The Philippines in 1996-1997, China in 2000, Vietnam in 2009, Japan in 2013 and 2025, South Korea in 2014 and 2024, Taiwan in 2017 (the starting point of Trip By Trip), Singapore in 2018, Hong Kong and Macau in 2023. I like travelling to East Asia. Yet I never visited Thailand, for many westerners the starting point of Asia travels. Unexpectedly, my request for time off in January 2026 was granted, so I decided to not stay home. I booked flights to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia for a ten-day gay solo trip.
Malaysia’s Independence Day, known as Hari Merdeka or Hari Kebangsaan, is celebrated every year on 31 August and marks the moment in 1957 when the Federation of Malaya gained independence from British colonial rule. The proclamation was read in Kuala Lumpur at Merdeka Stadium, where the Union Jack was lowered and the Malayan flag was raised, symbolising the end of colonial administration and the birth of an independent nation that would later become Malaysia in 1963.
Today, Merdeka Day is one of the country’s most important national holidays and is celebrated with large-scale parades, flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances and nationwide festivities that emphasise unity in Malaysia’s multi-ethnic society. While 31 August is widely seen as the country’s independence day, it specifically commemorates the independence of Malaya, with the broader formation of Malaysia later marked on 16 September as Malaysia Day.
Record year 2025
Tourism in Malaysia has entered a new record-breaking phase. After a strong post-pandemic recovery in 2023 and 2024, the country experienced its best tourism year ever in 2025, welcoming 42.2 million international visitors and overtaking regional rivals to become Southeast Asia’s most visited destination. Early figures from 2026 suggest the momentum is continuing, with more than 10.6 million international arrivals recorded during the first quarter alone.
The growth has reinforced tourism’s position as one of the pillars of the Malaysian economy. Authorities have increasingly framed tourism not only as a source of foreign currency and employment, but also as a strategic tool for regional development, aviation expansion and infrastructure investment ahead of the country’s ‘Visit Malaysia 2026‘ campaign.
Record visitor numbers after rapid recovery
Malaysia’s tourism recovery has been remarkably fast compared with many other destinations in Asia. The country received just over 25 million international tourists in 2024, itself a sharp increase from the 20.1 million arrivals recorded in 2023. By 2025, arrivals had surged to 42.2 million visitors, an increase of 11.2% year-on-year and more than 20% above pre-pandemic 2019 levels.
The first months of 2026 indicate that growth has not slowed. Malaysia recorded 10.64 million international arrivals in the first quarter of the year, 5.4% more than during the same period in 2025. February 2026 became the busiest tourism month in Malaysian history, with 3.47 million arrivals.
Government officials have linked the strong growth to improved air connectivity, visa liberalisation measures, favourable exchange rates and strong regional demand, particularly around Chinese New Year travel periods.
Singapore dominates the visitor market
Malaysia’s tourism geography is very different from that of long-haul tourism destinations in Europe or North America. The overwhelming majority of visitors come from neighbouring Asian countries, especially from within Southeast Asia.
The single largest source market is Singapore. In 2024 alone, Malaysia welcomed around 9.1 million visitors from Singapore, accounting for more than one-third of all international arrivals that year.
The close economic and social ties between the two countries mean that tourism flows are exceptionally intense. Many Singaporeans cross into Malaysia frequently for shopping, food, entertainment or short holidays, particularly into the southern state of Johor. Weekend traffic between Singapore and Johor Bahru has become so significant that it heavily shapes Malaysia’s tourism statistics.
Other major source markets include Indonesia, China, Thailand and Brunei. China has become increasingly important since the restoration of direct flights and visa-free arrangements.
Regional tourism is especially important for states on the island of Borneo. In Sarawak, for example, visitors from Brunei and Indonesia dominate arrival figures, reflecting the close cross-border links on the island.
Long-haul visitors from Europe, Australia, and the Middle East remain important for spending and hotel occupancy, particularly in destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and Sabah, but they represent a smaller share of total arrivals than in countries such as Thailand.
Land borders remain Malaysia’s biggest gateway
One of the defining characteristics of Malaysian tourism is the importance of land travel. Unlike island destinations that depend overwhelmingly on airports, Malaysia receives millions of visitors via road crossings.
The busiest entry point is the border with Singapore. Large numbers of visitors enter through the Causeway and the Second Link connecting Johor and Singapore. These crossings handle enormous daily traffic volumes, including tourists, commuters and family visits.
Air travel nevertheless remains crucial for long-distance and higher-spending tourism. Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA, KUL) functions as the country’s main international gateway, while airports in Penang, Kota Kinabalu, and Langkawi also play major roles.
In Sabah, around 78% of visitors arrive via Kota Kinabalu International Airport, while sea and overland routes account for the remainder.
Malaysia’s extensive low-cost airline network has been another important driver. The country benefits from its position as a major Southeast Asian aviation hub, with carriers such as AirAsia connecting Malaysian cities with destinations across Asia.
Sea arrivals also contribute to tourism numbers, particularly through cruise tourism and ferry links with Indonesia, Thailand and Brunei, although their overall share remains much smaller than land and air arrivals.
Short stays dominate the tourism model
Malaysia’s tourism model differs significantly from destinations focused on long luxury holidays. A very large proportion of visitors are short-stay travellers from neighbouring countries.
Many Singaporean visitors stay only one or two nights, while some are technically same-day visitors who cross the border for shopping, dining or leisure activities before returning home. This has created a tourism economy built not only around resorts and beaches, but also around retail, gastronomy and entertainment.
In destinations such as Sabah, international tourists stay longer, with an average stay of around 5.2 nights.
Resort islands and beach destinations generally attract longer stays than urban areas. Langkawi, the Perhentian Islands and parts of Sabah benefit from multi-night international tourism linked to diving, nature tourism and beach holidays.
Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur increasingly functions as both a city-break destination and an aviation hub where visitors combine Malaysia with neighbouring countries such as Singapore, Thailand or Indonesia.
Kuala Lumpur, islands and nature tourism drive demand
Malaysia’s tourism appeal rests on a combination of modern urban tourism, tropical islands, food culture and biodiversity.
Kuala Lumpur remains the country’s best-known destination internationally. The Malaysian capital attracts visitors with landmarks such as the Petronas Towers, large shopping malls, diverse food scenes and strong air connectivity.
Beach and island tourism remains equally important. Langkawi, Penang and Sabah are among the country’s biggest leisure destinations, while eco-tourism has expanded around rainforests, marine parks and wildlife reserves.
Sabah has particularly benefited from demand for nature tourism. International travellers visit for diving, rainforests and Mount Kinabalu. Chinese, South Korean and Taiwanese tourists are especially important for Sabah’s tourism industry.
Food tourism is another major attraction. Malaysian cuisine, shaped by Malay, Chinese and Indian influences, has become one of the country’s strongest tourism brands internationally.
Tourism growth brings opportunities and pressure
The rapid rise in visitor numbers has boosted employment, aviation, retail and hospitality sectors across the country. Officials increasingly present tourism as a major economic engine capable of supporting regional development and attracting foreign investment.
At the same time, concerns about overcrowding and infrastructure pressure are beginning to emerge. Online discussions increasingly reference overtourism risks, especially if growth continues at current levels.
Environmental sustainability is also becoming a larger issue, particularly on islands and marine tourism destinations vulnerable to ecological damage.
Despite these concerns, Malaysia enters 2026 with exceptionally strong tourism momentum. With visitor numbers already surpassing pre-pandemic records and the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign underway, the country is positioning itself not only as one of Asia’s leading destinations, but as one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism markets.
Tourism as one of Malaysia’s economic pillars
Tourism has become one of the most important sectors of the Malaysian economy. Over the past two decades, the country has transformed itself into one of Asia’s leading travel destinations, combining tropical beaches, modern cities, rainforest adventures, food tourism and cultural diversity under the long-running ‘Malaysia Truly Asia‘ branding campaign.
Tourism now supports millions of jobs across hotels, airlines, restaurants, retail, entertainment and transport, while also generating major foreign exchange earnings for the country.
The Malaysian government increasingly views tourism as a strategic economic driver rather than simply a leisure industry. Visit Malaysia 2026, the country’s latest major tourism campaign, is designed not only to attract record visitor numbers, but also to stimulate investment, improve infrastructure and spread economic development to smaller regions and rural communities. Officials expect tourism to contribute significantly to GDP growth and support sectors ranging from hospitality and aviation to gastronomy and retail.
Tourism is particularly important because it helps diversify Malaysia’s economy away from its traditional dependence on exports, manufacturing, oil and gas. In states such as Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo, tourism has become an increasingly valuable alternative source of income linked to nature conservation and community-based projects.
A country built around diversity
One of Malaysia’s strongest tourism assets is its extraordinary diversity. The country markets itself as a place where Malay, Chinese, Indian and Indigenous cultures coexist, creating a rich mix of religions, cuisines, festivals and architecture.
In the capital, Kuala Lumpur, visitors encounter a modern skyline dominated by the iconic Petronas Towers, large shopping centres and luxury hotels. The city is also known for its street food culture, night markets and multicultural neighbourhoods such as Chinatown and Little India.
Just outside the capital are the famous Batu Caves, one of the country’s most recognisable landmarks and an important Hindu pilgrimage site. The giant golden statue and colourful staircase have become symbols of Malaysian tourism internationally.
Historic cities such as George Town in Penang and Malacca City showcase the country’s colonial and trading history. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites known for preserved architecture, temples, mosques and food traditions blending Asian and European influences.
Malaysia’s food culture itself has become a tourism attraction. Travellers visit specifically for dishes such as nasi lemak, satay, laksa and roti canai, as well as the country’s famous hawker culture. Food tourism has become one of Malaysia’s strongest soft-power tools internationally.
Beaches, islands and tropical nature
Beyond the cities, much of Malaysia’s tourism appeal comes from its natural environment. The country is home to tropical islands, coral reefs, ancient rainforests and mountain landscapes.
Island destinations such as Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands attract visitors with beaches, diving and luxury resorts. Langkawi in particular has developed into one of Southeast Asia’s best-known resort destinations.
Nature tourism plays a major role in Malaysian tourism strategy. The rainforests of Malaysian Borneo are among the oldest in the world and attract eco-tourists interested in wildlife and biodiversity.
Visitors travel to Sabah and Sarawak to see orangutans, proboscis monkeys and tropical birdlife, as well as to explore caves, rivers and jungle trekking routes.
One of the country’s biggest natural attractions is Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest mountain outside the Himalayas. Climbing the mountain has become a bucket-list experience for many international travellers.
Sarawak has increasingly promoted Indigenous-led and community-based tourism. Tourists can stay in traditional longhouses, experience local cultures and participate in rainforest excursions designed to support conservation and local communities.
Medical, shopping and religious tourism
Malaysia has also diversified its tourism model beyond leisure travel. Medical tourism has grown significantly, especially in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, where hospitals attract patients from neighbouring countries seeking affordable healthcare and specialist treatment.
Shopping tourism is another important segment. Large malls, outlet centres and lower prices compared with neighbouring Singapore make Malaysia particularly attractive for regional visitors. This is especially visible in Johor, where millions of Singaporeans cross the border each year for shopping, food and entertainment.
The country has additionally positioned itself as a leading Muslim-friendly tourism destination. Halal food is widely available, Islamic facilities are integrated into tourism infrastructure and the country actively markets itself to visitors from the Middle East and other Muslim-majority countries.
Tourism’s economic benefits and growing pressures
The economic impact of tourism is visible throughout Malaysia. The industry supports airlines, hotels, restaurants, taxi drivers, retail workers, tour operators and countless small businesses. Government projections linked to Visit Malaysia 2026 estimate tourism revenues in the hundreds of billions of ringgit.
In many regions, tourism has become a key employer and source of investment. Airports have expanded, roads improved and hospitality infrastructure modernised to support growing visitor numbers.
However, the rapid growth also creates pressure. Environmental concerns are increasing around coral reefs, island ecosystems and waste management in heavily visited destinations. Critics warn that unchecked tourism growth could damage the very landscapes and cultures that attract visitors in the first place.
There are also debates about overtourism and the balance between mass tourism and higher-value travel. Malaysia’s tourism model relies heavily on large numbers of short-stay regional visitors, particularly from Singapore, which boosts arrival statistics but sometimes generates less spending per visitor than long-haul tourism. Online discussions increasingly question whether record visitor numbers automatically translate into equally strong economic gains.
Still, Malaysia’s tourism industry enters the second half of the 2020s with enormous momentum. With record-breaking visitor numbers, expanding international connectivity and major government-backed campaigns, tourism has become not only one of the country’s defining industries, but also one of the central ways Malaysia presents itself to the world.
Growing debate about overtourism
As Malaysia’s visitor numbers continue to climb to record levels, concerns about overtourism are becoming more visible across parts of the country. While Malaysia is generally not yet associated with the extreme overcrowding seen in destinations such as Venice, Barcelona, or Bali, the rapid growth in arrivals is increasingly raising questions about sustainability, infrastructure pressure and environmental impact.
The issue is particularly relevant because Malaysia’s tourism boom is heavily concentrated in certain hotspots. Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang and parts of Sabah receive the overwhelming majority of international tourists, especially during school holidays, long weekends and major festive periods. In these locations, residents and local authorities are beginning to report growing congestion, rising waste problems and pressure on housing and transport infrastructure.
Penang has become one of the clearest examples of these tensions. George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage status has helped transform the city into one of Southeast Asia’s most popular cultural tourism destinations, famous for its street art, food scene and historic architecture. However, rapid tourism growth has also contributed to rising rents, heavier traffic and concerns that parts of the historic centre are becoming increasingly oriented towards visitors rather than local residents.
On islands such as Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands, environmental pressure is another growing concern. Marine ecosystems and coral reefs are vulnerable to large-scale tourism activity, especially from diving, boating and resort development. Conservation groups have repeatedly warned that uncontrolled tourism expansion could damage fragile coastal environments that are central to Malaysia’s tourism appeal.
In Sabah and Sarawak, overtourism debates are closely linked to nature conservation. Destinations such as Mount Kinabalu and wildlife tourism areas have become globally popular, but authorities are trying to avoid the mass-tourism model seen elsewhere in Asia. Daily climbing permits for Mount Kinabalu, for example, are restricted to protect the mountain environment and manage visitor flows.
Malaysia’s tourism structure does, however, differ from many classic overtourism destinations. A very large share of visitors come from neighbouring Singapore and stay only briefly, often for shopping, food or weekend trips. This means that although arrival numbers are extremely high, many tourists are dispersed across border regions and commercial centres rather than concentrated solely in historic city centres or beach resorts.
The country is also geographically large and relatively decentralised compared with smaller island destinations. Tourism is spread across peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo, helping reduce the kind of overwhelming concentration seen in more compact destinations.
Still, the pace of growth is starting to challenge infrastructure. Border crossings with Singapore regularly experience severe congestion during holiday periods, airports are becoming busier and some tourism-dependent islands face increasing concerns about waste management, water supply and environmental degradation.
The Malaysian government has increasingly acknowledged the need for more sustainable tourism development as part of the Visit Malaysia 2026 strategy. Officials are promoting eco-tourism, community-based tourism and higher-value travel segments rather than focusing exclusively on mass arrivals.
There is also a growing discussion within Malaysia itself about the difference between headline visitor numbers and tourism quality. Critics argue that relying heavily on short-stay regional tourism inflates arrival statistics without necessarily generating the same economic benefits as longer-staying international visitors. Some economists and tourism experts increasingly advocate a strategy focused more on spending, sustainability and visitor experience than purely on setting new arrival records.
For now, Malaysia remains far from the anti-tourism protests and severe overcrowding problems seen in parts of southern Europe. Yet as the country pushes beyond 40 million annual visitors and continues to market itself aggressively ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026, the debate over how much tourism is too much is becoming harder to ignore.
Belgian travellers and expats in Malaysia
Although Belgium is a relatively small source market compared with Singapore, China or Indonesia, Malaysia has long attracted a steady stream of Belgian visitors. Tourism statistics suggest that roughly 230,000 to 250,000 Belgians visited Malaysia annually before the pandemic, making Belgium one of the more important European source markets for the country. Estimates for 2018, one of the last detailed country breakdowns widely available, placed Belgian visitor numbers at around 237,000 arrivals.
Since the pandemic, exact Belgium-specific arrival figures have become harder to find in public reporting, as Malaysian tourism authorities increasingly focus on broader regional trends. However, the recovery in European travel to Malaysia has generally followed the wider rebound seen across international tourism in 2024, 2025 and early 2026. Malaysia’s strong overall tourism growth, including record visitor numbers in 2025 and 2026, has also benefited from the return of long-haul travellers from Europe.
Belgian tourists visiting Malaysia are typically very different from the short-stay regional travellers arriving from neighbouring Singapore or Indonesia. Most Belgians travel long-haul and stay considerably longer, often combining multiple destinations within the country. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi and Malaysian Borneo are among the most popular destinations for Belgian visitors, who are generally drawn by the country’s tropical climate, food culture, beaches and nature tourism.
Malaysia is also particularly attractive for Belgian travellers interested in wildlife and eco-tourism. Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo appeal to visitors wanting to see orangutans, rainforests and marine life, while diving tourism around Sipadan and other islands has become internationally renowned.
The country’s multicultural atmosphere and widespread use of English additionally make Malaysia relatively accessible for European travellers compared with some other Asian destinations. Malaysia is often perceived in Belgium as a softer introduction to Southeast Asia: modern infrastructure, relatively affordable prices and good international connectivity combined with tropical scenery and cultural diversity.
There is also a small but visible Belgian expatriate community living in Malaysia, especially in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Exact official population figures are difficult to establish, but Belgian expats in Malaysia include professionals working in finance, technology, diplomacy, aviation and multinational companies, as well as retirees and remote workers attracted by the lower cost of living and warm climate. Online expatriate communities suggest that Belgium’s presence, while modest, is well established within Malaysia’s broader European expat scene.
Malaysia has increasingly positioned itself as an attractive destination for foreign residents through programmes aimed at long-term stays and retirement migration.
The ‘Malaysia My Second Home‘ scheme, despite stricter requirements introduced in recent years, has remained internationally known among Europeans seeking part-time or retirement living in Asia.
For Belgians, Malaysia also benefits from practical advantages. English is widely spoken, healthcare is comparatively affordable and modern, and Kuala Lumpur has become one of Southeast Asia’s major aviation hubs, offering strong connections to Europe and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
At the same time, adapting to life in Malaysia can require adjustment. Expats frequently mention the tropical climate, heavy traffic in Kuala Lumpur and the complexities of long-term visa arrangements as challenges alongside the advantages of affordability, food and lifestyle. Online discussions among foreigners living in Malaysia often describe the country as welcoming and comfortable, but also note differences in bureaucracy, transport systems and social integration.
Malaysian visitors and residents in Belgium
The tourism relationship also works in the opposite direction, although on a much smaller scale. Compared with Malaysia’s tens of millions of inbound visitors, the number of Malaysians travelling to Belgium remains modest, but it has been gradually increasing in line with wider Southeast Asian outbound travel growth and stronger air connectivity between Europe and Asia.
Most Malaysian tourists visiting Belgium do so as part of broader European itineraries, rather than as standalone Belgium-only trips. Belgium is typically included alongside neighbouring destinations such as France, the Netherlands, and Germany, with Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp forming the main Belgian highlights.
Brussels in particular attracts Malaysian visitors due to its role as the de facto capital of the European Union, making it a natural stop for travellers interested in politics, architecture and international institutions.
Exact annual arrival figures for Malaysian visitors to Belgium are not consistently published in a single dedicated dataset, but broader European tourism statistics suggest that Malaysia remains a niche but growing long-haul source market for Belgium.
Malaysian outbound tourism has expanded strongly in recent years, driven by rising middle-class incomes, easier visa access to Europe through Schengen arrangements, and the popularity of multi-country European tours.
Most Malaysian travellers enter Belgium via major European aviation hubs such as Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, or Doha, before continuing by rail or short-haul flights into Brussels.
The expansion of Persian Gulf carriers and European rail connectivity has made Belgium more accessible as part of wider European travel circuits. Brussels Airport and high-speed rail links such as Eurostar connections play a key role in distributing visitors onward to other European cities.
Malaysian tourists typically stay in Belgium for short periods, often between one and three nights, as part of longer European holidays lasting two to three weeks. Their travel patterns are strongly shaped by organised tours, although independent travel is becoming more common among younger Malaysian visitors.
Shopping, cultural heritage, museums and historic city centres are the main attractions, with Bruges’ medieval canals, Brussels’ Grand Place and Antwerp’s fashion and diamond districts among the most frequently visited sites.
Belgian tourism authorities also increasingly market the country as a ‘compact Europe’ destination, which fits well with Malaysian travel preferences for efficient multi-city itineraries.
Malaysian community in Belgium
Alongside tourism, there is a small but well-established Malaysian community living in Belgium. While the total number remains relatively limited compared with larger diaspora communities in countries such as the United Kingdom, or Australia, Malaysians are present in several Belgian cities, particularly Brussels, Leuven (Louvain), Antwerp and Ghent.
This community is made up of several distinct groups. A significant portion are students, as Belgium hosts Malaysian nationals in universities and higher education institutions, often supported by scholarships or international study programmes.
Another group consists of professionals working in European institutions, international organisations, multinational companies or research centres, particularly in Brussels, which functions as one of the main administrative hubs of the European Union.
There is also a smaller group of long-term residents who have settled through family connections, marriage or career opportunities. These residents are often integrated into Belgium’s broader international and expatriate environment rather than forming a large, concentrated diaspora.
Malaysian residents in Belgium are typically well connected across Europe, with relatively easy mobility thanks to the Schengen Area, allowing travel between Belgium and neighbouring countries for work, study and leisure. Cultural life often revolves around informal community networks, student associations and occasional cultural events, including food gatherings and national celebrations.
Integration experiences are generally shaped by language and climate differences. Malaysia’s tropical climate contrasts sharply with Belgium’s temperate seasons, while multilingualism in Belgium, Dutch, French and German, can present both opportunities and challenges depending on the region of residence. English, however, often serves as a practical bridge language, particularly in Brussels’ international environment.
Overall, while the Malaysian presence in Belgium is not large in numerical terms, it is steady, highly internationalised and closely linked to education, professional mobility and Europe-wide careers. It mirrors the broader pattern of Malaysia–Europe connections: tourism flows remain relatively modest but growing, while long-term mobility is shaped more by education, institutions and globalised work opportunities than by mass migration or large-scale settlement.
Bangkok & Kuala Lumpur 2026
- PREVIEW | 2026 Malaysia(n) Grand Prix Sepang Circuit behind the scenes tour.
- FORMULA 1 GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX IN MALAYSIA | Sepang returns to F1 as Malaysia steps in to host 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix.
Some tourism statistics
- American tourists spend big in Belgium as fewer Belgians travel to the United States.
- Belgian Coast boasts record visitor numbers for 2026 summer holiday.
- Switzerland breaks tourism records with almost 44 million overnight stays in 2025.
- Belgium tourism reaches new heights as record visitor numbers underline the country’s growing appeal.
- France welcomes 102 million visitors and earns €77.5 billion from tourism in record-breaking 2025.
- BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS | Tortola at the centre of a record tourism boom.
- DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | 11.6 million international visitors in 2025.
- Aruba consolidates its position as a tourism powerhouse.
- United Kingdom tourism races past 45 million visitors as cross-Channel travel with Belgium grows.
- ITALY | More than 185 million visitors as tourism surges 7.1% in record year 2025.
- 8.7 billion rail trips in Europe in 2024 as Switzerland leads and Belgium’s data remain unavailable.
- NORWAY | Tourism breaks record with 40.6 million guest nights in 2025.
- NETHERLANDS | Rising international visitor numbers, domestic travel showed signs of stagnation in 2025.
- Taiwan tourism rebounds, Belgian market recovers, but cost pressures and geopolitical risks shape outlook.
- CURAÇAO | Tourism records for 2025, with 11,500 travellers from Belgium.
- International tourism to the United States continues to slide in 2026.
- Morocco records historic tourism year with 19.8 million visitors in 2025.
- Flanders continues to grow as a tourist destination with over 15 million visitors in 2025.
- Greece sets new tourism records in 2025 with nearly 38 million visitors.
- Thailand happy with Belgian visitor numbers and welcomes Tomorrowland festival.
- Belgian travel stats to the United States continued to decline throughout 2025.
- Is Greece too popular? 2024 tourism statistics raise overtourism concerns.
- TRAIN TRAVEL | European Union records 429 billion passenger-kilometres in 2023 but domestic travel still dominates.
- 5 million passengers flew from and to Brussels Airport in summer 2025.
- BELGIUM | Flemish museums attracted more than 4.8 million visitors in 2023.
- Belgium sees modest tourism growth in 2024, led by Flanders and Brussels.
- Travel in 2024: Spain, France, USA, China, Mexico lose ground and Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, UAE to grow market share.
- France, Spain, USA, China and Italy most visited countries in the world, Belgium 41st.
- France welcomed 100 million international visitors in 2024.
- Turkey welcomed 62 million international tourists who together spent $61 billion in 2024.
- SPAIN | 94 million international visitors and €108.7 billion tourism income in 2024.
- UN WORLD TOURISM BAROMETER | International tourism recovers pre-pandemic levels in 2024.
- Outside the EU, Europeans mostly travel to Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.
- Intra-European travel mostly for fun and / or family.
- Europeans visit other European countries over 7 nights on average.
