The world’s best countries for travel revealed, as Australia surges up the list
A new report shows where tourists are flocking globally, and Australia has risen to an impressive spot in the rankings.
The 2026 edition of the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) highlights the places that are increasingly popular among world travellers.
Australia has climbed the rankings for travellers worldwide. iStock
Australia landed at number four on the rankings. It was just behind Spain, the USA and the leader, Japan, and it rose by two compared with last year.
According to Australia government tourism data, the top places visitors coming to Australia are from are New Zealand, followed by China, the USA, UK, and Japan.
There has also been an 18 per cent surge in Chinese visitors to June 2026.
Most are coming on holidays, with the next reason to visit to see family and friends.
Uluru is one of Australia’s biggest natural attractions. iStock
Experts reckon there is “stronger demand” from travellers who want to go to the Asia Pacific region and also greater capacity.
However, Europe dominated the top ten.
Despite the conflict in the Middle East and cost of living crisis, a record 1.5 billion tourist arrivals were registered globally in 2025.
That number was up five per cent compared to 2024 and over four per cent above 2019 levels.
The rankings were calculated by measuring countries against certain criteria including price, cultural attractions and flight infrastructure.
Japan was named the top tourism spot in the world. Getty Images
The winner, Japan was praised for trying to expand tourism out of the main hubs of Tokyo and Kyoto.
The nation has dominated the wish lists of Aussie holidaymakers for the past few years, thanks to its proximity, culture, and affordability.
However, the report did note that “higher visitor numbers do not necessarily benefit countries”.
“The destinations that will do best in the years ahead will be those that manage growth carefully, be agile in front of global disruptions while creating positive socioeconomic and sustainability outcomes for visitors, business and host communities,” it said.
France ranked highly in the tourism rundown. iStock
Meanwhile, in a separate chart, Albania won to be named the county named the fastest improver.
With stunning beaches, amazing food, friendly locals, a rich culture and history, and relatively cheap prices, it’s no surprise Albania is becoming a hot spot.
The climb in the rankings isn’t the only accolade Australia has won recently.
A holiday region of New South Wales has made it onto an acclaimed list of the best spots to go in the world.
The Tweed, a picturesque region north of Byron Bay, was named as one of the Top 25 Best Destinations to visit in the world in 2027 by Lonely Planet.
It was the only place in Australia to make the list.
Meanwhile, another part of Australia ranked in the company’s prestigious 2027 Top Experiences Hotlist.
The Northern Territory’s Red Centre arts scene is a must-see, according to the experts.
The Leaders in Global Tourism
- Japan
- USA
- Spain
- Australia
- France
- Germany
- UK
- China
- Switzerland
- Italy
Fastest Improvers in Global Tourism
- Albania
- Vietnam
- Laos
- Qatar
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Philippines
- Morocco
- Nepal
- Sri Lanka
