Top 10 Cities by International Visitors in 2024

International visitors refer to non-resident travelers who cross an international border to visit a city for leisure, business, religious purposes, or other temporary stays. The number is typically calculated using data from airports, accommodation records, and tourism-related services.

The 2024 ranking of cities by international visitors reveals key insights into global travel patterns and the sustained appeal of certain urban destinations. Bangkok tops the list with an impressive 32.4 million international visitors, reflecting Thailand's strong position as a hub for affordable tourism, rich cultural heritage, and world-renowned hospitality.

Istanbul, with 23 million visitors, underscores its enduring appeal as a city that bridges Europe and Asia, offering a blend of history, architecture, and vibrant street life. London's position at third with 21.7 million visitors is a testament to its consistent global allure as a financial, cultural, and historical center, while Hong Kong follows closely behind, still a major shopping and transit hub despite recent political and economic shifts.

Religious tourism plays a significant role in the rankings as well—Mecca ranks fifth, tied with Antalya at 19.3 million visitors, largely driven by pilgrimages such as Hajj and Umrah. Antalya’s rise highlights Turkey’s growing prominence as a resort destination, benefiting from its Mediterranean coastline and competitive pricing.

Dubai ranks seventh with 18.2 million visitors, showcasing the continued success of the UAE's investment in luxury tourism, infrastructure, and entertainment. Macau, a hotspot for casino tourism and leisure, maintains its global appeal with 18 million visitors. Paris, with 17.4 million, remains Europe’s cultural gem, and Kuala Lumpur closes the top 10 with 16.5 million visitors, supported by its role as a regional aviation hub and its diverse urban attractions.

Overall, the dominance of Asian cities—five of the top ten—reflects a broader shift in global tourism dynamics. Increasing economic accessibility, improved air connectivity, and evolving traveler preferences are contributing to this geographic transition. The blend of leisure, religion, culture, and shopping tourism suggests that cities that diversify their offerings and invest in infrastructure remain the most resilient and attractive in the post-pandemic travel landscape.