The world is full of incredible cities, but not all have the same power of attraction. This is something that is reflected in the Mastercard Global Destinations Cities Index , where 162 cities appear evaluated both by the number of visitors and by the average length of stay and the average daily expenditure.
In the Top 10 there is not even a Spanish city, and that Spain is a tourist power worldwide. Palma de Mallorca, the most popular, is ranked number 16 with 8.78 million visitors, very close to Milan.
10- Seoul
Asia is the continent that attracts the most tourists by far. Seoul, the capital of South Korea, ranks 10th with 9.54 million tourists. Why? For its royal palaces, for its markets, for its Buddhist temples … There are plenty of reasons to want to visit it.
9- Istanbul
Between Asia and Europe lies Istanbul, the most important city in Turkey. Bazaars, mosques, palaces and neighborhoods full of charm make it a city that is on any traveler’s wishlist. In addition, it should not be forgotten that the waters of the Bosphorus add beauty to the whole. In 2018, the number of visitors has risen to 10.7 million .
8- Tokyo
The capital of Japan is one of those that are always in the Top 10 . It is a perfect place to soak up the oriental culture, since it mixes the most traditional part with the most technological and futuristic part. All this without forgetting its temples, its gardens, its parks … 11.93 million tourists have passed through there.
7- Kuala Lumpur
The capital of Malaysia is another tourist destination that is on everyone’s lips. Its imposing Petronas Towers are a great attraction, but it also attracts the most curious due to the infinite possibilities it offers you when going to eat or go shopping. In this case we are talking about 12.58 million tourists.
6- New York
Did you think New York was ranked number one? That it is the favorite destination of the Spanish does not mean that it is the most visited city in the world. Either way, with places like Central Park, the Empire State or the Statue of Liberty, it is normal that it receives the visit of 13.13 million people who live abroad.
5- Singapore
The capital of Singapore is like a great city in the West, but with all the secrets that one can find when moving through Asia. In addition, it is difficult to erase the image of the Gardens by the Bay, gardens of exceptional beauty. Number of visitors? 13.91 million .
4- Dubai
The capital of luxury is not far behind when it comes to attracting tourists. Tourism is being promoted and the results are obvious, as 15.79 million visitors decided to set foot in the city that boasts the tallest building in the world: the Burj Khalifa. It measures nothing more and nothing less than 828 meters high.
3- Paris
How could Paris not be on this list? Everyone is dying to see the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic monuments that exist, if not the most. 17.44 million visitors have passed through the capital of France who not only have been conquered by the tower, but have also enjoyed the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, Moulin Rouge …
2- London
From Paris to London. The English capital awakens the curiosity of everyone who dreams of leading a life full of stimuli, since we are talking about a city in which you can carry out all kinds of plans. Normal that there can speak of 19.83 million tourists in a fantastic 2018.
1- Bangkok
Bangkok is the only city in the world that has exceeded 20 million visitors this year ( 20.05 to be exact). The capital of Thailand is a fashionable destination that attracts tourists for how cheap it is, but also for its many Buddhist temples and the hospitality of its people.
Recommended article: The 10 cities with the most ultra-wealthy in the world