European City Breaks for Christmas 2025 See Strong Growth: Madrid and Barcelona Lead the Way with Double-Digit Increases

Published on November 28, 2025

Madrid and Barcelona, two of Spain’s most iconic cities, are leading the charge in European city breaks this Christmas, according to recent data from RateGain. The holiday season of 2025 is set to see a remarkable rise in demand for these destinations, as travelers flock to Spain to enjoy festive celebrations, cultural experiences, and winter activities. With a 75% increase in hotel bookings in Madrid and a 46% rise in Barcelona, these cities are outpacing other popular European capitals, including Paris and London, in terms of growth for the Christmas and New Year period.

As travelers increasingly prioritize nearby yet enriching destinations amid global economic pressures, Madrid and Barcelona are benefiting from their rich cultural offerings, festive charm, and enhanced accessibility. Spain’s warm climate, coupled with a wealth of holiday experiences, is attracting European and international visitors looking for an enriching getaway without straying too far from home. This rise in demand reflects broader trends in the European travel market, where shorter, culturally immersive vacations are becoming the norm for the holiday season.

The rise in bookings also highlights a growing shift in the way Europeans are approaching Christmas travel. With longer stays becoming more popular and a strong pre-booking trend, travelers are spending more time exploring the festive magic that Madrid and Barcelona have to offer, making these cities the ideal choice for family vacations, romantic getaways, and cultural explorations.

Key Insights from RateGain’s Hotel Booking Data

• Booking Growth for Madrid and Barcelona:
  • Madrid saw a 75% increase in hotel bookings compared to last year, making it the third most booked city for the 2025 festive season.
  • Barcelona experienced a 46% rise in bookings, placing it fourth in the ranking of top European destinations for the holiday season.
  • Both cities are outperforming traditional favorites like Paris and London, which saw more modest booking growth of 22% and 31%, respectively.
• Top European City Breaks for Christmas 2025:
  • Paris, London, Madrid, and Barcelona lead the pack, with Rome and Warsaw also seeing strong growth in bookings for the festive period.
  • This year, Madrid and Barcelona are benefiting from enhanced marketing efforts, improved seasonal offerings, and stronger connectivity through budget airlines and direct flights.

Why Madrid and Barcelona Are Attracting More Christmas Visitors

1. Rich Cultural Experiences and Festive Atmosphere:
   • Madrid and Barcelona offer an unmatched blend of history, architecture, and festive celebrations. Whether it’s enjoying the lights of Madrid’s Plaza Mayor or exploring the Christmas markets of Barcelona, both cities offer a rich cultural tapestry that draws travelers from across Europe and beyond.
   • In Madrid, visitors can enjoy performances of “Navidad Flamenca” or visit the famous Royal Palace, while Barcelona invites travelers to explore the enchanting Gothic Quarter and its La Rambla Christmas markets.
2. Vibrant Christmas Markets and Festive Events:
   • Both cities are home to a variety of holiday markets, street festivals, and live performances. Madrid’s Navidad Market offers a traditional experience, while Barcelona’s Fira de Santa Llúcia boasts beautifully crafted ornaments and artisan goods.
   • In addition to these markets, visitors can enjoy ice skating rinks, light displays, and holiday parades, further enhancing the festive spirit.
3. Milder Winter Weather:
   • For many Europeans seeking a warmer Christmas, Madrid and Barcelona provide a unique opportunity to escape the harsh winter conditions of northern Europe. While it’s still chilly enough to enjoy holiday festivities, the temperatures in both cities are more temperate, making them attractive alternatives to colder destinations like Paris or London.
4. Affordability and Accessibility:
   • Both Madrid and Barcelona are easily accessible by budget airlines and well-connected train networks, making them ideal for last-minute bookings. Additionally, the cost of accommodations in Spain is often more affordable than in other major European cities, especially during the off-peak Christmas period.
   • Spain’s appeal also lies in its value-for-money offerings, as travelers can enjoy high-quality experiences and cultural immersion without the steep costs associated with more traditional destinations like London or Paris.

Changing Trends in Christmas Travel

• Bookings in Advance:
  • Travelers are booking their Christmas vacations earlier than ever before, with the majority securing their stays nearly three months in advance. This shift allows for better planning and availability, as well as potential cost savings.
  • Longer stays are also becoming more common, with 22% of bookings for 7–10 day stays and 29% for more than 10 days. This trend signifies a growing preference for extended city breaks and deeper exploration of local culture, rather than the typical weekend getaways.
• International Arrivals Increase:
  • International arrivals to European cities have grown by 42% compared to the previous year, but long-haul travel has declined by 62%. This trend points to a shift towards intra-European travel, with visitors opting for closer-to-home destinations for the festive period due to economic concerns and the geopolitical instability affecting longer trips.
  • Spain’s relatively stable political climate and strong tourism infrastructure make it a safe and appealing choice for travelers within Europe and from nearby regions.
• Economic Impact of Changing Travel Preferences:
  • Economic pressures, such as inflation and uncertainty surrounding long-haul destinations, have led many travelers to prioritize affordable, closer destinations that offer a rich cultural experience. Spain’s strong festive offerings have positioned it as the go-to destination for travelers looking for a safe and enriching holiday experience at a reasonable price.

Impact of These Trends on Spain’s Tourism Industry

• Boost for Local Economies:
  • The rise in hotel bookings and extended stays will provide a significant boost to local businesses in Madrid and Barcelona, from restaurants to tour operators. The tourism economy will benefit not only from the influx of visitors but also from increased spending on activities, shopping, and local experiences.
  • Additionally, Spain’s emphasis on cultural tourism and festive activities offers a unique opportunity for hoteliers, transport operators, and event organizers to capitalize on the increased demand during the holiday season.
• Adapting to Consumer Behavior:
  • The tourism industry in Spain is responding to the changing consumer behavior by offering more affordable, culturally rich travel experiences. This aligns with the broader European trend of value-conscious travel while maintaining high standards in cultural immersion.
  • Madrid and Barcelona’s appeal as safe, accessible, and high-value destinations positions them well for future growth in the years to come, making them excellent choices for 2025–2026 holiday plans.

Conclusion

Spain’s vibrant cities of Madrid and Barcelona are set to lead the charge in European city breaks this Christmas season, with both cities seeing significant growth in hotel bookings. As travelers seek closer, culturally enriching destinations that offer both affordability and quality, Spain continues to shine as a top destination for holidaymakers. The increasing demand for these cities signals a shift in travel preferences, where proximity, cultural depth, and festive offerings are paramount. As the 2025 holiday season approaches, Madrid and Barcelona are poised to offer unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the world.