Bangkok's status as the most visited destination in the world is largely due to its affordability.
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The world is buzzing with excitement as travel resumes and tourism flourishes once again.
With South Africa welcoming a record-breaking 10.48 million international tourists last year - a remarkable 17.6% increase compared to 2024 - it's clear that wanderlust is alive and well.
Euromonitor's “Top 100 City Destinations Index” has revealed the most visited cities, showcasing how travel patterns are evolving and shifting across regions.
Each destination offers unique experiences that cater to diverse interests.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture or relaxation, these cities promise unforgettable memories.
Looking at the index, here is the top list of the most travelled destinations and what makes each location popular for globetrotters eager to explore the world once more.
Bangkok is a premier global tourist destination that uniquely blends chaotic, high-energy city life with deeply rooted traditional culture.
This vibrant city offers world-class, affordable street food, intricate temples like Wat Arun, and bustling shopping experiences, including the massive Chatuchak Market.
In 2025, Bangkok welcomed 30.3 million visitors, making it the world’s most visited destination.
Visitors flock to Bangkok for its unparalleled sensory experiences and budget-friendly luxury.
The city is a gateway to exploring Thailand, known for its mix of ancient, glittering temples, such as the Grand Palace, alongside modern, towering skyscrapers.
Travellers can indulge in high-end hotels, rejuvenating spa treatments, and stunning rooftop bars - all at a fraction of the cost found in Western cities.
Hong Kong welcomed 23.2 million international visitors in 2025, solidifying its status as a premier global tourist destination.
Known for its unique "East meets West" culture, this cosmopolitan city boasts a world-renowned culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and a stunning skyline.
Visitors are drawn to Hong Kong for its efficient and affordable transport, duty-free shopping, and a blend of high-rise urban energy with accessible nature trails.
It’s a family-friendly destination, making it perfect for visitors of all ages.
London is a top global tourist destination, attracting 22.7 million visitors in 2025.
This city is renowned for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant multicultural atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to world-class museums, a thriving West End theatre scene, and diverse culinary experiences.
With extensive and accessible transport options like the Tube, exploring London is a breeze.
The city is home to historic sites such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
Macau offers world-class entertainment, Michelin-starred cuisine, and stunning architecture, all within a small, accessible, and walkable area.
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Often dubbed the "Las Vegas of the East," Macau is a premier tourist destination that welcomed 20.4 million visitors in 2025.
This city uniquely blends intense, high-energy casino gaming with rich Unesco-listed Portuguese-Chinese colonial heritage.
Macau is known for its world-class entertainment, Michelin-starred cuisine, and stunning, walkable architecture within a small, accessible area.
As the only place in China where gambling is legal, its massive casinos like The Venetian Macao and Grand Lisboa draw global crowds.
Beyond gambling, visitors can enjoy luxury shopping, lavish spa treatments, and spectacular free entertainment shows.
Istanbul is a top global tourist destination, welcoming 19.7 million visitors in 2025.
This unique city spans two continents - Europe and Asia - offering a fascinating blend of East and West, profound Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history, and stunning Bosphorus views.
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, bustling bazaars, and a vibrant culinary scene.
The culinary experience is unmatched, blending Turkish, Balkan, and Middle Eastern flavours, from street food to fine dining.
The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar offer unforgettable shopping experiences, and despite being a major metropolis, Istanbul is generally considered an affordable city to navigate with good public transport.
Dubai is a premier global tourist destination that welcomed 19.5 million international visitors in 2025.
This city uniquely blends luxury, futuristic architecture, and desert adventure, offering year-round sunshine and a cosmopolitan lifestyle rich in cultural experiences.
Visitors can experience iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, world-class shopping, diverse dining, and thrilling desert safaris.
Known as a "shopper's paradise," it boasts immense retail venues like The Dubai Mall and the annual Dubai Shopping Festival.
With over 300 days of sunshine, the city features pristine beaches, including Madinat Jumeirah, perfect for water sports and relaxation.
As Turkey's tourism capital, Antalya is renowned for its Blue Flag beaches.
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Mecca is the holiest city in Islam and a premier destination for millions of Muslim pilgrims annually, driven by the religious duty to perform Hajj or Umrah.
As the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and home to the Kaaba, Mecca offers a profoundly spiritual and transformative experience, combining ancient traditions with modern development.
In 2025, the city welcomed 18.7 million visitors, who came to feel spiritually closer to God, seeking forgiveness and a "reborn" experience.
Access to Mecca is restricted to Muslims only, making it a unique pilgrimage destination.
Antalya is a premier global destination that seamlessly blends pristine Mediterranean beaches with rich ancient history.
As Turkey’s "tourism capital," it offers exceptional value for money, luxury resorts, and a vibrant, warm climate ideal for year-round travel.
In 2025, the city welcomed 18.6 million tourists, boasting numerous "Blue Flag" beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Visitors can explore ancient sites like the ruins of Phaselis, Myra, and the Aspendos theatre.
Paris is a top global tourist destination, welcoming 18.3 million visitors in 2025.
Known for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, Paris exudes a romantic atmosphere, world-class culinary scene, and rich artistic history.
Visitors are captivated by the stunning architecture, sidewalk cafés, and diverse, walkable neighbourhoods.
The city of love is a must-visit for experiencing unmatched culture, fashion, and history. T
Kuala Lumpur is a premier, affordable Southeast Asian hub beloved for its dramatic, modern skyline - highlighted by the Petronas Twin Towers - blended with deep-rooted cultural diversity, colonial history, and world-renowned street food.
In 2025, the city welcomed 17.3 million international arrivals, making it a must-visit destination.
Tourists visit for its vibrant, melting-pot atmosphere, exceptional shopping, lush urban parks, and 24/7 food scenes, particularly in Jalan Alor.
Kuala Lumpur offers a diverse blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures, with unique temples like Thean Hou and religious sites like the Batu Caves.
Visitors can indulge in luxury experiences, high-end shopping at Pavilion KL, and varied, inexpensive cuisine at reasonable prices.
Renowned for its vibrant street food scenes and 24-hour, authentic local meals, the city seamlessly mixes contemporary, high-tech infrastructure with historic, colonial-era buildings at Merdeka Square.