The number of American travelers visiting Europe is set to see a huge surge this summer.
According to a new report released by the American arm of travel insurance provider Allianz Partners, 55% more Americans will travel to Europe this summer compared to the figure recorded last summer.
Last year’s figures were a 600% increase compared to 2021 visitor numbers, clearly demonstrating that American travelers have a big appetite for European travel and are ready to revisit the continent after years of travel restrictions.
According to Daniel Durazo, director of external communications for Allianz Partners USA, “Last year we saw a major increase in American travel to Europe and this summer indicates even higher demand.”
Europe has long been a popular destination for American visitors, and there is no better time to visit than in the heat of the summer.
Whether you’re hoping to stand under Big Ben or sip cocktails on the Seine, here are the six most popular cities in Europe for American travelers, according to this report:
1. London, England
London is the number one destination for Americans visiting Europe in 2023. It was also the number-one destination for American travelers in Europe in 2022.
London has a population of 9.5 million, making it a bigger city than New York, and it is a popular destination for Americans for a myriad of reasons. The shared language makes the city easy to navigate, and its rich cultural heritage means there’s so much to see and do.
Those with an interest in the Royal Family can visit Buckingham Palace or the Tower of London. Culture vultures enjoy the British Museum, National Gallery or Churchill War Rooms.
2. Paris, France
Paris is better known as the city of light and is home to one of the world’s most famous paintings, five statues of Liberty, and of course, the Eiffel Tower.
Paris is a relatively small city with a population of just over 2 million people (about the population of Nebraska), but it is big on attractions.
American travelers can see many of Paris’s most famous attractions by walking along the river Seine. Those less actively inclined can have the same experience by taking a cruise along the river Seine.
While Paris’s largest attractions are impressive, some of the best moments in Paris are the smaller ones, like admiring art and antiques sold by street vendors along the river or people-watching as you enjoy coffee in a local café.
3. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is best known for being one of Europe’s friendliest cities, and many American travelers visit it to explore their own heritage, experience the high-octane nightlife, and enjoy the unique culture.
For many Irish-Americans, visiting Dublin feels like a homecoming. This is why Dublin welcomes more tourists from the States than from almost any other country.
Dublin is a well-rounded city with something to offer everyone. Much like London, the familiar language makes navigating the city easy.
Key attractions include the Guinness Storehouse, St. Patricks Cathedral, and the National Gallery of Ireland.
4. Rome, Italy
Rome is the only European city that houses one of the modern seven wonders of the world. The Colosseum was built by Emperor Vespasian in the first century, and every year more than 6 million people visit it.
This is just one of the incredible attractions Rome has to offer. American travelers can also toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, marvel at the Pantheon, or say a prayer in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Rome is known as the Eternal City, and it is crammed full of ancient history. But it’s not just the history that attracts travelers from all over the world: the gelato and pasta play a huge part too!
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is the most northerly capital city in the world, and it is famous for the vibrant street art that adorns much of the city.
If you visit Reykjavik during the winter months of September to April, then you can see the North Lights (aurora borealis) fill the sky, but during the summer months, they still appear occasionally and dance in the sky.
The nightlife in Reykjavik is lively, especially during weekends. You could enjoy bar hopping or take in a concert or show. Visit in late June, and the city comes alive thanks to the Secret Solstice Festival.
The main attractions in Reykjavik are the Hallgtimskirkja church, the Whales of Iceland museum, and the many thermal pools dotted throughout the city.
6. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and home to a population of a little over 500,000 people.
The city boasts its own castle that dominates the skyline and sits on top of a dormant volcano. Other attractions of note in Edinburgh include Arthur’s Seat, The Palace of Holyroodhouse, and St. Giles Cathedral.
Edinburgh is a popular city for foodies, thanks to its host of Michelin-starred restaurants, traditional Scottish breakfasts, afternoon teas, and of course, an abundance of locally sourced whiskeys.
Americans visiting in August can enjoy the Edinburgh fringe festival, which takes place from August 4 to August 28. This is the world’s largest performance art festival and attracts acts from all over the globe.
