Tourexpi
The USA, France and Canada lead this year’s ranking of
the world’s most-visited destinations, according to the Global eSIM &
Travel Report 2025–2026 released by Holafly at WTM London. They are followed by
Italy, Australia, Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan and Portugal.
Together, these countries reflect the emotional, cultural and experiential
priorities shaping global travel in 2025, a year in which 44% of travellers
worldwide made at least one international trip.
USA retains the top position despite moderated growth
The United States remains the world’s most-visited
destination, even as growth levels off. Figures from the U.S. Travel
Association show a decline from around 79 million international visitors in
2019 to an expected 68 million in 2025. Nevertheless, the country’s combination
of major cities, national parks, cultural diversity and wide-ranging landscapes
continues to draw travellers in numbers unmatched elsewhere.
France maintains its global appeal through a blend of
heritage, art and style, reaffirming its role as a cultural beacon. Canada
rises strongly this year, offering travellers a compelling mix of nature,
openness and authenticity.
Europe’s enduring icons and long-haul aspirations
Italy and Spain remain cornerstones of European
desirability, attracting visitors with cuisine, landscapes and centuries-old
traditions. Australia’s placement among the top destinations highlights a
sustained appetite for long-haul exploration and outdoor adventure. Germany and
the United Kingdom continue to rank highly as cultural and economic hubs, while
Japan captivates travellers with its interplay of tradition and futurism.
Portugal completes the top ten, emblematic of destinations that feel intimate, characterful
and globally admired.
A year defined by discovery and rising loyalty
Beyond the ranking itself, the report underscores how
travellers are rediscovering the world. Nearly every international traveller
visited at least one new country in 2025, and 46.4% of all international trips
were first-time entries. Yet loyalty is strengthening in parallel: among the
ten most-visited destinations, an average of 74% of travellers intend to
return.
Pablo Gómez observed that travellers in 2025 are
looking for destinations that resonate on a personal level. He noted that
leading countries succeed because they offer diverse experiences across an
entire nation rather than within a single city, enabling visitors “to explore
the full soul of a place.” The report presents a portrait of a traveller who is
not merely crossing borders, but engaging with the world in a more intentional
and human-centred way.
Image
Credit: © Holafly
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