Hello, fellow travel enthusiasts! Before you even start searching for your flight, grab a cup of coffee and let's take a look at the world's most popular "international holiday" destinations in 2025. Following the pause brought on by the pandemic, the travel industry is experiencing a rapid recovery; people are exploring again, scrutinizing airfare prices, and particularly searching for "popular holiday destinations."

So, which countries were the most visited in the world this year? Curious about who topped the "Most Visited Countries of 2025" list? You can start exploring by purchasing a flight ticket to all these countries from Bilet.com. If you're ready, let's take a step into the top 15 together.
  1. France
  2. Spain
  3. United States
  4. Chinese
  5. Italy
  6. Türkiye
  7. Mexican
  8. Thailand
  9. Germany
  10. England
  11. Japan
  12. Austria
  13. Greece
  14. Malaysia
  15. Portugal

1.France


France

Why is it popular?


France stands out as the top tourist destination of 2025, with approximately 89.4 million international visitors.
Its rich culture, gastronomy, art history, and unique landscapes captivate travel enthusiasts. Furthermore, its robust transportation infrastructure and ease of travel between cities make planning a holiday in this country a breeze.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Paris : The classics, from the Eiffel Tower to the Seine River to the Louvre.
  • The southern coast of France – French Riviera : For those looking for a Mediterranean holiday.
  • Chateaus in the Loire Valley: A fairytale route.
When planning a holiday, it's beneficial to book your flight tickets early; the summer season is particularly busy.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets : Prices are more affordable before mid-summer and in late spring.
  • Visa status: Travelers from Türkiye require a Schengen visa.
  • Going outside of peak season (e.g., early spring or fall) will reduce the crowds and lower prices.
  • Since the city is very popular with tourists, if you want a quieter holiday, choose the Loire Valley or coastal resorts.

2.Spain


Spain

Why is it popular?


Spain ranks second with approximately 83.7 million visitors in 2025.
It is an attractive route with its rich Mediterranean culture, the beach-city balance offered by the Iberian geography, architecture and cuisine.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Barcelona – La Sagrada Família, works of Gaudí.
  • Madrid – Royal Palace, Prado Museum.
  • Costa del Sol or Andalusia beaches – for sun, sand and sea.
You can also take short getaways outside of popular cities to move freely in your holiday plan.

Travel tip
  • Airfare : There may be good deals available before the busy summer season (for example, in April or October).
  • Visa: Schengen visa is still valid.
  • If you want to avoid busy city centres, head further into Andalusia (e.g. Seville, Granada).
  • The streets are lively late in the evening; staying in the city is advantageous for those with night flight plans.

3. America


United States

Why is it popular?


The United States (US) ranks high on the list with approximately 79.3 million visitors.
From its natural parks to its megacities, it offers a variety of options for everyone looking for a "popular holiday destination".

Top attractions and experiences
  • New York City – running around the city, Broadway, Central Park.
  • Grand Canyon – a natural wonder.
  • Los Angeles – Hollywood, beaches.
It is easier to manage long distances and time zone differences in the USA if you buy your flight tickets in advance.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: Direct flights from Türkiye may be limited, so it's best to research connecting flights early.
  • Visa: Requires a US visa; include preparation in your plan.
  • Peak season is summer (June-August). Spring or autumn may be quieter for high-value routes.
  • If you are planning to visit multiple cities, check domestic flight alternatives in advance.

4.China


Chinese

Why is it popular?


China is in fourth place with approximately 65.7 million visitors in 2025.
This country, a rising power in Asia, attracts attention with both its history and modern urban experience.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Beijing – Great Wall of China, Forbidden City.
  • Shanghai – skyscrapers, rapidly changing urban culture.
  • Xi'an – Terracotta Army.
In terms of flight tickets, direct flights from Türkiye can be limited; you should look into connecting options.

Travel tip
  • Plane tickets: Early planning is advantageous for travel to China.
  • Visa: A Chinese visa is required; check the status as rules are subject to change.
  • High season: Domestic tourism may increase after the Chinese Spring Festival (Lunar New Year); late spring and early summer may be preferred for foreign visitors.
  • There may be slight difficulties with language and transportation – intercity trains are efficient but may require advance booking.

5.Italy


Italy

Why is it popular?


Italy holds a strong position on the 2025 list with 64.5 million visitors.
An ideal route for those dreaming of a holiday filled with history, art, cuisine and romantic cities.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Rome – Colosseum, ancient ruins.
  • Venice – canals, gondolas.
  • Amalfi Coast – A Mediterranean-style beach holiday.
Traveling between cities in Italy is easy; don't forget to check domestic transportation after purchasing your flight ticket.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: Early spring or the end of the year may be preferred to avoid the busy tourist season.
  • Visa: Schengen visa required.
  • Beaches can be quite crowded during the summer months; you might consider September-October as an alternative.
  • Exploring small towns and villages (e.g. Tuscany) offers a quieter option after the big cities.

6. Turkey


Türkiye

Why is it popular?


Türkiye stands out in the 2025 rankings with approximately 51.2 million visitors.
Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, it is attractive to those looking for a "popular holiday destination" with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Istanbul – historical peninsula, Bosphorus views
  • Cappadocia – balloon tour, rock houses.
  • Antalya or the Aegean coast – beach, sun, sea.
It is also a preferred option as a "holiday abroad" from within Türkiye or abroad.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: Türkiye is a suitable route, especially for tourists coming from Europe; early booking is advantageous.
  • Visa: For many countries, a visa to Türkiye is easily obtained or electronically; for those returning to Türkiye from abroad, the visa rules of that country apply.
  • Peak season is summer; spring and fall can be quieter and more affordable.
  • In crowded destinations (e.g. Cappadocia), it is important to plan your holiday in advance.

7.Mexico


Mexican

Why is it popular?


Mexico is on the 2025 list with approximately 45 million visitors.
It attracts attention with its colorful culture, historical Mayan/Aztec ruins, beach holidays and Latin energy.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Cancun and Riviera Maya – white beaches, turquoise waters.
  • Mexico City – culture, art, city life in the capital.
  • Chichén Itzá – Ruins of the Mayan civilization.
When purchasing a flight ticket, you may need to look into connecting flight options from Türkiye.

Travel tip
  • Plane ticket: Since it is a distant destination, clarify which cities you want to see first.
  • Visa: For Turkish citizens, check the applicable rules for e-visa or entry.
  • Peak season is generally winter and spring; summer months can be hot.
  • Some areas (especially for beach holidays) may be more suitable in an all-inclusive resort concept.

8.Thailand


Thailand

Why is it popular?


Thailand is making its mark in 2025 with 39.8 million visitors.
Asia's tropical charm, ease of transportation and affordable prices make it very attractive to young people looking for a "holiday abroad."

Top attractions and experiences
  • Bangkok – sophisticated urban chic, temples, nightlife.
  • Phuket or Krabi – beach holidays, island tranquility.
  • Chiang Mai – for a quieter alternative, cultural experience in the north.
It is beneficial to carefully examine flight ticket prices and peak season conditions when planning your holiday.

Travel tip
  • Flights: Direct flights from Türkiye are limited; control your budget with connecting options.
  • Visa: Turkish citizens may generally be visa-free for a limited period or have visa on arrival; check the current status.
  • High season: November to February is the most popular time; summer months can be rainy.
  • As it is in a tropical climate, take weather conditions into account and consider alternative inland routes (e.g. northern region).

9.Germany


Germany

Why is it popular?


Germany is on the 2025 list with approximately 39.6 million visitors.
It appeals to different holiday concepts by combining Europe's industrial and natural heritage.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Berlin – the intersection of history and modern city.
  • Bavaria – Fairytale buildings like Neuschwanstein Castle, Alpine landscapes.
  • Cologne – cathedral, stroll along the Rhine.
Since the transportation network is strong, it makes sense to consider train and bus alternatives for urban transit.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: You can find affordable prices from Türkiye to Berlin or Munich.
  • Visa: Requires a Schengen visa.
  • Peak season is summer; spring or fall may be more affordable and quieter.
  • If you're looking for more city sightseeing, you can get different experiences by heading to the north or east of Germany.

10. United Kingdom


United Kingdom

Why is it popular?


The United Kingdom (UK) tops the list with approximately 39.4 million visitors.

A classic route for English-language travellers, history lovers and city breakers.

Top attractions and experiences
  • London – Big Ben, Thames, West End.
  • Scotland – Highlands, Loch Ness landscapes.
  • Bath – Roman baths, historical city texture.
For those traveling, it makes sense to consider plane tickets or flights from London.

Travel tip
  • Flights: Direct flights from Türkiye to London are common; they can be more affordable if purchased early.
  • Visa: A UK visa is required; include the application period in your holiday plans.
  • High season is summer; spring and autumn can be much quieter, especially for areas like Scotland.
  • A holiday away from the city crowds is possible by heading to rural areas.

11.Japan


Japan

Why is it popular?


Japan is a rising trend with figures like 24 million visitors.
The holiday options that Asia offers, combining culture and technology, are very attractive to curious travelers.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Tokyo – ultra-modern city, technology, nightlife.
  • Kyoto – traditional Japanese culture, temples, sakura season.
  • Mount Fuji surroundings – nature, scenery, peace.
For airfare, early research is critical as Japan is a long route.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: You should look into connecting options from Türkiye; if the dates are flexible, you may find budget-friendly alternatives.
  • Visa: Check Japan visa requirements; in some cases, electronic applications may be required.
  • High season: Sakura season (spring) and autumn leaf fall are popular; summer can be hot and humid.
  • If you move from the city to the countryside, transportation cards and rail systems are useful.

12.Austria


Austria

Why is it popular?


Austria is in the 2025 rankings with approximately 28.1 million visitors.
A European route that combines the trio of nature, music and city history.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Vienna – classical music, palaces.
  • Salzburg – Mozart's city, Alpine landscapes.
  • Hallstatt – village with lake and mountain views.
After purchasing your flight ticket, using the train for domestic transportation is quite enjoyable.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: You can find affordable prices with multi-city or connecting flights within Europe.
  • Visa: Schengen visa is valid.
  • Peak tourist times are summer and the end of the year; spring or autumn may be quieter.
  • If you're considering a winter holiday, you can also add Austria's ski regions.

13.Greece


Greece

Why is it popular?


Greece is one of the countries that will attract attention with approximately 24.8 million visitors in 2025.
The Mediterranean is on the radar of holiday lovers with its unlimited charm, islands, history and delicious flavors.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Athens – Acropolis, ancient city texture.
  • Santorini – unique sunsets, white-blue houses.
  • Crete – vast island, beach holidays and history.
The Greek Islands are among the destinations where you should "act early" in terms of flight tickets, especially during the summer season.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: There are alternatives with direct or connecting flights from Türkiye; heading to the low seasons provides an advantage.
  • Visa: Schengen conditions apply between Türkiye and Greece; it is important to apply early in the planning.
  • The islands can get quite crowded during the summer months; May-June or September would be ideal.
  • Also include inter-island ferry/ice flight combinations in your budget.

14.Malaysia


Malaysia

Why is it popular?


Malaysia is one of the rising Asian destinations in 2025 with approximately 26.8 million visitors.
It appeals to those looking for a different taste for their "holiday abroad" with its tropical islands, forests and city views.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Kuala Lumpur – modern city, iconic symbols.
  • Langkawi – beach holiday, island relaxation.
  • Borneo – rainforest, wildlife.
Plane tickets and long flight times should be taken into consideration; optimize your plan.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: Since it is a Far Asia route, scan for connecting flights carefully.
  • Visa: E-visa or ease of entry may be available for Turkish citizens; check in advance.
  • High season: Dry period from November to March; summer monsoon rains are possible.
  • You can create a city-beach-forest combination by focusing on different regions.

15.Portugal


Portugal

Why is it popular?


Portugal is a rising tourism destination in Europe, attracting attention especially with its urban culture, beach holidays and wine routes.
It is included as a complement to the “2025 most visited countries” list.

Top attractions and experiences
  • Lisbon – historic streets, sea views.
  • Douro Valley – vineyards and tranquility.
  • Algarve – golden shores for beach holidays.
In terms of flight tickets, it may be advantageous to travel from Türkiye to one of the European destinations.

Travel tip
  • Flight tickets: Due to the high volume of European flights, keep an eye on perk prices.
  • Visa: Schengen visa is valid.
  • High season is July-August; May or September offer quieter alternatives.
  • Autumn is ideal for those who want to go on a wine tasting or gastronomy tour.