Demand for European Travel Remains Strong with Shifts Towards Unique Destinations

Overview of European Travel Trends

Travel demand in Europe has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with a notable shift towards quieter, less conventional destinations. Recent insights reveal that regardless of economic hurdles, European travelers continue to maintain or even boost their holiday budgets, aiming for a more diverse range of experiences.

Current Travel Sentiment

According to a report by the European Travel Commission (ETC), a significant majority—77%—of European citizens are planning trips between June and November 2025. This finding highlights an unwavering commitment to exploring new locales and an eagerness to venture beyond traditional tourist spots. The report titled “Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel” underscores this ongoing interest, projecting increased budgets from travelers who are keen on maximizing their experiences.

Who Is Traveling?

The enthusiasm for travel spans various age demographics, with the 55 and older crowd exhibiting the highest intent to travel at 82%. This is closely followed by travelers aged 45-54 (79%) and 35-44 (78%). While the younger generation (18-24 years old) trails at 66%, this figure is noteworthy given the financial obstacles they frequently encounter.

Key Age Group Intentions

• 55 and over: 82% planning to travel
• 45-54: 79% planning to travel
• 35-44: 78% planning to travel
• 18-24: 66% planning to travel

Changing Preferences for Travel Destinations

A significant trend noted in the ETC report is the growing preference for less crowded destinations. Over half of the surveyed travelers (55%) expressed interest in visiting off-the-beaten-path locations, rather than the usual tourist hotspots. This shift aligns with the remarks made by Miguel Sanz, President of the ETC, who stressed the need for destinations to cater to travelers’ evolving preferences and promote quieter experiences, particularly during off-peak months.

Seasonal and Regional Travel Patterns

While the months of July and August remain popular for travel, August is becoming increasingly favored, with 22% of Europeans planning trips during that month. This evolving travel pattern showcases a willingness to embrace off-peak travel benefits such as milder weather, lesser crowds, and enhanced value for money.

Regional Travel Intentions

Transportation Choices and Travel Budgets

Air travel remains the preferred mode of transportation for 53% of travelers, mainly due to its speed and cost-effectiveness. However, the appeal of lesser-known destinations is driving more Europeans (32%) towards car travel. This mode is increasingly favored for its flexibility and comfort, as well as its ability to reach locations that public transport may not adequately service.

Budget Considerations

Despite economic uncertainty, an impressive 62% of Europeans plan to keep their travel expenses stable through November 2025, with 22% aiming to increase their spending. The most common budget averages between €1,500 and €2,500 per person, indicating a steady increase in holiday investment. Spending priorities typically emphasize accommodation (32%) and food and drinks (24%), with variations in preferences across different age groups.

Budget Distribution by Age Group

• Over 45: Prioritize comfort and quality dining
• Under 35: Focus more on experiences and lifestyle upgrades

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of European travel underscores an increased demand for unique and tranquil experiences as travelers seek quality over quantity. As consumer preferences shift towards less conventional destinations, platforms such as LocalsRide provide a valuable service by offering personalized transfer options to those off-the-beaten-path locations at competitive prices. This level of transparency and choice enhances the travel experience, enabling users to choose their preferred vehicle, view comprehensive details such as make and model, and book with confidence.

Ultimately, while trends and reports provide invaluable insights, nothing compares to personal experiences. On LocalsRide, travelers can hire cars with drivers from verified providers at reasonable prices, ensuring they have access to the best services without the fear of overspending. Discover the convenience, affordability, and extensive vehicle options available and plan your next journey hassle-free. Book now at LocalsRide.com.