The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially drawn to a close, with Spain defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win the second World Cup in their history.
Whilst a summer of football may be over, some countries are reaping the benefits of having their name on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
We have used Google Search data to compare which countries competing in the 2026 World Cup are expected to experience a travel boom. The following countries saw the biggest increase in search volume. Data was collected using the search term “visit” followed by each country, comparing July 2025 to July 2026.
Contents:
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Argentina
- Paraguay
- Cabo Verde
- Ivory Coast
- Congo DR
- Haiti
- Czechia
- Senegal
- Curaçao
1. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina is located in Southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. It is widely considered one of Europe’s best-kept secrets and remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe for dining, accommodation, and activities.
Following an unprecedented surge in global interest sparked by the nation’s historic performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Sarajevo is rapidly positioning itself as Europe’s most compelling, authentic capital city destination. Long regarded by seasoned travellers as a hidden gem, the city is experiencing a tourism renaissance, welcoming international visitors seeking a profound intersection of living history, cross-cultural heritage, and pristine natural landscapes.
2. Argentina
In the wake of a thrilling run to the final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina is experiencing an unprecedented surge in global travel demand. Long celebrated for its diverse landscapes and rich culture, the South American nation in the global spotlight is welcoming a new wave of international visitors.
While Argentina’s deep-seated football culture has always been a point of national pride, the global visibility of the 2026 tournament has catalysed a significant shift in tourism trends. Global travellers are increasingly seeking out Argentina not just as a vacation spot, but as a bucket-list destination that perfectly blends European architectural elegance, intense cultural passion, and some of the world’s most dramatic natural wonders.
3. Paraguay
For travellers seeking high value, Paraguay stands out as one of the most budget-friendly destinations in South America for dining, luxury accommodations, and private tours. Long regarded as one of South America’s most underrated destinations, the landlocked nation has captured the world’s attention following the national football team’s historic run to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Covering over 60% of the country’s territory, the immense, sparsely populated wilderness of the Gran Chaco and the Pantanal Wetlands has emerged as South America’s premier off-radar safari destination. Driven by the expansion of sustainable eco-lodges, private wilderness safaris operating from remote outposts allow travellers to spot rare, highly elusive apex predators, including jaguars, pumas, giant anteaters, and hundreds of endemic bird species.
4. Cabo Verde
Situated 570 kilometres off the coast of West Africa, Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) is a pristine ten-island archipelago offering an uncrowded alternative to other popular destinations. Blessed with a tropical climate, the country boasts an extensive range of landscapes. Travellers can pivot from the endless white-sand beaches of Sal and Boa Vista to the dramatic, jagged volcanic peaks of Fogo and Santo Antão.
While summer occupancy remains high, the ultimate travel window kicks off in autumn and winter. During these months, lower wind temperatures make it a perfect escape for travellers fleeing the Northern Hemisphere’s winter in search of warmer climates.
5. Ivory Coast
Côte d’Ivoire (The Ivory Coast) has officially entered a new era of prominence in global travel, becoming West Africa’s most rapidly evolving and powerful tourist destination. Following an electrifying summer showcase, the national football team (Les Éléphants) qualified out of a formidable group and advanced to the highly competitive Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
From the gleaming, Manhattan-style skyscraper skyline of Abidjan’s “Le Plateau” district to the surreal, towering presence of the world’s largest Christian church in Yamoussoukro, the country has plenty to offer. The coastlines of Assinie-Mafia have quickly scaled to become West Africa’s answers to premium beach leisure, blending high-end lagoon-front eco-lodges with pristine, undeveloped Atlantic beachfronts.
6. Congo DR
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is located in Central Africa, encompassing a vast and biodiverse landscape. It is widely considered one of the continent’s last untouched natural destinations, offering incredible opportunities for exploration, including encounters with the endangered mountain gorillas of Virunga National Park.
Following a surge in global interest sparked by the nation’s outstanding World Cup performances, places in Congo, such as Virunga National Park, are rapidly positioning the region as Africa’s ultimate eco-adventure destination. Long regarded by avid travellers as a remote wilderness sanctuary, the park and its surrounding region appeal to travellers seeking wildlife conservation, active volcanic crater lakes, and pristine natural wonders.
7. Haiti
Haiti is located in the Caribbean Sea, sharing the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. Often celebrated as the cultural soul of the Caribbean, it stands as a captivating destination for art, vibrant festivals and monumental historical landmarks.
Sparked by the nation’s inspiring World Cup run, curiosity in Haiti has skyrocketed. Port-au-Prince, historic Cap-Haïtien and coastal regions like Jacmel are now positioning the country as the Caribbean’s most authentic cultural destination, attracting travellers drawn to a resilient history, vibrant island heritage and tropical landscapes.
8. Czechia
Czechia or the Czech Republic is located in Central Europe, framed by mountains and countryside. Renowned as one of the architectural pinnacles of the continent, it is an exceptional destination for exploring medieval castles, historic spa towns and culinary traditions.
Capitalising on a sharp increase in travel interest across the Czech Republic following its participation in the World Cup, Prague serves as an enchanting highlight for visitors. The iconic capital showcases the country’s appeal as one of Europe’s most culturally rich destinations, drawing tourists interested in romantic history, modern arts and picturesque urban landscapes.
9. Senegal
Senegal is located on the westernmost point of the African continent, boasting a stunning stretch of Atlantic coastline. Famous for its legendary Teranga (hospitality), the nation provides an accessible destination for vibrant markets, rich musical traditions and world-class surfing.
After their participation in the World Cup, search demand for Senegal has reached new heights. At the heart of this growing interest is Dakar, a bustling capital that acts as the ultimate introduction to the nation’s vibrant culture. The city is rapidly establishing itself as West Africa’s most compelling, cosmopolitan destination, captivating visitors drawn to profound history, contemporary arts and pristine beachfront landscapes.
10. Curaçao
Curaçao is located in the southern Caribbean Sea, forming a vibrant part of the Dutch Caribbean. Recognised as one of the region’s most colourful escapes, the island is a premier hotspot for world-class scuba diving, stunning hidden coves and striking colonial architecture.
Following the nation’s historic World Cup presence, Curaçao is experiencing record-high travel interest. The capital of Curaçao, Willemstad, has established the island as the Caribbean’s most compelling port destination, with visitors travelling there for its UNESCO-listed living history, thriving local culture and stunning beaches.
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