Rising heat is changing Europe's summer travel patterns

International

Climate change is influencing holiday decisions, while Mediterranean destinations remain the most popular choice

Recurring heatwaves are increasingly shaping travel behaviour across Europe. While southern European destinations continue to attract the majority of summer holidaymakers, new research indicates that more travellers are adapting their plans by choosing cooler destinations or travelling outside the traditional peak season.

According to the European Travel Commission (ETC), 81% of Europeans say climate change now influences the way they travel. Safety has become the most important factor when choosing a holiday destination, followed by pleasant and stable weather.

Mediterranean remains Europe's favourite holiday region

Despite repeated heatwaves, Southern and Mediterranean Europe continue to dominate summer tourism. The ETC's latest survey shows that 60% of travellers still plan to spend their spring and summer holidays in the region.

Industry representatives say demand for classic beach holidays remains strong. "Customers continue to actively seek sunshine destinations during the peak summer months," said Aage Dunhaupt, Director of Communications at TUI Group.

Florencia Allo Moreno, General Manager Western Europe at Intrepid Travel, added that the company has not experienced significant cancellations linked to high temperatures.

Travellers increasingly seek cooler alternatives

Although Mediterranean destinations remain highly attractive, travel patterns are gradually evolving. More holidaymakers are choosing the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn instead of travelling during the hottest summer weeks.

Intrepid Travel reports a 17% increase in bookings for Italy during April, May, September and October. At the same time, demand for so-called "coolcations" is growing, with travellers increasingly opting for destinations such as Iceland, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Scotland and Ireland.

The trend is reflected in ETC data, which show rising international arrivals in several northern European countries, including Finland, Norway and Poland, while destinations such as Lithuania, Iceland and Latvia also recorded strong growth in overnight stays.

Tourism industry adapts to a warmer climate

Experts believe the tourism industry will increasingly have to adapt to rising temperatures by strengthening resilience and extending the tourism season. Longer spring and autumn seasons could help spread visitor demand more evenly throughout the year while creating additional employment opportunities outside the traditional summer months.

At the same time, researchers expect Mediterranean destinations to remain among Europe's leading holiday regions for the foreseeable future. Alongside sunshine, beaches and climate, cultural heritage, gastronomy and competitive prices continue to be key reasons why travellers choose southern Europe despite increasingly frequent heatwaves.