In 2024, there will be a record number of overnight stays in the EU: 2.99 billion
According to Eurostat, 2024 was a landmark year for the EU tourism industry, with the total number of nights spent in tourist attractions reaching 2.99 billion, up by 53.4 million nights (+2%) compared to 2023.
The main contribution to tourism growth came from international tourists, who added +58.7 million nights, offsetting a decline in the figures for domestic tourists (-5.3 million nights). This indicates a recovery of international tourism from the constraints of the pandemic.
The highest growth rates were observed in:
- Luxembourg: an increase of 22%, which can be attributed to the country's growing popularity among business and cultural tourists.
- Malta: an increase of 13%, driven by the popularity of the destination for winter tourism.
- Latvia: 7% growth, probably due to promotion in ecotourism and cultural events.
The data show a recovery in the tourism sector in most countries. The increase in the number of nights is due to both improved international travel and effective measures to stimulate demand in domestic and foreign markets.
At the same time, some countries noted a decline in domestic tourism, indicating the need to further diversify and increase the appeal to local travellers.