As 2017 inches closer and closer, we're paying our dues to 2016 by rounding up some of the year's most traveled destinations thanks to the experts at Hilton Garden Inn, who have shared their insider stats. Read on to find out which cities and countries reigned supreme this past year. Remember: it's not too late to make it there before the ball drops.
:upscale()/ps-image-unavailable.png)
Italy
Europe is always a popular vacation destination, and Italy continues to top the list. Each region within the country is unique in its own way. Sicily, pictured above, is the quintessential beachy getaway, while more bustling cities like Rome and Florence are known for their history, art, and architecture. We can't talk about Italy without giving a nod to the unparalleled food and wine culture.
England
Across the pond, London is becoming a major hot spot. Whether or not we can thank the royals for that is unclear, but we do know that the city is full of things to do and sights to see. There's the London Eye, Kensington Palace, and Big Ben, plus tons of cool museums, incredibly unique department stores, and outdoor markets. It's also an English-speaking country, which is great for those who want to avoid the language barrier while traveling.
Dubai
Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, has continued to grow in popularity. It's known for its contemporary culture, unbeatable shopping, and luxurious spas. Dubai also has a great nightlife scene, as well as towering futuristic buildings that leave many in awe. We have a feeling this city is only going to get trendier in 2017.
United States
At home, cities including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles saw the most tourists in 2016. It's no surprise, because who could resist sights like the Freedom Tower, the Bean, and the star-studded streets of California? States like Florida and Texas also made the list, mainly because of attractions like amusement parks.
Indonesia
Bali, one of the islands located in the country of Indonesia, is arguably the most talked-about vacation destination right now. It's known for its sprawling rice fields, gorgeous beaches, and historic temples. The people of Bali are warm and welcoming and love to share their culture with visitors.
India
New Delhi is the capital of India and a district within the city of Delhi. It houses a myriad of historic sites, museums, and gardens that attracted tons of travelers in 2016. It's also one of the most technologically advanced cities in Asia thanks to its transportation system.
Brazil
With all of the buzz surrounding the Rio Summer Olympics, Brazil rose to the top in 2016. It's known for being one of the most lively beach destinations in the world, but Brazil also boasts flourishing wildlife, iconic music, and champion sports teams.
Peru
Brazil's neighbor to the left, Peru, also saw a spike in traffic. Lima is the coastal capital and largest city in the country, with commerce and metropolitan vibes. Contrarily, one of the most sought-after adventures is the trek to Machu Picchu, which is an abandoned Incan site nestled within the Andes mountains of Peru.
:upscale()/2016/11/22/825/n/1922441/364d402014832775_Untitled-3.jpg)
More From Hilton Garden Inn
Picked a destination? Use HGI's Travel Guide to find your hotel and book your stay directly through HGI.com for a guaranteed discount.