The most visited tourist destinations in 2023 on Google

This year has seen a return to pre-pandemic travel norms. Countries that had suffered from a drop in tourist arrivals began to see an increase in the number of visitors again. Travelers made the trips they had planned during the quarantine.

But as the year comes to an end, we are looking ahead to 2024 and the travel that the new year will bring. Every year, Google publishes its Year in Search data, a report on what users have searched for on Google over the past 12 months. Below are the top 10 cities and countries that saw the largest increase in the number of searches. This was reported by cntraveller.com.

Countries that were most often googled in 2023

10. Morocco

In September of this year, an earthquake hit Morocco, the consequences of which were devastating. The country is still recovering, but the response from travelers has been strong. It's not often that travel is the answer to a crisis, but since tourism is Morocco's largest source of income, it was necessary in this case. Travelers were encouraged to visit the country to explore all that it has to offer - and there is a lot. A jewel box of colors, sights, history and culture beyond. Support for this gem of a country made it into this year's top 10.

9. Malta

This island is a popular destination for Europe. Its history is deep and its beauty is even deeper. The country has been used as a backdrop for many iconic movies and TV series, but beyond its honeyed streets lie restaurants, bars, and hotels waiting to be explored.

8. Egypt

Obviously, we don't need to tell you about the beauty of Egypt. There is a lot of ancient history to discover, but walk the streets of the country to find hidden treasures that the pharaohs would have envied. Art galleries and markets abound with prizes. The sparkling Nile will impress those who are looking for memories instead of souvenirs. Away from the Sahara River covers 94% of the country's territory, leaving an extremely large region to explore if you dare to venture inland.

7. Thailand

There are 1430 islands in Thailand, so you may already be planning a trip to this country. Each one is different, and white sand beaches and rustic restaurants are guaranteed. Choose Koh Samui for a wellness escape or Koh Tao for some serious underwater adventure.

6. Cyprus

Between Greece, Turkey and Lebanon, it's a melting pot of cultures. Come for the rocky mountains covered with snow, soft beaches lapped by the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, and great Cypriot food. Nature lovers can spend hours in the sea, history buffs can see Byzantine churches, oenophiles can spend days tasting the country's lush vineyards.

5. Croatia

Croatia has gradually gained a reputation as a European tourist destination. This vacation destination is more affordable than some of its neighboring countries. Embark on a journey through the islands around some of the teardrop-shaped gems that adorn the shores. Head inland for delicious gourmet travels around Split or Zagreb, or immerse yourself in the historic walled city of Dubrovnik. But the beach is the place to be in this country: with over 4000 km of coastline, you'll be spoiled for choice.

4. Portugal

From the explosion of exciting restaurants opening in the north to the blue water reserves in the south, Portugal has so much to offer travelers. Porto is a relative newcomer to the European foodie championships, but has quickly gained a reputation as something to behold. The remote archipelago of the Azores is often overlooked in favor of the country's beach resorts - think thermal waters, turquoise lagoons, and cloud-piercing volcanoes. Lisbon, of course, needs no introduction - in fact, it was recently named the most budget-friendly city in Europe.

3. Italy

The country is a mixture of beautiful fairy-tale towns, bustling cities and pristine beaches. Shopping in Milan is unbeatable. Florence has some of the best hotels in the country, and the Tuscan countryside beyond. When it comes to food, it has to be Rome. It has an endless array of galleries and museums.

2. Spain

This country is beautiful all year round, but there is something special about visiting Spain in the off-season. Cities are empty, beaches are quiet, but there is still magic in the air. San Sebastian is the best city for food in the world. Barcelona remains one of our favorite cities in Spain with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment.

1. Greece

Greece topped the list of the most searched countries on Google in 2023. From the island of Mykonos with its sugar cubes and famous addresses to the jungle atmosphere of Kefalonia, known for its hiking trails and villages. Greece is a destination that continues to surprise. Start in Athens, home to some of the world's best bars, to get a taste of the country's culinary delights. Head to the Greek island of your choice - whether it's the sunsets from the Santorini Crater or the deserted beaches of Corfu. Greece will impress every tourist.

Cities and islands most often searched on Google for travel in 2023

10. Amsterdam

There is always something to discover in Amsterdam. This destination has long been one of the favorite vacation spots in Europe, but in recent years it has been growing stronger. There are many hotels for clients and many new restaurants.

9. Cork

The city is known for its beautiful streets, with corners that have been compared to Copenhagen or Murano in Venice. Explore the hipster center of Cork, where travelers will find cozy pubs, bars with live music, and friendly locals.

8. Delhi

It is the second largest urban area in the world (after Tokyo) with a lot of things to see, do and eat. There are a lot of museums and street art. Here you can observe wildlife and visit the largest spice market in Asia.

7. Sicily

It's the perfect place for a sunny vacation. The food is obviously the best Italian - piled plates of fresh seafood pasta, thick slabs of Sicilian pizza, and creamy cooling gelato - and the beaches are so inviting. Explore 18th-century mansions and extravagant palazzos.

6. La Rochelle

This port city is a great place to spend a vacation in Europe. Be prepared for a series of stellar dishes made from fish fresh from the water. Then take a stroll through the city to follow in the footsteps of the country's greatest writers.

5. Marrakech

Google this colorful city and you'll see just how impressive Marrakech is. Outside of the glittering souks, there are some stunning places to stay - renowned hotels alongside small, independent riads offer a haven of relaxation.

4. Seville

A winner for warm weather, Seville is the perfect off-season travel destination. It also has everything you're looking for in a European city vacation. Spend your days exploring the hot tourist spots without standing in lines in the heat - Seville's Royal Alcazar is a must-see - and climb to the top of the cathedral for an epic cityscape.

3. Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv appeared on the list even before the war started. However, the FDCO recommends avoiding all but essential travel to Israel.

2. Orlando

This American city undoubtedly carries weight when it comes to tourism. In 2022, almost 5 million international visitors came to Orlando, with the UK being the second largest number of travelers heading to the city. In addition to the classic wonders of Disneyland, this favorite Florida destination has an impressive array of restaurants, from delicious omakase to savory mezcaleria.

1. Rhodes

Of all the islands in Greece worth visiting, this one is special. After the tragic forest fires that destroyed the island earlier this year, stripping it of 15% of its land, Rhodes is slowly recovering. Visit the old town, where a maze of alleys weaves around Byzantine churches standing strong next to Roman ruins and restaurants. Near the coast, impressive cliffs offer epic views of golden beaches spilling into the Mediterranean, and the inland alpine forests are ideal for early morning walks. The island has not yet fully recovered, but the interest of travelers seeking to support Rhodes is a testament to the island's beauty.