Travel remains a top priority for people around the world this summer, despite macroeconomic uncertainties, with nearly half of travelers planning to spend more money on their upcoming trips than they did in 2024, a new Booking.com survey reveals.
According to data from a popular travel platform, this summer, longer trips and meaningful getaways are at the center of travelers’ attention, with 77% of the majority appearing enthusiastic about their next trips and 48% predicting that they will spend more money on travel this year compared to last year.
Meanwhile, alternative accommodations continue to be popular with travelers, with a 10% increase in searches for accommodations compared to last summer. This year, travelers are seeking more space, comfort, and authenticity, which is why villas and country houses are leading the way in their choices.
Hurghada, Egypt, tops the global list of most popular destinations this summer, with families drawn by the warm climate, easy access to resorts, and world-class diving along the Red Sea.
Top global destinations for the summer of 2025
Hurghada, Egypt
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Tokyo, Japan
Dubai, UAE
Bangkok, Thailand
Alicante, Spain
Nice, France
Malaga, Spain
Rimini, Italy
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Families choose cultural and experiential “content” travel
For 53% of parents, family vacations are the top priority this summer, with a majority of 85% of parents seeking trips that will expose their children to a variety of cultures and experiences. The way these trips are planned is also made easier, thanks to technology. Families are leading the way in using artificial intelligence to organize their trips, with 85% reporting that using AI tools makes the process faster and more efficient.
The summer destinations chosen by families for unforgettable family vacations this summer are Hurghada (Egypt), Paris (France), Dubai (UAE), Tokyo (Japan), and Alicante (Portugal).
Nature and social interaction are at the centre of “group” travel
Group travel is gaining ground this summer, with 1 in 5 travelers worldwide planning trips with friends. The leader of this trend is Generation Z, with 33% choosing group getaways.
These younger travelers seek experiences that combine social interaction with nature, with 36% prioritizing activities such as stargazing and outdoor adventures. This aligns with a broader movement, where 48% of travelers worldwide express a desire to explore natural landscapes such as lakes, mountains, and national parks.
Groups choose Ayia Napa (Cyprus), Alicante and Albufeira (Portugal), Paris (France), and Marrakech (Morocco) for their trips.
Couples are positive for experiences
Couples are placing increasing value on unforgettable experiences over material possessions, a trend that will continue in the summer of 2025. Over 73% of Millennials, 74% of Gen Z, and 69% of Boomers prefer a trip as a gift over a product. This shift aligns with 45% of travelers planning to take a trip with their partner this year.
For those who are thinking of romantic getaways, Trieste and Villajoyosa are ideal choices.
The top travel destinations for couples in the summer of 2025 are Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt), Tokyo (Japan), Milan (Italy), Dubai (UAE), and Alicante (Portugal).
Alternative accommodations are in high demand
Alternative forms of accommodation are gaining popularity, with searches for unique lodgings increasing by 10% year-over-year compared to last summer.
Booking.com offers more than 8.1 million listings for homes, apartments, and other unique accommodations, such as boats, treehouses, cabins, and beachfront bungalows.
The most popular types of accommodations vary depending on the group of travelers:
Groups are showing increasing interest in apartments and country houses, with searches increasing by 16% and 12% respectively.
Families are turning to villas and campsites, with increases of 19% and 16%, respectively.
Couples prefer luxury tents and chalets, which have seen increases of 16% and 13%, respectively.
