19 Tourist Destinations Everyone Visits at Least Once
Travel plans look different for everyone, but some places almost always make the list. We’ve included destinations in this list that would entertain everyone, whether you’re into food, history, beaches, or skyline views. Apart from being popular, these places have what it takes to actually draw people in.
With recent tourism numbers, this guide gives you a clearer picture of where the world is going—and why.
Bangkok, Thailand
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If you land in Bangkok before sunrise, you’ll catch monks collecting alms and street vendors setting up shop. The city saw over 32 million international visitors in 2024. People love the night markets, canal rides, and food sold straight from carts.
Istanbul, Turkey
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In Istanbul, you can eat simit by the sea while ferries pass between Europe and Asia. This amazing destination is a crossroads. The millions of visitors cannot stop bragging about the amazing culinary scene here. Plus, many are drawn to the layered history found in mosques, palaces, and lively neighborhood bazaars.
London, UK
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No two trips to London feel the same. And if you haven’t visited once, redeem yourself and book a trip right away. You might watch changing guards at Buckingham Palace one morning, then wander past Banksy’s art by night. In 2024, the city welcomed nearly 22 million visitors. Public transport makes it easy to explore this wonderful city.
Hong Kong
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Some cities slow down by evening, but that’s not the case with Hong Kong. The night view from Victoria Peak gets most of the praise, but many locals head to street markets instead. The city still balances modern finance towers with historic temples and steep hillside trails.
Antalya, Turkey
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If you’re visiting Istanbul, make sure to make a stop at Antalya too. Hadrian’s Gate stands right in the middle of the city. The Old Town alleyways lead to the harbor, where local boats offer short, scenic rides to enhance your overall experience.
Dubai, UAE
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Do not mistake Dubai for just artificial luxuries. Beyond the luxury hotels and malls, you’ll find desert landscapes, preserved traditions, and a surprising number of public museums. Dubai draws tens of millions of international visitors every year, and there’s a good reason.
Macau
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At Macau, neon lights flash near centuries-old ruins. This region gets labeled a gambling city, but there’s more beneath the surface. You can explore Portuguese colonial sites, eat pork chop buns, and even hear Cantonese opera.
Paris, France
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Contrary to what most people visiting Paris would expect, not everything here feels curated. And that’s the real charm of this place. Sure, the Eiffel Tower draws crowds, but you’ll find a slower rhythm in neighborhood bakeries or bookstores near the Seine. In 2024, 17.4 million visitors came for its museums and monuments.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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This city grew fast, and tourism jumped by 73% in just one year and reached 16.5 million visitors in 2024. While the Petronas Towers gain the most highlight, KL’s real energy lies in exploring local food stalls and neighborhoods. You can eat six different cuisines in one street without spending much.
New York City, USA
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If you really want to experience the real vibe of New York City, we’d say you skip the tour bus. Instead, go on foot to closely learn more about this place. Small things—like free concerts in the park or a late-night slice—leave the biggest impressions.
Rome, Italy
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History shows up everywhere in Rome, even underfoot. Tourists often spot ancient ruins by accident while walking to dinner. Most visitors are stunned by the Colosseum, Vatican, Trastevere’s cafés, and quiet churches.
Tokyo, Japan
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Everything in Tokyo works fast, but surprisingly, this city rarely feels rushed. Visitors—10 million of them in 2023—find balance in this city. Temples sit next to arcades, and you can sip matcha in the morning before shopping for electronics in Akihabara. Clean trains and polite crowds make moving around simple.
Pattaya, Thailand
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Pattaya’s reputation leans one way, but the city offers more than nightlife. It’s a real tourist destination for anyone who loves water and adventure. Families explore Coral Island by boat, while others visit the wooden Sanctuary of Truth. You’ll also find quiet beaches nearby that offer a slower pace just outside the city.
Taipei, Taiwan
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Taipei moves at a comfortable pace and has a very interesting feel that you wouldn’t experience anywhere else. You can ride a glass elevator to the top of Taipei 101 and grab dumplings in a basement food court. Night markets stay busy late, and temples welcome visitors throughout the day.
Prague, Czech Republic
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Prague never really had to rebrand, thanks to the unique charm you just cannot miss. Visitors love exploring its towers, bridges, and narrow alleyways. The city stays walkable and budget-friendly. You can enjoy a riverside meal and take a tour of a Gothic cathedral while still spending less than in most capitals.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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When you talk about the Netherlands, you hear about boats, bikes, and stroopwafels. But Amsterdam is more than that. The stunning city feels more accessible and unique when you set out to explore it locally. Don’t forget to check out the Van Gogh Museum, which stays packed but is totally worth it for people who admire one-of-a-kind art. The smaller neighborhoods, like De Pijp or Jordaan, are also worth checking out. Many locals speak English, which makes things easier.
Seoul, South Korea
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Seoul blends high-speed tech with deep-rooted tradition. In 2023, 8.4 million international visitors explored the city. Gyeongbokgung Palace offers a look at Korea’s royal past, while areas like Hongdae buzz with student life. Street food, fashion, and historic spots all live within a short subway ride.
Los Angeles, USA
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Even though you won’t get to walk much in LA, you’ll cover a lot of ground. Hollywood draws tourists, and neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Koreatown, and Echo Park give the city its character. If you have a car, the Pacific Coast Highway is worth the drive.
Vienna, Austria
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Vienna offers classical music and old palaces. The city also allows visitors to tour Schönbrunn in the morning and enjoy a quiet hour in a traditional coffeehouse. Many locals still read newspapers over coffee. It’s a city that values pause over pace.