Discover the 10 Most Visited Countries in Europe

Tourists clamor to visit Europe, especially in the summer. Throughout the year, of course, there are tourists, but the summer is when the entire European continent is packed with people. In fact, when it comes to world tourism, eight countries in Europe are in the top 10 most visited. The other two are the United States and Mexico. One of the reasons why the top 10 most visited countries in the world are mainly in Europe is the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. China and Thailand are usually somewhere in the top 10, but tourism has been hampered because of COVID restrictions.

When it comes to Europe, though, 10 countries top the list as the most visited — Spain, France, Turkey, Italy, United Kingdom, Germany, Greece, Austria, Portugal, and the Netherlands. Let’s explore the 10 most visited countries in Europe and some fun activities to do when you go.

Spain

At the top of the list is Spain. People from all over the world love going to Spain because it’s near-perfect weather year-round. The beaches are pristine and amazing, and it’s affordable. There are so many things to do in Spain, too. You can do a cultural trip and visit the museums in Madrid like the Prado and the Reina Sofia, or go into the monumental and awe-inspiring La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. If you fancy some good old-fashioned partying, then Ibiza is where it’s at. Lastly, if you just want to relax on the beach, you can choose from the hundreds of beaches on the Mediterranean coast.

France

France is a big country and usually rivals Spain for first place. It is expected to be on top by 2023 or 2024 because the Summer Olympics will be held in Paris in 2024. For many tourists, they want to experience France in all its grandiosity. Paris is considered by many to be the city of love. While you’re in Paris, there are so many landmarks to visit: the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, and many more! If you decide to go south, make sure you do a vineyard tour in Bordeaux or visit the extravagant beaches in Nice.

Turkey

The country of Turkey has become more and more popular over the years. Its proximity to Europe makes it attractive for people to jump from Greece or Italy and head to Turkey. There are so many fun activities to do there, too. You can see stunning mosques like the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque. If you are in a shopping mood, make sure you go to the Grand Bazaar where you find all kinds of cool trinkets. You can also go to the Topkapi Palace Museum to learn about Turkish history and culture. 

Italy

Ciao Bella! Italy is one of the most popular countries in Europe and one that is synonymous with falling in love with love and pasta. The Italian food, the Roman streets, the Venetian canals, all of that is a dream for tourists. But if you want to venture out into more scenic routes, make sure you go to Positano and the Amalfi Coast. For those interested in delicious Italian seafood dishes, the island of Sicily has it all and it won’t disappoint.

United Kingdom

Cheerio! The United Kingdom is full of places to go. London is the capital and probably the most famous city in the UK. You can go to the Tower of London, go round and round in the London Eye, and take a hipster walk around Camden Town. If you head north, there’s Edinburgh in Scotland that gives off pure history vibes. The architecture is amazing, the weather is gloomy, and Edinburgh Castle is breathtakingly gorgeous. It’s the autumn lover’s dream!

Germany

“Ich bin ein Berliner.” Those were the words uttered by John F. Kennedy that put his foot down against communism. He made that speech in Berlin, the capital of Germany. Berlin is rooted in deep history as a lot has happened in that city. From Nazi Germany to Communist East Berlin, you can feel the history as you walk past Brandenburg Gate or the Memorial of the Murdered Jews in Europe.  

Greece

Greece is all about history, but you can also head to the many islands the country has for some relaxation. While in Athens, make sure you go to the Acropolis. Feel the presence of Ancient Greeks while you walk around the ancient buildings. Afterward, head to the Temple of Olympian Zeus and end your day exploring the rest of the city and eating typical Greek food.

Austria

Nestled between Germany, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Slovenia, Austria has much to offer visitors from all over the world. When visiting Salzburg, you can walk around Mirabell Palace or go to the top of Fortress Hohensalzburg for amazing views of the city. If you’re in Vienna, Austria’s capital, the center of the city is filled with fun activities. Saunter around Schönbrunn Palace or peek inside St. Stephen’s Cathedral. End your day at Cafe Central, where famous historical figures drank their coffee and talked about hot-button political issues of the day.

Portugal

Portugal is a great country to visit for sunshine throughout the year. That’s why it’s so attractive to tourists from all over the world. You can hit up the beaches in the Algarve or hike in the nearby mountains in Monchique. For some lovely Lisbon tourism, the São Jorge Castle will offer breathtaking views of the city and bay. And make sure you sit near the water at Praça do Comércio for some relaxation.

Netherlands

The Netherlands is a wondrous place, but for those who want to see all the tulips in the fields of the country bloom, you should go in the springtime. The tulip fields will be covered in all the colors. Just be sure to be on the lookout for a windmill, as they are usually in the countryside. For those who want to enjoy city life, Amsterdam is your best bet for finding lots of activities. You can visit the Vincent Van Gogh Museum or take a melancholy tour at the Anne Frank Museum.

Conclusion

And there you have it, these are the top 10 most visited countries in Europe. They are a diverse group of nations that are different, yet so similar. Except for Turkey and the United Kingdom, they all use the euro so you won’t have a problem with currency. Brush up on your high school Spanish or French and you’ll be golden with the basic forms of communication in Spain and France. For the rest of the nations, get a dictionary or a translation app and hope for the best.

Of course, communication should be the least of your worries. Everyone in those countries welcomes visitors with open arms (although, some more than others!). Enjoy Europe and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage, history, and food. You will have the time of your life!

Discover the 10 Most Visited Countries in Europe

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Victor Maschek/Shutterstock.com

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