Eurostat: Package Holidays More Expensive in the EU in June – Turkey Tops Tourism Price Rises

Prices for package holidays in the European Union rose in June 2025 compared to last year, according to Eurostat data, with strong differences between markets. While the overall inflation rate in the EU was around 2.5% year-on-year, package holidays increased by 2.8%, confirming that travel costs are rising faster than general consumer prices.

For international package tours – which include travel outside the traveler’s home country – prices rose by 2.7%.a

Large Differences by Country

Germany, one of the most important source markets for Mediterranean destinations like Turkey and Greece, recorded a 1.6% increase in package holiday prices. France saw a slight rise of 1%, while Italy posted a much higher increase of 5.4%. Poland, a rapidly growing outbound travel market, saw an increase of 5.1%.

What a Holiday Package Includes

Organized holiday packages combine transportation, accommodation, meals, guided tours, and other services, often in all-inclusive or themed trip formats. They may cover multi-day holidays as well as single-day or religious trips. International packages refer to destinations outside the traveler’s country of origin, while domestic packages remain within national borders.

The EU average annual rise of 2.8% suggests that travel expenses are increasing faster than general inflation, with rates depending on demand, seasonality, and conditions at destinations.

Market / Category Annual Change (%)
EU average +2.8
International packages +2.7
Germany +1.6
France +1.0
Italy +5.4
Poland +5.1

Tourism Prices: Turkey at the Top

The largest increase in tourism prices – which include hotel and restaurant spending – in June 2025 was recorded in Turkey, reaching 35.6%, according to Eurostat data processed by Turizmdatabank. North Macedonia was second at 10.6%.

By contrast, Turkey’s main competitors saw much smaller rises: Spain 4.2%, France 2.8%, and Italy 3.6%. The EU average for tourism inflation (hotels & restaurants) was 4.1%.

Indicative tourism inflation rates:

Turkey: 35.6%

North Macedonia: 10.6%

Spain: 4.2%

France: 2.8%

Italy: 3.6%

EU average: 4.1%

Why Turkey Stands Out

Traditionally, Turkey has been considered a budget-friendly destination for Europeans thanks to its currency exchange rate. However, the data show that locally, accommodation and dining prices have surged at rates many times higher than in competing destinations. Thus, while Turkey may still be affordable for visitors paying in euros, domestic price inflation is rising sharply.

The reasons include high demand, increased operating costs for businesses, and pressures from the broader economic environment. Factors such as seasonality, higher energy costs, and changes in supply can further drive price increases.

Outlook for the Sector

The second half of 2025 finds Europe’s tourism industry facing a mix of challenges and opportunities. Rising package prices and tourism inflation could influence travelers’ choices, pushing some demand toward cheaper destinations or alternative forms of travel.

Source: tornosnews.gr