Poland Joins France, Georgia, Slovenia, Romania, San Marino and Other European Countries as Christmas Booking Surges Outpacing Finland, Hungary, Lithuania

Published on December 2, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Poland has joined the ranks of France, Georgia, Slovenia, Romania, San Marino, and other European countries, as Christmas booking surges outpace traditional holiday destinations like Finland, Hungary, and Lithuania. This remarkable shift highlights Poland’s growing appeal as a must-visit destination during the festive season.

Travelers are increasingly choosing Poland, along with countries like France, Georgia, and Slovenia, for their Christmas getaways. As bookings soar, Poland is proving to be a top contender in Europe’s holiday tourism race. With Finland, Hungary, and Lithuania seeing slower growth, the rise of Poland and its fellow European nations is reshaping the landscape of holiday travel.

Countries like France, Romania, and San Marino are also seeing significant increases in bookings, making this year’s Christmas season one for the record books. Don’t miss out on learning how Poland and these other nations are leading the way—read on to discover what makes them so irresistible to holidaymakers this year.

Europe’s festive season in 2025 promises to be an unforgettable one, with a clear shift in travel preferences. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona have seen explosive growth, outpacing traditional powerhouses like Paris and London. But it’s not just Spain that’s experiencing this surge—cities across Europe, including Rome, Warsaw, and Prague, are seeing remarkable growth as well. Let’s dive into the country-wise analysis of Europe’s top destinations for the festive season, based on RateGain’s recent hotel booking data.

Spain: Madrid and Barcelona Lead the Charge in 2025

Spain is undoubtedly the strongest performer in Europe’s travel market this festive season, with both Madrid and Barcelona breaking records for hotel bookings. Madrid has experienced a staggering 75% increase in bookings compared to the same period last year, while Barcelona follows closely with a 46% rise. Spain’s success story lies in its well-established tourism infrastructure and the country’s ability to deliver a rich, immersive cultural experience, combined with affordability.

Madrid’s dynamic festive offerings, including world-class art galleries, historic landmarks, and vibrant holiday markets, have positioned it as a must-visit destination this Christmas. Barcelona, known for its architectural wonders, beachside charm, and unique Catalonian Christmas traditions, is quickly becoming a favourite among international tourists.

In the face of rising inflation and ongoing global instability, Spain’s closer proximity and strong value proposition are key factors driving this surge. Madrid and Barcelona’s rise signals a changing tide in European travel, with visitors looking for enriching yet affordable experiences without the need for long-haul flights.

France: Paris Stays Strong, but Faces Competition

While Paris remains one of the top destinations for the festive season, the city’s growth has slowed compared to previous years. Paris saw a 22% increase in hotel bookings, which is still impressive but less than the explosive rise seen in Spanish cities. The French capital’s charm, with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre, continues to attract millions of visitors every year, especially during the holidays.

The holiday season in Paris is iconic for its dazzling Christmas lights, festive markets, and world-class dining. However, as more travellers seek out alternatives, Paris is facing increasing competition from cities like Madrid and Barcelona, which offer similar cultural experiences but with fewer crowds and lower costs.

Despite this, Paris still holds a commanding position in European tourism, and for those seeking a quintessential Christmas experience, the French capital is hard to beat. Its status as a cultural and romantic hub ensures it remains at the top of many travellers’ lists.

United Kingdom: London’s Growth Slows, But Its Appeal Remains Undeniable

London, another traditional favourite, has also seen impressive growth, with hotel bookings rising by 31%. However, this growth is slower than in previous years, reflecting the broader trend of travellers looking for alternatives. London’s timeless appeal, with its rich history, festive spirit, and famous landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and Big Ben, continues to draw millions each year.

However, as tourists increasingly favour shorter, more accessible European destinations, London’s dominance in the festive market faces challenges. The city’s high cost of accommodation and living, coupled with the rise of other European cities, may have led some to seek more affordable options. Still, London remains a top choice for those seeking a cosmopolitan Christmas experience, with its renowned Christmas markets, ice rinks, and festive events.

While its growth has moderated, London remains a global leader in tourism and will continue to attract holidaymakers from around the world, particularly those who value tradition and urban sophistication.

Italy: Rome Leads the Charge with Unstoppable Growth

Italy has made a strong showing in RateGain’s analysis, with Rome recording a 49% increase in hotel bookings. The Eternal City, famous for its ancient ruins, world-class museums, and festive events, remains a top choice for holidaymakers. Rome’s combination of historical charm, cultural wealth, and vibrant Christmas celebrations make it a must-visit city for those seeking an enriching holiday experience.

While Milan and other Italian cities also experienced significant growth, it’s Rome that stands out this festive season. With its iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon, combined with its picturesque holiday markets and unique Italian Christmas traditions, Rome offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and holiday magic.

Italy’s success in the holiday market reflects the growing demand for cultural destinations that offer more than just sightseeing. Rome’s appeal lies in its ability to combine rich historical experiences with modern festive offerings, making it a prime destination for both short and extended stays.

Poland: Warsaw’s Impressive Surge

Poland has quietly emerged as one of the most exciting destinations for 2025, with Warsaw recording an incredible 51% increase in hotel bookings. This surge is indicative of a broader trend towards Central European cities, with Warsaw’s mix of rich history, modern infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene gaining recognition from travellers seeking something new and unique.

Warsaw, with its fascinating mix of gothic architecture, Soviet-era landmarks, and modern attractions, offers a completely different holiday experience compared to the usual Western European cities. Its Christmas markets, particularly in the Old Town, attract visitors seeking festive charm without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities.

The city’s impressive growth in hotel bookings highlights a shift in traveller preferences, with Warsaw emerging as a new hotspot for those seeking affordable yet culturally rich destinations.

Germany: Munich and Berlin Continue to Attract Visitors

Germany remains a strong player in the European travel market, with cities like Munich and Berlin experiencing steady growth. Munich saw a 27% increase in bookings, while Berlin, a city known for its dynamic arts scene, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, recorded a 16% rise.

Germany’s Christmas markets are legendary, and the country’s festive spirit is unmatched, attracting millions of visitors each year. Munich’s traditional markets, combined with the stunning architecture of the Alps, make it a sought-after destination for those seeking a classic Christmas experience.

Berlin, with its edgy, cosmopolitan vibe, continues to draw a younger crowd, offering an eclectic mix of art, history, and festive cheer. Both cities cater to different tastes, but their growth reflects Germany’s enduring appeal as a key player in European tourism.

Czech Republic: Prague Rises as a Christmas Wonderland

The Czech Republic’s capital, Prague, continues to gain traction, with a 30% rise in bookings this festive season. Known for its fairytale-like Old Town, stunning architecture, and rich history, Prague offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and holiday magic. Its Christmas markets, with their charming stalls and festive atmosphere, are among the best in Europe.

Prague’s affordability, compared to more expensive Western European cities, makes it an attractive destination for those looking for a more budget-friendly festive getaway. The city’s historic charm, combined with a lively holiday spirit, positions it as one of the best-kept secrets for European city breaks.

Austria: Vienna’s Classic Charm Never Fades

Vienna, Austria’s imperial capital, saw a 23% increase in bookings, reflecting its enduring appeal as a Christmas destination. Known for its classical music heritage, grand palaces, and festive markets, Vienna attracts those seeking a traditional European holiday experience.

The city’s festive offerings, including concerts, elegant Christmas markets, and sparkling lights, make it a prime destination for those wanting a blend of culture, history, and festive cheer. Vienna’s rich cultural offerings, combined with its charming holiday atmosphere, continue to make it one of the top choices for European city breaks.

Conclusion: Europe’s Diverse Holiday Offerings for 2025

The latest findings from RateGain reveal a clear shift in European travel patterns. While Paris, London, and other major cities continue to attract visitors, the rise of cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Warsaw, and Prague signals a diversification in travellers’ preferences. Spain, in particular, stands out as the new leader in European tourism, with Madrid and Barcelona setting the pace for growth.

For travellers, this means more options than ever for a festive escape, with cities offering everything from traditional holiday charm to modern cultural experiences. For the travel industry, this evolving landscape presents both opportunities and challenges, as destinations compete to attract the growing demand for enriching and affordable European city breaks.