According to ETC's latest report, Spain has become the fourth most travel-eager country in Europe in the 2025 spring-summer season. While travel time and spending are increasing, there is a decrease in traditional Mediterranean destinations, and interest in Eastern Europe is rising.

European Tourists Are Looking for New Routes: Spain is in the Top 4

European Travel Commission (ETC), according to the Intra-European Travel Sentiment Monitor report published by, Spain stands out as the fourth most travel-eager country in Europe in the spring-summer period of 2025. Following Poland (80%), the United Kingdom (79%) and the Netherlands (75%), 75% of citizens in Spain plan to travel in the coming months.

Travel Time Is Increasing, Budgets Are Growing

Although the intention to travel in Europe as a whole shows a decrease of 3 points compared to last year with 72%, it is observed that tourists tend to extend their holidays and spend more. 42% of those planning a holiday in Europe in the summer of 2025 plan a stay of 7 to 12 nights. This rate means an increase of 11% compared to 2024.

Travel budgets are also increasing in the same direction. While 30% of participants plan to spend between 1,501 and 2,500 euros per person, 17% anticipate exceeding 2,500 euros. These rates mean an increase of 7% and 2% respectively compared to 2024.

Decline in the Mediterranean, Increase in Eastern Europe

According to the report, while interest in Mediterranean countries decreased by 8%, an increase of approximately 1% was recorded in alternative routes such as Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Belgium and Bulgaria. Travel intention in Eastern Europe increased by 3% annually.

Nevertheless, the south of Europe and Mediterranean destinations will continue to attract 41% of European tourists this spring and summer season. While especially popular holiday towns and resort areas are preferred at a rate of 53%, 35% plan to turn to lesser-known spots.

Young People Invest in Luxury, Old People Invest in Comfort

Accommodation takes the largest share in travel expenses with 27%; food and beverage follows it with 20% and activities at the destination with 16%. The 18-24 age group prefers to spend more on shopping (15%) and luxury experiences (11%). Travelers over the age of 55 allocate more budget to accommodation (33%) and food and beverage (24%) with comfort-oriented preferences.

There Is a Decline in Financial Concerns

Financial concerns continue to be one of the main obstacles to travel across Europe. However, there is a gradual decrease in these obstacles. The rate of those who are concerned about the increasing travel costs due to the impact of inflation decreased by 6% compared to last year to 17%, while the rate of those who cited their personal financial situation decreased to 14%.

According to ETC President Miguel Sanz, “These data underline the strong desire of the European tourist to travel. Holiday duration, willingness to spend and motivation to discover new places indicate a strong return demand. This trend offers the opportunity to manage tourism with a more balanced distribution, not just limited to traditional centers.”