As summer 2025 nears, the European Travel Commission’s (ETC) Wave 22 report, “Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel”, suggests Europeans are increasingly seeking out less crowded destinations and traveling during the off-season. Travel remains a high priority, even with economic uncertainties; approximately 77% plan trips between June and November 2025, maintaining or even boosting their budgets.
A Shift Toward Less Crowded Destinations
Interestingly, the report emphasizes a growing desire for less conventional destinations. A notable 55% of European travelers are looking for lesser-known locations, an increase from 48% reported in spring 2025. Traditional hotspots are losing some appeal, now attracting only 45% of travelers. Concerns about overtourism are also apparent, with 11% of respondents now prioritizing destinations that host fewer tourists, a 4% rise from 2024. According to ETC President Miguel Sanz, Europeans don't want to sacrifice travel and are more and more interested in less busy locations and off-season travel. He said destinations should really take advantage of this by promoting less crowded activities and sustainable projects.
Who’s Traveling and When
Enthusiasm for travel seems particularly strong among older Europeans, with 82% of those aged 55 and above planning trips. This is followed by 79% of those aged 45–54, and then 78% of those aged 35–44. Even among younger travelers (18–24), 66% are planning trips, despite financial constraints and less free time. While July and August remain favored months (25%), September is becoming more popular, with 22% choosing early autumn travel. Milder weather, fewer crowds, and better value drive this trend towards off-season trips.
Where Europeans Are Headed
Most Europeans (a full 91%) intend to stay within Europe. Only 8% are considering long-haul trips, possibly because of increased costs and geopolitical instability. Domestic travel (26%) and trips to neighboring countries (33%) remain popular; however, interest is increasing in destinations beyond nearby borders, with 32% of travelers (up 5% from 2024) wanting culturally distinctive experiences within Europe.
The Mediterranean remains a favored region; Spain leads at 13% (a 5% increase from 2024), followed by Italy (10%), France (8%), and Greece (6%). Awareness of the negative effects of overtourism appears to be pushing people toward less congested areas, showing a need for sustainable and authentic travel options.
Travel Preferences and Budgets
Air travel is still the most popular option for 53% of Europeans, valued for its speed (27%) and general convenience (21%). Car travel is gaining traction, with 32% (up 4% from 2024) selecting it for its freedom and ability to reach more remote places. Despite economic worries, 62% of European travelers plan to maintain their current budgets, and a further 22% plan to increase how much they spend. There's been a 3% increase in travelers budgeting €1,500–€2,500 per person compared to last year. Money is primarily being spent on accommodation (32%) and food and drink (24%), though preferences depend on age. Older travelers (over 45) want comfort and good food, while younger travelers (under 35) tend to spend more on activities, shopping, well-being, and other lifestyle pursuits.
