Explain why some cities are more visited than others.

Geographic location

Some cities are highly visited simply because of their position on the map. A city by the sea, with stunning beaches, naturally attracts more than one lost in the countryside far from everything. The same goes for cities located near spectacular natural landscapes like mountains, lakes, or nature parks. These are ideal spots for tourists seeking photogenic scenery or outdoor activities. Cities located on major tourist routes or at a strategic crossroads between several regions also see many more visitors: it's much easier to stop there. In short, a nice or central geographical position can really boost the number of visitors.

Tourist attractions

The most visited cities are those that offer famous or truly unique attractions such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Statue of Liberty in New York, or the Colosseum in Rome. These iconic places attract people because they represent something special or allow for remarkable and unforgettable experiences. Popular amusement parks like Disneyland or Universal Studios also draw huge crowds because they provide entertainment for the whole family. Some exceptional natural sites like Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, or the Great Barrier Reef make a city unmissable, as there’s no way to find them elsewhere. In short, each popular tourist destination offers at least one flagship attraction recognized worldwide that makes visitors want to see it in person.

History and culture

Some cities attract visitors thanks to their rich and eventful historical past. A place can become popular because it houses ancient monuments (Colosseum in Rome, pyramids of Egypt, or the Great Wall of China). Others fascinate more through their arts and traditions, like Kyoto, which enchants with its temples and geishas, or New Orleans, known for its jazz and colorful festivals. Some cities also bear the significant marks of major historical events, like Berlin with the Wall, attracting curious people from around the world seeking to grasp a piece of that history. In short, the stronger a city's cultural personality and captivating history, the more attractive it becomes to tourists.

Accessibility

A city that is easy to reach inevitably attracts more visitors. An international airport offering direct flights from major capitals will increase the number of tourists. Similarly, having a central station connected to an extensive rail network simplifies the arrival of visitors. Cities served by highways or well-maintained roads are more appealing to travelers by car or bus: it encourages spontaneous getaways. On the contrary, cities that are hard to access, requiring long journeys, difficult connections, and inconvenient routes, inevitably lose tourists along the way.

Tourist infrastructure

When visiting a city, having access to a wide and easy choice of accommodations clearly makes a difference. Major tourist cities like Paris or New York offer numerous hotels of all ranges, cool youth hostels, and accessible Airbnb rentals for all budgets. The same goes for restaurants and cafes: better-equipped cities provide a crazy variety of typical, international, or fast food restaurants, creating a much more attractive atmosphere for tourists. Practical infrastructure also matters a lot: having clearly visible tourist information points, efficient and easy-to-use public transport systems, and even simple things like clean public restrooms make the city feel much more welcoming and easier to visit.