The World's Most Visited Cities – and How to Enjoy Them
Bangkok, Istanbul, London, Dubai, Paris and the other most visited cities in the world – why travellers love them and tips to beat the crowds in each.
Each year, market researchers such as Euromonitor and Mastercard publish rankings of the cities that welcome the most international visitors. The order changes from year to year, but the same names keep appearing near the top. Here are ten of the world's most visited cities, why travellers love them – and tips to enjoy them without the crowds.
The most visited cities
1. Bangkok, Thailand
Temples, floating markets, rooftop bars and some of the world's best street food. Visit the Grand Palace at opening time and explore by river boat to avoid traffic.
2. Istanbul, Turkey
The city on two continents: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar and ferries across the Bosphorus. See our Istanbul guide and our Hagia Sophia guide.
3. London, United Kingdom
Free world-class museums, royal palaces, parks and theatre. Book timed entry for top attractions and use contactless payment on public transport.
4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Skyscrapers, beaches, desert safaris and huge malls. Visit from November to March, when temperatures are pleasant.
5. Paris, France
The Louvre, Eiffel Tower, cafés and boulevards. Reserve museum slots in advance and explore quieter areas such as the Canal Saint-Martin.
6. Antalya, Turkey
A beach-and-history favourite on the Turkish Riviera, with an old town, waterfalls and ancient sites – see our Antalya guide.
7. Hong Kong
Skyline views, dim sum, hiking trails and island ferries.
8. Singapore
Gardens by the Bay, hawker centres and a spotless, efficient city – ideal for a stopover.
9. New York City, USA
Iconic skyline, museums and a world-class food scene – see our New York food guide.
10. Rome, Italy
Ancient ruins, the Vatican and endless piazzas. Book the Colosseum and Vatican Museums ahead.
How to beat the crowds
- Go early or late: the first and last hours of the day are the quietest at major sights.
- Book timed tickets online to skip queues.
- Travel off-season: spring and autumn are often ideal.
- Explore beyond the centre: see our guide to hidden gems in the world's coolest cities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most visited city in the world?
Rankings differ by source and year, but Bangkok, Istanbul and London have regularly topped recent lists of cities with the most international arrivals.
How do you avoid crowds in popular cities?
Visit major sights at opening time or late in the day, book timed tickets online, travel outside school holidays and explore neighbourhoods beyond the centre.
Keep reading
Istanbul Travel Guide: 15 Best Things to Do
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Grand Bazaar, a Bosphorus ferry and the best neighbourhoods – the best things to do in Istanbul, with practical tips.
Hidden Gems in 10 of the World's Coolest Cities
Balat in Istanbul, Tempelhof in Berlin, Yanaka in Tokyo, LX Factory in Lisbon and more – lesser-known spots in ten of the world's coolest cities.
The World's Most Charming Small Towns
Fifteen of the world's most charming small towns – from Hallstatt and Colmar to Chefchaouen, Hoi An and Positano – with tips on visiting without the crowds.
Cities of the Dead: 12 of the World's Most Beautiful Cemeteries to Visit
Père Lachaise, Highgate, Recoleta, Prague's Old Jewish Cemetery, Okunoin and more – 12 of the world's most beautiful cemeteries and how to visit respectfully.