EU Tourism Roars Back to Pre-Pandemic Levels as Travelers Flock to Europe
After two tumultuous years, tourism in the European Union made a remarkable comeback in 2022, fully rebounding to pre-pandemic levels. Data released this month by Eurostat showed that visitor numbers across the 27 member states matched and even exceeded 2019 figures, signaling revival for the vital travel industry.
A resurgence in intra-regional travel this past summer drove the tourism revival. As European countries shed restrictions, pent-up wanderlust was unleashed as people rediscovered the pleasures of holidaying abroad.
Popular destinations like Spain, France, Italy and Greece saw hotels fill up once more. Cities and cultural sites bustled with life, beaches teemed with bathers, restaurants served hungry diners late into balmy nights- all long-missed signs of tourism’s return.
“This summer it was just wonderful to see European streets full of visitors again,” remarked Marco Santos, a souvenir shop owner in Lisbon whose sales climbed back up.
Tourism businesses large and small are breathing easier thanks to the industry’s robust renewal. Airlines filled seats, tour guides led eager groups, and lodgings reported high occupancy again. Activities from museums to boat rides saw demand return to healthy volumes.
The revival even pushed visitor numbers slightly above 2019 benchmarks in countries like France, which welcomed 89.3 million tourists this year compared to 89.0 million before the pandemic. Spain also exceeded 2019, clocking 73.5 million visitors versus 83.7 million previously.
Other top destinations are on track to fully rebound by year’s end. “We are thrilled that international arrivals have picked back up,” shared Elisa Ruggiero, co-owner of a Siena hotel. “It seems people want to immerse themselves in Europe’s culture and cuisine again.”
While Americans and other long-haul markets lag slightly behind, bookings show momentum building into 2023. Continued easing of COVID-related restrictions has restored confidence in travel including health and safety protocols.
Paolo Diamanti, tourism expert at the University of Pisa said, “2022 will go down as the year European tourism came roaring back. The industry has proven its resilience and there are bright days ahead.”
With the Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, Acropolis and other icons welcoming back enthusiastic visitors, it’s clear European tourism has reclaimed its world-leading role. The region’s unparalleled blend of natural beauty, history and culture has enticed travelers for centuries – and will continue doing so for centuries more.
