Europe captures one-third of global leisure travel spending

Europe has solidified its position as the leading global destination for leisure travel, capturing one-third of all worldwide leisure travel spending in 2025. According to the latest economic report from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), global leisure travel expenditure reached $6.15 trillion in 2025, a 3.5% year-on-year increase. Of this total, Europe accounted for $2 trillion.

Southern European destinations remain the primary drivers of this demand. France, Spain, Italy, and Turkey are identified as top preferences for international travelers, supported by diverse tourism offerings and high air connectivity. In 2025, leisure spending grew by 3.6% in France, 2.6% in Spain, and 2.2% in Italy.

The positive momentum is expected to continue into 2026, with European tourism spending projected to grow by 3.7%, outpacing the global average of 3.1%. Italy is forecasted to lead this growth with a projected increase of 4.7%, followed by Spain at 4.3% and Turkey at 4.1%.