Europe captures one-third of global leisure travel spending - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Europe accounted for around one-third of worldwide leisure travel spending in 2025, reinforcing its position as the world's largest leisure tourism region. According to new Economic Impact Research from the World Travel & Tourism Council, global leisure travel expenditure reached $6.15 trillion last year, of which approximately $2 trillion was spent in Europe.

Worldwide leisure spending increased by 3.5% compared with 2024 and represented 80.5% of total global travel expenditure. The figures underline the continued importance of holiday travel to the tourism economy, with Europe capturing approximately one dollar out of every three spent on leisure trips worldwide.

Southern Europe remains at the center of this demand. France, Spain, Italy and Türkiye rank among the world's major summer destinations, supported by extensive international air connectivity, broad source-market portfolios and established tourism infrastructure.

Southern Europe drives tourism demand

Growth continued across several of Europe's largest tourism markets in 2025. Leisure travel spending in France increased by 3.6%, while Spain recorded growth of 2.6% and Italy 2.2%.

The WTTC expects the positive trend to continue. European leisure spending is forecast to increase by 3.7% in 2026, exceeding projected global growth of 3.1%.

Italy is expected to record the strongest growth among the four major Southern European destinations, with leisure spending forecast to rise by 4.7%. Spain follows with projected growth of 4.3%.

Türkiye is expected to increase leisure travel spending by 4.1%, putting it ahead of France, where growth of 2.6% is forecast. The projections indicate that the Mediterranean will remain one of the principal engines of European tourism growth.

Türkiye among the markets expected to outperform

The figures are particularly significant for Türkiye's tourism industry. Alongside Italy and Spain, the country is forecast to grow faster than both the European and global averages in 2026.

Southern European destinations are also benefiting from changing international travel patterns. According to the WTTC, some demand is being redirected from other regions, adding to the already strong flow of travelers towards Mediterranean destinations.

“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,” said WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara.

“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.”

Infrastructure will be crucial for further growth

Continued expansion also creates challenges for destinations experiencing high seasonal demand. Transport capacity, accommodation, visitor management and tourism infrastructure will need to keep pace with growing numbers and expenditure.

“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,” Guevara said.

For the European travel industry, the figures point to continued strong demand beyond the current peak summer season. With regional leisure spending forecast to outpace the global market in 2026 and three major Mediterranean destinations expected to grow by more than 4%, Southern Europe is set to retain a central role in the global leisure travel economy.

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