Winter tourism is on the rise throughout the European Union (EU), as show the latest figures published by Eurostat, the statistical office of the EU.
During the 2018-2019 winter season, 18.9 million more nights than in the 2017-2018 season were spent in hotels and similar accommodation establishments of the EU. This is 2.6% more.
Winter tourism increased in 25 of the 27 EU Member States with available data.
The highest increase was recorded in Romania (+8.6%), followed by Croatia (+7.4%) and Poland (+7.3%). In Finland, winter tourism also increased, although not so steeply.
Only two EU Member States reported a decrease: Greece (-8.3%) and Malta (-3.5%).
If you want to read more detailed results for each country, click HERE
Spain, the most popular destination
The most popular EU destinations for tourists from all over the world travelling outside their own country of residence during the 2018-2019 winter season were Spain (which accounted for 20% of all nights spent by non-residents in EU hotels and similar establishments), Italy and the United Kingdom (each 12%), Austria (10%), Germany and France (each 9%).
Winter tourism to these six countries accounted for almost three quarters (72%) of all nights spent by non-residents in EU hotels and similar establishments.
