traveling in Europe 2014. Porto is an invincible city, there is so much in this name: history, architecture, culture and amazing discoveries! Situated on the Douro (River of Gold), it has a unique charm. Be sure to walk around the city and enjoy the ancient architecture, and also go on a river cruise and amazing landscapes and majestic bridges of the city will open before you.

Porto is a city that simply cannot leave you indifferent: and if you could fall in love with a city, then Porto is a city, without a doubt, worthy of your heart!

№2 ZAGREB

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Most people's impressions of Zagreb, whether they are citizens, businessmen or tourists, boil down to one single statement: Zagreb is a huge city that has managed to remain romantic and completely safe. Countless opportunities await you in the capital of Croatia: you can enjoy musical and theatrical events, art exhibitions, museums - it's all Zagreb! And, of course, do not forget about simply pleasant walks around the city, original architecture, flowering parks in the very heart of the city - these are the components that create the magical atmosphere of Zagreb!

№3 VIENNA

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It is in Vienna that "the art of enjoying life" is brought to perfection. Especially in 2015: everyone who visits Vienna this year will have the opportunity to experience how the city lived during the Congress of Vienna! Modern and traditional Viennese balls invite everyone to become a participant, and maybe even dance the very famous Viennese waltz! But know that the waltz is not the only dance popular in the Austrian capital. Nightlife in Vienna will leave few people indifferent - nightclubs, youth festivals are waiting for us in 2015!

№4 NICOSIA (CYPRUS)

Every self-respecting lover of the Mediterranean is simply obliged to visit the island of Cyprus at least once! The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite is popular today for its stunning beaches, breathtaking views, and warm-hearted people. Cyprus offers tourists an amazing variety of opportunities that will appeal to everyone. Ancient ruins surrounded by bright orange groves, steep cliffs and peaceful bays with turquoise water, mountains covered with pine forests - this is Cyprus, as if it came to life to the sound of church bells.

#5 BUDAPEST

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Budapest is a city of surprises and miracles, a lively center, well-groomed parks, exciting Danube - all this and much more it can offer a tourist who has looked into the Hungarian capital. Budapest is rightfully considered one of the most amazing cities on Earth - an excellent rating, agree?) This city simply cannot get bored. Once you're done with your mandatory sightseeing program, leave the main streets behind, let the city shine. A truly exciting adventure awaits you!

#6 MADEIRA

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In addition to breathtaking landscapes and mountains, entirely covered with flowers, this archipelago pleases its inhabitants and tourists with a very mild climate almost all year round. A warm welcome, peace and tranquility are what will make your stay in Madeira unforgettable.

And to really get to know this place, climb to the very top of the mountain and enjoy the fantastic view, following the life of the city from such a height, you can really feel the soul of Madeira.

№7 MILAN

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Milan was and remains one of the most interesting, full of life and energy cities. Back in the days when this amazing city was the capital of the western part of the Roman Empire, it amazed everyone with its beauty and colorfulness. Milan is the cradle of Italian culture, music and sports. With such a huge variety of places to visit and things to try, don't forget to stop for a second and enjoy a moment of peace - relax, take a sip of something tasty and light, and then go for a delicious dinner. In Milan, you will have the opportunity to have a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience - after all, Italian cuisine is famous for its diversity!

№8 MADRID

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Madrid is a city open to everything new, a city where culture and entertainment get along better than anywhere else, and each of us can enjoy the result of this mix in Madrid! In the hospitable Spanish capital, you will feel at home, but do not forget about the many sights that can only be seen in this wonderful city!

Madrid - in the daytime is one of the liveliest, funniest and most energetic cities in Europe, but at night ... at night the city begins to play with completely different colors! The capital of Spain is a place where you can enjoy art, shopping, exciting nightlife and great food!

№9 BERLIN

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Berlin has its own completely unique charm. This is a city that, like no other, has undergone a number of changes over the past two decades. Berlin is a place where memories of the past meet the latest trends - a real eclecticism.

For 20 years now since the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany, Berlin has been known throughout the world as a young, dynamic and versatile city located in the heart of Europe. Something new and unusual is constantly happening or being created here. Variety guaranteed.

№10 ROME

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Rome is a real box containing countless treasures of the ancient capital and its environs. Here, as nowhere else, one can feel the spirit of time and history, of bygone years, which seem to have left traces all over the city. Rome certainly has a lot to boast about: the sea, nature, delicious food, history and art - a whole kaleidoscope of possibilities. Everyone will find here something for themselves.