World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day History

World Tourism Day is an annual celebration observed by countries worldwide. Its primary aim is to raise awareness about tourism's crucial impact on countries' economies and societies. The event allows individuals, communities, and governments to discuss and explore various aspects of tourism, such as sustainable practices, accessibility, and cultural understanding.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) established World Tourism Day in 1980. Since then, the event has become essential for promoting and highlighting the tourism industry's social, cultural, political, and economic importance in the United Kingdom and beyond. The UK, known for its rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside, is a popular destination among tourists worldwide. Tourism is a significant driver of the UK economy, accounting for nearly 10% of all jobs and contributing billions of pounds yearly. World Tourism Day allows the UK to showcase its unique offerings and promote sustainable and responsible tourism practices to ensure the sector's long-term success.

In the United Kingdom, World Tourism Day is celebrated in various ways and often includes conferences, workshops, and exhibitions hosted by industry professionals or government bodies. These events aim to educate, inform, and promote awareness about sustainable tourism's importance for the local economy and the global environment. World Tourism Day typically occurs on September 27th each year, with countries hosting events and activities worldwide to mark the occasion and recognize the tourism sector's substantial contributions.

World Tourism Day facts

• The theme for World Tourism Day in 2025 was Tourism and Sustainable Transformation. In 2024 the theme was Tourism, Justice, and Peace: Bridging Barriers and Amplifying the Voices of the Unheard. In 2023 the theme was Tourism and Green Investments.
• Globally, travel and tourism’s direct contribution to GDP was approximately 5.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2021.
• France continues to be the most visited country in the world with nearly 90 million tourists every year.
• The UK Tourism industry employs over 3 million people.
• The UK has 32 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including iconic locations like the city of Bath, Maritime Greenwich, the Jurassic Coast, and the Giant's Causeway.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Tourism Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Tourism Day

• Indulge in traditional British food and drinks. Visit local pubs or restaurants to try dishes like fish and chips, Sunday roast, haggis, Cornish pasties, or afternoon tea.
• Visit popular tourist attractions such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, or Stonehenge. Discover the rich history and culture of the UK by exploring these landmarks.