According to a report from the European Travel Commission, European tourism is set to reach new heights, with 76% of Europeans planning to travel between June and November 2024. Visiting another European country remains the most popular choice for 58% of travellers, with Southern/Mediterranean Europe being the top region for summer travel.

Sun & Beach trips are the undisputed preferred option for summer travel, with 19% of Europeans choosing this type of leisure trip. This trend is particularly prominent among Europeans aged 45 and above, who show a notable preference for extended vacations lasting beyond seven days.

The preferred countries for seaside destinations include Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. These countries are expected to see a significant influx of tourists during the summer months.

Travel concerns include safety, pleasant weather conditions, and bargains, while economic situation and personal finances are also significant factors. A notable trend is the increasing concern about extreme temperatures, with 32% of travellers avoiding destinations with extreme temperatures, particularly those over the age of 55.

In terms of planning, travel websites, online search engines, and online maps are the top digital tools used by Europeans to plan their trips. This highlights the importance of having a strong online presence for destinations and travel businesses.

Overall, the European travel market is expected to experience significant growth in the coming months, with seaside destinations being a major draw for tourists.

Read the full report from the European Travel Commission here.