Most popular cities in Europe: ranking by overnight stays in 2024

Europe in 2024 saw a record flow of tourists. For the first time, the number of overnight stays in EU countries exceeded 3 billion (Eurostat). That is 2.7% more than the year before. Some cities draw crowds all year round, while others stay calm.

We put together the top five most popular cities in Europe. We based it on the official ranking by number of overnight stays for 2024. Inside each entry, you'll find the main sights and a short take on who the city is a good fit for.

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How we built the ranking

💡 In short:

• The ranking counts paid overnight stays for 2024, source: City Destinations Alliance.
• The top five are London, Paris, Istanbul, Berlin, and Rome.
• Ranking and figures: 09/2026, checked against Eurostat and Statista data.

We based it on the Benchmarking Report from City Destinations Alliance. The city summary is published by Statista. The methodology is simple: they count all paid overnight stays for a calendar year.

They only consider the nine largest outbound tourism markets. Cities are ranked by the number of overnight stays from those markets specifically.

1. London

London topped the European ranking by number of overnight stays in 2024. The British capital has almost returned to pre-pandemic levels (per the European city ranking, Statista, 09/2026).

The British Museum remains the most visited attraction in the country. In 2024, almost 6.5 million people visited it (per BBC citing official figures). Lines here are shorter in the morning. Tourists head to Big Ben, the Tower, Buckingham Palace, and Covent Garden just as eagerly.

• Who it's for: museum and theater lovers.
• Not for: those who want a warm sea and beaches.
• The catch: the highest tourist flow in Europe.

For overnight stays, pick the center, then you can walk to the main sights: find a hotel in London on Trip.com.

2. Paris

Paris took second place in the 2024 ranking (according to the 2024 ranking, Statista, 09/2026). France also holds first place for inbound tourism in Europe.

The Louvre attracts the most tourists. In 2024, 8.7 million people visited it, according to the museum's press office. Without an online ticket, you risk losing time in line.

• Who it's for: couples, fashion and art lovers.
• Not for: those who dislike lines and noise.
• The catch: on weekends, the Louvre and the tower have long lines.

Combining the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral in one day is difficult. Choose your area in advance: browse hotels in Paris on Trip.com.

3. Istanbul

Istanbul rounded out the top three by overnight stays for 2024 (according to overnight stay data, Statista, 09/2026). The city sits on two continents.

On one route, you'll see the Hagia Sophia mosque, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. The European side welcomes most visitors, and the main sights are concentrated there too. The Archaeological Museum is also worth a visit.

• Who it's for: food lovers and fans of eastern markets.
• Not for: those looking for a quiet beach vacation.
• The catch: summers are hot, and the squares are crowded.

Decide in advance where to stay: find a hotel in Istanbul on Trip.com.

4. Berlin

Berlin took fourth place in the 2024 ranking (according to European statistics, Statista, 09/2026). Germany's capital combines history and modern culture.

Tourists head to the Brandenburg Gate and the remains of the Berlin Wall, including the East Side Gallery. Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hamburger Bahnhof is in a different district, so allow time to get there. The city is large, so plan your trips between areas in advance.

• Who it's for: fans of contemporary art and nightlife.
• Not for: those expecting ancient history and classical ruins.

Choose accommodation with travel between districts in mind: find a hotel in Berlin on Trip.com.

5. Rome

Rome rounds out the top five most popular cities in Europe (according to the city overview, Statista, 09/2026). The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican remain the main items on the itinerary.

The Colosseum Archaeological Park drew nearly 15 million visitors in 2024 (Statista). Millions want to see Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Book Vatican tickets in advance.

• Who it's for: fans of antiquity and art.
• Not for: those who dislike lines and crowds at major sights.
• The catch: in summer, the line at the Colosseum is long.

Rome is easy to split into two parts: the ancient center and the Vatican. Find a hotel in Rome on Trip.com.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Which European city is the most popular with tourists?

By overnight stays in 2024, London leads, followed by Paris and Istanbul (according to the Statista overview). The ranking only counts paid accommodation and nine major markets. So don't focus only on the top spot: pick a city based on your interests and trip length.

What should you keep in mind for a first trip to London?

London is an expensive city, so book accommodation in advance and closer to the center. That way you'll save time on getting around. Museums have different hours and closing days, so check the times on the official website before your visit. Then you won't have to change your plans on the spot.

How many days do you need for Paris?

For a first visit, a few days are enough. The Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre-Dame Cathedral take time. If you want to see everything at a relaxed pace, allow more. In one day you'll only cover the center.

What to see in Berlin in one day?

Start at the Brandenburg Gate and walk to Museum Island. Then head to the East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall. Berlin is spread out, so leave time for getting around. In one day you'll cover the main sights, but not all the museums.

Why is Istanbul considered a European city?

Istanbul sits on two continents, and the European side is considered the historic center. The Bosphorus Strait runs through the city: one side belongs to Europe, the other to Asia. You'll find most tourist attractions on the European side. That's why it appears in European rankings.

Want to see these cities on video? Watch a short overview, it will help you figure out which of the five suits you best.

In short: what's worth booking

Each of the five cities covers its own scenario. If you want world-class museums and theater, choose London. For fashion, food, and romance, Paris fits. Fans of markets and a blend of two cultures should head to Istanbul. For contemporary art and nightlife, go with Berlin. For antiquity and the Vatican, choose Rome.

Don't try to cover everything in one trip. One city is enough for several packed days, and you'll still come back to a list of things you didn't get to. Find tours in your chosen city on GetYourGuide.