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In 2023, more Americans traveled internationally than ever before, and Europe has emerged as the most popular outbound destination for American citizens.
As many as 15.8 million American travelers visited Europe in 2023. That is 55% of all international trips.
But where are all these travelers going?
A new report from Visa Guide World found that these are the top 5 most visited European destinations by American travelers:
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is by far the coldest country on this list, but it also boasts the most incredible natural beauty.
It is Iceland’s largest city and the country’s capital, but it is still the smallest city on this list.
During the winter months, Reykjavik is a frozen wonderland thanks to its location in the Arctic Circle, but the weather is much milder in the summer, when the destination turns a beautiful verdant green.
Whatever time of year you visit, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the National and Saga Museums where you can discover Iceland’s Viking history.
Other unmissable attractions include the chance to swim in the geothermal Blue Lagoon spa.
Reykjavik is an incredible city for nature lovers and if you visit during the winter months between September and April you have a good chance of seeing the breathtakingly beautiful Northern Lights.
4. Rome, Italy
Italy is a hugely popular country among travelers from the US, and Rome is considered the cultural heart of the country.
Incredible architecture, museums and galleries, delicious food and the warm Mediterranean climate are all part of the eternal city’s everlasting appeal.
Rome is the third most visited city in Europe, largely due to its rich history, monuments and archaeological sites. Some of Rome’s unmissable sights include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain.
Although Vatican City is officially a city in its own right, it is also located within Rome, and travelers should not miss the opportunity to explore its unique and graceful sights. The Vatican Museums are fascinating and you can also see the Sistine Chapel here.
Rome is a modern city with an ancient heart. Spend your days exploring the city’s rich history and spend your nights eating delicious Italian food and partying with the locals.
3. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is the 3rd most visited European destination for American travelers. Many Americans choose to visit Dublin because they want to explore their own Irish heritage, while others are simply looking for a good time!
Some of the top attractions for American travelers in Dublin include the Irish Emigration Museum, the Book of Kells exhibition at Trinity College, and the National Museum of Ireland. Dublin is a city with a rich history and these are the best places to explore it.
To learn more about Ireland’s most famous beer, visit the Guinness Storehouse, which was Ireland’s number 1 visitor attraction. And as for beer, Dublin is a great place for a pint or two.
Dublin’s residents are known for being warm and hospitable, and the city also has a rich arts and culture scene that’s easy to integrate into your trip.
2. Paris, France
Paris is the city of light and the city of love. Paris is highly romanticized in American culture. This makes it a bucket list dream for many American travelers to visit the Eiffel Tower and see the Mona Lisa in the Louvre.
More Americans visit Paris than any other nationality, and if you’ve never visited the city before, you should see the Eiffel Tower and check it off your list.
But Paris is a city that has so much more to offer than these hugely popular attractions.
Other sights not to be missed during your Parisian adventure include a ride on the cable car in Montmartre to the Sacre Coeur Basilica, visiting the famous dead at Père Lachaise Cemetery or watching the dancers at the famous Moulin Rouge .
For something different, visit Saint-Ouen’s sprawling flea market at the weekend and pick up a bargain you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
1. London, England
London has become the most popular destination in Europe for American travelers. The lack of a language barrier makes London an easy place for American travelers to visit, and the city’s rich history is a huge draw.
Those with an interest in the British Royal Family can explore Buckenham Palace and watch the Changing of the Guard, stop to say hello to the ravens in the Tower of London (where the Crown Jewels are kept) and get spooked in the Dungeons of London.
London has an incredible restaurant scene for foodies, the West End is a cultural Mecca thanks to the huge number of shows and events, and with a pub on every corner, London’s nightlife is exceptional too.
The most popular month to visit London in 2023 was April. The weather in April is perfect for sightseeing and this is the time when the city really comes to life after a long cold winter.
April is also a good time to visit the city’s many parks and gardens, such as Hyde Park and Kew Gardens, when the spring flowers are in full bloom.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
