Traveling is a favorite pastime of many. Whether you get away a couple of times of year, or it’s only once every few years, being able to explore exotic places and immerse yourself in the local culture is incredibly enjoyable.
If you’re in the process of planning your next vacation but not interested in going somewhere new to you, it’s no wonder. There are so many places that you can’t fully explore and enjoy the first time because there is too much to see and do. That’s exactly why so many travel destinations are known as repeat destinations, meaning that one visit isn’t enough for tourists.
Here are 15 incredible destinations that have built a reputation for being repeat destinations that people can’t stop revisiting.
South Africa
For those not satisfied with a standard beach vacation, South Africa makes a lot of sense. It offers some of the most incredible natural beauty you’ll find mixed in with fabulous cuisine and of course safari adventures.
If you’re preparing to revisit South Africa there are a few things you’ll want to be sure you fit into your itinerary. It’s here that you have a chance to see “The Big Five” – elephants, lions, African buffalo, rhinoceros, and leopards. Some of the best parks in South Africa for The Big Five are Sabi Sands, MalaMala, Kgalagadi, and Phinda.
Las Vegas, United States
Sometimes tourism in a country is so diverse and so appealing to travellers that they deserve two mentions. That’s exactly the case with the United States, as it’s not just New York City that keeps people coming back for more. Another hugely popular destination for travelers to revisit is Las Vegas.
Las Vegas has done a great job transforming itself into a destination that offers something for everyone. Where it used to be focused on gambling, today tourists are treated to fabulous shopping, dining, live shows and entertainment, world-class resorts, and more.
The city also does a great job attracting top acts to headline various shows, which means travelers can visit multiple times a year and have a fresh experience each time.
Italy
Then we have the destination of Italy, which has long since been a popular tourist destination for repeat visits. Italy doesn’t have just one popular city; rather it is packed with historical and beautiful cities, towns, and villages. The toughest part about an Italian vacation is figuring out which spots make the cut on each holiday. This is exactly why tourists come back time and time again, as there’s no way to fit it all in.
In terms of the most popular cities in Italy for repeat visitors, they tend to be:
- Venice
- Rome
- Naples
- Florence
- Milan
- Pisa
Paris, France
Here’s another European destination that people can’t stop revisiting. Just like Italy, France has many towns and cities that are scenic and noteworthy – but it’s Paris that continues to draw the largest crowds. Some of the most popular attractions to visit in Paris include the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Champs-Élysées, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Because the city is so packed with sights and attractions, travelers don’t usually have a chance to pack it in the first time. Revisiting gives them a chance to dive deeper into the culture and get a true feel of Paris. There are also plenty of accommodation types and styles to choose from, which again helps to keep things interesting for travelers revisiting the city.
Barcelona, Spain
Spain has long since been a popular tourist destination thanks to its beautifully kept attractions and sites, mouth-watering cuisine, fabulous nightlife, not to mention the pleasant weather pretty much year-round. All of these factor into its spot on the list of places people can’t stop revisiting.
Within Spain, there are a handful of cities that tend to draw the biggest crowds of repeat visitors and these include Seville, Madrid, Barcelona, Mallorca, and Cordoba.
New York City, United States
Known as the “city that never sleeps”, New York City has a special spot in the hearts of millions. You don’t have to be born there or live there to recognize how special it is. The city is always alive with activity, is home to Broadway where the list of shows is always changing, features shopping at all price points, offers every type of cuisine you could imagine, and many notable sights and attractions.
The only problem with NYC is that there is too much to see, so it makes sense that this one ranks high as a place people can’t stop revisiting.
If you’re planning to revisit the city, here are some of the things you may not have seen on your first trip that you’ll want to check out this time
London, England
In terms of historical charm, London, England has most places beat and it’s that charm that has won tourists over and convinced them to keep coming back for more. This is the capital of both England and the United Kingdom and is the perfect example of how a city has blended history with modern features and architecture. The combination of the two makes for a unique destination that’s filled with life no matter the season.
For those returning to London for another holiday, be sure to fit in the standout sites and attractions of the Tower of London, The British Museum, the London Eye, The Tate Modern, The National Gallery, and Buckingham Palace. Tourists tend to use London as a jumping-off point for an entire European holiday too, which is another big reason it’s popular with revisits.
Belfast, Ireland
For a taste of Ireland, Belfast has long since been the city to visit. Known for its rolling green hills, friendly residents, and historical landmarks, Ireland is the kind of destination that wins tourists over and convinces them to return again and again. Belfast is a bustling city, but you’ll also find excellent examples of its rich history scattered throughout.
Edinburgh, Scotland
For a destination to be popular as a repeat holiday, it needs to have unique and standout features, and Edinburgh has that covered. The city features all kinds of hills, as does the surrounding area. It makes for some spectacular sites and architectural designs. There is even a medieval Old Town nestled within the city. No matter what you do or where you go, it always seems like you can spot Edinburgh Castle towering above.
Berlin, Germany
Next, it’s on to Berlin, Germany which is always a popular destination for repeat visits. While you may not need to spend a full week here, a couple of days is always recommended. Again, it’s a destination that tourists often combine with other European countries thanks to its central location.
From its historical landmarks, museums, and galleries, to the clubbing scene, there’s always a good reason to return to this destination. One trip to Berlin never seems to be enough for travelers.
Cairo, Egypt
What Cairo, Egypt has going for it is a sense of mystery. Those who revisit the city love the idea of being able to discover new and incredible sites and history with each holiday. On the first visit, it’s normal to focus on the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, but tourists quickly learn there’s much more to Cairo and that it warrants repeat visits.
Cairo is home to The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, the Khan el-Khalili Bazar/market, the Nile River, the Hanging Church (El Muallaqa, Sitt Mariam, St Mary), Coptic Cairo, Islamic Cairo, Cave Church, and so much more.
Turkey
You may be surprised to learn that another wildly popular tourist destination for revisits is Turkey. In 2022 the country welcomed more than 44 million tourists, and you have to figure many of them were revisits. Besides the historical and architectural landmarks, Turkey is also known for its bustling bazaars – in particular, the world-famous Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Travelers will enjoy looking for new treasures each time they visit the bazaar.
Thailand
Thailand also appears on the list of most revisited places, with two major tourist destinations standing out which are Phuket and Bangkok. Phuket is known as a beach resort destination with some of the most lovely white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Bangkok on the other hand is known as a big city with a huge population. Essentially, Thailand offers a little something for every style of tourist, which is important when a country is working to ensure revisits.
Cancun, Mexico
For many millions of people, the ultimate yearly beach vacation is none other than Cancun, Mexico. You’ll hear of travelers returning not just a couple of times, but every single year. It can almost feel like a home away from home. Cancun features a stunning beach that is long and wide, a wide array of massive resorts to choose from, and plenty of activities, day trips, and excursions. It’s enough to keep travelers happy and wanting more – which is why they keep revisiting the destination.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is all about a bustling culture full of life, color, and surprises. For many travelers, it’s an addictive atmosphere they can’t get enough of. Some plan their revisit to coincide with the Carnival celebrations, whereas others like the shoulder season when Rio gets a little quieter in terms of tourists.