In 2023, Europe was the most preferred international destination for U.S. tourists, attracting nearly a third of the 40 million Americans who traveled abroad. The continent boasts some of the most exquisite cities in the world, which explains the allure of certain destinations to foreigners. Three countries are very popular among American travelers, as brought to you by the Tourism Review.
The United Kingdom is a popular destination for American travelers, the number one European destination visited by more than 3 million people in 2023. The absence of language or cultural barriers plays a significant role in this choice.
London, the capital city, unsurprisingly attracts the most visitors with its well-known landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Tower of London. These attractions are a real eye-catcher for tourists.
Germany is the second-most popular country among American travelers, with nearly 1.6 million visitors in 2023. The country takes pride in its uniqueness and cultural diversity. However, visitors often face an unusual challenge upon arrival: the prevalence of cash as a payment method. In some places, paying with a card may even be impossible. Despite this, tourists enjoy the variety of landscapes that Germany offers, from the vibrant city of Berlin to the picturesque towns and castles of Bavaria. They are also drawn to festive events, such as the famous Oktoberfest held annually in Munich.
France is the third most popular destination in Europe for American travelers, welcoming over 1.5 million U.S. visitors between January and July 2023. Despite the crowds and rising prices, Paris, the City of Light, remains a popular tourist attraction.
During summer, many Americans flock to the famous destinations in France, including the capital and the beaches of the French Riviera. However, other places in France are also worth visiting during the winter and shoulder seasons, such as the snow-capped mountains of the Alps and the Pyrenees and charming cities like Bordeaux, Lyon, and Lille.