If there is one airline that offers a window into how America travels abroad, it is United Airlines. In 2025, the carrier’s booking data shows a clear hierarchy of international destinations, one that blends business, leisure, culture, and proximity.

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At the very top sits London, United’s most-booked international destination. The city’s position shows the enduring strength of transatlantic travel, driven by business ties, education, tourism, and a constant flow between the US and the UK. For United, whose hubs offer extensive nonstop service to London, the route remains the backbone of its international network.

In second place is Cancun, showing the continued dominance of leisure travel. Short-haul international flights, visa-free access, and all-inclusive resorts have made Cancun the go-to overseas escape for American travellers. United’s frequent services from multiple US cities have cemented the Mexican destination as a year-round favourite.

Tokyo makes it to third

Tokyo ranks third, showing a strong return of long-haul Asia travel. A weaker yen, renewed interest in Japanese culture, and United’s deep Pacific network have helped Tokyo emerge as one of the most sought-after international cities for Americans willing to travel farther for immersive experiences.

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Canada’s dominance

Close behind is Toronto, telling us the importance of cross-border travel between the US and Canada. Business travel, family visits, and cultural exchanges keep the route consistently busy, particularly from the Northeast and Midwest, where United’s network feeds into strong Canadian demand.

Vancouver, fifth on the list, shows Canada’s west coast appeal. For United travellers, the city offers a gateway to outdoor tourism, Asia-Pacific connections, and a familiar yet international experience, especially popular among travellers from western US states.

In sixth place, Rome represents America’s enduring love for European heritage travel. Italy’s capital continues to attract US tourists seeking history, cuisine, and culture, supported by United’s expanding European summer routes.

Mexico City follows at seventh, it shows a shift beyond beach destinations toward urban and cultural experiences in Latin America. As a major business and cultural hub, the city benefits from United’s strong Mexico network and growing demand for city-based travel.

Eighth-ranked Paris, remains a classic favourite, combining tourism, fashion, and business travel. While no longer at the very top, the French capital continues to draw steady traffic across United’s transatlantic services.

At ninth place, Cabo San Lucas shows the strength of premium leisure travel. The destination’s popularity points to demand for resort-focused, shorter international trips, particularly among travellers from the western and southern US.

Rounding out the top ten is Frankfurt, Europe’s financial and aviation hub. The city’s presence shows the continued importance of business travel and global connectivity, with United leveraging Frankfurt as a key gateway to the rest of Europe.