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The summer is made for travel.
When the sun is shining the urge to get out and explore the world only gets stronger.
Summer is a great time for travelers to visit Europe. And the European Travel Commission has conducted extensive research to find out where they’re going!
Here are the 10 European countries that Americans will visit most this summer:
10. Belgium
Belgium might not be an obvious tourist destination for American travelers hoping to immerse themselves in European culture but it is a beautiful country with so much to offer and 8% of American international travelers agree.
Belgium is the home of delicious chocolates and versatile light beers. You’ll find picture-perfect villages and ornate and impressive architecture here too.
One of the prettiest towns to visit in Belgium is Bruges. Bruges is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its cobbled streets look particularly beautiful in the summer when the sun is shining.
9. Portugal
Portugal has exploded in popularity in recent years, with more American travelers choosing to visit the country than ever before.
Portugal is a beautiful and charming country with its own unique culture. It also has an incredible safety record which makes it appealing to U.S. travelers taking their first overseas trip.
Portugal is a diverse country with so much to offer tourists. From the steep hills and vibrant trams of Lisbon to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve, there’s something for everyone here.
8. Ireland
American travelers love Ireland, and 10% of Americans would like to visit the country this year. But why is Ireland so appealing to U.S. travelers?
Many Americans choose to visit Ireland because they want to go back to their roots and explore their Irish heritage. But even if you don’t have Irish blood, it’s still a great country to visit.
Rich culture, history, and heritage mean there’s plenty to see and do. Explore the Guinness Storehouse or incredible ancient literature in Dublin’s Trinity College Library.
Stunning landscapes and a wild, dramatic coastline also make the Emerald Isle a beautiful place to visit.
6. Greece
Greece is one of Europe’s busiest countries in the summer months with travelers attracted to its paradise islands which boast beautiful beaches and cool, inviting waters.
If you’re more interested in history and sightseeing then you can explore ancient monuments both on Greece’s islands and in its bigger cities. Athens is an incredible spot for those interested in ancient culture, where you can visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon.
With such a diverse range of things to see and do, it’s no wonder 12% of American travelers plan to visit Greece this year.
6. Austria
Austria isn’t a natural summer vacation destination as it is a landlocked country without a sand beach coastline. Despite this, it is the 6th most popular country for American travelers this summer.
Austria is a popular destination for outdoor pursuits and anyone hoping to enjoy an active vacation. From skiing in the winter to hiking and watersports on huge lakes in the summer, there’s so much to see here.
Visit Salzburg for beautiful architecture, a beautiful cobblestoned center, and top-class music and cultural events throughout the summer months.
4. Spain
Spain has exploded in popularity in recent years, with so many tourists during the summer months that it’s sparked protests. Despite this 18% of American travelers still plan to visit Spain this summer.
But why?
Well, Spain is home to some of Europe’s best beaches. The whole country has a laid-back, leisurely atmosphere during the summer months.
The local food is delicious. And if you explore Spain’s cities then you’ll find famous architecture, ornate churches, and world-class museums and galleries to explore too.
4. Germany
Germany might not be an obvious summer vacation destination but to overlook the country would be a huge mistake and 18% of American travelers agree.
The Rhine Valley is a beautiful place to be in the summer, thanks to its awe-inspiring beauty and cultural richness. This is also a great place to explore the fairytale-like castles that Germany is so famous for.
If you’re more interested in the bustle of busy cities, then head to Berlin, which comes alive in the summer. Mingle with locals in beer gardens, visit museums and monuments, or walk underneath the Brandenburg Gate.
3. UK
The shared language and cultural similarities between the U.S. and the UK means that it is a hugely popular destination for American travelers taking their first trip to Europe. It’s an easy place to visit as an overseas traveler.
27% of Americans planning to travel overseas this year are planning to visit the UK.
The UK is home to iconic landmarks, one of the most complete histories in the world, and delicious cuisine.
Spend time in the museums of London, and take the time to explore the wild coastline and lush green countryside that the UK is so famous for.
2. Italy
Italy is one of the most popular destinations for tourists from all over the world in the summer months, which is why overtourism is such a concern in the country.
34% of American travelers said they would like to visit Italy this summer.
From the canals of Venice to the architecture of Rome and the beaches of the Amalfi Coast, Italy is a diverse and fascinating place to explore in the summer months.
Summer in Italy is swelteringly hot so if you prefer cooler temperatures then try the country’s mountain regions or ice cold lakes instead.
1. France
By far the top destination in Europe for U.S. travelers this summer is France. A whopping 35% of respondents said they would like to visit France this year.
There are so many reasons that isn’t surprising! France has long been a top destination for American travelers, particularly Paris which attracts culture vultures and romantics.
And this summer Paris is hosting the Olympic Games in July and August which means that an estimated 15 million visitors, including 2 million from overseas, will descend on the city.
It’s a great summer for sports fans to be in France.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
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