In pictures: These are the countries that hosted most number of tourists this year

SUMMARY

Countries across the globe are slowly opening their gates to foreign visitors after the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic created havoc across the globe leading to a global shutdown. As we wait to see whether people will choose to travel or not, take a look at countries that hosted the most number of visitors this year, as per World Population Review data.

By Pradeep Suresh Oct 14, 2020 1:59:31 PM IST (Published)

Countries across the globe are slowly opening their gates to foreign visitors after the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic created havoc across the globe leading to a global shutdown. As we wait to see whether people will choose to travel or not, take a look at countries that hosted the most number of visitors this year, as per World Population Review data. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

1. France: The European nation recorded 8.27 crore tourist arrivals this year despite a number of serious setbacks including the spread of COVID-19 and domestic unrests that hit the country at the beginning of the year. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

2. USA: With over 7.6 crore international arrivals, the US has emerged second in the list. The country has a wide variety of destinations including monuments that satisfy every type of traveller. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

3. Spain: The land of the bullfight was host to over 7.5 crore visitors. The historic country located on the Iberian peninsula is home to beautiful monuments and locales among others.

4. China: With nearly 6 crore foreign arrivals China has emerged the most popular destination in the continent. From historic monuments like the Great Wall to modern marvels such as high-speed trains, the world's most populous country is a wonder that can't be missed. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)

5. Italy: The Mediterranean nation has always been in the wish list of every traveller and hosted over 5.2 crore foreign tourists this year despite being hard-hit by the pandemic. (Anteo Marinoni/LaPresse via AP, File)

26. India: India hosted over 1.45 crore foreign tourists this year despite being hit hard by the pandemic and recent economic downturn. (AP Photo/Pawan Sharma)