Published on
September 21, 2025
US, the Netherlands, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, and Qatar have secured their positions as the top international travel destinations for UK holidaymakers, according to the latest data. These countries have become the go-to spots for Brits seeking a mix of cultural experiences, historic landmarks, and sunny retreats. The appeal of short-haul European destinations like Ireland and the Netherlands, combined with long-haul favourites like the US and Qatar, showcases a diverse range of travel options that cater to all types of travellers. Whether it’s the allure of New York’s iconic skyline, the beaches of Spain, or the modern luxury of Doha, these countries provide the perfect blend of accessibility, attractions, and unforgettable experiences.
In 2025, UK holidaymakers continue to explore the world, with millions flocking to international destinations. While some of the usual hot spots remain top choices, new data reveals which destinations are gaining significant traction. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular international cities for British travellers during the first half of the year.
The latest figures from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) show that Dublin, Ireland, has emerged as the leading destination for UK tourists in 2025, with 4.8 million Brits visiting between January and June. Ireland’s close proximity and its long-standing historical and cultural ties with the UK make it a go-to spot for many British travellers. Whether for short city breaks, family reunions, or exploring the lush landscapes, Dublin remains a cherished destination.
Amsterdam, the iconic Dutch capital, takes second place with 4.1 million UK visitors. Famous for its picturesque canals, world-class museums, and lively atmosphere, Amsterdam remains a top city break choice for Brits. With easy access from the UK and plenty of activities to suit all kinds of travellers, Amsterdam’s position near the top of the list is no surprise.
Spain continues to reign as a prime travel hub for the British, with multiple cities on the list. Alicante, located along the sunny Costa Blanca, secured third place with 3 million visitors. Known for its Mediterranean beaches and vibrant local culture, Alicante offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration for those seeking a sunny escape. Hot on its heels, Dubai, UAE, attracted 3 million UK travellers, making it the fourth most popular destination. Dubai offers luxury, shopping, and sunshine, making it a year-round destination for Brits.
Spain’s popularity doesn’t end there, as Malaga secured the fifth spot with 2.8 million Brits visiting the Andalusian city. Known for its stunning coastline, historical sites, and tapas-filled streets, Malaga remains a staple destination for those seeking sun and culture in equal measure.
Other Spanish hotspots followed closely behind, with Tenerife in sixth place (2.7 million) and Barcelona in seventh (2.3 million). Tenerife’s year-round sunny climate and diverse activities continue to make it a popular choice for holidaymakers, while Barcelona’s blend of modernist architecture, Mediterranean views, and vibrant nightlife keeps it on the radar of many British tourists.
Faro, Portugal, attracted 2 million UK travellers, securing eighth place. As a gateway to the Algarve, Faro continues to appeal to those seeking relaxed coastal breaks in Portugal’s charming towns. New York, one of the world’s most iconic cities, saw 1.8 million Brits visiting the Big Apple, ranking ninth on the list. The city’s iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, and diverse culture make it a bucket-list destination for many British travellers. Finally, Doha, Qatar’s capital, rounded out the top ten with 1.7 million visitors from the UK, offering a modern, luxurious experience and rich cultural experiences.
This year’s data also revealed a positive shift in flight performance. The average delay time for UK flights has been reduced to 12.5 minutes, a welcome improvement compared to 15.5 minutes in 2024. Additionally, flight cancellations within 24 hours of departure dropped slightly to 1.15%, compared to 1.33% last year. These improvements reflect the ongoing efforts by airlines to manage travel disruptions after the challenges posed during the post-pandemic recovery period.
Despite these improvements, passengers are still protected under the UK261 legislation, which ensures compensation for delayed or cancelled flights. This legislation has become an essential safeguard for travellers, giving them peace of mind if their journeys are disrupted.
Here are the most popular international destinations for UK travellers in 2025:
- Dublin, Republic of Ireland – 4.8 million visitors
- Amsterdam, The Netherlands – 4.1 million visitors
- Alicante, Spain – 3 million visitors
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 3 million visitors
- Malaga, Spain – 2.8 million visitors
- Tenerife, Spain – 2.7 million visitors
- Barcelona, Spain – 2.3 million visitors
- Faro, Portugal – 2 million visitors
- New York, USA – 1.8 million visitors
- Doha, Qatar – 1.7 million visitors
US, Netherlands, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, and Qatar lead the rankings as the most popular international travel spots for UK holidaymakers, thanks to their diverse attractions, cultural richness, and easy access from the UK. These destinations continue to capture the interest of British travellers seeking a mix of city breaks, beach vacations, and cultural experiences.
The popularity of these destinations highlights the ongoing appeal of traditional European getaways like Dublin, Amsterdam, and Spain, while newer destinations such as Dubai and Doha are also gaining attention. As the travel industry continues to recover, these destinations are expected to remain top choices for UK holidaymakers in the months ahead, offering a range of experiences from city breaks to beach holidays and cultural explorations. With fewer flight delays and cancellations, 2025 looks promising for travellers seeking memorable escapes.
