The 10 Most Popular Holiday Destinations 

When it comes to planning your next holiday, you have a lot of choice of where you want to go. Whether you prefer a relaxing beach holiday or a bustling city break, whether you want to take in some historic sites or enjoy some local culture, we’ve put together this list to help bring you some inspiration. 

Using data from Statista, we explore the top 10 most popular holiday destinations in the world to see what makes them so attractive to holidaymakers.

France is the most popular holiday destination in the world, with 72.4 million inbound leisure trips last year.

France is a popular travel destination partly because it offers a variety of climates and holiday types – from skiing in the snowy mountains to warm beach holidays in the South of France, and picturesque rural villages to cultural and historical city breaks. The rich heritage of France is shown in its historic landmarks and world-class museums, such as the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, both in Paris.

French cuisine is another major draw, with each region in France offering its own unique gastronomic experiences. With fresh seafood on the Mediterranean coast, rich hearty dishes in the mountains, and a range of delicate patisseries and indulgent boulangeries, there really is something for everyone.

Spain is the second most popular holiday destination in the world, with 70.8 million inbound leisure trips last year.

Spain is an especially popular location for sun-seekers, thanks to the country’s warm climate and gorgeous sandy beaches. With epic mountain ranges too, Spain also makes for a great holiday for cyclists and hikers looking to enjoy some stunning vistas.

In addition, Spain has numerous vibrant cities; from the iconic architecture in Barcelona to the historic landmarks of Madrid, every location is steeped in culture. Spain is also popular for the number of festivals held throughout the year, including La Tomatina and the Running of the Bulls, which both provide travellers with unique experiences.

Turkey is the third most popular holiday destination in the world, with 45.5 million inbound leisure flights last year.

Turkey offers holidaymakers a unique blend of rich history and vibrant culture. Located on the crossroads of Europe and Asia, the country has diverse landscapes and stunning architecture, from the ancient city ruins of Ephesus to the distinctive “fairy chimneys” in Cappadocia.

Turkey also offers beach-goers gorgeous golden beaches with crystal-clear waters. Travellers can enjoy relaxation time in the sun or take part in nature conservation by volunteering for turtle protection schemes. If you prefer a city break, Turkey has numerous bustling bazaars where you can practice your haggling skills and buy some unique wares.

The USA is the fourth most popular holiday destination, with 41.8 million in-bound leisure flights last year.

The US is a hugely diverse country when it comes to landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re looking to visit one of the iconic cities such as New York, LA, or Chicago, or explore a natural wonder such as the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone Park, there’s something for everyone. Each region provides its own culture, from the country music capital of Nashville to the jazz centre of New Orleans, with an atmosphere and cuisine to match.

Greece is the fifth most popular holiday destination in the world, with 27.3 million inbound leisure trips last year.

Greece is celebrated for its rich history and stunning natural beauty, which includes rugged mountains, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters. The Greek islands are particularly popular for tourism, with the charming, white-washed buildings of Santorini and the picturesque vistas of Crete.

Greece is especially attractive to history lovers, as ancient ruins can be found across the country, such as the Acropolis in Athens and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. The warm Mediterranean climate adds to the country’s appeal, as does the fresh and flavoursome local cuisine, which includes dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salads.

Thailand is the sixth most popular holiday destination, with 27.3 million in-bound leisure flights arriving last year.

Thailand is a particular holiday destination for backpackers, thanks to its laidback atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. However, Thailand is fantastic for all types of travellers, including those who want to enjoy the stunning landscapes, lush mountains, sandy beaches, and ancient temples.

The people of Thailand are known for their warm hospitality, helping visitors to feel welcome. The country offers a range of experiences, from busy bustling cities on the mainland to more tranquil islands such as Koh Samui.

Italy is the seventh most popular holiday destination in the world, with the country seeing 25.9 million in-bound leisure flights last year.

Italy is a country celebrated for its rich history, world-renowned art and gorgeous landscapes. Cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice offer an immersive historical experience that includes artifacts from the Roman Empire to the Renaissance period. Visitors in Italy enjoy iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Sistine Chapel, plus opportunities to visit museums with stunning artworks.

The landscapes of Italy range from the green rolling hills of Tuscany to the remarkable cliffs of the Amalfi Coast and the serene lakes of northern Italy, providing gorgeous vistas and outdoor activities. Italy is also renowned for its culinary offerings, whether that be pizzas, pastas, fine wines, or gourmet desserts.

Japan is the eight most popular holiday destination in the world, receiving 20.7 million in-bound flights last year.

Known for its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern technology, Japan offers a rich cultural experience for travellers. Japan makes for a fantastic holiday destination, as many visitors find that two weeks gives plenty of time to explore the country and see the most popular landmarks across Tokyo and Kyoto.

Visitors can enjoy tea ceremonies, traditional ryokan inns, hot springs, and gorgeous seasonal beauty in the cherry blossom gardens, or take to the city for a faster-paced lifestyle. From serene temples, grandiose Mount Fuji, and futuristic city skylines, Japan really makes for a memorable place to visit.

Germany is the ninth most popular holiday destination in the world, with 19.8 million in-bound leisure flights last year.

Germany is a country rich in history, with medieval towns, impressive architecture, and iconic landmarks, including the Berlin Wall. In addition, Germany, and the cities of Berlin, Munich and Hamburg especially, are known for being cultural hubs, with a dynamic arts scene and world-class museums.

Germany also provides nature lovers with a great holiday location, offering beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the imposing Black Forest mountain range, ski in the Bavarian Alps, or relax by one of the many tranquil lakes across the country. When you factor in the ease of travelling through the country itself, Germany is perfect for those who want to explore as much of a country as possible during their holiday.

Austria is the tenth most popular holiday destination, with the country receiving 16.5 million in-bound flights last year.

Austria is particularly popular as a skiing and outdoor sports destination, thanks to the beautiful mountain ranges in the region, which provide ample opportunities for snow sports, hiking, and climbing.

However, the country has a lot more to offer in addition to outdoor pursuits, with charming, picturesque villages, and vibrant cultural cities. Cities like Vienna and Salzburg offer grand palaces and a connection with classical music, where the legacy of composers such as Mozart and Strauss still stand strong.

Whether you’re looking for a holiday destination that offers adventure, history, or beautiful scenery, Austria provides a broad and unforgettable experience.

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