Virtual Tourism Market Size

Virtual Tourism Market Size

The global virtual tourism market size was valued at USD 728.6 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 26.4% between 2024 and 2032. The increasing demand for immersive experiences among travelers is significantly driving the market. Modern consumers seek unique and engaging ways to explore destinations without the constraints of traditional travel. For instance, according to Statista by the end of 2024, the total revenue generated from the travel & tourism sector is estimated to reach US 916 bn, which would further drive the growth of the virtual tourism market.

Virtual tourism provides highly immersive experiences, allowing users to virtually "step into" locations, interact with environments, and explore cultures in real-time. This appeal is particularly strong among younger generations, who value experiential learning and adventure. Consequently, virtual tours, interactive cultural experiences, and immersive storytelling are becoming popular alternatives to conventional tourism. This shift not only caters to the desire for authentic experiences but also meets the needs of those unable to travel due to constraints, ultimately broadening the market's consumer base.
 

Moreover, the widespread use of smartphones and tablets, along with increasing internet penetration, is significantly driving growth in the virtual tourism market. With billions of people owning mobile devices, virtual tourism experiences are easily accessible, allowing users to explore destinations anytime and anywhere. For instance, in March 2024, Global Times released a report on Chinese internet penetration, it reported that as of December 2023, China's internet penetration rate has reached 77.5 percent, with the total number of internet users rising to 1.092 billion.
 

This marks an increase of approximately 24.8 million users compared to the previous year, highlighting the rapid growth of internet access across the country. Enhanced internet availability improves the quality of these experiences, enabling seamless streaming of high-definition content, VR, and AR applications. As mobile technology advances, more consumers are engaging with virtual tourism platforms, making it a popular option for those seeking affordable travel alternatives.