In 2023 more Americans traveled internationally than ever before, and Europe has emerged as the most popular outbound destination for U.S. citizens.
A whopping 15.8 million American travelers visited Europe in 2023. That’s 55% of all international journeys.
But where are all these travelers going?
A new report from Visa Guide World has found that these are the top 5 most visited European destinations by American travelers:
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is by far the coldest country to appear on this list but it also boasts the most incredible natural beauty.
It is the largest city in Iceland and the country’s capital, but it is still the smallest city on this list.
During the winter months Reykjavik is a frozen wonderland thanks to its location in the arctic circle but the weather is much milder in the summer when the destination becomes beautifully verdant green.
No matter what time of year you visit you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the National and Saga museums where you can explore Iceland’s Viking history.
Other not-to-be-missed attractions include the chance to swim in the geothermal Blue Lagoon spa.
Reykjavik is an incredible city for nature lovers and if you visit during the winter months between September and April then you’ll stand a good chance of seeing the breathtakingly beautiful Northern Lights.
4. Rome, Italy
Italy is a hugely popular country with travelers from the U.S., and Rome is considered the country’s cultural heart.
Incredible architecture, museums and galleries, delicious food, and the warm Mediterranean climate are all part of the eternal appeal of the eternal city.
Rome is the third most visited city in Europe thanks largely to its rich history, monuments, and archaeological sites. Some of Romes’s not-to-be-missed attractions include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain.
Although officially a city in its own right, Vatican City is also in Rome, and travelers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore its unique and ornate attractions. The Vatican museums are fascinating and you can also see the Sistine Chapel here.
Rome is a modern city with an ancient heart. Spend your days exploring the city’s rich history and your nights eating delicious Italian food and partying with the locals.
3. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is the 3rd most visited European destination for U.S. travelers. Many Americans choose to visit Dublin because they want to explore their own Irish heritage and others are just looking for a good time!
Some of the main attractions for American travelers in Dublin include The Irish Emigration Museum, the Book of Kells exhibition at Trinity College and the National Museum of Ireland. Dublin is a city with a rich history and these are the best places to explore it.
If you want to learn more about Ireland’s most famous beer, then you can visit the Guinness Storehouse, which was ranked Ireland’s number 1 visitor attraction. And on the subject of beer, Dublin is a great place for a pint or two.
The people of Dublin are known to be warm and welcoming, and the city also has a rich arts and cultural scene that would be easy to incorporate into your trip.
2. Paris, France
Paris is the city of lights and the city of love. Paris has been heavily romanticized in American culture. Because of this it is a bucket list dream for many American travelers to visit the Eiffel Tower and to see the Mona Lisa in the Louvre.
More Americans visit Paris than any other nationality, and if you’ve never visited the city before, then you should see the Eiffel Tower and tick that off your list.
But Paris is a city with so much more to offer than these hugely popular attractions.
Other sites you shouldn’t miss during your Parisian adventure include riding the funicular in Montmartre to the Sacre Couer Basilica, visiting the famous dead in Père Lachaise Cemetery, or watching the dancers at the famous Moulin Rouge.
For something a little different, visit the sprawling Saint-Ouen flea market on the weekends and bag a bargain that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
1. London, England
London has emerged as the most popular destination in Europe for American travelers. The lack of language barrier makes London an easy place for U.S. travelers to visit, and the city’s rich history is a huge attraction.
Those with an interest in the British Royal Family can explore Buckenham Palace and watch the changing of the guard, stop to say hello to the ravens in the Tower of London (which is where the crown jewels are held), and have a scare in the London Dungeons.
London has an incredible restaurant scene for foodies, the West End is a cultural Mecca thanks to its huge number of shows and events, and with a pub on every corner London’s nightlife is exceptional too.
The most popular month to visit London in 2023 was April. The weather in April is perfect for sightseeing and this is when the city really starts to come alive after a long cold winter.
April is also a great time to visit the city’s many parks and gardens, such as Hyde Park and Kew Gardens, when the spring flowers are in full bloom.
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