Travel Guide
These Are The Top 5 Fastest Growing Destinations In Europe According To New Report
May
If you’re dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant city life, but also fancy being a bit ahead of the curve, you’re in luck. A brand-new report from ForwardKeys has just landed, and it’s spilling the beans on which European hotspots are seeing the biggest surge in popularity for the upcoming summer season. Forget just the usual suspects; these are the places where flight bookings are skyrocketing compared to last year, meaning they’re the “fastest-growing” choices for in-the-know travelers.
So, how did these number crunchers figure this out? The report dived into a mountain of international flight booking data for this upcoming June through August 2025 and compared it to the same period in 2024. The spots on this list are the ones that are showing the most dramatic percentage increase in people locking in their summer plans. Ready to see who made the cut? Let’s count ’em down!
5. Rhodes, Greece – Soaking Up a 12% Surge!
Kicking off our list, according to the new travel report, is the legendary Greek island of Rhodes. This gem in the Dodecanese is clearly doing something right, as the data shows it’s seeing a hefty 12% increase in flight bookings for Summer 2025 compared to last year. And honestly, are we surprised? Rhodes is like a historical theme park mixed with a beach paradise.
Imagine wandering through the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site so well-preserved you’ll expect a knight in shining armor to clatter past at any moment. Then, picture yourself lounging on stunning beaches like Faliraki (for the party people) or the more serene Anthony Quinn Bay. Add in delicious Greek food, sparkling turquoise waters, and the ancient Acropolis of Lindos perched dramatically above the sea, and you’ve got a recipe for a booming summer. Rhodes offers that perfect blend of history, relaxation, and vibrant Greek culture that travelers are clearly craving.
4. Palma de Mallorca, Spain – Also Booming with a 12% Jump!
Sharing the spotlight with a solid 12% year-over-year growth in bookings, the report highlights the ever-glamorous Palma de Mallorca. The capital of Spain’s Balearic Islands has long been a favorite, and these findings show its appeal is only getting stronger for Summer 2025. Palma is chic, it’s beautiful, and it knows how to deliver a sophisticated yet fun-filled Mediterranean escape.
The star of the show is often the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, La Seu, which dramatically overlooks the harbor. But beyond that, Palma offers a maze of charming old town streets, stylish boutiques, bustling tapas bars, and a vibrant marina. You can spend your days exploring historic sites like Bellver Castle, relaxing on nearby beaches such as Playa de Palma, or indulging in the island’s increasingly impressive culinary scene. It’s got that irresistible Spanish flair, making it a consistently hot ticket that’s only getting hotter.
3. Heraklion, Greece – Crete’s Capital Climbs with a 13% Increase!
Hopping back to Greece, the travel data points us to Heraklion, the bustling capital of Crete, which is also enjoying a fantastic 13% boost in summer bookings. Heraklion is more than just a gateway to Crete’s legendary beaches and landscapes; it’s a vibrant city with a rich tapestry of history and modern life, and it’s clearly capturing more travelers’ attention this year.
History buffs, get ready! Heraklion is your stepping stone to the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, a mind-blowing archaeological site that whispers tales of myths and ancient civilizations. The city itself boasts a fantastic Archaeological Museum, a formidable Venetian fortress at the harbor, and lively market streets. Beyond the history, you’ll find a buzzing café culture, delicious Cretan cuisine (think fresh seafood, amazing olive oil, and local cheeses), and easy access to some of Crete’s northern coast beaches. It’s a destination that offers depth, flavor, and plenty of sunshine.
2. Catania, Italy – Sicily’s Star Shines with a 13% Booking Boom!
Sharing that impressive 13% growth rate, as revealed in the latest report, is Catania, the vibrant, historic city on Sicily’s east coast, right at the foot of the mighty Mount Etna. If you’re looking for a slice of authentic Italian life with a dramatic backdrop and a gritty, energetic charm, the booking trends show Catania is calling your name for Summer 2025.
This isn’t your polished, sleepy Italian town. Catania is alive, a bit chaotic in the best way possible, and packed with stunning Baroque architecture (a UNESCO World Heritage site, no less), much of it built from the local volcanic stone. Explore the bustling fish market (La Pescheria), wander through the Piazza del Duomo with its elephant fountain, and, of course, take a trip up Europe’s most active volcano, Mount Etna, for some truly unforgettable views and experiences. Add in mouthwatering Sicilian food – from arancini to pasta alla Norma – and the nearby beaches, and you can see why Catania is seriously trending.
1. Larnaca, Cyprus – Leading the Pack with a Whopping 17% Growth!
And the number one fastest-growing European destination for Summer 2025, according to this new analysis of travel data, is… Larnaca, Cyprus! This sunny Cypriot city is seeing an incredible 17% surge in flight bookings compared to last year. It seems the secret is out about Larnaca’s laid-back charm, beautiful coastline, and rich history.
Larnaca offers a fantastic blend of everything you could want in a Mediterranean getaway. Think palm-lined promenades (hello, Finikoudes Beach!), crystal-clear waters perfect for diving (the Zenobia wreck is world-famous), and fascinating historical sites like the Church of Saint Lazarus and the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque on the edge of a stunning salt lake where flamingos often gather. It’s also known for being a relatively affordable destination compared to some other European hotspots, offering great value alongside its warm welcome and diverse attractions. From relaxing on the beach to exploring ancient culture and enjoying the vibrant café scene, Larnaca is clearly set to be the place to be this summer!
Time to Get Planning!
So there you have it – Europe’s five fastest-growing hotspots for Summer 2025, straight from the latest analysis of travel booking trends. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient wonders of Greece, the fiery spirit of Sicily, the chic vibes of Mallorca, or the sunny shores of Cyprus, these destinations are certainly making a splash. The only question left is, which one will you choose for your adventure? Happy travels!
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