As millions of travellers head abroad during the peak summer holiday season, Europe has reinforced its position as the world’s leading leisure travel destination. The region captured one-third of global leisure travel spending in 2025, according to new 2026 Economic Impact Research (EIR) data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), sponsored by Chase Travel, Lead Research Partner.
Global leisure travel spending reached US$6.15 trillion in 2025, representing a 3.5% year-on-year increase and accounting for 80.5% of total global travel expenditure. Europe attracted US$2 trillion of that spending. In other words, one in every three dollars spent worldwide on leisure travel went to the region.
The figures highlight Europe’s enduring appeal as travellers embark on this year’s summer holidays. Southern European destinations remain at the heart of this performance, with France, Spain, Italy and Türkiye among the world’s most sought-after summer destinations.
These markets continue to benefit from strong international demand, diverse source markets, world-class tourism offerings and robust connectivity.
Southern Europe Remains a Tourism Powerhouse
Europe’s tourism performance reflects more than strong seasonal demand. The region has also demonstrated longer-term competitiveness, with leisure spending continuing to grow across several major destinations in 2025.
France recorded leisure spending growth of 3.6%, while Spain grew by 2.6% and Italy by 2.2%.
Looking ahead, Europe’s growth momentum is expected to continue beyond the summer season and into 2026. The region’s leisure travel spending is forecast to increase by 3.7%, ahead of the global average growth rate of 3.1%.
Italy is projected to lead the next phase of growth, with leisure spending expected to rise by 4.7%. Spain follows at 4.3%, while Türkiye is forecast to grow by 4.1% and France by 2.6%.
Together, these projections reinforce Southern Europe’s role as a powerhouse of global tourism demand.
Changing Travel Patterns Support European Growth
Europe’s continued expansion is also being supported by evolving global travel patterns. Southern European destinations are increasingly benefiting from demand redirected from other regions, further strengthening their competitive position in the international tourism market.
At the same time, the region’s strong connectivity and diverse tourism offering allow destinations to attract travellers from a broad range of source markets.
As millions of visitors travel across Europe this summer, the region’s performance demonstrates the continued strength and resilience of its tourism sector.
WTTC Calls for Continued Investment
Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said:
“With summer travel at its peak, Europe continues to set the pace for global leisure tourism, capturing one-third of all spending worldwide and demonstrating the strength, diversity and resilience of its tourism sector.
“Southern Europe remains the engine of this growth. Destinations such as Spain, Italy, France and Türkiye continue to attract strong international demand thanks to their unique visitor experiences, excellent connectivity and competitive tourism offerings.
“With millions of travellers currently holidaying across the continent, it is essential that destinations continue investing in infrastructure, connectivity and sustainable tourism management to support future growth and maintain their global competitiveness. The outlook for 2026 shows Europe is well positioned to continue leading global Travel & Tourism.”
The latest outlook suggests Europe is entering another strong period for leisure tourism. Continued investment in infrastructure, connectivity and sustainable destination management will be key to ensuring the region can accommodate future demand while maintaining its position at the forefront of global Travel & Tourism.
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