In the first months of 2024, the tourism sector in Europe exceeded the figures of 2019 after showing strong signs of recovery in foreign arrivals and overnight stays.
This was revealed by the most recent report of the European Travel Commission (ETC), which also showed that compared to the data of 2019, both foreign arrivals and overnight stays had increased this year, thus marking a total of 7.2 per cent and 6.5 per cent, respectively, .
Commenting on these figures, ETC’s President Miguel Sanz said that consumer travel spending is set to rise notably across Europe, hitting record numbers in the following months.
Such growth was also followed by data in 2023, which recorded arrivals 1.2 per cent under 2019 levels, and nights just 0.2 per cent below.
The resurgence of European tourism was mainly driven by strong travel within the region, with countries such as:
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Netherlands
At the same time, demand from the United States, Europe’s leading market with long resources, continues to contribute to the recovery.
Southern EU Countries Lead Recovery in International Visitor Numbers
Based on the ETC report, countries such as Serbia, Bulgaria, Türkiye, Malta, Portugal, and Spain have experienced significant increases in visitor numbers compared to the levels in 2019. As for Norway, Sweden and Denmark, they recorded increases in terms of overnight stays.
However, countries in the Baltic region are facing challenges due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania are experiencing decreases in international arrivals.
In terms of long-haul source markets, the US and Canada remain dominant, while there has been an increase in travellers from Latin America, notably Brazil. Nevertheless, recovery in the Asia-Pacific region remains slow in attracting travellers from Japan.
Despite the positive result, the ETC, in its report, points out that the European tourism industry faces significant challenges, including inflationary pressures and geopolitical uncertainties, mainly stemming from the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel. In this regard, industry professionals cite that accommodation costs, business expenses, and staff shortages are key concerns.
Consumer data also shows that travel remains a top priority in 2024. Both intra-European and long-haul tourist spending increased in early 2024. Forecasts indicate that travellers will spend €742.8 billion in Europe this year, a 14.3 per cent increase compared to 2023.
Germany & France Expect to Attract a Surge in Domestic & International Tourist This Summer
Europe will be hosting two major sporting events this summer: the Olympic Games in France and the UEFA European Football Championship in Germany. These events are anticipated to attract domestic and international tourists, with significant economic benefits expected for host cities and countries.