Hong Kong Among Top Travel Destinations of 2025: What Makes It a Global Tourism Leader

Published on December 9, 2025

As 2025 unfolds, global tourism is on the rise, and Hong Kong has made an impressive leap in the rankings. The city has secured the second position for international arrivals, with an estimated 23.2 million inbound trips, according to Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index. This marks a remarkable recovery for Hong Kong, placing it just behind Bangkok, which leads the pack with 30.3 million visits. The news signals a resurgence in Hong Kong’s tourism momentum, fueled by its role as a key gateway to Greater China and Asia, supported by a growing number of international events and retail-driven visitation.

Hong Kong’s Resilient Comeback and Global Positioning

In Euromonitor International’s annual index, Paris retains its crown as the world’s most attractive city for the fifth consecutive year. Paris continues to dominate the global travel scene, leading the rankings due to its unmatched tourism infrastructure, economic performance, sustainability efforts, and health and safety measures. However, Hong Kong’s rise to second place for international arrivals is a significant milestone. In previous years, Hong Kong had struggled due to political unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic, but it now appears poised to reclaim its status as a top global tourist destination.

The increase in international arrivals reflects Hong Kong’s broader strategy to position itself as a hub for tourism, events, and business. The city has effectively leveraged its strong connectivity with the rest of Asia, particularly mainland China, and continues to attract high-value tourists with its luxury retail options, vibrant cultural offerings, and iconic landmarks.

Global Rankings: Paris Leads, Hong Kong Surges

Euromonitor International’s 2025 rankings highlight how global cities are competing not only in terms of sheer volume but also in sustainability and value. Paris remains the world leader, with Madrid following in second place and Tokyo in third. London, long regarded as a top travel destination, has seen its global ranking drop to 18th, falling behind cities like Hong Kong (17th) and Kyoto (19th). This change signals a shift in how cities are perceived based on more than just tourism volume. In particular, cities that excel in sustainability, tourism policy, and health and safety have gained ground.

Notably, Hong Kong’s surge in arrivals reflects both its infrastructure and the city’s economic recovery, highlighting its continuing relevance as a global tourism destination. Major international events, luxury shopping experiences, and thriving nightlife have all contributed to the city’s standing as a desirable destination for international tourists.

Asia’s Strong Showing in Global Tourism

In the broader Asia-Pacific region, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea are also performing strongly. Tokyo ranks third overall and leads globally in tourism infrastructure, with major expansions underway at Narita International Airport, which is expected to double its capacity by 2039. Singapore and Seoul have secured places in the top 10 of the overall rankings, proving that the Asia-Pacific region continues to be a formidable force in the global tourism industry.

The surge in international arrivals to Asian cities such as Hong Kong and Tokyo suggests a strong post-pandemic recovery, driven by the region’s diverse tourism offerings, excellent connectivity, and well-developed infrastructure. These cities have proven resilient and adaptable, enhancing their appeal to both business and leisure travelers alike.

The Shift from Volume to Value in Global Travel

One notable trend in global tourism is the shift from focusing solely on the volume of visitors to attracting higher-value tourists. Euromonitor International highlights that cities are increasingly prioritizing tourists who stay longer, spend more, and engage in more responsible travel practices. This approach reflects the growing concern over overtourism and its impact on local communities and environments. As security concerns and rising entry fees increase, the focus has shifted towards attracting tourists who contribute more to the local economy and help mitigate the pressures of mass tourism.

This shift is particularly evident in cities like Hong Kong, where the tourism strategy has moved away from just increasing the number of visitors to enhancing the quality of tourism experiences. By offering unique, high-end experiences and cultural exchanges, Hong Kong aims to deliver a more sustainable model of tourism that benefits both tourists and the local economy.

Business Travel and the Broader Tourism Impact

The resurgence of tourism in Hong Kong and other global cities also signals a return to robust business travel. Hong Kong, a key international business hub, has seen a marked increase in business-related visits, especially from mainland China and other regions of Asia. The city’s infrastructure, including its modern airport and world-class convention facilities, make it an attractive destination for global conferences, trade shows, and corporate events.

For tourists, Hong Kong offers a wealth of experiences, from shopping at luxury malls and exploring its rich history to enjoying its unique cuisine and cultural festivals. Business travelers and leisure tourists alike are flocking to the city to take advantage of its multifaceted tourism offerings.

Quick Tips for Travelers Heading to Hong Kong

1. Stay Informed About Local Events: Hong Kong is known for its lively events calendar. Keep an eye out for festivals, exhibitions, and international conferences that might coincide with your visit.
2. Explore Beyond the Main Attractions: While Hong Kong’s shopping malls and skyscrapers are iconic, don’t forget to explore hidden gems like its traditional markets, hiking trails, and outlying islands.
3. Use Public Transportation: Hong Kong’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is efficient, reliable, and a convenient way to explore the city.
4. Embrace the Culinary Scene: Hong Kong’s food scene is world-renowned, offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. Be sure to try local favorites like dim sum and egg tarts.

Conclusion: The Future of Hong Kong and Global Tourism

As Hong Kong continues to recover and rebuild its tourism industry, its impressive ranking as the second most visited city globally for international arrivals signals a bright future for the city’s tourism sector. The emphasis on value-driven, sustainable tourism is likely to reshape how travelers engage with cities, and Hong Kong is positioned at the forefront of this transformation.

The city’s resurgence reflects a broader global trend towards more responsible, high-quality tourism, and Hong Kong’s efforts to innovate and diversify its offerings will continue to attract international visitors. As one of Asia’s most dynamic and forward-thinking cities, Hong Kong is poised to remain a major player in the global tourism landscape in the years to come.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated