Europe could face drop in visitors - Young travelers cite high costs as a major obstacle
Europe looks set to experience a decline in foreign visitors in 2026. The main influencing factors are concerns about affordability, a growing preference for domestic travel, or closer to home, and limited vacation time.
Younger travelers in particular cited high costs as a major barrier to visiting Europe. So what plans does the region have to avoid the high price tag for a new generation of adventurers?
The European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail’s Long-Distance Travel Barometer report 1/2026 show a more cautious outlook for long-distance travelers to Europe from seven key overseas markets: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea and the United States.
The survey found that 42% of respondents are considering a trip to Europe in 2026, down 3% from last year. Among respondents not planning to travel abroad, high costs are the top factor deterring domestic travel (52%), followed by a growing preference for domestic travel.
Affordability remains the main barrier to traveling to Europe (43%), especially among younger travelers aged 18-34.
On the positive side, safety remains a key competitive advantage for Europe. It has become the main criterion when choosing a European destination, mentioned by 51% of respondents, increasing significantly year on year.
According to the report, Europe ranks highest globally in all dimensions of security, including political stability, personal safety and natural hazards.
According to experts, Europe's strength lies in its diversity, offering a wide range of prices, travel methods and accommodation types.
Younger travelers are adaptable and value-oriented, and while they are more cost-sensitive, they remain highly motivated to travel.
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