Exploring the world is a dream of millions of people but choosing the right countries to explore is a tough job. If you are planning your first international trip or are a traveler looking for the next destination then it is important to know which destinations are worth visiting. This guide will help you identify the top countries to visit depending on tourism data, safety, infrastructure, cultural richness, affordability and travelers’ satisfaction.
#10 – United Arab Emirates: Luxury, Innovation, and Cultural Fusion
The United Arab Emirates and its cities Dubai and Abu Dhabi has become a significant tourism destination in the Middle East receiving more than 23 million tourists in 2023. With luxury shopping, futuristic architecture and vast desert experiences, the UAE combines traditional Arab culture with modern innovation. The Burj Khalifa, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and desert safaris are some of the iconic attractions.
Although it is a rich country, UAE can be quite cheap if one learns how to travel within the country properly and the costs can range between $60 and $150 per day. English is widely spoken and the country stands at the 53rd position on the Global Peace Index, with very high security and strong legal protections. The year round sunshine, cultural diversity and efficiency of infrastructure make it a convenient and fascinating destination for global travelers.
#9 – New Zealand: Adventure Capital of the World
It is a destination that attracts nearly 4 million tourists every year and is on the bucket list for nature lovers and thrill seekers. Being the location of filming for The Lord of the Rings, the country has everything from mountains capped with snow, fjords, rain forests, and active volcanoes. Some of the popular activities include bungee jumping, hiking, kayaking and heli-skiing.
In the 2024 Global Peace Index, New Zealand comes in at number 4, providing a fairly safe and very clean environment for visitors. Tourist-friendly cities include Queenstown, Wellington and Auckland which are all quite well equipped for tourists and have good infrastructure and hospitality services. It’s not the cheapest destination though — daily travel expenses are $70-120 USD — but the unique experiences and unspoiled beauty make it well worth the price.
#8 – Portugal: Europe’s Underrated Gem
In 2023, more than 30 million international tourists are coming to Europe, and Portugal is becoming one of the most popular destinations. It boasts affordability, coastal charm and a rich maritime heritage. Lisbon and Porto are vibrant cities with colourful architecture, soulful Fado music and world class cuisine, including the famous Pastel de Nata and fresh seafood.
Portugal is quite affordable; travel expenses stand at $40-$70 USD on average per day. It has mild temperatures throughout the year, which are perfect for a beach holiday, hiking or for digital nomads. Portugal is the 7th safest country on the 2024 Global Peace Index, and therefore politically stable. The cliffs, caves, and golden beaches of the Algarve region are some of the most beautiful, and Portugal offers all this at affordable European prices.
#7 – France: Timeless Elegance and Global Influence
In 2023, France still tops the world in tourism, hosting more than 89 million visitors. Millions visit Paris alone to see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. But France is more than Paris – the countryside offers vineyards, medieval towns and scenic coastlines.
France has one of the most developed public transport systems in Europe, and include the high-speed TGV rail network. The culinary scene is world class, from fine dining to rustic boulangeries and local markets. With a daily budget of $80-$150 USD, travellers can enjoy comfort and luxury or find affordable stays and meals in smaller towns. France ranks 67th on the Global Peace Index, and most areas are safe for travel; however, some urban neighborhoods need caution.
#6 – Thailand: The Gateway to Southeast Asia
Thailand is still one of the most popular countries in Asia, having received over 28 million arrivals in 2023. It is cheap, the people are friendly, and it has a rich culture. The cultural centers are Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with temples, street food, and bustling markets; while islands like Phuket and Koh Samui have white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Being quite affordable with the daily travel costs standing between $30 and $60 USD, Thailand is especially popular among the budget travelers and backpackers. Tourist infrastructure is well developed and there are plenty of buses, trains and flights throughout the country. Thailand is 92nd in the Global Peace Index, thus, in general, the country is safe, however, it is wise not to relax in crowded places. The country has something to offer for everyone: the nature, the nightlife, the cuisine, and the history.
#5 – Canada: Scenic Wonders and Urban Sophistication
Canada is a favourite for nature lovers and has been visited by over 22 million visitors in 2023. It has vast wilderness, mountain ranges and clean, modern cities. Some of the most popular destinations include Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta, Niagara Falls in Ontario and cosmopolitan hubs like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. Canada also comes in at 11th on the Global Peace Index which reflects its stable society and low crime rates.
In sustainability, the country excels; many eco-friendly travel options; hiking, skiing, kayaking, and wildlife watching are best done here. Canada isn’t the cheapest destination, but it’s quite worthwhile for the money (it costs $70-150 USD on average per day, depending on the region) and offers top-notch quality across the board from accommodations to transport to healthcare access. English is spoken widely, and French is a unique cultural dimension to Quebec.
#4 – Spain: Affordable European Charm with Vibrant Culture
In 2023, Spain received more than 84 million visitors, which makes it the second most visited country in the world. Spain has warm climate, historic cities, and low prices, which make it a great choice for cultural experience at affordable prices. Barcelona and Madrid are the hubs for art, architecture and the nightlife, while the Andalusia and the Basque Country provide local cultural identities and culinary experiences.
Additionally, Spain has very good transport, which includes high-speed trains that link up different cities. The cost of living is also quite low as compared to other countries in Western Europe. The cost of a budget traveler is $50-$80 per day. In the 2024 Global Peace Index, Spain is 29th and crime is fairly uncommon, especially outside of major cities.
#3 – Australia: Nature, Cities, and Laid-back Charm
In 2023, Australia had more than 8.7 million international visitors, still fairly steady despite being on the road back from the pandemic. Its unique wildlife, pristine beaches, and outdoor adventures make it a favorite. Some of the iconic sights include the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House, and Uluru. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index ranks Melbourne and Sydney as among the world’s most livable cities, with top-tier healthcare, public transportation, and safety.
Australia is also perfect for eco-tourism and backpackers; it has extensive national parks, road trip routes, and a very welcoming travel culture. But it has to be said that Australia is quite pricey — the costs of daily expenses for budget travelers are $70-100 USD. Despite the cost, the experience is unparalleled, particularly for those interested in surfing, diving or learning about indigenous cultures and art.
#2 – Italy: A Cultural and Culinary Powerhouse
Unwto estimates that Italy has received more than 60 million tourists in 2023, and it is one of the top five most visited countries in the world. It has its appeal in its history, the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Vatican; in art and architecture that made it a world power. Beauty and a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites are offered by Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan.
The country is also a haven for food lovers, and Italian cuisine is internationally celebrated, from Neapolitan pizza to Tuscan wines and fresh Mediterranean seafood. Italy is safe for tourists generally and has a robust tourism infrastructure, but petty theft in tourist-heavy areas remains a concern. With its warm Mediterranean climate, diverse landscapes—from the Alps in the north to the beaches of Sicily in the south—Italy has something for every type of traveler.
#1 – Japan: A Blend of Ancient Culture and Futuristic Innovation
Japan is one of the most visited countries in Asia, which receives over 25 million international visitors in 2023 as reported by Japan National Tourism Organization. The country boasts traditional temples, beautiful scenery and modern technology. Tokyo and Kyoto are famous for their busy daily life, heritage attractions and perfect transport network. Japan is also one of the safest destinations in the world as it holds a high rank on the Global Peace Index, standing at 9th in 2024.
Japan is famous for its cultural festivities, cherry blossom season that occurs between March and April and the world’s best cuisine, which includes sushi, ramen and wagyu beef. The country’s infrastructure is top-notch; the JR Pass is valid for all trains, and the bullet train (Shinkansen) is very efficient. Japan has very high standards of cleanliness, punctuality and hospitality and is often ranked among the best in the world.
Choosing the Right Country for You
Who doesn’t love to travel? The best country to visit depends on your travel goals, budget, and personal interests. Japan: Precision and Serenity Italy: History and Food Australia and New Zealand: Epic Landscapes For budget travelers, Spain, Thailand, and Portugal offer incredible value. Canada, France, and UAE though are world class in cities, nature and culture.
As global travel continues to grow, these ten countries are still great choices for a meaningful, safe, and amazing trip. It is always important to check on visa regulations, cultural norms and weather conditions whenever you plan to visit a certain country to make the most of it. For leisure, excitement or learning, one of the destinations mentioned above is just perfect!
