Spain Joins Austria, Italy, Poland, and Germany in Europe’s Unstoppable Christmas Hotel Booking Surge, Fueling a Record-Breaking Tourism Boom, New Research Says More Than You Know

Published on December 3, 2025

Spain is joining Austria, Italy, Poland, and Germany in an unstoppable Christmas hotel booking surge that is propelling a record-breaking tourism boom across Europe and here is the new research. As the festive season approaches, travelers are flocking to these iconic European destinations, eager to experience the holiday magic in cities renowned for their rich culture and stunning holiday displays.

The surge in bookings has reached unprecedented levels, with Spain, alongside Austria, Italy, Poland, and Germany, playing a crucial role in fueling this tourism explosion. The rising demand for hotel accommodations during Christmas is reshaping the tourism landscape, offering unparalleled growth opportunities for the industry.

Whether it’s the charm of Spain’s coastal cities, the winter wonderland of Germany’s Bavarian Alps, or the festive allure of Poland’s Christmas markets, the combination of these countries’ vibrant holiday atmospheres and world-class amenities is driving the tourism sector into a new era of success.

The Unstoppable Rise of Spanish Cities: Madrid and Barcelona Leading the Way

Spain is undeniably setting the pace for growth in European city breaks, with Madrid and Barcelona seeing massive increases in hotel bookings for the 2025 Christmas period. According to data from RateGain, Madrid has experienced an astonishing 75% rise in bookings compared to last year, while Barcelona is up by 46%. This is a sharp contrast to the more modest growth rates of cities like Paris and London, which remain the most popular destinations but have seen slower increases—22% and 31%, respectively.

Why is Spain experiencing such growth? Several factors contribute to this surge. First, Madrid and Barcelona offer a unique blend of cultural heritage, festive atmosphere, and modern amenities that attract both domestic and international travelers. Madrid’s Christmas markets, the famous Puerta del Sol lights, and Barcelona’s Christmas events around Gaudí’s landmarks create a magical holiday experience.

Additionally, Spain’s enhanced connectivity and strengthened seasonal offerings have made these cities increasingly attractive to tourists looking for enriching cultural experiences, vibrant festive activities, and mild winter weather compared to other European destinations.

A Closer Look at Other European Cities Benefiting from Christmas Bookings Growth

While Spain leads the charge, other European cities are also seeing impressive growth. Let’s take a closer look at the top performers for the 2025 Christmas season:

Rome: A Classic Christmas Destination

Rome, with its rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican, has always been a popular destination. For the Christmas season, the city is enjoying a 49% increase in bookings. Rome’s Christmas markets, beautifully illuminated squares, and historical charm make it a must-see during the holidays. Visitors can also explore the city’s world-class museums, art galleries, and churches, adding depth to their festive travel experience.

Warsaw: A Rising Star in Central Europe

The Polish capital of Warsaw is experiencing an impressive 51% increase in hotel bookings. Known for its beautiful Old Town, Christmas markets, and vibrant cultural scene, Warsaw is becoming a more popular destination for winter travelers. The city’s holiday lights, historical attractions, and growing culinary scene make it an attractive and affordable alternative to the more crowded Western European cities.

Vienna: The Christmas Capital of Central Europe

With its elegant palaces and festive Christmas markets, Vienna has long been a beloved Christmas destination. This year, bookings are up by 23%. Visitors are drawn to the Viennese Christmas markets, the Prater amusement park, and the grandiose Hofburg Palace. For travelers seeking a traditional European holiday experience, Vienna remains a top choice.

Prague: A Fairytale Christmas Experience

Prague, with its stunning medieval architecture and festive holiday markets, has also seen strong booking growth, with a 30% increase in hotel bookings. The city’s fairy-tale atmosphere, particularly during the winter months, combined with its affordable prices and rich culture, has made it one of the most sought-after Christmas destinations in Europe.

Berlin and Munich: German Christmas Markets Attract More Visitors

In Germany, Berlin and Munich are seeing consistent growth. Bookings in Munich have increased by 27%, while Berlin saw a modest 16% rise. These cities are famous for their Christmas markets, including the Christkindlmarkt in Munich and the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market in Berlin. For many travelers, the festive atmosphere of these German cities is an essential part of their holiday experience.

Hotel Booking Growth in Key Cities

Recent data confirms the surge in hotel bookings during the festive period between December 20 and January 4, with certain cities experiencing record growth. According to RateGain, the 2025 Christmas season is set to surpass previous years in terms of hotel occupancy and revenue.

Here’s a closer look at the YoY booking growth for some of the leading European destinations:

This table illustrates the rapid growth in hotel bookings for Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona, which have seen massive year-on-year increases. Warsaw and Prague also stand out in terms of growth, reinforcing the broader trend of increased interest in Central European cities during the holiday season.

Longer Stays and Earlier Bookings: A Changing Trend

One of the most notable trends for the 2025 Christmas season is the shift in how travelers are planning their holidays. According to RateGain’s data, travelers are not only booking earlier but also opting for longer stays.

• 18% of bookings are for 3–4 days.
• 22% are for 7–10 days.
• 29% are for stays longer than 10 days.

This trend towards longer stays signifies that travelers are increasingly looking for enriching experiences that extend beyond just the holiday itself. This behavior benefits accommodation providers and local tourism economies, as longer stays result in more spending on dining, shopping, and experiences. Hotels, tour operators, and city marketing agencies can take advantage of this trend by offering extended packages that blend sightseeing with cultural and festive activities.

Economic Pressures: Why Closer-to-Home European Destinations Are Gaining Popularity

The surge in bookings for European cities can also be attributed to economic pressures caused by inflation and geopolitical instability in some long-haul destinations. As long-haul travel becomes more expensive and uncertain, many travelers are opting for closer and more predictable destinations. European cities, with their rich cultural offerings and ease of access, provide a safe and affordable alternative to the risks of international travel.

This trend is particularly important for airlines, tour operators, and destination marketers, as they now have an opportunity to tap into the demand for shorter, high-value holidays. Travelers are no longer just looking for the cheapest option; they want memorable, enriching experiences without the stress of long-haul travel.

International Arrivals vs. Long-Haul Travel

Data from RateGain also reveals that international arrivals to European cities have increased by 42% compared to the previous year. However, long-haul travel has dropped by a significant 62%, reinforcing the growing demand for closer-to-home destinations. This shift towards short-haul European destinations suggests a deepening trend where travelers are prioritizing destinations that are safe, accessible, and cost-effective—all characteristics of European cities.

For airlines, tour operators, and city marketing organizations, this trend offers the opportunity to tailor their offerings to intra-European markets. Airlines may increase the frequency of short-haul flights to major European cities, while city marketers can craft campaigns that appeal to domestic travelers and those from neighboring countries.

Regional Comparison and Conclusions: Why Some Regions Are Seeing Higher Growth Than Others

When we compare the data from Southern Europe, Central Europe, Western Europe, Northern Europe, and Eastern Europe, several patterns emerge:

• Southern Europe (primarily Spain) is leading the charge in hotel bookings growth due to a combination of favorable weather, affordable pricing, and a strong emphasis on festive tourism.
• Central Europe, led by cities like Warsaw and Prague, is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing tourism infrastructure, cultural richness, and value for money.
• Western Europe cities like Berlin and Munich saw slower growth, likely due to higher competition from other cities and rising accommodation prices, making Eastern Europe and Southern Europe more attractive alternatives.
• Northern Europe, with cities like Stockholm and Oslo, remains steady, with luxury tourism driving the growth.
• Eastern Europe shows strong performance from cities like Budapest and Warsaw, driven by affordable pricing, unique cultural experiences, and increasingly attractive holiday offerings.

In conclusion, while Southern Europe remains the frontrunner in terms of growth, Eastern and Central Europe are not far behind, demonstrating how shifting economic conditions, regional value, and festive tourism efforts are shaping the future of European tourism.

The Future Outlook for European City Breaks

The 2025 holiday season marks a turning point for European city breaks, with an undeniable shift in the dynamics of the market. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, and Warsaw have set a new benchmark in hotel bookings, signaling that short-haul European destinations are gaining even more prominence.

For the future, European tourism is expected to continue thriving, driven by several factors:

1. Increased demand for experiential travel: Travelers will continue seeking authentic, enriching experiences, from Christmas markets to historic landmarks.
2. Stronger regional connectivity: As more flights become available between European cities, travel will become more accessible, further promoting intra-European tourism.
3. Value-driven choices: With inflation and uncertainty in the global market, European cities offer affordable, safe, and culturally rich experiences—perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Sustainability: The growing focus on eco-tourism will benefit cities like Vienna and Prague, known for their sustainability efforts and focus on preserving cultural heritage.

How the Travel Industry is Adapting to the Surge in Christmas Bookings

The massive growth in European city breaks is reshaping the travel industry. For hoteliers, tour operators, and destination marketers, the trend offers numerous opportunities. Here’s how the industry can capitalize on this surge:

1. Package Longer Stays with Cultural Experiences: Cities like Madrid and Barcelona can offer more comprehensive holiday packages that include cultural activities and festive programming. With travelers opting for longer stays, there’s an opportunity to provide immersive experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing.
2. Target Short-Haul Markets: Given the popularity of shorter European city breaks, targeting neighboring countries such as Germany, France, and Italy can provide valuable opportunities. Airlines, OTAs, and local tourism boards can focus their marketing efforts on these markets to attract more visitors.
3. Promote Safety and Accessibility: With the ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, travelers are prioritizing safe and accessible destinations. European cities that can offer this, such as Vienna and Warsaw, will continue to see strong demand.

Conclusion: The Future of European City Breaks

The Christmas city break trend in Europe is more vibrant than ever, with Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, and Warsaw leading the way. As European cities continue to offer rich cultural experiences, robust festive programming, and a welcoming atmosphere, they are poised to remain the top destinations for travelers seeking a festive escape. The 2025 holiday season marks a new chapter for European tourism, with cities expanding their reach, attracting a broader demographic, and providing visitors with unique, memorable experiences. As the demand for shorter, value-driven trips continues to rise, European city breaks will remain a central feature of the winter travel landscape.