France remains the most visited country in the world, setting a new record with 100 million international tourists in 2024. This historic achievement highlights the country's enduring appeal, reaffirming its status as a top-tier travel destination, according to Travel and Tour World.

Olympic Effect and Cultural Attractions Drive France’s Tourism Surge

Several factors contributed to France’s massive influx of visitors. One is the so-called "Olympic Effect," as anticipation for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics attracted numerous sports enthusiasts. Another major draw was the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral after the devastating 2019 fire, while the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings brought in history buffs and veteran families. France's iconic landmarks, vibrant cities, renowned cuisine, and rich cultural heritage also played a key role.

Croatia’s Tourism Industry Thrives

The report also notes that Croatia had an exceptional tourism year, welcoming 21.3 million visitors. The Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik, and Plitvice Lakes National Park remain top attractions for both European and international tourists.

Mediterranean Competition Heats Up

Spain also set a new record in 2024, attracting 94 million visitors, bringing it closer to France. The country’s success is fueled by its diverse attractions—from Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia and Madrid’s Prado Museum to the stunning coastal regions of Costa del Sol, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands—as well as its world-class gastronomy and culture.

Spain has also surpassed France in tourism revenue, generating €80 billion compared to France’s €71 billion.

Italy and Greece also saw significant growth. Italy welcomed 65.8 million visitors in 2024, with Rome, Florence, Venice, Sicily, Sardinia, and the Amalfi Coast among the most popular destinations. However, concerns over overtourism have led local officials to consider limiting visitor numbers to balance economic benefits with sustainability.

Greece recorded 35 million visitors, marking a 10% increase from 2022, while Portugal also set a new record with over 30 million international tourists, making it one of Europe’s fastest-growing travel destinations.

A Historic Year for Global Tourism

The year 2024 was a landmark for tourism, with France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Japan, Morocco, and Brazil all achieving record-breaking numbers. With strong investments in tourism infrastructure, cultural attractions, and sustainable travel initiatives, the global tourism industry is poised for continued growth in the coming years.