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This year, many countries in Europe are bouncing back in terms of travel. Some European countries are even breaking tourism records.
According to the European Travel Commission (ETC), an organization that monitors and promotes European tourism, one in three reporting countries say their tourist figures are above those of 2019.
With their cultural highlights, safety, accessibility and boundless beauty, these countries attract more tourists than ever before. Furthermore, many of these countries are outside the typical European tourism path.
Here’s why these 6 European destinations are breaking tourism records
Serbia
This small interior in the Balkan region has had quite a year in terms of tourism. With an increase of 15% compared to 2019, Serbia is a hotspot for travelers this year.
Serbia is a landlocked country on the Balkan Peninsula full of beautiful mountains, enchanting forests and rivers, and fantastic food. Moreover, its rich culture, history and architecture are a major draw for tourists every year.
Furthermore, this small country is still an off-the-beaten-path destination, with fewer tourists than other European countries. With all these benefits, it is easy to understand why Serbia is currently experiencing such a surge in popularity.
Montenegro
Another small country in the Balkans that is having a remarkable year for tourism is Montenegro. Montenegro is up 14% from 2019 and is now attracting more tourists than before the pandemic, and there are many reasons for this.
Neighboring Croatia has stolen the show for years, with its beautiful beaches, historical and pop culture monuments and endless islands. But Montenegro also shares many of these charms, plus its own dramatic, postcard-worthy landscape.
What makes it even more attractive is that it is still a relatively off-road destination, especially compared to neighboring countries like Croatia and Italy. Although Montenegro is small, you can still find yourself in beautiful remote areas with nothing in front of you but open blue sea and total tranquility.
Portugal
For many Americans, especially digital nomads, Portugal has been a popular travel destination. However, this year is even hotter, with an 11% increase in the number of tourists compared to 2019.
With its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful architecture, endless outdoor adventures and great wine, it’s easy to see why. Additionally, Portugal is a major hub for flights, making it very accessible to American travelers.
Once you’re in the country, you’ll find hospitable locals, safe cities, and plenty of fellow travelers. This is what makes Portugal such a paradise for solo travelers.
Turkiye
With cultural immersion and unique experiences at the top of the list of reasons Americans are traveling this year, it’s no wonder Türkiye is having such a great year. The country’s tourism figures increased by 8% compared to 2019.
The country is well connected to major airports around the world and Europe, making it easy to reach. Once there, Türkiye offers travelers an endless amount of sights and experiences all year round.
Americans can expect everything from beautiful beaches to medieval architecture and more. Then there’s the world-famous cuisine, which is always a highlight for travelers in this beautiful country.
Malta
Located in the southern Mediterranean, between Sicily and Tunisia, the archipelago of Malta is a European warm-weather destination like no other. This year, its reputation as a paradise has seen tourist numbers grow by 7% compared to 2019.
Malta is breathtaking, with white sandy beaches, beautiful reefs and crystal clear warm water. Plus, it has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and lots of amazing architecture.
What makes the islands even more attractive to American travelers is that the people here speak English, making it even easier to get around and meet the locals.
Greece
The third country in the beautiful Balkan region where tourism is increasing from 2019 is Greece. The number of tourists in this popular and culturally rich destination has increased by 7%, and there are plenty of reasons for that.
Greece has long been one of the world’s most popular bucket list destinations, with its historic ruins, rich culture, beautiful beaches, architecture and beloved food culture.
Greece is also relatively cheap compared to many other European destinations. You can get around with ease, eat like kings and find a little corner of paradise to relax and experience the rich culture.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
