European households unable to afford one‑week vacations, data shows

A report by Eurostat and national statistics offices shows that 17.3 million Germans – about 21 % of the population – could not afford a one‑week holiday in the past year. Overall, 28 % of EU residents faced the same constraint.

Romania leads with 61 % of households unable to fund a short vacation, followed by Greece at 46.6 % and Hungary and Bulgaria each at 39.1 %. Italy, Croatia and Spain report around 32‑33 % of citizens in the same situation, while Luxembourg, Sweden and the Netherlands have the lowest shares at 11‑13 %.

Single‑parent families are hit hardest; only 39 % of them could afford a week‑long break with children. The figures reflect broader financial pressures across Europe rather than a temporary downturn.