Seaside vacations have become more expensive this year. The prices for stays have increased, on average, by 10% to 30% compared to last year. Travel agencies explain the price hikes with inflation, rising fuel costs, increased wages in tourism, and higher hotel rates. Despite the increases, the demand for seaside holidays remains high. In 2025, Turkey, Greece, Egypt, and Bulgaria continue to top the preferences of Moldovans, reports IPN.
The “hot” offers or those out of season start, this year, from 200 euros for Bulgaria and 300-400 euros for Greece or Turkey, and can reach up to 1,000 euros, depending on the amenities included in the tour packages. Those who choose exotic destinations, such as the Maldives, Zanzibar, Mauritius, or Bali, have to pay a few thousand euros.
According to the director of the FainTur travel agency, Maria Marinuta, the Turkish coast, especially the Antalya area, remains the top choice for Moldovan tourists: “This phenomenon is due not only to the magnetism of the Mediterranean Sea, but also to Turkish hospitality, the variety of ottoman dishes, and the well-developed hotel infrastructure.”
Maria Marinuta says that Egypt also attracts many tourists, and the list of favorite destinations is completed by Bulgaria, Spain, Greece, Montenegro, and Cyprus.
The director of the Travel Planet tourism agency, Ion Alexe, emphasizes that Egypt is more attractive outside the summer season, being preferred by tourists in the cooler months. “In addition to the traditional destinations chosen by Moldovans, in recent years countries such as Tunisia, Montenegro, Albania, the United Arab Emirates, Tanzania or Sri Lanka are gaining popularity,” mentioned the head of the tourism agency.
Prices vary depending on several factors: the level of the hotel, the type of transport, the meal plan, the vacation location, and the booking period. According to Ion Alexe, the price increases have mostly affected the tourist packages in Greece: “It is the destination that has become the most expensive this year, the increases being caused by the rise in hotel and resort taxes”.
For tourists willing to spend larger amounts, agencies also offer premium packages. For example, Voiaj International, proposes luxury vacations in exclusive resorts in Belek (Turkey) or the Maldives, with prices ranging from 9,700 to 16,100 euros for a family of four. The package includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and medical insurance for a period of 7-10 days.
Even though the preferences of Moldovans have not radically changed in the last decade, more and more are seeking authentic experiences. Some are giving up the classic concept of all-inclusive in favor of active holidays, focused on excursions and cultural interactions.