A new year always brings plenty of lists from travel experts and influencers predicting the most popular destinations for the next 12 months. But what countries does AI think will lure the crowds in 2024?
Can AI predict 2024’s most popular travel destinations?
Travel trend analyst Mabrian used the novel technology to listen in on impromptu conversations about vacations on social media between January and October 2023. The results show active and nature-based travel will be priorities for travelers this year. The travel intelligence service then combined this with data on flight connections to single out destinations that best suit the rising trends.
For visitors to Europe, cultural tourism continues to be sought after alongside the growing interest in experiential travel. Mabrian therefore honed in on destinations with plenty of active experiences on offer as well as a strong cultural draw.
Which European country is the most popular in 2024 according to AI?
Perennially popular, Italy stole the top spot in AI’s ranking of the most popular European destinations for 2024. The technology identified four destinations that could be a perfect match for travelers’ motivations this year. Piedmont topped the list thanks to its unspoiled nature, rich culture and even richer cuisine.
Gourmands can delve into the woods with truffle hunters while adventure seekers can hit the snowy slopes of Val di Susa and Via Lattea. Italian destinations also claimed top ten spots: Campania in fifth, Lombardy in seventh and Emilia Romagna in ninth.
What are the top destinations in Europe for 2024?
France’s biggest region, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, came in second place for its award-winning Bordeaux vineyards, castle-dotted Loire Valley and glitzy Basque seaside resort Biarritz. The more intrepid will enjoy the region’s access to mountain hikes and skiing in the Pyrenees.
Third place went to the East of England, the country’s green heart with lazy Norfolk waterways and the misty fens of Cambridge. France returned in fourth place with Occitanie, home to sun-drenched fruit orchards, the rose-hued city of Toulouse and the glittering Mediterranean sea. Finally, the North Rhine-Westphalia claimed sixth place with its extensive cycling networks, romantic castles and major cities like Düsseldorf and Cologne.