Top 15 of the Most Popular Hobbies in the World

One of the most common questions that is asked when we meet someone new is, “Do you have any hobbies?” Most people, regardless of their native country, enjoy at least one form of entertainment and many hobbies transfer easily between various countries. There are many varieties of hobbies and each come with a different price tag. Many are very expensive, but others cost little to nothing at all.

Many hobbies have been known to raise the status of the person amongst the others in their community. Regardless of your interests, there is surely a hobby that will peak your interest. By choosing a hobby, you are able to express who you are and keep your mind and body active for many years. Below are the 15 of the most popular hobbies in the world.

1. Reading

This popular past time is an easy and inexpensive way for you to pass the time. It is also a great way to exercise your imagination as you experience adventures and new lands all without leaving home.

2. Fishing

Although fish is a great food source, many practice in this hobby to relax and get away from it all. Fishing brings us back to nature and provides us with the enjoyment of eating something fresh that we have prepared with our own hands.

3. Sewing

This practical hobby is a favorite to many who enjoy working with their hands and creating something new. Not only is it a functional hobby by providing clothing, but it is also fun to work with new fabrics and designs.

4. Listening to Music

Music is a language all its own. It has the power to move us and dig deep inside to feelings that we didn’t know existed. It is also a hobby that can be enjoyed no matter what language you speak or which country you live in.

5. Bird Watching

Birds are beautiful creatures and many people enjoy watching them flutter about. Various places of the world offer different types of birds making this a fantastic hobby for those who love to travel as well.

6. Wood Working

Another hobby that is popular for those who love working with their hands, wood working takes quite a bit of skill in order to create pieces that are inspiring and beautiful. It is also a functional hobby because many of the pieces that are created can be used in everyday life.

7. Collecting

People collect many things from coins to stamps to comic books. This hobby can be as expensive or as inexpensive that you want it to be because anything can be collected. Many children begin collecting rocks as a hobby and progress to collecting other things as they get older.

8. Watching Television

Most American’s participate in this hobby on a daily basis and it is also popular throughout the rest of the world as well. Although this is a rather passive hobby, it is still a way to relax and pass the time.

9. Golf

Golf is a fantastic hobby because it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. For those who are more active, walking through the course may be a great option for exercise purposes. However, many people choose to ride in a golf cart instead.

10. Traveling

This can be an expensive hobby, but traveling is a great way to see other parts of the world and get involved with different cultures. This hobby is a popular thing to do during the summer when many families go on vacation.

11. Shopping

Shopping can also be an expensive hobby, but there are ways to keep it a bit inexpensive as well. By choosing less expensive shops and thrift shops, you can still enjoy this hobby without spending very much money.

12. Cooking

Eating is a necessary part of life, and many people enjoy creating new recipes and trying new foods. Many feel that cooking is very relaxing and allows them to treat their friends and family to a good meal.

13. Gardening

People of all ages enjoy gardening and it is a great way to grow foods that taste much better than what can be purchased elsewhere. It is also a great hobby if you are looking to make a bit of extra money on the side because these items can easily be sold to others.

14. Spending time with family and friends

This hobby is an important part of socialization and relaxation. Spending time with family and friends is also an inexpensive way to enjoy your time as it passes. Relationships are very important in life and this is a great way to build them successfully.

15. Theater

Theater has been practiced for many years and is popular throughout the world. Many types of performances are available from musicals to serious dramas to romance. Live theater can be watched in many locations around the world.


Hobbies are a great way to relax and enjoy your free time. Finding a hobby that you enjoy is also a great way to keep your mind active as you age. Hobbies are also a fantastic way to relieve stress as well as promote a feeling of gratification when you finish a project. Depending on your specific tastes, hobbies can be fun, relaxing and entertaining.