European Union residents embarked on 250 million tourism trips to other EU countries in 2024, averaging almost a week in duration, according to recent data released by Eurostat. The data reveals significant variations in trip length across the bloc, with Greece and Romania emerging as the most popular destinations for longer stays. This trend in EU tourism highlights shifting preferences and the impact of accessibility and affordability on travel patterns.
On average, EU travelers spent approximately €851 per trip, with peak travel occurring in August (12.8%) and July (11.7%). The length of stay varied considerably; visitors to Greece and Romania averaged around nine nights, exceeding the EU average. Conversely, Estonia and Belgium saw the shortest visits, averaging 3.1 and 3.6 nights respectively.
Understanding Trends in EU Tourism Trip Duration
The differences in trip duration are largely attributed to logistical factors and destination appeal. Reaching countries like Greece, Spain, and Cyprus often requires more planning and expense, incentivizing travelers to maximize their time once there. These destinations also boast established tourism infrastructure and a wide range of attractions, supporting longer stays.
However, proximity plays a key role as well. Belgium’s location, easily accessible to neighboring countries like the Netherlands and France, encourages shorter, more frequent visits. Travelers may opt for weekend getaways rather than extended vacations. This pattern is similar in other densely populated and well-connected regions of the EU.
Accommodation Preferences
When it comes to where EU tourists rest their heads, rented tourist accommodation is the most popular choice, accounting for over two-thirds of all nights spent. Hotels and similar establishments led the way with 39% of nights, while houses, villas, and apartments captured 25%. Campsites remain a niche option, utilized for only 7% of overnight stays.
The prevalence of short-term rentals, facilitated by platforms like Airbnb, TripAdvisor, and Expedia, has become a significant factor in the European travel landscape. These platforms offer travelers a wider range of options and price points, contributing to the growth of intra-EU travel.
Regulation of Short-Term Rentals on the Horizon
Despite their popularity, the rise of short-term rentals is drawing scrutiny from the European Commission. The Commission has acknowledged that these platforms are contributing to the affordable housing crisis in many European cities. An upcoming piece of legislation is expected to address this issue, though the specifics of the regulations remain unclear.
The Commission has not yet detailed how it intends to regulate platforms, but the move signals a growing concern about the impact of tourism on local housing markets. Local authorities already possess some power to manage short-term rentals within their jurisdictions, and some have already taken action to limit their growth. This new EU-level legislation could standardize rules and provide a more comprehensive approach.
Transportation Methods
The primary mode of transportation for these trips was a motor vehicle, used in 44% of cases. Air travel followed closely behind at 41%, demonstrating the continued importance of flights for reaching more distant destinations within the EU. Train and bus travel accounted for 7% and 5% respectively, suggesting a growing, though still relatively small, preference for more sustainable travel options.
The reliance on cars and planes highlights the need for continued investment in sustainable transportation infrastructure to support the growth of European travel and reduce its environmental impact. The increasing popularity of train travel, though modest, is a positive sign in this regard.
Looking ahead, the impact of the upcoming EU legislation on short-term rentals will be a key development to watch. The regulations could reshape the accommodation landscape and influence travel patterns. Furthermore, continued monitoring of travel trends will be crucial for understanding the evolving needs and preferences of EU tourists and for ensuring the sustainable growth of the tourism sector.
