Virtual Tour Industry

According to a recent report by Grand View Research, Inc., the global virtual tourism market is projected to reach a valuation of USD 30.54 billion by 2030. The market is expected to grow at an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.9% from 2024 to 2030. Virtual tourism is rapidly redefining the landscape of the global travel industry, offering a groundbreaking alternative to traditional travel by enabling people to explore destinations digitally. This innovative model leverages advanced technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to deliver deeply immersive travel experiences, all from the comfort of one’s home. Virtual tourism allows users to navigate iconic landmarks, museums, heritage sites, and other points of interest, effectively removing geographical barriers. With leading technology providers such as Google Earth VR, Oculus, and HTC driving innovation, virtual tourism is no longer a passing trend—it represents a profound transformation in how people engage with and experience the world.

The surge in virtual tourism adoption mirrors a broader societal shift toward digital-first exploration. Companies such as Matterport and Xplorit are setting new standards in the industry by developing high-resolution, interactive virtual tours that authentically replicate the ambiance and layout of real-world locations. These experiences are powered by advancements in VR hardware and software, which now allow for incredibly detailed, 360-degree navigation and dynamic interaction with virtual environments. Whether touring the halls of the Louvre Museum in Paris or exploring the underwater marvels of the Great Barrier Reef, users can enjoy remarkably lifelike encounters that were previously unimaginable without physical travel. This technological progress has expanded the definition and scope of travel, positioning virtual tourism as a compelling medium for education, leisure, and cultural discovery.

One of the most promising aspects of virtual tourism lies in its ability to improve accessibility and inclusivity. Virtual travel solutions are especially valuable for individuals facing mobility challenges, health-related limitations, or geographic constraints. For example, platforms like Ascape VR and Dubai 360 provide immersive access to remote, difficult-to-reach, or physically demanding destinations, enabling broader participation in global tourism experiences. This democratization of travel helps break down traditional barriers and fosters a more inclusive environment, where people from diverse backgrounds can engage with cultures and locations that may otherwise be out of reach. Additionally, virtual tourism opens up new revenue streams for businesses, tourism boards, and cultural institutions by reaching audiences far beyond their physical visitor capacity.

Despite its vast potential, the virtual tourism industry must also contend with several challenges and ethical considerations. Some critics express concern that widespread adoption of virtual travel experiences could negatively impact traditional tourism markets and local economies that heavily rely on in-person visitors. Moreover, there are important discussions emerging around the responsible use of cultural imagery and narratives. Issues such as cultural appropriation, misrepresentation, and the commodification of heritage must be carefully managed. For virtual tourism providers, it is essential to ensure that their offerings are created with cultural sensitivity, accuracy, and in partnership with local communities when possible. This approach not only safeguards the authenticity of the experience but also promotes ethical engagement and sustainability.

Looking ahead, the convergence of virtual and physical travel is poised to redefine the future of tourism. Experts and futurists envision a hybrid travel model where virtual previews of destinations can enhance and personalize physical journeys. Travelers may soon be able to explore sites virtually before committing to a trip, helping them make informed decisions and plan more meaningful itineraries. This seamless integration could lead to a more adaptive and customized travel experience, tailored to individual preferences and interests. As the virtual tourism market continues to evolve and mature, it holds vast potential to reshape global travel—offering limitless possibilities for exploration, education, entertainment, and economic development.

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Virtual Tour Market Segments Highlights:

• 3D virtual tours accounted for a majority share of the global market in 2023. Such tours offer immersive, interactive experiences that simulate real-world travel. These tours allow users to explore destinations from the comfort of their homes, providing detailed, 360-degree views and interactive elements.
• Demand for virtual tourism in art galleries and museums is anticipated to rise significantly from 2024 to 2030. Virtual tourism in art galleries and museums allows users to explore exhibitions and collections from anywhere in the world, overcoming geographical and physical limitations.
• The virtual tourism market in Asia Pacific is set to grow majorly from 2024 to 2030. The region's diverse cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural attractions offer rich content for virtual tours. Rising consumer interest in digital and remote experiences, coupled with a growing middle class with disposable income, drives demand for virtual tourism.

Virtual Tour Market Report Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global virtual tourism market based on type, application, and region:

Virtual Tourism Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

• 360 Virtual Tours
• 3D Virtual Tours
• Virtual Reality (VR) Tours

Virtual Tourism Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

• Tourism
• Real Estate
• Art Galleries and Museums
• Others

Virtual Tourism Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
• Central & South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia

Key Virtual Tour Company Insights

• Marriott International
• First Airlines
• Visit Wales
• Google Earth VR
• Dubai 360
• Bristol From Home
• Ascape VR
• Xplorit
• Matterport
• Expedia

Order a free sample PDF of the Virtual Tour Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.