Summer holidays are approaching, and along with rising temperatures, another concern is returning for European citizens: the significant increase in travel costs. From higher flight prices and rising aviation fuel costs to mass flight cancellations and increasing accommodation expenses, the summer of 2026 is proving to be more expensive for tourists.
Nevertheless, despite economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, Europeans do not seem willing to give up their vacations. Instead, they are simply changing the way they travel.
According to the 2026 Travel Trends Report by the Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI), Europe continues to remain one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels rank among the most popular destinations, while Barcelona, Madrid, and Frankfurt have also seen a significant rise in international visitors.
Mastercard’s Chief Economist for Europe, Natalia Lechmanova, stated that Europe’s travel economy has shown resilience even in an uncertain economic and political climate.
“As travel patterns normalize, Europeans are placing greater importance on value, affordability, and the experiences they gain from traveling,” she said.
According to the 2026 Holiday Barometer by Europ Assistance and Ipsos, 77% of Europeans are planning to travel this summer. Britons and Portuguese travelers appear the most eager to take vacations, with 84% and 82% of respondents respectively having travel plans.
However, flight costs have risen significantly. A study by the financial platform “Raisin” showed that air ticket prices from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport have increased on average by 13.1% compared to last year.
For a family of four, the average flight cost has reached 914 euros, up from 808 euros a year earlier. Vienna was the only city that turned out to be cheaper this year compared to last year.
Under these circumstances, many tourists are choosing lower-cost alternatives. Low-cost airlines continue to offer budget tickets, though without additional services such as luggage or seat selection.
British airline EasyJet told Euronews Travel that around 40% of its customers travel using only the basic fare and one small free carry-on bag.
Meanwhile, some travelers are avoiding flights altogether and choosing trains instead. According to the “Raisin” study, train ticket prices have increased by only 2.5% and, in most cases, are cheaper than air travel.
Experts advise travelers to book early and continuously compare prices, especially at a time when the aviation sector is facing major problems due to the fuel crisis.
More than 13,000 flights were reported canceled across Europe during the month of May alone.
For this reason, many agencies recommend booking package holidays, which provide greater financial protection in case of cancellations or disruptions.
Another growing trend is the choice of closer and more affordable destinations. According to Airbnb, many Europeans are opting for vacations closer to home and are sharing costs with larger groups of family or friends.
Eastern Europe continues to dominate the list of the most affordable travel destinations for 2026. According to the “Post Office Travel Money” report, Sarajevo has been named the cheapest city for holidays in Europe, followed by Bucharest, Tirana, and Belgrade.
The 10 Most Affordable Cities for Holidays in Europe in 2026:
- Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina – 287 euros
- Bucharest, Romania – 299 euros
- Tirana, Albania – 304.5 euros
- Belgrade, Serbia – 307 euros
- Trenčín, Slovakia – 315 euros
- Riga, Latvia – 322 euros
- Lille, France – 334 euros
- Vilnius, Lithuania – 334 euros
- Strasbourg, France – 369 euros
- Podgorica, Montenegro – 384.5 euros
Experts advise tourists to book holidays in June or September, periods when prices are lower and destinations are less crowded.
According to Skyscanner, the cheapest week to travel during the summer of 2026 is expected to be from June 29 to July 5.
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