Tourists are being urged to look beyond the likes of Spain, France, Italy and Greece for holiday destinations in 2025 – with two lesser known countries being recommended
2024 marked a record year for travel, with many keen holidaymakers probably eyeing up their next getaway.
In the first seven months of 2024, Europe saw international tourist arrivals climb by 11 per cent from the previous year, and figures were just 4 per cent shy of those in 2019 – indicating a rebound from the pandemic’s impact.
However, holidaymakers continue to stick to the same destinations, with sun-soaked staples like Spain, France, Italy, and Greece clinching top spots on holiday wish lists across the continent.
READ MORE: The beautiful country with world-famous beaches 40,000 Brits are swapping UK for
Spain is geared up for an influx of over 90 million visitors, while Paris experienced a nearly 19 per cent increase in visitors during the Olympics this year.
But if you’re keen to book a holiday that’s a little more off the beaten track, travel expert Simon Calder has revealed to the Express two underrated European gems to consider.
He said: “All the indications that we’ve seen, for instance the figures of people going through airports and the latest figures from travel companies show that we have an insatiable appetite for travel. And 2025 is going to be fantastic in having wider horizons than ever.”
For those hunt for value spots, Simon advised: “If you want a bargain destination, then I would head for the Balkans – Bulgaria is always very good value for package holidays.”
Nestled in the eastern Balkans, just south of the Danube and west of the Black Sea, Bulgaria shares borders with Greece and Turkey, enjoying those same sizzling summer temperatures.
In 2023, Bulgaria hit a tourism high with 8.6 million visitors, marking a 13 per cent increase from the previous year, though still dwarfed by Greece’s 33 million and Turkey’s staggering 49 million tourists.
Tourism remains a key player in Bulgaria’s economy, with hotspots like Sofia, Plovdiv, and beach resorts such as Albena, Golden Sands, and Sunny Beach, not to mention winter favourites Bansko and Pamporovo, drawing crowds.
History buffs can revel in Bulgaria’s rich past, peppered with Thracian, Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences, boasting treasures like the Boyana Church, Madara Rider and the ancient Rila Monastery.
Bulgaria’s coast offers tranquil sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, promising a more serene experience than its neighbours, Greece and Turkey.
Travel expert Simon also recommended: “I’ve also got my money on Albania as an up and coming destination – fantastic beaches, friendly people and prices back to the 20th century.”
Boasting breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient castles, a lively capital city and idyllic beaches that can compete with any Mediterranean hotspot, it’s surprising that 10 million overseas tourists made their way to Albania in 2023.
Albania is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. You can bag a luxury hotel room for as little as 50 euros (£41.50), while a hearty meal will set you back just about 10 euros (£8.30).
Just across the Straits of Corfu, a comparable hotel room on the popular Greek island would likely set you back £86 per night, according to current figures from Booking.com.
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