Published on
November 3, 2025
Europe is witnessing an exciting tourism recovery. Cities across the continent, once hit hard by travel restrictions, are now experiencing a remarkable rise in overnight stays. According to the latest data from Eurostat, Europe has recorded over 2.99 billion overnight stays in 2024. This marks a significant milestone, showing a 2% increase compared to the previous year, signaling that tourists are once again flocking to their favorite destinations.
This resurgence has particularly benefited the hospitality sector, which has been quick to adapt and cater to an influx of both local and international travelers. Whether it’s the streets of Paris, the beaches of Spain, or the cultural hubs of Italy, tourism is breathing new life into these regions, providing economic relief to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants that depend on it.
Intra-EU travel has been a driving force behind this recovery. Nearly 92% of all trips taken by European residents in 2024 were within the European Union, demonstrating that people are exploring their own continent more than ever before. The trend has proven beneficial for European tourism destinations, as it has led to increased demand for services, especially in countries like Germany, France, and Italy, which are seeing a steady stream of visitors within the Schengen Area. This regional travel boom is part of a broader trend toward sustainable tourism that focuses on exploring closer-to-home destinations.
The rise in international tourism has also played a crucial role. Countries like Malta and Poland have experienced significant growth in international visits, which in turn supports their local economies. In the first half of 2025 alone, Europe recorded more than 1.279 billion overnight stays, reflecting a 2.3% growth over the same period in 2024. This surge highlights Europe’s strong appeal, not only to nearby visitors but also to tourists coming from other parts of the world.
For the tourism sector, this growth brings both opportunities and challenges. Hotels and accommodation providers are seeing a higher number of bookings, particularly in popular destinations. Hotels have captured the largest share of stays, making up about 63% of overnight stays in 2024. However, other accommodation types, including holiday rentals and campgrounds, are also benefiting, seeing growth rates of around 7.8% year-on-year. The preference for diverse lodging experiences has emerged as a key factor for travelers who now seek more variety and unique stays.
As for destination managers and local governments, the priority is to balance growth with sustainability. More tourists can mean more economic benefits, but also more pressure on infrastructure and resources. In places like Barcelona and Amsterdam, tourism authorities are focusing on managing the influx by promoting responsible travel practices, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy the attractions without overburdening the local environment.
The growing demand for both short and long-term stays is helping to fuel tourism-related employment across the continent. Tourism-dependent economies, from local cafes to larger hotel chains, are seeing steady job growth, further solidifying the role of travel in Europe’s recovery. Many destinations are investing in enhancing their tourism infrastructure, ensuring that the visitor experience is seamless, from public transportation to sustainable travel options.
Looking ahead, experts predict that the tourism surge in Europe will continue into 2025. The key to maintaining this momentum lies in further investment in the tourism sector and supporting local businesses. Destinations that can adapt to changing travel trends and offer unique, authentic experiences will likely see sustained growth. The demand for sustainable and eco-friendly tourism is expected to keep increasing, as travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact.
At the same time, it is important for tourism businesses to continue innovating and improving the visitor experience. Offering local culture, outdoor adventures, and a variety of lodging options will be essential in keeping Europe’s tourism industry strong. The post-pandemic travel boom is an opportunity to rebuild stronger than before, ensuring that the growth of tourism not only supports the economy but also preserves the cultural and environmental treasures that make European destinations so unique.
As you plan your next European getaway, now is the perfect time to visit. Whether it’s exploring charming villages in France, hiking in the Alps, or discovering the vibrant arts scene in Italy, Europe is calling. With the tourism industry booming, there has never been a better time to explore, enjoy, and support the growth of this vital sector. Europe’s tourism recovery is a win for both travelers and the local economies that welcome them with open arms.
