Despite a slight dip in overall travel intent, Europeans are planning longer holidays with higher budgets for spring and summer 2025, according to new research from the European Travel Commission (ETC). The findings, published today in the Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel – Wave 21 report, highlight changing travel preferences across the continent.
While 72% of respondents said they plan to travel within Europe between April and September 2025—down 3% from last year—the nature of their travel is evolving. Europeans are prioritizing extended stays, increased spending, and more diverse destinations.
Longer Holidays and Higher Spending
More than a quarter (27%) of Europeans plan to take three or more trips this spring and summer, a 6% increase compared to 2024. In addition, 42% intend to stay for 7–12 nights, up 11% year-on-year.
Travel budgets are also on the rise. Nearly one in three travelers (30%) expect to spend between €1,501 and €2,500 per person per trip, up 7% from last year. Another 17% are planning to spend more than €2,500 per trip—an indicator that travel remains a high personal priority, even amid economic uncertainties.
Financial concerns, though still present, appear to be easing. Fewer respondents cited inflation and personal finances as barriers to travel, with concerns about travel costs falling from 23% to 17%, and worries over personal finances dropping to 14%.
Accommodation remains the top spending priority across all age groups (27%), followed by food and drink (20%) and destination activities (16%). Younger travelers aged 18–24 are more likely to splurge on shopping (15%) and luxury experiences (11%), while travelers aged 55 and above place greater value on comfort, spending more on accommodation (33%) and food (24%).
Regional Travel Intent Varies
Travel intent remains strongest in Poland (80%), the UK (79%), the Netherlands (75%), Spain (75%), and Italy (73%). By contrast, the lowest intent to travel was observed among the French (65%), Belgians (68%), Austrians (69%), Swiss (69%), and Germans (70%).
Southern and Mediterranean Europe continue to attract the largest share of travelers (41%). However, the report notes an 8% year-on-year decline in interest for these traditional destinations. At the same time, interest in Eastern Europe is growing—up 3%—and countries such as Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Belgium, and Bulgaria have seen modest increases in popularity.
Miguel Sanz, President of ETC, said the findings underscore the resilience of European travel.
“Despite ongoing global uncertainties, Europeans continue to prioritise meaningful travel experiences,” Sanz said. “Their robust confidence—reflected in longer stays, increased spending, and a willingness to explore further—signals a strong desire to reconnect with destinations and cultures across the continent.”
Alternative and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations Gain Appeal
Traditional tourist hubs such as major cities, coastal resorts, and popular villages still account for the majority of travel plans, with 53% of travelers favoring these destinations. However, 35% are now opting for less frequented locations, and 13% are exploring off-the-beaten-path spots within their chosen countries.
Notably, travelers selecting non-traditional destinations tend to stay longer and spend more. Around 38% of these travelers plan holidays of more than 10 days, compared to just 21% among those choosing more established locations. A significant portion of these travelers also budget over €2,500 for their trips.
Climate Concerns Shaping Travel Behavior
Environmental awareness is increasingly influencing travel decisions. An estimated 81% of Europeans now say that climate change affects how they travel—an increase of 7% from 2024.
In response, many are adjusting their plans: 17% say they check weather forecasts more carefully, 15% are actively choosing milder climates, and 14% avoid destinations known for extreme heat. This shift in behavior could explain the rising interest in cooler or alternative travel spots during the summer months.
