For many people, vacation is the highlight of the year, and millions travel to places far from home. However, selecting a destination can be difficult, and it can be beneficial to learn about what other people are doing to get some ideas. If this describes you, keep reading as we list the top ten most visited cities in the world 2023 and discuss what people go there to see.
International travel agencies, research centers, and independent companies monitor the attendance of states and major cities on various continents on a regular basis. While the European region dominates the list of top ten countries, representatives from Asia are among the most visited settlements. Let us choose the top ten most visited cities in the world 2023 based on analytical studies and the most recent reports from world-renowned companies such as Mastercard and Euromonitor International.
10. Kuala Lumpur
- Country: Malaysia
- Continent: Asia
- Population:2 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:3 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +60-3
- Official Languages: Malay
- Driving Side: Left
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Kuala Lumpur, another Asian metropolis, rounds out the top ten most visited cities in the world 2023. According to various estimates, Malaysia’s capital will be home to at least 20 million people per year by 2025. Already, the city outnumbers large and popular global population centers such as Rome, Tokyo, Istanbul, Seoul, and Shanghai. Kuala Lumpur has a wide range of interesting attractions and entertainment programs for visitors.
The Petronas Twin Towers, previously the tallest structures in the world, and the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower, which provides panoramic views of the city, are only two of the city’s prominent monuments. Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its night markets and street food, which serve a wide range of regional and international cuisine. The National Museum and the Islamic Arts Museum are just two of the many museums, galleries, and cultural organizations located in the city. Kuala Lumpur is a well-liked shopping destination as well, boasting both contemporary malls and classic markets like Central Market and Chinatown.
9. Shenzhen
- Country: China
- Continent: Asia
- Population:59 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:6 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +755
- Official Languages: Mandarin
- Driving Side: Left
- Currency: Yuan
Shenzhen, China’s third representative, is on the list of the top ten most visited cities in the world 2023. Shenzhen is located in the country’s south and serves as a link between mainland China and Hong Kong. It is one of the world’s fastest-growing cities, both in terms of population and technological development. It is the country’s most important trade, transportation, and financial center.
With numerous parks, museums, and art galleries, the city has a vibrant culture. Shenzhen is also known for its modern architecture and skyscrapers, such as the world’s fourth-tallest building, the Ping An Finance Center.
8. New York
- Country: United States
- Continent: North America
- Population:4 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:7 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +212
- Official Languages: English
- Driving Side: Right
- Currency: United States Dollar
Despite recent declines, New York remains one of the world’s top ten most visited cities. It is the largest American city and the international trade center. The headquarters of major international organizations and corporations, ranging from the United Nations to Calvin Klein Inc., is located here. Not only do US citizens want to work in New York, but so do tens of thousands of migrants from other countries. Life in New York never stops.
Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island are the five boroughs of New York City. From the skyscrapers of Manhattan to the beaches of Staten Island, each borough has its own distinct culture and attractions. The city is well-known for its arts and culture scene, which includes Broadway theatre, world-class museums such as the Met, and live music venues. New York is also known for its diverse culinary scene, with a variety of cuisines and restaurants available all over the city.
7. Paris
- Country: France
- Continent: Europe
- Population: 11 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:4 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +33
- Official Languages: French
- Driving Side: Right
- Currency: Euro
Of course, the list of the top ten most visited cities in the world 2023 would be incomplete without mentioning Paris. Despite the tragic events associated with terrorist attacks a few years ago, Paris remains one of Europe’s most appealing tourist destinations. No other landmark receives as many visitors each year as the Eiffel Tower. Every year, approximately 90 million people visit France. This is the world’s highest figure.
The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées Avenue are among the most famous landmarks in Paris. Paris also has many parks and gardens, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, the Tuileries Gardens, and the Bois de Boulogne.
The city has a rich cultural heritage and is well-known for influential art movements like Impressionism and Surrealism. It is also well-known for its fashion industry and haute couture, with many well-known designers and fashion houses based there. Paris is also known for its cuisine, which includes traditional dishes like croissants, baguettes, macarons, and escargots, and fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants.
6. Dubai
- Country: United Arab Emirates
- Continent: Asia
- Population:43 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:9 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +971
- Official Languages: Arabic
- Driving Side: Right
- Currency: Emirati Dirham
A successful global public relations campaign has helped to attract millions of tourists and businessmen to Dubai. It is the Middle East’s most visited city. In general, the United Arab Emirates has a very effective policy to attract foreign investment and develop the financial and tourism sectors, which, combined with the state’s vast oil reserves, allows it to rank among the world’s top ten richest countries.
Dubai is home to several iconic landmarks, including the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree, and the Dubai Fountain, a spectacular water and light show. Dubai is also well-known for its shopping, with a plethora of malls and souks selling everything from traditional Arabic goods to luxury items. Tourists from all over the world visit the city because of its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and world-class hotels.
5. Macau
- Country: China
- Continent: Asia
- Population: 686,607 approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:4 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +853
- Official Languages: Portuguese, Chinese, Mandarin Chinese
- Driving Side: Left
- Currency: Macanese Pataca
The five most visited cities in the world are another representative of China and Asia – Macau. Analysts predict that in ten years, this city will attract at least 25 million visitors per year. In other words, the number of visitors will rise by 10 million. The majority of visitors to Macau come from the entertainment industry, particularly gambling. Because of its modern casinos, this megalopolis is known as Monte Carlo in Asia and Las Vegas in the East.
Macau, on the other hand, is a rich cultural destination with a mix of Chinese and Portuguese influences. Macau’s historic center, which contains several UNESCO World Heritage sites, is a popular tourist destination.
4. Singapore
- Continent: Asia
- Population:45 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:6 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +65
- Official Language: Malay
- Driving Side: Left
- Currency: Singapore dollar
Singapore is one of the four “Asian Tigers” and a city-state in Southeast Asia. With a population of slightly less than 5.9 million people, the number of visitors exceeds 16 million per year, which is three times the number of residents. Among the top ten most visited cities in the world 2023, Singapore comes in at number four. The flow could reach 20 million by the end of the decade. Chinese, Indonesians, and Australians are the most frequent visitors to Singapore. Aside from tourism and business, foreigners are drawn to Singapore because it has one of the best medical systems in the world.
Singapore is also known for its clean, green environment and efficient public transportation system. It is a culturally diverse society that is home to a diverse range of religions and languages, as well as ethnic Chinese, Malays, and Indians. Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, the Merlion, and the Singapore Zoo are among the top attractions in Singapore. The country is also well-known for its tasty and diverse cuisine, which reflects its multicultural heritage.
3. London
- Country: England
- Continent: Europe
- Population: 9 million approx. (as of 2020)
- Number Of Visitors:2 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +20
- Official Language: English
- Driving Side: Left
- Currency: British Pound Sterling
Among European nations, London is the most visited city in the world. The British capital expects more than 20 million visitors in the near future, and by 2025, the number of visitors is expected to exceed 25 million. Despite its departure from the European Union, London remains one of the world’s most important business centers. As a result, the city attracts not only a large number of tourists but also a large number of entrepreneurs and skilled professionals from other countries.
It is a major business, finance, education, tourism, and arts center, and it is home to many iconic landmarks and institutions, including the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum, and the London Eye. London is also known for its diverse food scene, with many restaurants, cafes, and street markets serving a wide range of international cuisines.
2. Bangkok
- Country: Thailand
- Continent: Asia
- Population:78 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:2 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +66
- Official Language: Thai
- Driving Side: Left
- Currency: Thai Baht
Thailand’s capital is one of only two cities in the world with more than 20 million visitors per year and is second among the top ten most visited cities in the world 2023. Bangkok draws millions of tourists from all over the world due to its vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and low prices. The city has many historical sites, including famous Buddhist temples, as well as modern shopping centers and places to relax. In contrast to Hong Kong, where Chinese citizens make up the majority of visitors, Bangkok is primarily visited by foreigners.
Bangkok is well-known for its lively street life, diverse cultural heritage, and modern amenities. There are numerous attractions in the city, including ancient temples, bustling markets, shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife. The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Chatuchak Weekend Market, and Khao San Road are among Bangkok’s most popular tourist attractions. Bangkok is also well-known for its delectable street food, which comes in a wide range of flavors and dishes.
1. Hong Kong
- Sovereign State: China
- Continent: Asia
- Population:413 million approx. (as of 2021)
- Number Of Visitors:6 million approx.
- Dialing Code: +852
- Official Language: Chinese
- Driving Side: Left
- Currency: Hong Kong dollar
Hong Kong is the most visited city in the world in 2023. The gleaming metropolis in southeastern China has more than 5 million more visitors per year than its nearest rival, Bangkok, which only recently reclaimed the top spot. Experts predict that in a few years, one of the world’s largest financial centers will be visited by at least 31 million people, and by 2025, the figure will be close to 44 million. Having said that, Hong Kong is undoubtedly a popular tourist destination due to its distinct culture, rich history, a stunning skyline, and world-class shopping and dining. Visitors from all over the world flock to Hong Kong for a variety of reasons, including Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Temple Street Night Market.
