Monday, November 11, 2024 In 2024, European tourism is experiencing a renaissance, as several destinations emerge as frontrunners in welcoming tourists back in record numbers. Leading the way are Malta, Serbia, Portugal, Türkiye, and Greece, each making remarkable strides in international arrivals and overall tourism spending. Together, these countries are setting new benchmarks and contributing to Europe’s substantial growth in the tourism sector.
With international arrivals increasing by 6% over 2019 levels and a year-on-year growth of 7%, Europe is on track for one of its best years on record, despite economic challenges and geopolitical tensions. Here’s a look at how these countries are driving this surge and helping redefine Europe’s tourism landscape. The European Travel Commission (ETC) reports that Europe’s tourism sector has rebounded with impressive growth.
Compared to 2023, spending by international tourists is projected to increase by 10.3%, bringing total spending up to €719.7 billion.
This surge is largely attributed to the growing demand for travel within Europe and improved connectivity with key markets. Additionally, 73% of Europeans surveyed plan to travel between October 2024 and March 2025, signaling sustained interest and potential for growth into the next season. However, this recovery is unevenly distributed across Europe, with certain regions like Southern and Mediterranean Europe showing the most notable gains.
Countries such as Malta, Ser.
