Published on November 26, 2025
In 2025, the UK joins Mexico, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, and Germany as must-visit destinations for U.S. travelers. These cities have become hotspots for tourists, drawing millions from the United States. The reasons behind their booming popularity are clear. From rich history and culture to vibrant local experiences, each of these destinations offers something unique. The UK, with its iconic landmarks and cosmopolitan lifestyle, continues to captivate visitors. Similarly, countries like Mexico, Canada, and France are seeing increased U.S. arrivals due to their proximity, cultural ties, and diverse offerings. Italy, Spain, Japan, and Germany are growing in appeal as travelers seek new adventures and rich cultural experiences. As 2025 unfolds, the surge in U.S. travelers to these destinations highlights their ongoing global significance and the evolving preferences of tourists worldwide.
According to recent data for 2025, U.S. outbound travel has grown by 2.5% compared to 2024. This indicates a continued interest in international destinations despite challenges such as fluctuating economies and geopolitical issues.
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In the calendar year 2024, the total number of U.S. outbound international trips reached 107.7 million, marking a 9.2% increase compared to 2023. This figure surpassed even pre‑COVID 2019 levels, demonstrating the resilience of the outbound travel market. By July 2025, 11,765,102 U.S. citizens had departed for international destinations, a 4.6% increase over the same period in 2024. The U.S. travel industry is clearly recovering, and the number of outbound travellers continues to rise, according to inboundtravel.org.
This rise in travel has contributed to several countries’ growth in popularity, with North America (Canada and Mexico) and Europe (the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain) leading the charge in terms of outbound departures from the U.S.
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Canada has long been a top destination for U.S. travellers due to its proximity, ease of access, and shared cultural ties. Its status as a neighbouring country has made it a prime choice for both short getaways and extended stays. In 2025, Canada remains one of the most visited countries by U.S. citizens. However, there has been a slight dip in the number of U.S. visitors to Canada, with a 1.4% decline in trips observed in August 2025 compared to the previous year. This decrease, however, does not significantly impact Canada’s standing as a top travel destination.
Despite this, Canada remains incredibly popular for vacations, cultural exploration, and natural beauty. In December 2024, U.S. residents made 1.7 million trips to Canada, which marked a 10.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Air travel, in particular, saw a significant rise, with a 15.9% increase in U.S. resident arrivals to Canada. Statistics Canada shows that this upward trend in air travel was a key factor in maintaining Canada’s popularity.
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Mexico is another key destination for U.S. travellers in 2025, retaining its appeal thanks to its affordable travel options, cultural richness, proximity, and beautiful beaches. Mexico has historically been one of the top international destinations for Americans, and this trend continues into 2025. While the exact data for 2025 was not available, the country’s ongoing popularity suggests that it remains a top contender. In 2024, Mexico accounted for 39.9 million trips by U.S. citizens, making it the largest individual market for U.S. travellers.
The NTTO’s July 2025 summary reveals that in just one month, Mexico saw the largest share of U.S. outbound departures, with 3,778,909 trips, accounting for 32.1% of all U.S. departures. The affordability, accessibility, and cultural attractions make Mexico an attractive destination for a wide variety of American travellers.
The United Kingdom has consistently been one of the most popular destinations for U.S. travellers, especially given its rich history, cultural landmarks, and vibrant cities like London. The UK continues to hold its spot as a top international destination for Americans in 2025. Visitors from the U.S. continue to flock to iconic sites such as Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the Tower of London. With the ongoing popularity of British culture and history, cities like Edinburgh, Liverpool, and the broader regions of Scotland and Wales are gaining increasing attention from American tourists.
According to data, the UK remains a major favourite among U.S. tourists, and there is growing interest beyond London, as U.S. travellers explore more of the country’s diverse regions.
France has long held the status of being a favourite travel destination for U.S. tourists, offering a wealth of cultural experiences, history, and gastronomy. Paris, the French Riviera, and landmarks like the Louvre Museum continue to draw millions of American tourists every year. In 2025, France remains one of the top international destinations for U.S. travellers. However, certain external factors, such as visa regulations and entry concerns, might influence the exact number of visitors in 2025. Still, France’s global popularity is undeniable, and it remains one of the most visited countries by U.S. tourists.
Italy continues to be one of the top travel destinations for U.S. citizens, with its exceptional cultural heritage, art, cuisine, and historical sites. Cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan continue to be primary draws for American visitors. According to travel surveys, Italy ranks among the top 3 international destinations for U.S. travellers. The country’s rich history, coastal beauty, and world-class art galleries make it an ideal destination for cultural tourism. U.S. travellers seeking a mix of history, culture, and beautiful landscapes continue to make Italy their top choice in 2025.
Spain is another European destination that has become increasingly popular among U.S. travellers. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities like Barcelona and Madrid, and a rich cultural heritage, Spain continues to rank highly as a destination for American tourists. In 2025, Spain is one of the top 10 destinations for U.S. tourists, thanks to its relaxed lifestyle, lively festivals, and diverse landscapes. However, factors like currency exchange rates and visa regulations could impact the overall travel trends. Nonetheless, Spain remains a strong contender in the European tourism market.
Japan has experienced a notable surge in popularity among U.S. travellers in 2025, reflecting a shift in American travel preferences toward East Asia. The country’s unique combination of ancient traditions and modern technology, along with vibrant cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, make Japan an attractive destination for culture, adventure, and food lovers. Japan has become one of the top international destinations for U.S. travellers, with increasing interest in its rich cultural offerings, travel variety, and unique experiences. This rising interest in Japan signals a broader shift toward exploring new and diverse cultural experiences beyond the traditional European staples.
Germany has become increasingly popular among U.S. travellers in 2025, with cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg offering a rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Germany is one of the fastest-growing international destinations for U.S. tourists, as more Americans show interest in exploring beyond the traditional European cities. Germany’s cultural richness, historical sites, and vibrant festivals make it an appealing destination for U.S. tourists seeking both history and modernity. The growing popularity of Germany reflects a shift toward broader European exploration, especially for those seeking cultural and heritage tourism.
The insights gathered from travel trends in 2025 reflect shifting preferences among U.S. travellers. While traditional European destinations like the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, and Germany remain strong favourites, there is a noticeable rise in interest towards Japan, signalling a shift in U.S. travel patterns. Economic factors, visa regulations, and the global tourism landscape are influencing where U.S. travellers choose to go. As global travel recovers, these insights are crucial for both travellers and travel professionals in planning future trips.
In 2024, total U.S. outbound international travel (Canada + Mexico + overseas) reached 107.7 million trips, up 9.2% from 2023, and even above pre‑COVID 2019 levels.
By mid‑2025 (July), U.S. citizen international departures were 11,765,102 for that month — a 4.6% increase versus July 2024.
The same 2025 NTTO (National Travel and Tourism Office) data show that roughly 48.8% of U.S. outbound departures go to North America (i.e., Canada + Mexico), and 51.2% go overseas (other countries/regions).
As per 2024 NTTO data, U.S. residents visited Canada as part of the 107.7 million outbound trips. The data set doesn’t publicly break out exactly how many of those went to Canada.
Statistics Canada shows that in December 2024, U.S. residents made 1.7 million trips to Canada — up 10.6% vs December 2023.
According to 2024 outbound‑travel data: Mexico was the largest individual market for U.S. travellers, with 39.9 million trips recorded in 2024.
The NTTO’s July 2025 summary reports that in that single month, Mexico saw the largest share of U.S. outbound departures: 3,778,909 trips (32.1% of all U.S. departures in July).
In 2024, U.S. travel overseas reached 53.8 million trips, a 9.8% increase over 2023.
Top overseas countries visited by Americans in 2024 were: United Kingdom (6.0M), Italy (4.2M), France (4.1M), Dominican Republic (3.7M), and Spain (3.1M).
Cities such as London, Paris, Rome, Milan, Barcelona, and Tokyo continue to captivate the hearts of U.S. travellers in 2025. These cities remain top choices because they combine a rich cultural heritage with modern attractions, excellent infrastructure, and accessibility. For many U.S. tourists, these cities offer the perfect balance of the familiar and the exciting. Whether it’s the historical significance of Europe or the exotic appeal of Asia, these cities continue to be at the top of many American travellers’ wish lists.
Their global popularity is attributed to factors like iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, world-class cuisine, vibrant atmospheres, and the ease of travel logistics. Furthermore, these cities are well-connected through international flights, making them convenient and accessible for U.S. tourists. The allure of these destinations is further amplified by their status as cultural hubs, drawing millions of visitors each year. For U.S. travellers, these cities are synonymous with adventure, exploration, and relaxation. Here’s a detailed travel guide that provides essential information on what to expect when visiting these popular destinations, as well as the visa requirements for U.S. citizens.
London, the capital of the United Kingdom, continues to be one of the most visited cities by U.S. travellers. This global city stands out for its unique blend of historical landmarks, cosmopolitan culture, theatre, modern amenities, and easy transport options. From the grandeur of royal palaces to world-class museums and a cutting-edge skyline, London offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re strolling along the Thames or shopping in stylish districts, London’s diverse experiences make it a must-visit.
As of January 8, 2025, all U.S. citizens travelling to the UK for tourism, short stays, business, or short-term study (up to 6 months) must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel. The ETA is a mandatory entry requirement for U.S. passport holders.
Paris, the capital of France, is the embodiment of romance, art, and culture. Known for its exceptional cuisine, historic architecture, and rich artistic heritage, Paris continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for U.S. travellers. The iconic Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Seine River offer an unforgettable experience, blending modernity with centuries of history.
France is a part of the Schengen Area, and U.S. citizens can travel visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. However, travellers must adhere to Schengen regulations and maintain passport validity for the duration of their stay.
Italy’s cities, especially Rome and Milan, continue to be favourite destinations for U.S. travellers seeking a rich cultural experience. Rome, the Eternal City, is home to a treasure trove of ancient history, while Milan offers a taste of modern Italian flair. From the iconic Colosseum to Milan’s fashion district, these cities deliver a combination of historical significance and contemporary living.
Italy is part of the Schengen Area, so U.S. citizens can travel without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business. However, travellers must ensure that they comply with the rules governing Schengen entry.
Barcelona is one of Spain’s most popular cities, known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. It attracts U.S. travellers who enjoy a dynamic mix of city life and seaside relaxation. From Gaudí’s architectural wonders to bustling markets and lively festivals, Barcelona has something for everyone.
Like France and Italy, Spain is part of the Schengen Area, meaning U.S. citizens can enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business without needing a visa.
Japan’s capital, Tokyo, has become an increasingly popular destination for U.S. travellers. Known for its unique blend of ancient traditions and ultra-modern technology, Tokyo provides a one-of-a-kind travel experience. The city’s bustling energy, rich culture, and futuristic architecture make it a must-visit for American tourists.
As of 2025, U.S. citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or short-term business. However, as with other destinations, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
In conclusion, the UK, Mexico, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, and Germany are the must-visit destinations for U.S. travelers this year. Each of these cities is booming with new experiences, vibrant cultures, and world-renowned landmarks, making them top choices for American tourists. Whether it’s the rich history of the UK, the sunny beaches of Mexico, or the historical landmarks of Italy and Spain, these destinations offer something for every traveler. Japan and Germany continue to rise in popularity, offering unique cultural experiences. As these countries continue to attract U.S. visitors, it’s clear why they remain on the must-visit list. The growing interest in these must-visit destinations highlights the ongoing appeal of travel to these iconic locations in 2025.
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