This year finally felt like a return to pre-pandemic travel norms. Countries that suffered as a result of tourist drops began seeing increased footfall once more, and travellers took those bucket-list trips that they spent their lockdowns planning. But as the year comes to a close, we’re looking ahead to 2024 and the travels the new year will bring. As well as creating our own lists – see the Condé Nast Traveller roundup of the best places to go in 2024, carefully curated by our editors from around the globe – we’re also taking inspiration from our readers.
Every year, Google publishes its ‘Year in Search’ data, a report showing what users have Googled over the past 12 months. We’ve got an exclusive look at the travel section of the data – the destinations you’ve been Googling the most this year. The data has been contextualised to take into account current events (for example, Tel Aviv was trending as a travel destination before the war broke out.) Below, take a look at the top 10 cities and countries that have seen the biggest search increases on Google year on year, and find inspiration for your 2024 travels.
The most Googled countries of 2023
Atlas mountains, MoroccoFrancesco Riccardo Iacomino
10. Morocco
In September of this year, an earthquake hit Morocco, the aftermath of which was devastating. The country is still recovering, but the response from travellers was strong. It's not often the case that travel is the answer in response to a crisis, but as tourism is Morocco’s biggest revenue stream, in this case, it was necessary. Travellers were encouraged to continue visiting the country to explore all it has to offer – and it has plenty. A jewel box of colours, sights and sounds in its cities, and a vast expanse of history and culture beyond – we’re not surprised the support for this gem of a country is in the top 10 this year.
Valetta, MaltaGetty Images
9. Malta
This island is a hit European destination. Its history runs deep, and its beauty runs deeper. The country has been used as the backdrop for many iconic films and TV series (Gladiator, Game of Thrones and Troy to name a few), but beyond its honey-hued streets lies restaurants, bars and hotels waiting to be explored. Find out more about why we love Malta, or start planning your trip with this guide to Valletta’s best restaurants.
Chicken and Mushroom rock formation in the White Desert of EgyptGetty images
8. Egypt
Clearly, we don’t need to wax lyrical about the beauty of Egypt – you’re already plotting your next bucket-list escape. There is, of course, plenty of ancient history to discover, but weave your way through the country’s streets to find hidden treasures pharaohs would be envious of. Art galleries and souks are brimming with wallet-thinning prizes, but the glistening Nile is sparkly enough for those looking for memories over souvenirs. Away from the river, the Sahara covers 94 per cent of the country, leaving an overwhelmingly large (yet surprisingly untraversed) region to explore if you venture inland.
Koh Samui, ThailandGetty Images
7. Thailand
Thailand is home to 1,430 islands, so while you may already be planning a trip to the country, choosing which island to visit is your next task. Each is different from the other, while white sand beaches and rustic-chic restaurants are guaranteed. Choose Koh Samui for a wellness escape (the island is famed for its yoga havens) or Koh Tao for some serious underwater adventures – it’s nicknamed Turtle Island for good reason. Check out our guide to figure out the best time to visit Thailand, before scouting out some of the top Thai hotels on offer.
Natural rock arch on CyprusGetty Images
6. Cyprus
Floating in between Greece, Turkey and Lebanon, this is a melting pot of cultures. Come for craggy mountains topped with snow, powdery soft beaches lapped by the twinkling Mediterranean and some excellent Cypriot food dotted around the island. Nature lovers can spend hours in the sea (it's known for having some of the world’s best wreck dives), history buffs can ogle at Byzantine churches and oenophiles can while away days taste-testing their way through the country’s lush vineyards.
Dubrovnik, CroatiaGetty Images
5. Croatia
Croatia has been gradually garnering a reputation as a European travel hotspot. A more affordable holiday destination than some of its neighbouring countries, go island hopping around some of the teardrop gems that pepper the Adriatic shores (Korčula is our favourite), head inland for delicious foodie trips around Split or Zagreb or delve into the historic walled city of Dubrovnik. But the beach is the place to be in this country – with more than 4,000km of coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Pico Island, AzoresGetty Images
4. Portugal
From the burst of exciting restaurants opening in the north to the blue-water sanctuaries of the south, there is so much awaiting travellers in Portugal. Porto is a relative newcomer to Europe’s foodie championship, but it’s gained a quick reputation as the one to watch. The remote archipelago of the Azores is often overlooked in favour of the country’s beach resorts – think thermal waters, turquoise lagoons and cloud-puncturing volcanoes. Lisbon, of course, needs no introduction – plus, it was recently named Europe's most budget-friendly city break for 2023.
Tuscany, ItalyGetty Images
3. Italy
We’ll never tire of Italy and, it seems, neither will you. The country is a mishmash of gorgeous fairytale towns, bustling cities and pristine beaches. While the shopping in Milan is obviously second to none, the city’s café scene is equally worth exploring. Florence has some of the country’s best hotels, and the Tuscan countryside beyond is like something straight out of a painting. For food, it’s got to be Rome – here’s our guide to Rome’s best restaurants – but the capital is also one of Europe’s most artistic cities, so be sure to visit the endless array of galleries and museums on your next trip.
Park Guell in Barcelona, SpainGetty Images
2. Spain
This country is beautiful year-round, but there’s something particularly special about visiting Spain in the off-season. The cities empty, the beaches quieten, yet there’s still magic in the air. Our readers voted San Sebastian the best city in Europe in our 2023 Readers' Choice Awards and the best city for food in the world; and further east, Barcelona remains one of our favourite Spanish cities, with a host of hotels, restaurants and things to do.
Mykonos, GreeceGetty Images
1. Greece
Greece has topped the list of the most Googled countries to travel to in 2023. From the whitewashed island of Mykonos with its sugar cube buildings and iconic addresses to the jungle vibes of Kefalonia, known for its hiking trails and rustic villages, Greece is the destination that keeps on giving. Start in Athens, home to some of the world’s best bars, to get a taste of the country’s culinary masterwork (see our guide to the best restaurants in Athens). Then head to your Greek island of choice – will it be sunsets from the Santorini crater? Crowd-free beaches in Corfu? Late-summer sunshine in Crete? Whatever you choose, Greece is bound to impress, time after time.
The most Googled travel cities and islands of 2023
AmsterdamGetty Images
10. Amsterdam
There’s always more to uncover in Amsterdam. The destination has long been one of our favourite European city breaks, but in recent years it's gone from strength to strength. Earlier this year, Eurostar announced a brand-new sleeper train going from Brussels to Berlin, making travel into the city much easier (and more sustainable). There are a host of pocket-friendly hotels to choose from and a slew of new restaurants popping up around the city.
Cork CityscapeGetty Images
9. Cork
Cork isn’t shy of good press. The city is renowned for its pretty streets, with corners being compared to the likes of Copenhagen or Murano in Venice. Explore Cork’s hipster inner city, where snug pubs, bars with live music and friendly locals welcome travellers. Just outside of the city, stroll through cutesy villages like Kinsale (one of Ireland’s most beautiful towns) where buildings are painted the colours of the rainbow, or head along to one of the many world-renowned seafood restaurants along the harbour for a fish supper – it’s no wonder this city has been pulling in a new crowd this year.
The Red Fort, New DelhiGetty Images
8. Delhi
If Delhi isn’t on your travel wishlist, it should be. It’s the world’s second-largest urban area (after Tokyo), with a medley of things to see, do and eat. There’s endless fodder, from museums and street art to wildlife watching and Asia’s largest spice market – plus, the hotels are world-class, too. The Leela Palace, with its Murano chandeliers and giant elephant statues, is a mind-blowing masterclass in decadence, and The Oberoi is an oasis of calm in the middle of the bustling city.
Palermo, SicilyGetty Images
7. Sicily
You don't need to hear from us why Sicily is so special. Stranded between Europe and Africa, it is the perfect destination for a sunny holiday. The food, obviously, is Italian at its very best – piled-up plates of pasta with fresh seafood, thick slabs of Sicilian-style pizza and creamy cooling gelato – and the beaches are endlessly alluring. Explore 18th-century mansions and extravagant palazzos before taking a dip in the sparkling Tyrrhenian waters. Take a look at our edit of the very best hotels in Sicily for more inspiration.
La Rochelle, FranceGetty Images
6. La Rochelle
Taking over from France’s more typical tourist traps, this port city is a pretty place for a European getaway. Imagine a fairytale French seaside town– the kind you’d dream about moving to when life gets a little too overwhelming – and you’re sure to picture this place. The food, naturally, revolves around the sea, so buckle down for a series of stellar fish dishes, fresh out of the water. Then, stroll through the city to follow in the footsteps of some of the country’s greatest writers; Voltaire, Rabelais, Sartre and Laclos all flocked here when in need of inspiration.
Marrakech, MoroccoGetty Images
5. Marrakech
Google this colourful city, and you’ll get a glimpse of just how spectacular Marrakech is. Upon visiting the Moroccan city, days are spent weaving between the labyrinthine streets, uncovering endless gems hidden in peaceful pockets. Beyond the glittering souks lie some breathtaking places to stay – big-name hotels rub shoulders with small, independent riads that offer a hub for cooling off and winding down.
Courtyard of the Maidens at the Royal Alcázar of SevilleGetty Images
4. Seville
It’s little wonder this Spanish city is so high on this list. A warm-weather winner, Seville is the perfect place for an off-season trip (there are daily high temperatures of 20°C in November and 16°C to 18°C in the winter months), plus it’s got everything you’re looking for in a Euro city break. Spend days exploring the tourist hotspots without having to queue in the heat – the Royal Alcázar of Seville is a must-see – and clambering to the top of the cathedral gives epic cityscape views that are often impossible to witness in the summer heat. Stop by any of the city’s tapas bars, but our favourite is El Rinconcillo, a locally revered restaurant dating back to the 17th century.
The Jaffo district in Tel Aviv, IsraelGetty images
3. Tel Aviv
As mentioned above, Google has contextualised its data, so Tel Aviv appeared on the list prior to the outbreak of war. At the time of writing, the FDCO is advising against all but essential travel to Israel.
The Orlando Wetlands Park in central FloridaGetty Images
2. Orlando
An unexpected entry at number 2, but this American city certainly pulls its weight when it comes to tourism. In 2022, Orlando had nearly 5 million international visitors, with the UK providing the second-largest number of travellers heading to the city (according to Travel Weekly). Beyond classic Disneyland wonders, this Florida favourite is home to a startingly impressive array of restaurants, from excellent omakase to zesty mezcalerias.
St. Paul's Bay, Rhodes island, GreeceGetty Images
1. Rhodes
Of all the islands in Greece to visit, this one is pretty special. After the tragic wildfires that purged the island earlier this year, stripping it of 15 per cent of its land, Rhodes is slowly building itself back up. Visit the old town, where a maze of alleys weave around Byzantine churches standing strong alongside Roman ruins and generations-old restaurants. By the coast, dramatic cliffs give epic views of powdery golden beaches spilling out into the Mediterranean, while inland alpine forests are perfect for early morning hikes that lead to crumbling hilltop castles and ancient ruins. The island has yet to fully recover, but the interest from travellers eager to support Rhodes is testament to the island’s beauty.
What is the top tourist destination in the world in 2023?
Istanbul was the most-visited city in the world with over 20 million international travelers in 2023. Euromonitor International ranked the most visited cities in the world based on the number of international arrivals.11 thg 2, 2024nullNew report: Top 10 destinations for international travel in 2023 - CNBCwww.cnbc.com › 2024/02/11 › new-report-top-10-destinations-for-internat...null
What's the best country to visit in 2023?
World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024.
Paris..
Bora Bora..
Glacier National Park..
Swiss Alps..
London, England..
Maldives..
Which is the best place to visit in 2023?
Rwanda: The African country welcomed a swanky new resort hotel in 2023, with the opening of the Sextantio Rwanda on an island in the huge expanse of Lake Kuvu. Wildlife is also a draw, with the Volcanoes and Akagera national parks offering the chance to encounter gorillas and endangered white rhinos.nullWhere to travel in 2023: The best destinations to visit | CNNwww.cnn.com › travel › article › where-to-travel-best-destinations-2023null
What is the most visited country in 2023?
Most visited destinations by international tourist arrivals.