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The 15 Best Cities in Europe in 2022

The best cities in Europe, according to Travel + Leisure readers, offer history, art, food, and more.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite cities in Europe.

It's time for that long-awaited European vacation , whether it's your first visit to the continent or your tenth. And while you should definitely spend some time on a beach this summer, Europe's cultural capitals should also feature prominently on your itinerary. With world-class art, centuries of history, and destination-worthy fine dining, the best cities in Europe continue to beckon Travel + Leisure readers.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value.

Spain claimed three of our readers' favorite cities: Cordoba (No. 15), Madrid (No.11), and Seville (No. 3). Readers particularly loved the ways Seville encouraged spontaneity. "What a great city to get lost in," said one voter. "The people are friendly, and you never know what surprises await you. We happened upon outdoor light shows and festivals just wandering around the city."

Nearby, Portugal's two stars, Lisbon and Porto, came in at No. 7 and No. 8, respectively. "I want to move to this city," wrote one reader who visited Lisbon. "Excellent culture, amazing hospitality, and the weather is perfect." Another element of the Portuguese capital that travelers appreciated? The authenticity and quality of its crafts. "The things you purchase were made in Portugal, and you will be proud to bring them home."

A handful of Central and Eastern European cities also made the list. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia , was ranked No. 6, while Kraków, Poland, came at No. 9. "Ljubljana was a delightful surprise," said one voter. "The capital was beautiful, and we had a fabulous guide for a walking tour of the old town," chimed in another. Turkey, a country of rich cultural exchange that straddles both Europe and Asia, also netted two cities on the list: Istanbul (No. 2) and Bodrum (No. 4)

But it was perennial favorite Florence, voted readers' most loved city in 2020 and 2019, that once again claimed the top spot. Read on to find out why — and to discover the other cities on this year's list of the best cities in Europe, as voted by T+L readers.

1. Florence

Most travelers' experience of the Tuscan capital can be summed up in three words: "Bella, bella, bella!" The city of the Renaissance has architecture, art, food, and history around every corner; many readers said this variety made it a perfect city for honeymooners to stroll around, soaking in the atmosphere. And while iconic sites like the Duomo, the Uffizi gallery, the Pitti Palace, and the Ponte Vecchio are not to be missed, many travelers said that the smaller moments made the city just as enchanting. "The highlight was a wine tasting conducted in a small shop with a wine cellar hundreds of years old," said one reader.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 91.06

2. Istanbul

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 90.97

3. Seville, Spain

Score: 90.12

4. Bodrum, Turkey

Score: 89.31

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 89.29

6. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Score: 88.49

Score: 88.33

8. Porto, Portugal

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Score: 88.13

9. Kraków, Poland

Score: 87.97

10. Strasbourg, France

Score: 87.68

Score: 87.54

Score: 87.13

13. Edinburgh

Score: 86.99

14. Salzburg, Austria

Score: 86.95

15. Córdoba, Spain

Score: 86.91

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22 of the Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2022

European travel is expected to come back in a big way in 2022. There is so much to see across the 44 countries that make up Europe that it can be a little overwhelming deciding where to start. Do you want to see history? Drink good wine? Watch the sunrise over a famous skyline? No matter your travel dreams, there is a European destination for you. Here are 22 of our favorites for 2022.

Athens is the birthplace of democracy and the oldest city in Europe. The Greek capital is full of treasures dating back thousands of years, to its time as the epicenter of the ancient world. The crown jewel of the city is the Acropolis , visible from nearly every corner of Athens from its hillside perch. The sprawling 2,500-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of several spectacular ancient landmarks found throughout Athens.

Bruges is among Europe’s most picturesque fairytale destinations. A series of canals cut through the Belgian city, passing by the UNESCO-recognized medieval center . Visitors are charmed by Bruges’ cobblestone squares, the towering brick Church of Our Lady, and cozy whitewashed 14 th century almshouses. It’s easy to enjoy the compact city on foot, visiting landmarks in between beer breaks at the city’s countless friendly pubs.

3. Budapest

Hungary’s history-rich capital city is a fascinating fusion of natural beauty and varied cultural influences. It was once two distinct cities on opposite sides of the Danube. Buda, on one bank, was characterized by rolling hills and valleys. Pest, on the other, with its flatter landscape, offered a panoramic view over the banks of the Danube. The now united Budapest houses a massive UNESCO World Heritage Site including the banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue . This site has the remains of monuments such as the Roman city of Aquincum, the forests of Gellért Hill, and the Gothic Castle of Buda.

4. Copenhagen

Denmark’s most famous city was first established in the 10th century as a Viking fishing village. In the thousand years since it has done a uniquely successful job of fusing its storied history with modern technology and style.

The 12 th century Christiansborg Palace is just minutes from minimalist boutiques. The clean waters of Nyhavn Harbor are lined by some of Europe’s best restaurants, which visitors flock to after disembarking from permanently anchored historical museum ships. The home of both tech startups and the Little Mermaid , Copenhagen is as effortlessly cool as it is historically rich.

The fair city of Dublin is known for its warm culture and colorful past. Dublin is laid out perfectly for casual walkers, so shops, restaurants, the River Liffey, and many other highlights are lovely to explore on foot. Dublin Castle and the 12 th century St. Patrick’s Cathedral shouldn’t be missed.

For anyone tempted by Ireland’s lush scenery and brilliant literary tradition, Trinity College and College Green are perfect places to while away several hours. Most important of all, however, is a visit to one of Dublin’s world-famous pubs . Find a seat, order a pint, and have great craic with the friendliest and funniest people in Europe.

6. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s most magical cities because of its awe-inspiring Old City. Enclosed by imposing stone walls, much of Old City dates back centuries. Its spectacular 800-year-old Gothic monastery is home to the world’s oldest pharmacy—serving Franciscan friars since 1317!

The Pearl of the Adriatic also boasts breathtaking views of the Dalmatian coast, a stunning collection of ancient red-roofed buildings, and plenty of English speakers happy to make you feel welcome.

7. Edinburgh

Scotland’s spectacularly scenic capital city offers incredible sightseeing and unique local experiences. Much of Edinburgh is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site , including the medieval Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the neo-classical 18th century “New Town.” The beautiful setting of Edinburgh is further enhanced by the art you’ll find across its museums, galleries, and world-famous festivals.

8. Florence

The Tuscan city of Florence is considered the cradle of the Renaissance, renowned for its culture, art, architecture, and historical monuments. The city’s historic center is centered around the Plaza del Duomo or Cathedral Square. The site contains the magnificent Florence Cathedral, whose massive dome and ornate bell tower are the most iconic Renaissance buildings in Europe./p>

Florence is petite and compact enough to explore on foot, but whether you will feel up to a nice long stroll after enjoying the local cuisine is another story. Florence is the culinary capital of Tuscany, so you can find fabulous food and wine everywhere from the humblest of taverns to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants.

Seven picturesque hills watch over Portugal’s coastal capital. Their view of Lisbon’s historic cobblestone streets, stately ruins, Medieval architecture, and modern life is one of Europe’s prettiest. Key sights of this city include the Belem Tower a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 16th century, and the historical downtown region of Baixa.

Foodies are also sure to love Lisbon. Portuguese chefs use extraordinary local ingredients in flavorful regional specialties like the prego sandwich, fresh seafood, and the world’s best churros . Sample a variety of food at the Mercado da Ribeira , or visit some of the countless restaurants across the city. You’re sure to enjoy whatever you order.

London is an essential stop for visitors to Europe. No city in the world is more influential, more packed with recognizable landmarks , or more famous. The English capital on the Thames River is rich with historical sites including the Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace.

Travel by iconic double-decker busses to spectacular museums, the theatres of the West Ends, world-class shopping, and incredible dining ranging from humble pub grub to cutting edge haute cuisine.

Madrid’s colorful history, vibrant culture, and warm weather make it a perennial favorite where you would be hard-pressed to run out of interesting and unique things to do. The Spanish capital is full of incredible museums, including art museums packed with the masterpieces of local artists like Goya, Picasso, and Dali.

Madrid is equal parts modern and historic. This is a place where you can enjoy sophisticated cuisine in a trendy tapas bar next door to elaborate cathedrals or an 18 th century palace.

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There is a lot to recommend Monaco, the world’s second-smallest country. Soak in the aura of wealth and glamour across the jewel of the French Riviera. Marvel at the old stone Monaco Cathedral, Princess Grace’s final resting place. Discover the luxurious Monte Carlo, renowned for its F1 Circuit and world-famous casino. James Bond’s favorite vacation destination more than lives up to its posh reputation.

Munich, on the banks of the River Isar, is known for its hearty German cuisine, exceptional beers, and the original Oktoberfest. Beyond that, Munich has a vibrant art scene and beautifully preserved architecture.

The city is one of the wealthiest in the world, which means sites like the 12 th century Marienplatz plaza and numerous ancient churches and castles are always clean and well maintained. Unique museums like the avant-garde Brandhorst , the BMW Museum , or the Deutsches Museum of Technology contain treasures from priceless artworks mining exhibits.

14. Oberammergau

Oberammergau is a small German village in the Bavarian Alps best known for its lavish, once-in-a-decade Passion Play , which will be performed this year. In 1633, out of gratitude for being spared from the Black Plague, the people of Oberammergau swore an oath to reenact the crucifixion of Christ every 10 years. Thousands of local performers, musicians, and animal actors put on their play each decade, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Paris is the most popular tourist destination in the world. Known as the City of Light, the City of Love, and the epicenter of global fashion, Paris is nothing short of irresistible. The French capital’s exquisite cuisine, ancient structures, modern architecture, and breathtaking views attract millions of visitors each year. There are countless sights to see including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Champs-Élysées, and the majestic Arc de Triomphe.

Dining in Paris is a celebration. The city prides itself on its exquisite food and drink, and you can taste the love put into every pastry, café au lait, and 12-course meal. From the high brow to the humble, Parisian food is revered for very good reason.

Porto, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, is also among its most charming. Across the city, you’ll find splashes of blue from mosaics created with colorful azulejo tiles. Its UNESCO-listed historic center shows off Porto’s varied cultural influences from across the centuries. The Romanesque cathedral, the neoclassical Stock Exchange, and the Portuguese Manueline-style Church of Santa Clara all demonstrate different pieces of Porto’s past.

Porto is also famous for its namesake, Port wine. Many famous wineries are located just outside the city and offer tours and tastings. This traditional drink along with fantastic local cuisine makes it a major foodie destination.

Founded in the 7th century, Prague played a major part in the Protestant Reformation, the Holy Roman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and both World Wars. The city’s most famous and historic site is Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world. The massive complex was built in the 9 th century, and is a key site within Prague’s UNESCO-listed Historic Centre .

You can spend hours wandering the cobbled streets past galleries, churches, and delightful gardens. When you need a break, we recommend trying a traditional open-faced Pivni sýr sandwich washed down by a classic local pilsner.

18. Reykjavik

Welcome to Reykjavík, one of the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities in the world. The Icelandic capital is small but mighty, full of unique sightseeing opportunities. Art is everywhere across public exhibits, exclusive galleries, and exceptional museums. Discover Icelandic history at the Settlement Exhibition , an interactive museum housed in an active excavation site.

In addition, Reykjavík is the perfect base from which to explore the rest of Iceland. The Land of Fire and Ice has spectacular scenery including the Golden Circle , waterfalls, volcanoes, geysers, and visible tectonic plates. You can see some of the most beautiful nature in the world on day trips from the city, which makes Reykjavík one of Europe’s top bucket list destinations.

The Eternal City of Rome has dazzled visitors for thousands of years with its breathtaking architecture, art, vibrant culture, and sheer grandeur. History lovers can’t miss the ancient history of the Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Palatine Hill. The lavish Villa Borghese Gallery and Gardens is the city’s finest park. Along with sprawling gardens, it contains a zoo, lakes, and a 16 th century papal residence and villa museum with artworks by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Rubens.

Visit Vatican City, the epicenter of Catholicism. The Papal Palace, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the church’s most spectacular art are all found in the world’s smallest country—which is entirely contained within the city of Rome. When you take a break from sightseeing, grab some Roman pizza al taglio (by the slice) to enjoy in the shade of the Trevi Fountain .

20. Seville

One of Spain’s most spectacular cities, Seville is home to numerous iconic sites that represent centuries of Jewish, Catholic, and Muslim history. The 15 th century Seville Cathedral is the world’s largest Gothic church. The 10 th century Royal Alcázar, the palace of Seville’s Muslim governor, combines Mudéjar architecture with Gothic, Renaissance and Romanesque design elements. Finally, you can find Sevilles’s oldest buildings and most charming alleyways in the medieval Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz.

The utterly unforgettable, spectacularly beautiful city of Venice is one of the most unique places in Europe. Venice is built on an archipelago of 117 islands in a lagoon, and instead of streets is crisscrossed by canals connected by more than 400 bridges. You can experience Venice on foot or from the water—ideally on a romantic gondola.

Famous sites include the Grand Canal, the Bridge of Sighs, and the bustling St. Mark’s Square. Venice’s labyrinth of canals and alleyways are lined with boutiques and tiny eateries where you can relax and people watch over an espresso or gelato.

Renowned for its sophistication and adored for its beauty, Vienna has long been one of Central Europe’s most alluring cities. Vienna was the epicenter of classical music, where Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Johannes Brahms lived and performed.

It is home to opulent institutions like the Hofburg, Schönbrunn Palace, and the stunning Vienna State Opera House. It has countless museums devoted to everything from music, history, and dance to Sigmund Freud.

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We offer affordable guided land tours , cruise tours , and river cruises to the best places to travel in Europe , including all the destinations on this list! Want to join us in 2022 or beyond? Call your travel consultant or  YMT Vacations at  888-860-1969 to book!

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European Travel in 2022 is Booking Up: How to Plan Your Trip Now

Updated:  February 23, 2022

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  4.9  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1554  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

Oia White City, Santorini Island, Greece

Whether looking for the perfect couple’s trip to Greece, a family getaway to Spain or the trip of a lifetime to Italy, now is the time to consider your vacation plans for 2022.

With Zicasso travel specialists reporting many top properties and destinations are already booked at 90% and upwards for summer 2022, planning now may be the only way to ensure your first-choice options can be yours to enjoy.

From how to pick your travel dates to which country to visit, this short guide to European travel 2022 will get your plans moving in the right direction.

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Last-Minute Travel for March, April, and May

As entry requirements have eased over the last two weeks and logistics simplify, it is the perfect time to consider a last-minute trip.

With nearly two dozen countries across Europe welcoming American travelers , you will find fantastic weather, beautiful scenery, delicious food, sumptuous wines, historical sights, and local traditions to savor.

For vaccinated travelers, many countries in Europe offer entry without testing. To date, you can arrive in France, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom without the hassle of testing.

While we do recommend testing ahead of your trip to ensure that you are healthy to travel, the pressure of taking a test outside of a precise time period certainly eases your pre-trip to-do list.

Zicasso can connect you to a travel specialist specializing in your chosen destination. At the top of the list for many of our travelers are Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal.

Italy Travel Tip: “A last-minute trip to Italy could be great for travelers, as long as they are vaccinated,” says Elena, an Italy travel specialist. With many popular sites requiring proof of vaccination, you can enjoy iconic sites before the summer crowds arrive.

Greece Travel Tip:  “We are still seeing availability for March, April, and the first half of May,” says Seetha, a Greece travel specialist. “It’s a fabulous time to explore the mainland of Greece, discover the wonderful nature, gastronomy, history, and culture. For islands, we’d recommend Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, or even Santorini for March or April. In May, many of the other islands would be more accessible for even more opportunities.”

Spain and Portugal Travel Tip: A last-minute trip for March is an excellent idea for those interested in Spain or Portugal. “The pandemic is easing, and in a couple of weeks, we foresee that the situation will be very good; there are no longer many restrictions, and the weather is already nice,” says Ana, a travel specialist for Spain and Portugal. With summer bookings quite full, sneaking in ahead of the crowds will offer you greater availability with desired accommodations and experiences.

Related: Where Americans Can Travel Now

For dates in June, July or August, Book Now

As international travel continues to rebound, summer dates in 2022 are filling quickly. Our travel specialists report that preferred properties are already at 90% and above for bookings in many regions. Trips postponed in 2020 and 2021 also impact availability with rising rates as itineraries are rebooked for future dates. The longer you wait to book, the fewer the options and the higher the cost.

June may be the most challenging for preferred properties and activities for the most popular destinations. If this is the month you would like to travel, connect with a travel specialist for personalized advice, as circumstances vary across Europe.

July and August will bring crowds but also opportunities to move off the beaten path and into less-discovered regions. While coastal and beach areas fill quickly, exploring the cities and smaller towns is a fantastic option. Availability changes by the minute, as do rates and choices at top properties. For travelers looking at peak summer travel dates, last-minute travel will likely not be possible, so planning now is the best chance for your ideal vacation.

The best way to secure your top choices is by speaking with a travel specialist to book your trip now. Whether you want to explore along the winding panoramic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast in Italy, wander the medieval streets of Toledo in Spain, or indulge in a sunset cruise off the coast of Santorini in Greece, your travel specialist can make your dream come true.

Consider Travel Next Fall

After the high season of summer, the crowds relent as the weather cools across Europe. Enjoy the colors of changing foliage, wander comfortably between iconic highlights, and enjoy authentic cultural experiences with fewer crowds than in the summer.

In some corners of Europe, a beach trip is still possible to enjoy in fall, and with the pleasant weather continuing, the shops are open, creative festival season swings to life, and the chance for more advantageous rates are yours.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

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What do you want to see and do most?

Define your goals, and you will know where to begin your journey. Perhaps you wish to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, are interested in staying in a castle estate property, or wish to cycle a section of the Tour de France.

Each goal you set can help refine how you travel and where you travel to make your dream trip a reality. When you work with a Zicasso travel specialist, your dreams become tangible possibilities and can inspire the outline for your Europe trip.

From private cooking classes to hidden museum galleries, driving a racecar, to leaping into a world of magic, the possibilities are endless.

Learn more: Top 15 Best Places to See in Europe | Top 10 Things to Do in Europe

Do you want to visit one country, or see several?

One of the most challenging questions to answer when visiting Europe is whether you wish to see a single country or discover multiple countries during a single trip. Many multi-country trips follow a theme often associated with the highlights of a region and visiting bucket-list destinations, while a single-country trip often focuses on a more immersive cultural experience.

For 2022, we recommend exploring a single country for your vacation. While restrictions are easing around the world, keeping your plans simple to focus on just one set of entry requirements can eliminate significant hassle and stress throughout your trip.

Learn more: Europe in 2022: 3 Reasons to Choose a Single Country for Your Vacation

Granada, Spain

As the landscape of travel changes, so do the possibilities to create unforgettable travel experiences. As our lives change, so do our travel dreams.

From honeymoons and anniversary trips to multi-generational family trips, action and adventure to luxury safari, Zicasso has itineraries to guide you to new ideas.

Every itinerary on our trip is a starting place, as no Zicasso trip is like any other. Every detail can be customized with the help of a travel specialist to capture the perfect Europe trip designed for you.

Start exploring with the Zicasso 2022 Travel Guide for our top itineraries for Italy, Greece, Spain, France and beyond.

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If you are ready to visit Europe and bring your travel dreams to life, our travel specialists are destination experts and can guide your plans based on your preferences, goals, needs, and desires. Their local connections and ability to surprise you with innovative ideas will result in a customized vacation tailored to make this next trip your best one yet.

By filling out a Trip Request, we will match you with at least two travel specialists who are experts on your preferred destination or destinations. They will compete for your business by learning what the most important factors are for you and design a personalized tour based on your dream trip. You can use the sample itineraries on our site for inspiration to see what is possible.

With Europe incredibly popular with travelers all around the world, you should not delay in making your plans to ensure your preferred destinations and activities. You can speak with a travel specialist by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707 .

Learn more: 8 Most Requested Itineraries to Europe | 7 Perfect Itineraries for First-Timers to Europe

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68+ europe travel & tourism statistics (latest 2024 data).

It’s no secret that Europe is home to some of the most popular places to visit in the world . With fascinating history, diverse cultures, and gorgeous natural sceneries, there is something to suit every type of tourist.

According to the UN, there are 44 countries in Europe with 27 of them listed as part of the European Union . 

That’s a lot of places to explore and get lost in!

France was the most visited destination in Europe as it saw over 79.4 million global tourist arrivals in 2022. 

Meanwhile, Paris welcomed 16.8 million international tourists in 2018 . It’s second in Europe only to London.

Today, we’re here to present some of the most interesting and crucial statistics about travel and tourism in Europe. From how much revenue this industry generates each year to the impact that recent pandemic had.

Here they are!

Sources : I’ve referenced individual sources after each stat. Please go to the bottom of the post for a full list of all the articles and sources I’ve used here.

Travellerspoint

Most asked questions about Europe travel & tourism

How many tourists visit europe each year.

In 2019, Europe recorded 745 million international tourist arrivals.

The pandemic caused international tourism to plummet in Europe, but the number has recovered to 595 million arrivals in 2022.

Roughly 4 in 10 baby boomers state that Europe is their first choice for international travel.

How much of Europe's economy is tourism?

In 2022, travel and tourism contributed $1,939 billion to the overall GDP in Europe.

This is an increase from the $1,450 billion contribution in 2021, but not yet recovered to its pre-pandemic levels.

Which country in Europe has the most tourism?

With 89.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2019 and 79.4 million in 2022, France is the most popular place to visit in Europe .

Both before and after the pandemic, France remains the most visited country in Europe.

What percentage of Europeans travel?

In 2021, 56% of Europeans participated in tourism in 2021, compared with 65% in 2019.

What's the least visited country in Europe?

According to Eurostat, Luxembourg was the least visited country in Europe by EU residents in 2019.

Europe Travel & Tourism Key Statistics

• Europe at large (both EU and non-EU) remains the most visited region in the world, accounting for 50% of the world’s tourist arrivals
• In 2022, travel and tourism contributed $1,939 billion to the overall GDP in Europe
• 61% of all international arrivals to the EU in 61% were for recreational purposes
• In 2020, the tourism industry generated, directly and indirectly, 34.76 million jobs
• In 2017, there were more female (59%) than male employees in the tourism industry
• In 2019, there were 717 thousand travel accommodation establishments in EU countries, which is a 69% increase from 2006
• In 2019, EU residents made 1.1 billion trips that included overnight stays
• Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, international arrivals in Europe plummeted from over 746 million in 2019 to just about 236 million in 2020

Inbound tourism in Europe

How many tourists visit Europe annually?

1. In 2019, Europe recorded 745 million international tourist arrivals.

[Statista] 

Europe receives the highest number of international arrivals compared to other regions, including Americas, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa.

2. The pandemic caused international tourism to plummet in Europe, but the number has recovered to 595 million arrivals in 2022.

In comparison, the Americas received 150 million international tourist arrivals in 2022, only 25% of Europe.

3. In July 2023, there were 89.8 million monthly international arrivals in Europe, roughly 7% lower than in July 2019.

This has exceeded the monthly levels of July 2020, 2021, and 2022, but yet to recover to pre-pandemic levels.

4. 6 of the top 10 most visited destinations by international tourist arrivals worldwide are located in Europe.

[Wikipedia]

This includes France, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Germany, and the United Kingdom in that order.

5. There were 36.4 million outbound trips from the US to Europe in 2019.

In 2019, there were 36.4 million trips from the US to Europe .

6. About 33% of these trips from the US were made to destinations in Western Europe.

11.9 million, or 33%, of these trips were to Western Europe. Central or Eastern Europe received the least number of outbound trips from the US at 4.3 million arrivals in 2019.

7. Europe at large (both EU and non-EU) remains the most visited region in the world, accounting for 50% of the world’s tourist arrivals.

Domestic tourism in europe.

How popular is Europe among domestic tourists?

8. In 2019, there were 682 million domestic arrivals in EU countries.

Domestic tourism continues to be more popular as this number steadily grows from only 491 million in 2008 to 682 million in 2019.

9. There were 187 million overnight trips in Europe made by French residents in 2019 alone.

Out of all EU countries, French residents have been the most active in domestic tourism in Europe. 

10. Germany is close behind as its residents made roughly 161 million domestic trips in 2019.

Domestic trips include both personal and professional purposes.

11. An April 2023 survey showed that French respondents were the most likely to take a domestic summer holiday trip. 

12. As of September 2023, the preferred destination among European travelers for their next European trip is France, with 7% of respondents planning to visit France on their next trip within Europe. 

After France, Italy and Spain followed in the ranking.

13. A survey in September 2023 revealed that 68% of respondents intended to likely or very likely take an overnight trip domestically or in Europe in the following six months. 

This percentage was a slight decrease from a similar study in March 2023, when 72% reported the same.

14. In 2022, the expenditure of domestic tourists in Europe was 1.13 trillion U.S. dollars just 0.5% lower than that in 2019.

15. in terms of domestic tourism expenditure of the eu-27 countries and the uk, germany had the highest figure in 2019 (320.9 billion u.s. dollars) and 2022 (317 billion u.s. dollars)., europe tourism and the economy.

How much revenue does Europe’s tourism generate?

16. In 2021, travel and tourism contributed $1,450 billion to the overall GDP in Europe.

From 2012 to 2019, the travel industry has steadily contributed an increasing amount of GDP in Europe, peaking at $2,191 billion in 2019.

17. Domestic tourism expenditure reached a record high of $1,222 billion in 2019.

Domestic travellers are important in Europe’s tourism industry as they spent $1,222 billion in 2019 alone, which is the highest number in recent recorded history.

18. In 2019, Spain was the second top tourism earner after the US, recording $79.7 billion in international tourism receipts.

Spain is the second country in the world that makes the most money from tourism. It recorded $79.7 billion in international tourism receipts in 2019.

19. France follows closely behind making $63.8 in international tourism receipts.

Why people travel to europe.

What motivates people to visit Europe?

20. 61% of all international arrivals to the EU in are for recreational purposes.

Holiday, recreation, and other leisure-related purposes are the most common reason for visiting Europe.

21. In the meantime, 15% visited EU countries for business reasons and 24% came to visit friends and relatives or other purposes.

Business travel makes up 15% of all visits to the EU .

22 Most international visitors arrive in Europe by air travel (57%), compared to 40% for land transport and only 4% by water.

Over half of all global visitors to Europe come through flights, while 2 out of 5 visitors arrive by land transport. Only 4% travel by water to Europe.

23. 62% of all residents in the EU went on a minimum of one personal trip in 2017.

In terms of domestic tourism in Europe, 3 out of every 5 EU residents took at least one personal trip back in 2017.

24. 11% of domestic trips to Europe in 2015 were for professional purposes, including business trips.

11% of all domestic trips in Europe in 2015 were made for professional reasons, such as business trips.

25. The European hotel market generated a revenue of 98.09 billion U.S. dollars in 2022, a significant improvement from 2020 and 2021.

26. the european region with the highest revenue in the hotel market in 2022 was central & western europe was, generating more than 61 billion u.s. dollars. .

The region with the second-highest revenue in the hotel market in 2022 was Southern Europe.

Tourism employment in Europe

How large is Europe’s tourism workforce?

27. In 2020, the tourism industry generated, directly and indirectly, 34.76 million jobs.

In 2022, there’s still a 8.5% decrease in tourism jobs in Europe compared to 2019 due to the Covid-19 pandemic .

28. Travel and tourism provided 37.98 million jobs in Europe in 2019.

29. in 2017, there were more female (59%) than male employees in the tourism industry..

The tourism industry has long been a major employer for women , especially considering that only 36% of employees in non-financial business economies in Europe were female.

30. The tourism labour force also tends to attract younger workers aged 15 to 24 (13%) and part-time positions (24%).

These statistics are much higher than those in the non-financial business economies and services sectors as a whole.

Popular tourist destinations in Europe

What are the most popular tourist destinations in Europe?

31. With 89.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2019 and 79.4 million in 2022, France is the most popular place to visit in Europe.

France, Spain (83.5 million), and Italy (64.5 million) recorded the most international tourist arrivals in 2019. The ranking changed slightly in 2020, with Italy receiving more international tourists than Spain.

Moreover, European travellers comprise 39.3% of the total tourist arrivals in Venice .

32. The capital city, Paris, welcomed more than 16.8 million international visitors in 2018, making it the second most visited European city after London.

Paris received over 16.8 million international visitors in 2018 and was the second most visited city in Europe.

It is second only to London, which receives the highest number of tourists that year .

33. In terms of bed nights, Spain is the most popular among international tourists, with 299 million nights spent in tourist accommodations in 2019 alone.

This number accounts to 22% of the total nights spent in tourist accommodations in Europe.

34. After Spain, Italy is the second most popular tourist destination for overnight stays in Europe. There were 221 million nights spent here in 2019.

When it comes to cities in Europe with the most overnight stays in 2019, Italy sits on the second place.

35. This is followed by France (136 million nights) and Greece (120 million nights).

36. all together, spain, italy, france, and greece dominate 57% of the total nights spent by international tourists in european tourist accommodations..

Spain, Italy, France, and Greece are the four most popular tourist destinations in Europe in terms of night spent in a tourist accommodation.

In fact, travellers from Europe make up the majority of overseas tourist arrivals in Rome (2.78 million) .

37. Meanwhile, the least popular EU destinations for tourists in 2019 were Luxembourg, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia.

38. in terms of region, international arrivals in southern/mediterranean europe has surpassed pre-pandemic levels in july 2023, while central/eastern europe experienced a 30% drop., accommodation in europe’s travel industry.

Where do tourists usually stay when visiting Europe?

39. In 2022, there were 621 thousand travel accommodation establishments in EU countries, a slight increase from the 617 thousand recorded in 2019.

The 621 thousand travel accommodations include RV campgrounds , hotels, short-stay accommodation, and trailer parks.

40. As of 2019, a majority of these (more than 479 thousand) were holiday and other short-stay accommodations, while 209 thousand were hotels and similar accommodation types.

The most common type of tourist accommodation in Europe is holiday/ short-stay vacation rentals .

41. In 2019, it was estimated that residents and international visitors spent a total of 2.87 billion nights in EU travel accommodation.

In 2019 alone, tourists in EU countries spent a total of 3.42 billion nights in accommodation establishments.

For budget travel, Kyiv is the cheapest city destination for backpacking, with daily costs amounting to an average of $37.69 .

42. In 2022, the number still has yet to reach its pre-pandemic figure, at just 2.74 billion nights spent in EU travel accommodations.

43. In 2019, Italy recorded just shy of 1.1 million bedrooms in hotels and similar accommodation. This is the highest in any country in Europe.

At 1.1 million individual hotel and similar rooms , Italy is the country in Europe with the highest number of bedrooms.

44. Germany and Spain are close behind with 993 and 934 million bedrooms respectively.

45. in terms of occupancy rate of bed places in hotels and other similar accommodation in eu countries, cyprus leads the chart with 71.8% of net occupancy rate..

Hotels and similar accommodation types in Cyprus recorded an astounding 71.8% net occupancy rate, the highest in any one country in EU countries.

46. Interestingly, despite having the second most hotel bedrooms in Europe, Germany had a pretty low occupancy rate of 45.7% in 2019.

47. in 2021, europe became the region with the highest glamping market worldwide, with 35.11% of market share..

[Grand Review Research]

Glamping is an up-and-coming industry and Europe seems to be the leading world region in terms of market share (35.11%) .

48. In 2022, most hotel market sales in Europe were made online (77%), which represents a steady growth since 2017 and is expected to continue until 2027.

Online booking has an increasingly large role in hotel market sales in Europe, with 77% of sales in 2022 made online .

49. There are 1.4 million Airbnb Hosts in the EU, the highest number in any region in the world.

Out of the 1.4 million Airbnb Hosts in the EU , more than 1.1 million have just one listing.

50. The average EU Host on Airbnb earned just below €4,000 in 2022, which is equivalent to over two months additional pay for the median EU household.

Outbound tourism by europeans.

How many European tourists go on a trip each year?

51. Almost two out of every three Europeans went on a tourism trip in 2019, but the percentage decreased to 56% in 2021.

52. in 2021 compared with 2019, 14 % or 35 million fewer europeans made tourism trips., 53. around 70% of these trips were made within their own country..

In 2021, nearly 7 out of 10 European tourists made only domestic trips.

54. In terms of night spent, Spain and Italy were the most popular destinations for European tourists.

The most popular destinations for tourists from Europe are Spain and Italy, where they spent the highest number of nights in 2019.

55. For non-EU destinations, the United Kingdom, Turkey and the USA had been the top choices.

56. eu residents spent an average of €421 per trip in 2019..

The average EU resident would spend €421 per trip.

57. In 2019, EU residents made 1.1 billion trips that included overnight stays.

EU residents went on a total of 1.1 billion trips which included overnight stays to both domestic and international locations in 2019 alone.

58. The contribution of travel and tourism to Europe’s GDP fell significantly in 2020, from $2,191 billion, to roughly 50% of the number in 2019.

The average European solo traveler spends €285 for their flight and hotel .

59. The EU country that travels the most is Switzerland, with 82.2% of the population travelling in 2021.

Sweden is on fifth place, with 78% of its population participating in tourism in 2021.

Meanwhile, Ireland takes 8th place with 72.3% of the population travelling in 2021 .

60. On the other end of the spectrum, the country that participated the least in tourism in 2021 is Bulgaria (22.7% of population).

61. residents aged 65 or over represented 25% of the eu population aged 15 years or older, they accounted for only 17% of eu tourists..

Still, this 17% equals to a significant number of 36 million tourists.

Covid-19 and Europe’s tourism

How has the pandemic affected travel & tourism in Europe?

62. The contribution of travel and tourism to Europe’s GDP fell significantly in 2020, from $2,191 billion, to roughly 50% of the number in 2019.

Due to the recent pandemic, the total contribution from the travel and tourism industry to GDP in Europe decreased dramatically in 2020 from 2019.

63. Domestic tourism also fell from $1,167 billion in 2019 to $668 billion in 2020.

Domestic tourism expenditure in Europe decreased by roughly 43 percent in 2020 over the previous year, due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

64. International arrivals in Europe plummeted from over 746 million in 2019 to just about 236 million in 2020.

65. the number of international tourist arrivals dropped by 97% in april 2020 compared to april 2019. .

Travel to and from countries was restricted as the virus spread, resulting in a sharp drop in arrivals across the region.

66. In May 2021, international tourist arrivals have more than quadrupled since the same month in 2020.

However, this figure of 12.1 million arrivals is still much below the 64.2 million from May 2019.

Travel companies in Europe statistics

67. the 'package holidays' segment of the travel and tourism market in europe is expected to achieve a +1.66% growth in number of users between 2023 and 2027, reaching a record-high of 134.52 million users., 68. as of june 2023, oriental land co. ltd is the travel and leisure company with the largest market cap in europe, valued at 54.83 billion u.s. dollars..

Flutter Entertainment PLC and Evolution AB followed, each with a market capitalisation of roughly 27.76 billion U.S. dollars.

69. In Europe, Lufthansa became the airline which carried the highest number of travelers in 2022, with 101.8 million passengers in total.

Turkish Airlines was in second place, with a total of 71.8 million passengers in 2022.

As home to some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, it will not be a surprise if tourism in this region only grows from now on.

While the recent Coronavirus pandemic has caused some major setbacks in terms of GDP and tourist arrivals in these countries, it does seem that things are looking brighter.

Once the world has recovered even more from this trying time, we believe that people looking for a getaway will look to visit various European destinations. As such, the number of domestic and international visitors will surely rise again soon.

We hope this post is thorough enough for you to learn more about tourism in Europe.

Can you think of other questions or aspects of Europe’s travel and tourism that we haven’t covered? Feel free to comment below!

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European Tourism 2022 – Trends & Prospects (Q2/2022)

Destinations across Europe continue to relax travel restrictions as concerns over Covid-19 wither away, enabling the release of strong (short- and mid-haul) pent-up demand. However, skyrocketing energy prices are pushing travel costs yet higher, prompting people to travel closer to home or consider cost-saving options. It remains to be seen how households (especially lower-income earners) will make a trade-off on travel spending this summer amidst consumer price hikes and squeezed disposable incomes.

Click below to read the entire report:

Recent Release | 28 Feb 2022

European Tourism 2022: Trends and Prospects (Q4/2021)

Tourism Consulting Team

Tourism Economics

The emergence of the Omicron variant at the year-end, and record-breaking infection rates, brought back mobility restrictions which paused recovery.

2021 data informs estimates of a 62% decrease in tourist arrivals to Europe over 2019 levels, although final data are not yet available. Economic recovery is expected to continue in 2022, but Omicron means growth will be slightly more subdued, at least for the first quarter.

The travel outlook for Europe remains positive, with demand projected to be just 20% below pre-pandemic levels in 2022, fuelled by domestic and intra-European travel demand. Domestic travel is expected to exceed pre-pandemic peaks this year, while rapid intra-regional demand will drive improvement in international.

About the team

Our consulting team at Tourism Economics are the world’s leading analysts of the global tourism and travel sector. They combine their expert insight with our state-of-the-art economic models and tools to answer the crucial questions facing our clients. Lead consultants on the project were:

Dave Goodger

Managing Director, EMEA, Tourism Economics

+44 (0) 1865 268 928

London, United Kingdom

David Goodger is Managing Director, EMEA, Tourism Economics. He has been instrumental in developing the global model of tourism flows and spending, which covers 185 origins and destinations, and he continues to manage regular forecast updates. He also maintains an active role in new product development and consultancy work.

David Goodger is a Director within Tourism Economics and primarily concentrates on tourism demand forecasting and market sizing. He has also taken an active role in further model development for specific purposes, with an emphasis on examining the economic contributions of particular sectors and the impact of different policies. He has conducted a groundbreaking analysis of the business travel sector for the WTTC and the US Travel Association which estimates the return on investment of corporate spending on travel and he has developed models to define destination marketing allocations.

Since joining Oxford Economics in 2000, David Goodger has been involved in a wide range of forecasting and modelling activities. He has been part of the macroeconomic forecasting and the industrial forecasting teams contributing to both regular reports and specific client studies as well as assisting in the development of detailed forecasting and simulation models.

David was educated at the University of Bristol, England, where he gained a first-class degree in Economics with Statistics; and at the London School of Economics and Political Science, England, where he graduated with an MSc in Econometrics and Mathematical Economics.

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Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

• Travel and tourism: share of GDP in the EU-27 and the UK 2019-2022, by country

Share of travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in European Union member countries (EU-27) and the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 and 2022

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Data can be found in the source's weblink by clicking on each country report.

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Statistics on " Travel and tourism in Europe "

• International tourist arrivals worldwide 2019-2022, by subregion
• Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Europe 2019-2034
• Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Europe 2019-2023, by type
• Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Europe 2019-2023, by tourist type
• Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Europe 2019-2034
• Leading European countries in the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2023
• International tourist arrivals in Europe 2006-2023
• International tourist arrivals in Europe 2010-2022, by region
• Monthly number of inbound tourist arrivals in Europe 2019-2024
• Change in monthly tourist arrivals in Europe 2020-2023, by region
• Inbound tourism visitor growth in Europe 2020-2025, by region
• International tourist arrival growth in European countries 2019-2023
• International tourism spending in Europe 2019-2034
• Number of domestic tourist trips in EU-27 countries and the UK 2018-2021
• Number of domestic arrivals in tourist accommodation in the EU 2011-2022
• Domestic tourism spending in Europe 2019-2034
• Domestic tourism spending in EU-27 countries and the UK 2019-2022
• Share of Europeans planning to take a domestic summer trip 2024, by country
• Outbound tourism visitor growth worldwide 2020-2025, by region
• Outbound visitor growth in Europe 2020-2025, by region
• Number of outbound trips from EU-27 countries and the UK 2018-2021
• European countries with the highest outbound tourism expenditure 2019-2022
• Travel intentions of Europeans in the next six months 2024, by destination
• Share of Europeans planning to travel domestically or in Europe 2023-2024
• Europeans planning domestic or European trips in the next six months 2024, by age
• Europeans planning leisure domestic or European trips 2024, by trip type
• European travelers' favorite destinations for their next European trip 2024
• Number of tourist accommodation establishments in the EU 2012-2022
• Number of overnight stays in tourist accommodation establishments in the EU 2011-2022
• Hotel market revenue in Europe 2017-2028
• Hotel market revenue in Europe 2017-2028, by region
• Share of hotel market sales in Europe 2017-2028, by channel
• Estimated EV/EBITDA ratio in the online travel market 2024, by segment
• Market capitalization of leading travel and leisure companies in Europe 2024
• Travel and tourism revenue in Europe 2018-2028, by segment
• Number of users of package holidays in Europe 2019-2028
• Number of users of hotels in Europe 2019-2028
• Number of users of vacation rentals in Europe 2019-2028
• Revenue of travel and tourism market in selected countries worldwide 2023

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Inbound tourism

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Domestic tourism

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European travelers

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Accommodation

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Europe Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or you just enjoy the finer things in life, a Europe tour package has something to offer every type of traveler. These Europe package tours and trips explore any of the continent’s 50 countries that are diverse in size, climate, traditions - and cost! With fine cuisine, world-renowned art and music, and 23 officially recognized languages, a tour in Europe can be a cultural labyrinth that fuels wanderlust. 

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Europe - Tour Package Highlights and Trip Insights

With so much to see, do, eat and buy, planning a Europe tour is no easy feat. There are, of course, the typical sightseeing musts: Paris’ Louvre, London’s Tower Bridge, and Rome’s Colosseum. Even Europe’s most frequent visitors will always find something new to discover. Read on for our top Europe tour highlights and Europe trip insights.

Europe Tour Package Highlights

• Go back in time and explore the ruins of ancient civilizations in Italy and Greece
• Snack on cheese and wine (or escargot, if you’re feeling adventurous) in the Champ de Mars, beneath the Eiffel Tower
• Ride a bicycle through the townhouse-lined streets of Amsterdam before touring the canals by boat
• Listen to the romantic songs of the gondoliers as you cruise through the canals of Venice
• Indulge in an authentic Belgian waffle, drowned in chocolate
• Enjoy an ice-cold beer from a beer stein at Oktoberfest in Germany
• Hike from village to village in Italy’s Cinque Terre
• Get lost between the shelves of some of the world’s most beautiful libraries, like those at Trinity College (Dublin, Ireland), Mafra Palace (Mafra, Portugal), and the Clementinum Baroque Library Hall (Prague, Czech Republic)
• Join a Europe tour that goes through many of Europe's travel highlights in countries such as Spain , France , Italy , Netherlands and Scandinavia .

Europe Trip Insights

• Traveling by rail is one of the easiest (and sometimes cheapest) ways to get around Europe, especially if you plan to travel for a couple of weeks (or longer). Investigate rail passes before you visit, particularly ones that can be used between countries. Interrail and Eurail are very popular among travelers.
• Don’t skip the “touristy” destinations. Everyone travels differently, but the most popular European highlights are popular for a reason. Brave the crowds and be sure to stop by those more cliché sites - you’ll be glad you did.
• Try not to over prepare! One of the great benefits of visiting Europe is that it’s incredibly easy to travel between towns and countries. Allow yourself some flexibility to open yourself up to new adventures (and avoid travel burnout). If you've booked a Europe tour package with accommodation, activities, guides etc. get ready to indulge and relax - you are up for a Europe trip of a lifetime. 
• Chances are you don’t speak 23 different languages, so be prepared before you travel. Avoid carrying around heavy guide books by downloading a translation app on your phone.
• Note that not all European countries use the Euro, including the United Kingdom , Denmark and Hungary (among others). Do your research beforehand and be ready to juggle different currencies if you’re planning an extensive trip.
• Travelling on a budget? Check our last minute holiday and travel deals to Europe . Also, consider looking for accommodation outside the city centre. Most large European cities are very well connected by public transportation, meaning all your bucket list sites are just a quick (and often inexpensive) bus, train, or metro ride away.

Tours in Europe - Questions and Answers

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• What is the best travel insurance for Europe?
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Tourism returns to Europe, but with overcrowding in hotspots

Travel & tourism.

452.6m overnight stays in tourist accommodations across European Union in Q1 2024

After the Covid-19 slump, the tourism industry across Europe recovered in 2023 and 2024, drawing close pre-pandemic levels and even surpassing them in some countries, according to the data released by the European Commission (EC).

A report quoting the EC data, said that there were 452.6 million overnight stays in tourist accommodations across the European Union in the first quarter of 2024, marking a 7 percent increase compared with the same quarter of 2023.

Foreign visitors accounted for approximately 45 percent of all overnight stays in the first three months of 2024, but there were large differences among EU countries. The biggest share of foreign visitors staying was recorded in Malta (91 percent), Cyprus (87 percent), Luxembourg (82 percent) and Austria (78 percent).

At the other end of the ranking are Germany, Romania and Poland – all geographically large countries – with a share of foreign overnight stays of around 20 percent.

Bright side

Derided as “Club Med” nations during the European debt crisis 15 years ago, the economies of Spain, Greece and Portugal are now outperforming their northern peers thanks to a rebound in tourism.

Slovenian tourism also posted record results last year, despite devastating floods in early August. The country, which has about 2.1 million inhabitants, welcomed 6.2 million tourists, up 5.5 percent compared to 2022 and only 0.6 percent less than in 2019, before the pandemic.

In North Macedonia, the number of tourists during January - April 2024 rose by 15.3 percent compared to the same time last year, and the number of overnight stays increased by 15.2 percent. A majority of visitors came from Turkey, Germany, Serbia, Greece, Bulgaria, Croatia and Slovenia.

Neighbouring Albania was visited by 10.1 million tourists last year, an increase of 35 percent compared to 2022. The upward trend continued in the first months of 2024, when about 974,000 foreign tourists visited Albania during May alone, bringing the total number of incoming tourists to more than 3.3 million in the first five months of the year.

Cities grapple with overcrowding

Rising tourism may be good for the economy, but overcrowding is causing growing resentment among the residents of popular hotspots across the continent.

Websites such as Airbnb add to the problem with illegal rentals and pressure on the housing market, according to members of the European Parliament.

In Italian destinations such as Venice, Rome and parts of Tuscany, residents are calling for the flow of visitors to be controlled. Venice recently introduced an entrance fee for day trips.

In Palma on the Spanish island of Mallorca, city mayor Jaime Martínez has presented plans to control mass tourism in the city centre. The most sweeping proposal is a ban on creating any more rental space for tourists, local media reported. He also suggests introducing regulations to curb the rental of properties to foreigners.

In the Netherlands, Amsterdam also saw a rise of visitors in 2023 compared to the previous year, with some 60 percent coming from within the Netherlands, the rest from abroad. The city expects the number of tourists to continue to rise.

“The flow of visitors puts pressure on facilities and, in particular, the city centre is often too crowded,” says a statement issued by the municipality.

In March, EU ministers gave their final approval to a regulation requiring platforms to share data on landlords with municipalities, among others. This will allow local officials to take stricter action if landlords do not comply with the rules.

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Safest Countries in the World 2024

Iceland has been the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row, according to the Global Peace Index.

The Nordic countries of Europe (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland) rank among the 25 safest globally, most of them also being among the top 10 happiest nations worldwide.

Common attributes of the world's safest countries include high levels of wealth, social welfare, education, effective criminal justice systems, and positive government-citizen relationships.

The Global Peace Index (GPI) ranks the safest and most peaceful countries in the world. This report is published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace, which defines itself as "an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to shifting the world's focus to peace as a positive, achievable and tangible measure of human wellbeing and progress." The report researches countries to determine which are the safest and which are the most dangerous .

A total of 163 countries are featured in the GPI report, which ranks each country's level of safety or danger based upon 23 different indicators. The indicators used to compile the GPI include the number of internal and external violent conflicts, level of distrust, political instability, potential for terrorist acts, number of homicides, and military expenditures as a percentage of GDP. These indicators are grouped into three broad categories—Ongoing International Conflict, Societal Safety and Security, and Militarization—and a score is calculated for each of the 163 nations featured in the report. The lower the score, the higher the nation is ranked in terms of safety.

Top 15 Safest Countries in the World (Global Peace Index — lower is better):

The United States ranked 129th in the Global Peace Ranking for 2022. The United States' ranking has fallen every year since 2016, a drop usually attributed to a decrease in life satisfaction, rising political division, and an increasing wealth gap.

Is the World Becoming More or Less Safe?

According to the 2022 GPI report, the world has become less safe over the past 14 years, with per-country scores deteriorating by 3.2% on average. The report further notes that safety and peacefulness have decreased for eleven of the past fourteen years. For example, global peace declined by 0.3% overall between the 2021 and 2022 GPI reports. While safety improved in 90 countries, it dropped in 71 countries (and remained stable in two), for a net loss.

The 2022 report also states that declines tend to happen more swiftly and precipitously than do improvements, and pointed out that the most significant deterioration occurred in countries in conflict, such as Russia , Ukraine , Guinea , Burkina Faso , and Haiti . Europe remained the most peaceful region in the world, a position it has held for all the 16 years in which the Global Peace Index has existed.

World peace also decreased between the 2020 and 2021 reports, though by a much smaller margin of 0.07%, with 87 countries improving and 73 deteriorating. The COVID-19 crisis and increasing tensions among major world powers were cited as two main causes for the decrease. A comparison of the 2020 and 2019 reports, to step back a year, reveals a total of 81 countries growing more peaceful and 80 deteriorating. The average country score deteriorated by 0.34%.

The Safest Continent in the World

A majority of the top 25 safest countries are European countries. Most notable are the Nordic countries of Europe. Norway , Sweden , Denmark , Iceland , and Finland are not only among Europe's safest countries , they are among the top 25 safest countries anywhere on Earth. This region is thus considered the safest in the world, with a homicide rate of 0.8 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants. These five Nordic countries are all in the top 10 happiest countries in the world as well. The second-safest region among the top 25 safest countries is Asia . Both Europe and Asia have the world’s lowest homicide rates of 3 or fewer per 100,000 inhabitants.

Qualities the World's Safest Countries Have in Common

There are some commonalities among the safest countries in the world. For instance, safe countries tend to display high levels of wealth, social welfare, and education. Additionally, safe countries typically have effective criminal justice systems and governments that maintain very healthy relationships with their citizens.

Profiles of the World's 10 Safest Countries

According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row. Iceland is a Nordic nation with a relatively small population of 340,000. Iceland has a very low level of crime, which is typically attributed to its high standard of living, small population, strong social attitudes against crime, a high level of trust in its well-trained police force, and a lack of tension among social and economic classes. Iceland has no military, and the police do not carry firearms (only extendable batons and pepper spray). Iceland also has laws in place to guarantee equality, such as legal same-sex marriage and same-sex adoptions, religious freedom, and equal pay for men and women.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand is the second-safest country in the world. Like Iceland, New Zealand has a very low crime rate, and violent crime is especially rare. Theft is still worth guarding against, especially in tourist areas (which holds true in every country in the world), but overall risk is minimal. Unlike its neighbor Australia , which is known for its dangerous wildlife (box jellyfish, taipan snakes, stonefish, funnel web spiders, and more), New Zealand has no deadly animals. New Zealanders are generally open-minded and have laws in place to prevent the violation of anyone's freedom of speech or expression. As in Iceland, police in New Zealand do not carry personal firearms.

Ireland became notably more peaceful in 2021 and vaulted from 11th place to 3rd in the 2022 rankings as a result. Crime is quite low outside of a few city neighborhoods ( as in any country, one should be wary of pickpockets and scammers in tourist-dense areas), and there is little threat of cultural violence or terrorism. In fact, the Irish landscape may pose a greater safety risk than its people—the country's breathtaking cliffs and winding country roads must be treated with respect, especially during a sudden rainstorm or in areas with no cell reception.

Ranked fourth on the 2022 Global Peace Index, Denmark is another one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. Denmark is one of the few countries where people report feeling safe at any time of day or night, even children. Denmark has a high level of equality and a strong sense of common responsibility for social welfare — two qualities that contribute to its citizens' feelings of safety and happiness.

Corruption is rare in Danish business or politics, as honesty and trust are top priorities. While Denmark has a high personal income tax , it funds social programs that ensure all people receive services and perks that help them live comfortable lives. For example, everyone in Denmark has access to tuition-free higher education and healthcare with no additional fees to them, and the elderly are provided at-home care helpers.

Austria ranked as the fifth-safest country in the world for 2022. While violent demonstrations in the wake of ongoing social unrest remain a concern, these are relatively easy to avoid, and otherwise, Austria is a very safe country to visit. Serious crimes are uncommon (with the usual caveat to watch for pickpockets and purse-snatchers). Additionally, Austria has been spared any major acts of terrorism in recent years.

6. Portugal

Portugal comes in sixth in the most peaceful countries rankings for 2022. In 2014, Portugal was ranked 18th globally and has since made significant strides. Unlike Iceland and New Zealand, Portugal has armed police; however, an increased police presence has resulted in a decreased crime rate in the country. In recent years, Portugal has experienced an economic resurgence, decreasing its unemployment rate from over 17% to under 7%. Portugal consistently ranks among the best countries for retirement , due in no small part to its high level of safety.

7. Slovenia

One of the former constituents of Yugoslavia , Slovenia has a high safety ranking that can be attributed to its excellent scores in three categories: travel security, medical risks, and road safety. Like many Slavic states , Slovenia installed a democratic government in the mid-1990s and is now focused on improving quality of life in many areas, including safety and sustainability.

8. Czech Republic

Crime rates in the Czech Republic have steadily decreased over the years, with rates of violent crime in particular dropping significantly. The Czech Republic also has a low incidence of terrorism and natural disasters. Finally, the country boasts many clean and efficient hospitals and a state-run health insurance system that offers affordable rates and enables near-universal coverage.

9. Singapore

Singapore ranks ninth on the GPI for 2022. In a Gallup report from 2018, Singapore residents felt the highest sense of personal security and had more positive experiences with law enforcement than did residents of any other country. Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, possibly due to the severe penalties that are issued for even small crimes. The government and police strictly control guns and other firearms, and violent and confrontational crimes are rare in Singapore.

As a city-state, Singapore also ranks as the second- safest city in the world according to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). In 2019, Singapore ranked first for infrastructure security and personal security, second for digital security, and eighth for health security.

The tenth-safest country in the world for 2022 is Japan. Japan has been in the top ten countries in the Global Peace Index for 14 years, consistently receiving high marks for low crime rates , minimal internal conflict, and virtually nonexistent political unrest. Japan's proximity to potentially hostile neighbors China and North Korea could become a threat to its safety at some point, but has not thus far.

Japan is known for citizens having limited access to firearms, as the Japanese do not view carrying a firearm as an individual's right. According to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit, Tokyo was the safest city in the world in 2019, ranking first in cybersecurity, second for health security, and fourth for infrastructure security and personal security.

IEP applies a rigorous research process to arrive at its GPI rankings. According to IEP , “The GPI covers 163 countries comprising 99.7 percent of the world’s population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources.”

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What is the safest country in the world?

Iceland is the safest country in the world, with a Global Peace Index of 1.124 .

What are the 5 safest countries in the world?

The 5 safest countries in the world are Iceland , Denmark , Ireland , New Zealand and Austria .

Frequently Asked Questions

• Global Peace Index 2022 - Institute for Economics and Peace
• These Are the Safest Countries - US News
• Most Dangerous and Safest Countries Index - TravelSafe Abroad

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European Tourism 2022 – Trends & Prospects (Q4/2022)

Publication date: Feb 2023

Language: English

TRAVEL ENTHUSIASM HELD STEADY TOWARDS THE END OF 2022, ALTHOUGH EUROPEAN TOURISM IS NOT YET OUT OF THE WOODS.  

European travel recovery persisted in the third quarter of 2022, held up by a strong pent-up demand that could have extended the summer season due to excess savings during the pandemic. Moreover, an unusually warm winter allowed households to reduce gas consumption, which favoured maintaining stocks in most European countries and drove down gas prices to pre-Ukraine war levels.

Risks, however, remain skewed to the downside due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, the geopolitics-induced energy crisis, high and persistent inflation showing little signs of abating and a looming economic recession. Despite less favourable conditions, European tourism managed to weather the storm, with the latest data indicating a recovery of 75% of 2019 travel volumes in 2022. Looking forward, international travel to Europe is still forecast to achieve pre-pandemic levels in 2025, while domestic travel will do so in 2024.

Now, as European short-haul travel is well on its way to recovery, the travel industry’s attention has turned to long-haul travel.

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• Best overall
• Best for trip cancellation
• Best for medical-only coverage
• Best for reputation
• Why you should trust us

Best Cheap Travel Insurance of June 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

In an ever-evolving world, emergency medical and evacuation travel insurance coverage is essential, especially if you're traveling internationally. However, sports equipment coverage, pet protection, and cancel for any reason coverage are among the increasingly popular coverage options that are changing the way we travel. We've gathered the best cheap travel insurance plans to help you protect your trip while on a budget.

Best Cheap Travel Insurance Plans

• Best overall: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
• Best for trip cancellation:  Aegis General Travel Insurance
• Best for medical-only coverage:  GeoBlue Travel Insurance
• Best value: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Best for reputation: Trawick International Travel Insurance

Compare the Best Cheap Travel Insurance

The best travel insurance meets your needs at a price you're willing to pay. Sometimes, you're just not willing to pay that much. The following companies offer decent coverage for low prices. To determine which companies made this list, we compared quotes across the travel insurance industry for the same trip, making a note of which companies offered particularly good coverage in certain areas and which companies were well reviewed.

Here are the best affordable travel insurance companies picked by Business Insider editors in 2024.

Best Affordable Travel Insurance Overall

Hth worldwide.

The HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Economy plan offers the most comprehensive coverage across major categories of all the providers in this guide.

You'll have some peace of mind with up to $75,000 of financial protection for eligible medical emergencies, and up to $500,000 per person for medical evacuation costs. For more everyday expenses, you can also relax with baggage loss and delay, trip interruption, cancellation and delay coverage that will help you recoup many, if not all, of your costs.

However, this plan falls short on missed connection benefits and accidental death coverage, both of which are not available under most circumstances (missed connection coverage only applies to cruises, and will only cover up to $500 per person after a three-hour delay).

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review .

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

Best Affordable Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation

Aegis general travel insurance.

The Aegis General Travel Insurance Trip Cancellation Plan is exactly that: a cost-effective plan that offers protection in the event that your trip is canceled for a covered reason. The plan we priced out for our hypothetical trip cost just 1.16% of our total travel expenses — a very small amount of money to pay for the guarantee of our money back in the right circumstances.

The benefit is that this plan can supplement other coverage you already have, or give you a little bit of protection for a trip where you might not otherwise have opted for insurance altogether. On the downside, you won't get any protection for medical emergencies, trip interruption or delays or lost bags from this plan.

Read our Aegis Travel Insurance review .

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a CFAR upgrade add-on on certain plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comprehensive insurance plans include generous coverage for baggage loss, plus protection from hurricane and other intense weather-related issues
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive pricing
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Online complaints about claims not being paid and non-responsiveness
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not all more expensive plans include CFAR coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Dropping rating with AM Best
• Annual and multi-trip plans available
• All plans include pandemic coverage for COVID-19
• Coverage for weather-related delays, cancellations and other incidents

Best Affordable Travel Insurance for Medical Coverage

Geoblue travel insurance.

GeoBlue Travel Insurance is a travel insurance provider that specializes in travel medical insurance. Because it doesn't offer much trip protection or travel inconvenience coverage, it can charge cheaper premiums. A 30-year-old from California would pay as low as $20.55 for a policy that covers a two-week trip. 

GeoBlue plans can cover medical expenses up to $1 million with several multi-trip annual plans available. It offers coinsurance plans for trips within the U.S. and 100% coverage for international trips. It also has a network of clinics in 180 countries, streamlining the claims process. It's worth noting that coverage for pre-existing conditions comes with additional costs.

Read our GeoBlue travel insurance review .

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. A subsidary of Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers strong medical plans as long as you have a regular health insurance plan, but it doesn't have to be through Blue Cross
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers long-term and multi-trip travel protection
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Multiple complaints about claims not being paid or being denied
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Does not provide some of the more comprehensive coverage like CFAR insurance
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers who do get claims paid may need to file multiple claim forms

Best Affordable Travel Insurance for Value

Nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a well-rounded alternative to HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Economy. This plan offers solid protection for both travel-related snafus as well as situations that might call for emergency medical and evacuation, making it a good choice for trips where you have cause to worry about potential interruptions or delays. However, it does not offer protection for missed connections or accidental death.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review .

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Best Affordable Travel Insurance for Reputation

Trawick travel insurance.

The Trawick International Travel Insurance Safe Travels Explorer plan has been purchased by more than 36,000 travelers since 2020, and it has great reviews to boot. And no wonder: Trawick offers generous trip delay coverage of up to $2,000 per person, although hopefully you won't need to reach that reimbursement amount because the daily limit is $150.

You'll also be able to rely on a $200 reimbursement per person for lost baggage - one of the higher amounts amongst these affordable plans, although this amount pales in comparison to the baggage loss coverage offered through the best travel credit cards .

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review .

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Types of Affordable Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage.

This type of insurance offers extensive protection, covering everything from medical issues to trip cancellations. While it's more expensive up front, it can save you a lot in the long run.

Medical-Only Coverage

As the name suggests, this policy focuses solely on medical emergencies, dropping trip cancellation coverage and travel inconvenience coverage. It's a cost-effective option for travelers who are primarily concerned about health-related expenses.

Evacuation and Repatriation

In extreme cases where you need to be evacuated due to a medical emergency or a natural disaster, this coverage ensures that you can return home safely without incurring huge costs.

Benefits of Opting for Cheap Travel Insurance

Cost savings.

Cheap travel insurance can significantly reduce your travel expenses, ensuring that you're not overpaying for coverage you might not need.

Adequate Coverage for Less

Just because it's cheap doesn't mean it's lacking. Many affordable policies offer substantial coverage, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank.

How to Pick The Best Cheap Travel Insurance Plan for You

No single travel insurance plan will meet the needs of every single traveler. By nature, we are diverse and evolving meaning travel insurance should be equally so. Travel insurance for a week-long trip to a big city shouldn't be the same as the coverage for a backpacking expedition in the mountains. A splurge to purchase comprehensive insurance coverage may also be worth it for international ventures or other large expenditures.

In most cases, the cost difference between a basic and comprehensive travel insurance plan isn't as significant as you might think. Regardless, it's generally a good idea to choose a trusted travel insurance provider known for exceptional customer service and coverage. (For this roundup, we looked at traveler reviews shared through the travel insurance aggregator SquareMouth .)

• Assessing Your Travel Needs: Consider the nature of your trip, the destination, and your own personal needs when choosing a policy. This ensures that you're not over-insured or underinsured.
• Comparing Different Policies: Don't settle for the first policy you find. Compare different options, looking at their coverage and prices, to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
• Reading the Fine Print: Always read the terms and conditions carefully to understand what's covered, what's not, and the process for making a claim.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Cheap Travel Insurance

To determine the best insurance plan for travelers on a budget, we evaluated dozens of products using a hypothetical trip to Australia for a single traveler, age 26, with a total cost of $2,500 for flight, hotel and other incidentals. We then compiled the plans that covered the essentials at the lowest costs.

Of note: All of these plans include COVID-related medical coverage and 24-hour assistance, and pay at least 100% of your trip cost for eligible trip cancellations. None include rental car coverage.

The four winning plans cost between $29 to $74 — significantly below the average cost of comprehensive travel insurance , which can range between 4%-8% of total travel expenses, according to the US Travel Insurance Association. But these affordable plans also come with comparably low ceilings for various aspects of coverage such as emergency medical, trip cancellation, or delay — and do not include rental car or " cancel for any reason" (CFAR) protection . So if you think you might need these benefits, it may well be worth upgrading to a comprehensive travel insurance plan for a few more dollars, just for the peace of mind.

Convenience and Flexibility

Each of the plans in this list include 24-hour assistance worldwide from reputable insurance providers. And despite being on the lower end of insurance plans, each of these options includes refunds for up to 100% of your total trip cost for eligible reasons. Each of these plans also includes medical coverage for COVID-related issues that may arise during your travels, which may come in handy as the pandemic continues to evolve worldwide.

Sufficient Coverage in Essential Categories

The cheapest travel insurance plan will rarely cover every scenario that could go awry on your trip. However, each of these plans can at least help you get your money back in the event that your travel is canceled for an eligible reason, and most of them include travel medical insurance if you incur emergency medical bills while traveling. We also factor in what travelers are most concerned about now. 

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

Best Cheap Travel Insurance FAQs

You can reduce the cost of travel insurance by opting for simpler coverage or choosing higher deductibles on travel medical insurance. You can also consider annual travel insurance , which will save you money in the long run if you take multiple trips over one year.

Yes, many affordable policies offer comprehensive coverage suitable for international travel. It's crucial to compare policies and understand your needs. You can find our guide on the best international travel insurance here.

Travel insurance is relatively cheap because it only covers you for a set period of time, and depending on your plan, the level of coverage you get may not be particularly high. However, even with high coverage limits and extras like cancel for any reason coverage , travel insurance is relatively affordable. 

The average cost of travel insurance is 4%-8% of your trip's cost. This usually translates into a premium between $89 to $399. That said, many companies offer premiums far below average costs.

If you just want trip cancellation protection, go with the Aegis Trip Cancellation plan. For more robust coverage that won't break the bank, consider HTH Worldwide's TripProtector Economy, Trawick's Safe Travels Explorer, or Nationwide's Essentials plan.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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