Published on
December 7, 2025
Turkey and France have joined Greece, Germany, Spain, Italy, and others in boosting Europe as the most visited region with a record surge in tourist arrivals this year, driven by rich culture, history, and beauty. This remarkable growth reflects Europe’s continued dominance in global tourism, with countries across the continent seeing an increase in international visitors. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and ancient ruins in Turkey to vibrant cities like Barcelona and Rome, Europe’s diverse attractions are captivating travelers from around the world. As the region thrives, it solidifies its place as the top destination for global tourism in 2025.
Europe’s Tourism Performance
Europe continues to dominate global tourism with 625 million international arrivals between January and September 2025, representing a 4% increase from 2024. This solidifies Europe as the world’s leading tourist destination, accounting for over half of the global total of 1.1 billion arrivals. Importantly, Europe’s tourism sector has not only recovered from the pandemic but is exceeding pre-pandemic (2019) levels.
MetricValueMeaningTotal International Arrivals625 MillionTotal international tourist arrivals in Europe (Jan-Sep 2025).Year-on-Year Growth (vs. 2024)+4%A 4% increase compared to the same period in 2024.Global Market ShareLargest in the WorldEurope holds more than half of global international arrivals.Recovery Status (vs. 2019)Exceeding Pre-Pandemic LevelsEurope’s tourism surpasses 2019 levels.Performance by Sub-Region
Growth varies across Europe, with Western and Central Europe leading, while Northern Europe faces a slight decline.Sub-RegionGrowth (vs. 2024)Key Trends & DriversWestern Europe+5%Strong performance, driven by major cities (Paris, London) and intra-European travel.Central & Eastern Europe+8%Strong recovery, with the highest growth rate as it recovers to 2019 levels.Southern Mediterranean Europe+3%Steady demand for destinations like Spain and Italy, supported by a strong summer season.Northern Europe-1%Decline due to factors like higher prices and geopolitical concerns.
In summary, Europe’s tourism sector is thriving, with Central and Western Europe showing the strongest growth, while Northern Europe faces challenges.
Turkey: A Gateway Between Continents
Turkey welcomed 60.6 million international tourists in 2025, with tourism receipts rising by 12.4%. A unique bridge between Europe and Asia, Turkey offers a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty that attracts travelers from all corners of the globe. Its ancient ruins, Mediterranean coastline, and vibrant cities like Istanbul make it a top destination. Turkey’s strong growth reflects its expanding luxury tourism sector and increasing global appeal.
France: The World’s Undisputed Tourist Magnet
France remains the world’s most visited country, with over 100 million international arrivals in 2025. Its tourism receipts rose by 9%, bolstered by Paris, the world’s most attractive city. The upcoming Olympic Games further fuel interest, ensuring sustained growth in tourism. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to world-class art, culture, and cuisine, France’s appeal is as timeless as ever. The Olympics will likely keep France in the global tourism spotlight for years to come.
Greece: A Mediterranean Dream Destination
Greece drew 36 million international tourists in 2025, with a 9% increase in tourism receipts. The country’s stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and Mediterranean charm keep it at the heart of European tourism. Popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos, along with a booming U.S. market, have fueled Greece’s growth. The country’s rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality continue to captivate travelers from all over the globe.
Germany: A Cultural Powerhouse With Record-Breaking Revenues
Germany saw 37.5 million international arrivals in 2025 and is on track to set a record in visitor spending, expected to reach €57 billion. With attractions ranging from Berlin’s modernity to the fairytale-like castles of Bavaria, Germany offers a diverse mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Festivals like Oktoberfest, coupled with world-class museums and vibrant cities, ensure that Germany remains a top destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
Spain: A Mediterranean Marvel of Luxury and Culture
Spain ranks second in global tourism with around 94 million international visitors. The country enjoyed a 6% growth in arrivals, driven by a boom in luxury and eco-tourism. Spain’s allure lies in its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities like Barcelona and Madrid. A 15.8% jump in tourism receipts reflects the rising demand for high-end experiences. Spain’s blend of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty keeps it at the forefront of global travel.
Italy: Where History and Beauty Meet
With 57.9 million international arrivals in 2025, Italy continues to be a top cultural and heritage destination. Tourism receipts rose by 5%, driven by the timeless appeal of cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Italy’s rich history, world-class art, and picturesque landscapes attract travelers from all over the world. Strong demand from both domestic and European tourists ensures Italy remains a key player in the global tourism scene.
Turkey and France have joined Greece, Germany, Spain, Italy, and others in boosting Europe as the most visited region with a record surge in tourist arrivals this year, driven by rich culture, history, and beauty.
Conclusion
Turkey and France have joined Greece, Germany, Spain, Italy, and other countries in elevating Europe as the most visited region, thanks to a record surge in tourist arrivals this year. This remarkable growth showcases Europe’s unparalleled appeal, driven by its rich cultural heritage, diverse attractions, and natural beauty. As Europe continues to dominate global tourism, the contributions from these key destinations reinforce its position as the top choice for travelers worldwide.
