Malta Joins Latvia, Finland, Norway, Lithuania, and More in Unstoppable European Tourism Explosion – A New Era Begins in 2025!

Published on December 10, 2025

Malta joins Latvia, Finland, Norway, Lithuania, and more in an unstoppable surge of European tourism. This is not just a bounce-back; it’s an explosion. Across the continent, countries are witnessing record growth in visitors and overnight stays. With Malta, a rising star in the Mediterranean, leading the charge, it is clear that a new era of travel has begun.

From the snowy wonders of Finland to the cultural treasures of Latvia, each destination offers something unique, drawing in more and more visitors from around the globe. Norway’s stunning fjords and Lithuania’s hidden gems are now on every traveller’s radar. Together, these countries are redefining the European tourism landscape, creating a powerful and compelling story that is impossible to ignore. The unstoppable tourism explosion is here, and 2025 will be the year it takes the world by storm.


Malta: A Tourism Powerhouse

Malta is one of the standout destinations for 2025. With a remarkable 13.0% increase in overnight stays by foreign visitors during the first half of the year, Malta has firmly established itself as a must-visit location for international tourists. The Mediterranean Island, known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, is now attracting a new wave of travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Malta’s tourism growth is part of a broader trend in the Mediterranean region, where increasing interest from international tourists has been bolstered by more affordable flights and expanding accommodation options. Whether it’s the historic city of Valletta or the pristine waters of Gozo, Malta’s charm is undeniable.

However, there is a catch. Despite Malta’s impressive growth, no official data has been released for December 2025 yet. This means we cannot say with certainty whether the island will set a record for the month. Still, the overall trend of rising tourism numbers indicates that the country’s popularity is only set to grow.

Latvia: A Rising Star in European Tourism

Latvia has become another surprise success story in 2025. With a 12.8% increase in overnight stays by foreign visitors during the first half of the year, Latvia has cemented its place as one of Europe’s fastest-growing tourist destinations. Known for its picturesque capital, Riga, and the beautiful beaches of Jurmala, Latvia offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that attracts an increasing number of visitors each year.

Latvia’s impressive performance is no accident. The country has been actively working to promote its unique tourism offerings, including its vibrant arts scene and rich heritage. The growth in Latvia’s tourism is a testament to the success of these efforts, and the country is now on the radar for tourists seeking a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path European experience.

However, like Malta, Latvia does not yet have any official data for December 2025 or any claims of a “record month” for tourism. Nonetheless, the strong performance in the first half of the year suggests that Latvia will continue to thrive throughout 2025 and beyond.

Finland: Snow, Nature, and a 12.3% Increase in Foreign Visits

Finland is another European country experiencing strong growth in 2025. With a 12.3% increase in foreign overnight stays in the first half of the year, Finland has shown itself to be a favourite destination for winter sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a truly unique European experience. From the magical Northern Lights to the tranquil wilderness of Lapland, Finland offers a range of attractions that keep visitors coming back year after year.

The country’s tourism sector has also benefited from increased international awareness, thanks to major international events, direct flight connections, and its unique appeal as a destination for eco-tourism. As people seek out sustainable travel options, Finland is increasingly seen as a go-to destination for green tourism.

Yet, despite this growth, Finland does not have any December 2025 tourism data available. Therefore, while we can say that Finland’s tourism has been performing well throughout the year, we cannot yet confirm if December will see a record number of arrivals.

Norway: Soaring with a 13.2% Increase in Arrivals

Norway has long been known for its breathtaking landscapes, and in 2025, it is experiencing a surge in tourist arrivals. The country saw a 13.2% increase in arrivals in early 2025, with many visitors flocking to its stunning fjords, vibrant cities like Oslo, and world-class skiing resorts. Norway’s unique appeal is hard to beat, with outdoor adventures, rich Viking history, and natural wonders drawing in tourists from around the globe.

Norway’s tourism sector is benefiting from a resurgence of interest in nature-based holidays, with travellers seeking destinations that offer both relaxation and adventure. The country’s excellent infrastructure, wide range of activities, and welcoming atmosphere make it an increasingly popular choice for international visitors.

However, just like the other countries mentioned, Norway has not yet released any data specific to December 2025, and there is no official statement claiming that the country will experience a record month of tourism. Still, the consistent growth in early 2025 suggests that Norway’s tourism industry is on the rise and will likely continue to perform well throughout the year.

Lithuania: Leading the Way with a 21% Increase in International Arrivals

Lithuania is one of the top performers in 2025, with a remarkable 21% increase in international arrivals. This puts Lithuania among the fastest-growing tourism markets in Europe. The country’s capital, Vilnius, is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, while the coastal city of Klaipeda offers a unique blend of history and modern attractions. Lithuania’s tourism industry has benefited from increased international marketing, improved infrastructure, and a growing reputation for being an affordable European destination.

Lithuania’s tourism success is a testament to the country’s increasing appeal among international visitors. Its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming atmosphere have all contributed to this impressive growth. However, as with the other countries in this report, there is no official December 2025 data or claims of record-breaking tourism for the month.

Cyprus: Significant Growth and Increasing Visitor Numbers

Cyprus is another European destination that has been experiencing strong tourism growth in 2025. The island has been cited as one of the destinations with significant growth in visitor numbers, thanks to its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and warm Mediterranean climate. Cyprus offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it a popular choice for travellers seeking both sun and culture.

The country’s tourism sector has benefited from a variety of factors, including a strong summer season, improved air connectivity, and targeted marketing campaigns. Cyprus has been able to attract both regional visitors from Europe and international travellers seeking a unique Mediterranean experience. However, as with the other countries in this list, no December 2025 data has been released, and there are no official claims of a record month.

Slovakia: A Winter Destination with Strong Performance

Slovakia is another country that has seen a boost in tourism in 2025. With a 14.3% growth in arrivals during Q1 2025, Slovakia has shown itself to be a strong performer, particularly during the winter months. The country’s beautiful mountains, historic towns, and cultural festivals make it a popular choice for visitors looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and rich history.

Slovakia has positioned itself as a destination for winter sports, with its ski resorts attracting visitors from across Europe. The country’s affordable prices, stunning landscapes, and charming towns make it an increasingly popular choice for both short city breaks and longer stays.

However, there is no month-specific data for December 2025, and no official claims of a record month. Still, the strong winter performance in early 2025 suggests that Slovakia will continue to be a top choice for winter tourism.

Overall European Tourism Performance in 2025

While the countries mentioned above have experienced notable growth in 2025, it’s important to note that overall European tourism is outperforming 2024. According to reports from the European Travel Commission (ETC), Europe’s tourism industry is on track for a solid 2025, with countries across the continent seeing increases in arrivals and overnight stays. The strong performance of countries like Malta, Latvia, and Finland indicates that Europe is still a top destination for travellers, with many countries benefiting from the trend towards off-season travel, sustainable tourism, and unique cultural experiences.

However, despite the strong growth, no country has officially confirmed a “record December 2025”, and month-by-month data for December 2025 remains unavailable. As the year progresses, more data will be released, and we can expect clearer insights into which countries set records for the holiday season.

The Future of European Tourism

2025 is shaping up to be a record-breaking year for many European countries, with destinations like Malta, Latvia, Finland, and Norway experiencing significant growth. However, despite the surge in tourism, there are no official claims of a record December 2025 month, and more data will be needed to confirm whether the holiday season will bring even more growth.

For travellers, this surge in tourism presents exciting opportunities to explore new destinations, from the snowy peaks of Finland to the historic streets of Latvia. For the travel industry, the growth in tourism represents a chance to tap into emerging markets and promote Europe as a diverse, year-round destination.

As we head into the second half of 2025, expect more surprises and continued growth in the European tourism industry. The future is bright for travel in Europe, and the continent’s appeal is stronger than ever.