Overview
- The European Travel Commission reported international arrivals up 5.6% and overnight stays up 5.5% in early 2026.
- Northern Europe led growth with arrivals up 13%, with standout gains in Ireland up 30% and Finland up 12%.
- Winter markets strengthened, with Italy up 14% on Olympic-driven demand and Austria and France rising on good ski conditions.
- Southern destinations kept the largest visitor share, with Greece up 33% but with shorter trips, and gains in Cyprus, Croatia, and Spain.
- IATA warned of possible jet‑fuel shortages that could prompt European flight cancellations by the end of May, while Tourism Economics estimates a two‑month disruption could put about 4% of international overnight stays at risk.