Spain remains Europe’s most searched-for and booked destination heading into 2026, holding onto the top spot as travellers continue to favour its cities, coastlines and culture. The country’s dominance comes even as Europe overall welcomed over 130 million international tourists in the first quarter of 2026, according to a survey by Amadeus Travel Intelligence and UN Tourism, with regional passenger traffic up 2.3% and hotel occupancy rising 2% year-on-year.
While Spain holds the lead, Czechia emerged as the fastest-growing booked destination, posting 18% year-on-year growth and ranking among the most searched destinations in Central and Eastern Europe. Iceland followed closely with 11% growth.
Online interest is also shifting further afield: Uzbekistan and Tajikistan saw searches climb 64%, while other countries registering strong search growth include Switzerland and Sweden (36%), Denmark (34%), Ireland (33%), Belgium (32%), and Norway (31%). Around 1,100 new flight routes launched in 2025, led by Germany (96), France (58), and Spain and Italy (51 each). Japan stood out as Europe’s fastest-growing long-haul source market, with 62% search growth and 19% conversions.
The survey also found that travellers aged 46–65 make up one in three visitors, driving much of the demand across northern, central, and eastern Europe.
