Dutch holiday market sees surge in last‑minute bookings and record home sales

European destinations remain the top choice for Dutch travellers booking at the last minute, with more than 80 % of such trips headed to Europe. In June, bookings rose 1 % year‑on‑year, and Croatia posted the strongest percentage growth among European spots, while Norway also gained market share despite smaller absolute numbers. Spain stays popular, though travellers are advised to monitor local fire alerts.

In 2025 a record 2,700 recreational holiday homes were listed for sale in the Netherlands, the highest number in fifteen years. Owners are exiting the market because higher taxes, increased rental costs and stricter box‑3 rules have reduced the profitability of holiday‑home investments. Sales of holiday homes rose 2.9 % to 4,273 units, with average prices around €247,000, while buyers are becoming more selective and often use savings rather than mortgages.

Frank Radstake, director of the Dutch travel association ANVR, noted the shift toward familiar yet varied European getaways, and the NVM‑linked data highlighted the tax‑driven pull‑back from holiday‑home ownership.