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Are you thinking of taking a long-distance vacation this summer? Ready to see the world, but not sure where to start?
If you’re looking for inspiration, following in the footsteps of other American travelers to the world’s most popular long-haul destinations is a great place to start.
The European Travel Commission (ETC) has published a new trip report analyzing long-distance travel intention for non-EU citizens between May and August 2023.
A robust sample of 1,000 travelers from each nation involved in the report were surveyed.
The following six countries were found to be the most popular with US travelers:
France
In addition to being the most popular long-distance destination for American travelers, France is also the most popular long-distance vacation destination for Canadian visitors.
This should come as no surprise, as France is the most visited country in the world, with 66.6 million visitors in 2022.
France is a beautiful country that offers something for everyone.
City lovers can explore the delights of Paris: visit world-class museums and climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Country dwellers will enjoy the slower pace of French vineyards, majestic castles, and the rich cultural and natural attractions available throughout this beautiful country.
Italy
Pizza, pasta and piazzas: there are hundreds of wonderful reasons to visit Italy. And American travelers clearly agree, as this is the second most popular long-haul destination for American travelers.
Italy is a country with glorious landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural heritage.
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You can spend your days exploring historic cities or head to the beautiful, colorful coastline to relax and unwind.
There’s no better place to explore Renaissance art, incredible remains of Roman architecture, and of course, eat as much hearty and delicious Italian food as possible.
United Kingdom
That the UK is the third most popular long-distance travel destination for US travelers, as well as the most popular long-distance destination for Australian travelers, should come as no surprise.
The shared language on offer here means that traveling to the UK feels easy and hassle-free, making it the ideal destination for a first long-haul trip.
In addition to this, the UK has a lot to offer its visitors. Its rich history and myriad of cultural attractions are the main draws, but the lush green of the English countryside is also a key attraction.
Visitors can explore castles and medieval towns and enjoy stunning views. The UK has a vast and wild coastline, and when you’re ready to kick back and relax, you can take a seat in a traditional British pub.
Germany
Germany may not seem like a natural choice for a long-haul vacation destination, but it is the fourth most popular long-haul travel destination for American visitors.
Unlike many of the other countries on this list, Germany has an evergreen appeal.
While its beautiful lakes and strikingly verdant Black Forest are ripe for exploration in the summer months, its cities come alive during the winter months, when Christmas markets and twinkling lights blanket the streets.
Some of the main cultural attractions of Germany include its rich history and the contrast of this with its modernity. There is no better place to visit to learn about World War II or to explore brutalist art.
Germany is also a popular destination for thrill seekers, with extreme sports and outdoor adventures widely available here.
Spain
Spain is a popular destination, appearing in the top six long-distance destinations for travelers from the United States, Australia, Brazil and Canada.
Historically, Spain has been popular with European visitors, but it is also increasingly attracting long-distance visitors.
Head to Barcelona or Madrid to explore art galleries, stunning architecture, and all that Spain’s bustling city life has to offer.
Alternatively, you can head to the coast to experience the slower pace of Spanish life, where siestas, sitting in the sun, and tapas are part of the way of life.
Greece
Greece was one of the top long-distance travel destinations for visitors from around the world, making it the top 6 rankings for visitors from Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, Russia and the United States.
It’s easy to see why Greece is such a popular holiday destination.
Greece is made up of 227 inhabited islands spread across the Aegean and Ionian seas. Thanks to this, Greece boasts the longest coastline in Europe, perfect for lazy days on the beach.
Fans of history and mythology can explore ancient monuments, amazing architecture, and charming towns that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
From popular beaches to calm lakes, rugged mountains and verdant forests, Greece offers something for everyone.
traveler alert: Don’t forget travel insurance for your next trip!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
