The Most Popular Vacation Destinations of 2016

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.

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, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.