Published on
December 23, 2025
By 2025, Hong Kong had firmly established itself as the second most visited city in the world, attracting an impressive 23.2 million international visitors. This milestone, revealed by a report from Euromonitor International, highlighted that Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, still holds the top spot with 30.3 million visitors. Close behind Hong Kong, London secured the third position with 22.7 million visitors, while Macao followed with 20.4 million. Other cities that round out the top five include Istanbul with 19.7 million visitors, and the list also featured Dubai (19.5 million), Mecca (18.7 million), Antalya (18.6 million), Paris (18.3 million), and Kuala Lumpur (17.3 million).
Hong Kong’s Rapid Emergence as a Leading Destination
The surge in international visitors to Hong Kong has been driven by several factors. Over recent years, Hong Kong has experienced a dramatic transformation, positioning itself as one of the most dynamic and sought-after destinations in Asia. Key drivers behind this surge include the city’s revitalized neighborhoods, an expanding dining and nightlife scene, and its continuous investment in world-class cultural institutions. More than just modernizing, Hong Kong has managed to blend the best of its rich cultural heritage with cutting-edge contemporary developments. This ability to adapt and evolve has made the city a prime destination for travelers seeking both historical depth and modern experiences.
The city’s tourism success has been further boosted by impactful tourism campaigns, which have significantly raised its profile internationally. As a result, Hong Kong now stands out as one of Asia’s most ambitious tourism markets, attracting visitors not only from neighboring countries but from across the globe. The city’s ability to offer a range of diverse experiences has contributed immensely to its position in the global tourism rankings.
Global Factors Shaping Tourism Growth
According to Euromonitor International, several factors are contributing to the rising global tourism numbers, and changes in destination policies play a significant role. Popular cities like Hong Kong have begun adjusting their entry regulations, revising visa fees, and accelerating the implementation of electronic travel authorizations (ETAs). These changes are largely driven by growing concerns over security, overtourism, and the rising costs of tourism, all of which are having a direct impact on the capacity of major cities to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The main goal behind these policy adjustments is to better manage the influx of tourists while maintaining the safety and appeal of these global destinations.
Overtourism and Its Growing Impact on Popular Cities
One of the key issues affecting Hong Kong and other global destinations is the growing concern of overtourism. As international travel increases, the pressure on infrastructure and local communities intensifies. Hong Kong, like many cities around the world, is grappling with the consequences of such large-scale tourism, and has begun reevaluating its approach to tourism management.
In response to this growing pressure, Hong Kong has undertaken a series of measures, including the adjustment of entry fees, revising visa policies, and accelerating the adoption of electronic travel authorizations (ETAs) to better manage the flow of tourists. These adjustments are not just about controlling the numbers; they are about ensuring that tourism in Hong Kong remains sustainable while maintaining its status as a vibrant, accessible city for travelers from around the world. The goal is to find a balance that allows the city to continue benefiting from tourism while mitigating the negative impacts of overcrowding on local communities and the environment.
The shift in policy is a reflection of a growing global concern about overtourism, an issue that many cities are beginning to address in order to ensure sustainable tourism for the future. As tourism is a key economic driver for many cities, including Hong Kong, the challenge is finding ways to manage visitor numbers while continuing to attract global tourists.
Managing Visitor Numbers: The Role of Electronic Travel Authorizations
To better manage rising visitor numbers and streamline the entry process, Hong Kong and other cities have introduced electronic travel authorizations (ETAs). The system provides a more efficient and secure way to manage international tourists, ensuring a smoother entry process and enhancing security. The use of ETAs allows cities like Hong Kong to monitor and control the number of travelers entering the city, creating a safer and more organized travel experience.
Though the introduction of ETAs and the rise in visa fees might initially cause some disruptions, these measures are seen as a long-term solution to better managing the volume of international visitors. The ultimate aim is to enhance the appeal of destinations like Hong Kong by offering a more controlled, seamless travel experience. These regulatory shifts are essential in maintaining the sustainability of global tourism and ensuring that cities can continue to accommodate tourists without compromising the experience or the well-being of their local communities.
How These Changes Will Affect Travelers Globally
As ETAs and other policy shifts take hold, travelers will experience a transformation in how they interact with the tourism industry. While the introduction of ETAs and changes to visa fees may initially present some challenges, these measures are designed to create a more efficient and secure travel experience. Travelers will likely notice faster entry procedures, as well as enhanced security at popular destinations like Hong Kong. The long-term impact will be a more streamlined travel experience, helping to alleviate some of the frustrations often associated with travel.
For Hong Kong, its ongoing commitment to tourism innovation and policy adjustments has allowed it to continue thriving as a major destination, despite the challenges posed by security concerns and overtourism. The city has demonstrated its ability to implement necessary changes while maintaining its dynamic and diverse tourism offerings. As such, it will continue to be an attractive option for international visitors who are looking for a mix of cultural experiences, modern amenities, and world-class attractions.
Global Trends in Tourism: Broader Implications
The changes taking place in Hong Kong are not isolated; rather, they are part of a broader trend unfolding in popular destinations around the world. As global tourism continues to grow, many cities are reassessing their tourism models and introducing policies to better manage the influx of travelers. The rise of ETAs and the increase in visa fees are some of the key strategies being adopted by cities to streamline the travel process and ensure a better experience for tourists.
As the tourism industry evolves, travelers will find that these new policies will lead to smoother entry procedures, enhanced security measures, and more sustainable travel experiences. These changes will not only impact Hong Kong but will likely influence the way other major destinations around the world approach the challenges posed by increasing visitor numbers.
Key Global Takeaways
- Security concerns are prompting destinations worldwide to implement stricter entry regulations.
- Overtourism is leading to a reassessment of entry policies to manage the growing number of visitors.
- The adoption of electronic travel authorizations is reshaping the way cities manage the flow of international tourists.
Looking to the Future: Sustainable Tourism Practices
The tourism industry is increasingly turning its attention to sustainability as it adapts to rising visitor numbers. As cities like Hong Kong continue to experience an influx of travelers, they are increasingly focusing on strategies that ensure the long-term viability of tourism while preserving local environments and cultures. Cities are aiming to enhance health and safety standards, expand tourism infrastructure, and introduce more effective systems to manage visitor flows.
The future of global tourism will likely see more efficient travel systems, alongside a stronger focus on sustainability. Cities around the world will continue to refine their tourism strategies, which will help them better manage the challenges posed by rising visitor numbers while maintaining their global appeal.
Adapting to a Changing Tourism Landscape
As Hong Kong rises to become the second most visited city in 2025, it reflects the broader shifts happening in the global tourism industry. The increase in international tourism, coupled with new travel regulations such as ETAs and higher entry fees, signals the changing landscape of tourism across the globe.
To remain competitive, Hong Kong and other destinations will need to continue embracing innovation and sustainability in their tourism strategies. This will ensure their long-term success and continue to offer travelers the enriching experiences they seek. The balance between attracting tourists and maintaining sustainable tourism practices will be key in shaping the future of global tourism in the coming years.
