European tourism forecast to grow 3.1 per cent in 2026
The World Travel & Tourism Council expects international visitor spending in Europe to rise by 5.8 per cent, with regional tourism growth exceeding its global forecast.
Europe’s travel and tourism sector is expected to expand faster than the wider economy in 2026, according to research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Its forecast puts European growth at 3.1 per cent, compared with 2.5 per cent for tourism worldwide.
The council projects a 5.8 per cent increase in spending by international visitors in Europe. Its figures also show leisure spending rising by 3.1 per cent and business travel by 4.2 per cent, despite uncertainty linked to Middle East tensions and pressure on living costs.
WTTC presented the figures at the opening press conference of its 26th Global Summit in Malta. The gathering brings together more than 200 chief executives and government officials, alongside 1,000 delegates. Discussions will cover tourism’s impact on local communities, sustainability and accessibility.
Gloria Guevara, WTTC’s president and chief executive, said the sector was prepared to invest and innovate. She urged governments to improve travel connections, develop talent and support sustainable growth, saying their decisions would shape how much Europe benefits from the opportunity.
