United Kingdom Overtakes France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Poland, Belgium, And Other European Countries To Lead United States Tourism Growth In 2026, Cementing Florida’s Position As The Top Choice For Visitors

Published on February 28, 2026

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United Kingdom has overtaken France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Poland, Belgium, and other European countries in driving record-breaking tourism to the United States, with Florida emerging as the top destination. The surge in British visitors, coupled with growing interest from other European nations, is fueled by increased flight accessibility, Florida’s year-round appeal, and a robust tourism recovery post-pandemic. With theme parks, pristine beaches, and vibrant cultural experiences, Florida continues to solidify its position as a prime destination for travelers from Europe in 2026.

Image generated with Ai

The United Kingdom has taken a dominant lead in driving United States tourism in 2026, surpassing other European nations like France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Poland, Belgium, and more. As international travel resumes to pre-pandemic levels, these European countries are poised to significantly contribute to the rise in tourism to the United States, especially to one of its most iconic destinations—Florida. With tourism growth and recovery underway, 2026 marks a turning point in the global travel landscape, with European nations playing an essential role in propelling Florida’s tourism numbers to new heights.

Let’s take a deep dive into how the United Kingdom and its European counterparts will shape U.S. tourism in 2026, beginning with their robust presence in Florida, the Sunshine State, which remains a top choice for visitors.

United Kingdom: Leading the Charge in U.S. Tourism Growth

The United Kingdom has become the primary contributor to the growth of tourism in the United States, surpassing all other European countries. With record-breaking visitor numbers forecasted for 2026, the UK is a driving force behind U.S. tourism expansion. The strong demand for Florida as a destination remains a key factor in this growth, with London serving as a major hub for direct flights into Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.

UK travelers have long been drawn to Florida’s warm weather, world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, and vibrant beaches. In 2026, the combination of competitive airfares, strategic marketing by VISIT FLORIDA, and increased flight availability is expected to sustain and further boost the number of British visitors heading to Florida. The UK’s resilience in long-haul travel makes it one of the most valuable international markets for the Sunshine State.

With Florida tourism expected to set new records, British visitors are likely to contribute significantly to tourism spending, drawn to the luxury resorts, cultural offerings, and immersive experiences in cities such as Orlando, Miami, and Key West.

France: Strong Growth in United States Tourism and Florida

France is another European powerhouse that will make its mark on United States tourism in 2026. French travelers have shown increasing interest in U.S. destinations, particularly Florida, where French-speaking visitors are catered to through cultural programs and multilingual services in popular tourist spots. Florida is becoming a go-to destination for French families and young professionals, who are drawn to the theme parks, pristine beaches, and upscale resorts in Miami and the surrounding areas.

The trend toward more direct flights between Paris and Florida also fuels this growth. Airlines such as Air France have increased services, making it easier and more affordable for French tourists to visit Florida. This enhanced connectivity, combined with targeted marketing by Florida’s tourism authorities, has the potential to significantly expand French visitation.

As we look to 2026, expect France to remain a key source market, helping to maintain Florida’s standing as a top global tourism hub. France’s continued affinity for Florida’s laid-back charm and world-class amenities is only poised to grow, contributing to the state’s success in attracting European tourists.

Netherlands: The Dutch Continue to Embrace Florida

The Netherlands is steadily climbing the ranks as a key market for tourism to the United States in 2026. Dutch travelers, already familiar with Florida through frequent flyer programs and direct connections to cities such as Orlando and Miami, are expected to lead the charge in European tourism. For years, the Dutch have been attracted to Florida’s natural beauty, theme parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Direct flights from Amsterdam to Florida’s major airports make it easier for Dutch tourists to access the state. Moreover, as a growing market for leisure and adventure tourism, the Dutch are increasingly opting for destinations that offer outdoor activities like airboat tours in the Everglades, golf resorts in Palm Beach, and eco-tourism experiences in the Florida Keys.

The Netherlands is also home to a growing group of luxury travelers who have begun to favor Florida as a getaway for high-end shopping, fine dining, and relaxing beach retreats. As we move into 2026, this upward trend will only accelerate, with Florida poised to capture a larger share of Dutch tourist dollars.

Italy: Italians Flock to Florida in Record Numbers

Italy has been a steady contributor to United States tourism over the years, and 2026 looks to be a banner year for Italians visiting Florida. Historically, Italians are known for their passion for arts, culture, and history, and Florida delivers on all fronts. From the museums and art galleries in Miami’s Wynwood District to the cultural influences in St. Augustine, Italy’s cultural travelers will continue to flock to Florida in record numbers.

Florida is also gaining attention from Italy’s affluent travelers, particularly those who visit Miami Beach for its cosmopolitan vibe, top-tier hotels, and luxury shopping. Additionally, the Gulf Coast and South Florida offer Italian tourists a more relaxed beach experience, a notable draw for those looking to unwind on the state’s sandy shores.

With Ryanair and American Airlines expanding their offerings, more Italian visitors will find it easier and more affordable to access Florida in 2026, propelling this market further into Florida’s tourism landscape. Italy’s ongoing economic recovery and post-pandemic growth are expected to result in an even stronger presence in Florida for 2026.

Spain: Rising Influence of Spanish Visitors to Florida

Spanish travelers are increasingly becoming a vital source market for Florida tourism. Over the years, Spain has emerged as one of the most important European countries for outbound tourism to the United States, and 2026 will see continued growth in this sector. Spain’s affinity for Florida’s warm weather, theme parks, and attractions makes the Sunshine State a go-to destination for both families and millennial travelers.

The cultural ties between Spain and Florida, particularly through its shared Hispanic roots, have fostered deeper connections in recent years. Visitors from Madrid and Barcelona flock to Florida’s theme parks, cultural landmarks, and natural reserves in ever-growing numbers. The increase in nonstop flights between Spain and Florida in 2026 will only make it easier for Spanish visitors to reach the state, further solidifying Spain as a strong contender in driving tourism growth.

Poland: A Growing Market for Florida Travel

Poland, although not traditionally among the top European sources of tourism to Florida, is increasingly making its mark in 2026. The growing Polish diaspora in the United States, particularly in places like Chicago, has driven a surge in travel demand from Poland to Florida. Polish tourists, typically traveling to visit family or on leisure trips, are increasingly looking to Florida for beach holidays, eco-tourism opportunities, and historic sites like Miami’s Little Havana or Orlando’s Kennedy Space Center.

With more affordable flights from Poland to Florida, travelers from Warsaw, Krakow, and other major cities are now more likely to visit the state. Polish visitors are expected to flock to Orlando, driven by the theme parks, but Miami and the Florida Keys also present attractive destinations for those seeking a mix of relaxation and culture.

Belgium: Boosting Florida’s Tourism Numbers in 2026

Belgium is another European market where tourism to Florida will continue to grow in 2026. As Belgium remains a key player in Europe’s outbound travel sector, Belgian tourists have developed an increasing appetite for long-haul travel to destinations like Florida. The accessibility of Brussels to Miami flights will further drive tourism numbers in 2026, making Florida a more popular vacation choice for Belgian families and retirees.

From the luxury accommodations in Palm Beach to the bustling nightlife in Miami, Belgian travelers are expected to indulge in a diverse range of offerings. Additionally, Florida’s reputation as a destination with both natural beauty and vibrant cultural scenes plays into the evolving tastes of the Belgian traveler. As the demand for Florida grows among Belgians, it is expected that Belgium will make a significant contribution to Florida’s tourism recovery and growth.

In 2026, European countries are playing a critical role in the United States’ tourism boom, with Florida standing at the forefront as the top destination. The United Kingdom, France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Poland, and Belgium are all contributing to the surge in international visitors to the Sunshine State.

The appeal of Florida’s diverse offerings—spanning world-renowned theme parks, beaches, luxury resorts, and cultural experiences—continues to resonate with travelers from across Europe. With improved flight connections, targeted marketing campaigns, and the growing popularity of Florida as a travel destination, the state is on track for another record-breaking year.

In 2026, the United Kingdom has surpassed France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Poland, Belgium, and other European countries in driving record-breaking tourism to the United States, with Florida leading the way due to its year-round attractions, affordable flights, and growing appeal to international travelers.

As European nations, particularly the United Kingdom, lead the way, Florida is poised to maintain its status as a global tourism leader, welcoming visitors from across Europe and beyond in 2026 and beyond.