PARIS — Europe is poised to remain the undisputed powerhouse of international tourism through 2036, according to a sweeping new report published by global hospitality giant Accor. The study, titled “The Changing Face of Europe’s Tourism Map to 2036” and based on data commissioned from leading forecaster Tourism Economics, paints a picture of sustained and accelerating growth for the continent’s travel industry.
According to the report, demand for tourist accommodation across Europe is forecast to grow by 32% over the next ten years, adding more than 1.6 billion overnight stays annually. Hotel accommodation is expected to grow even faster at 33%. International accommodation nights are predicted to surge by 42% — nearly double the 24% growth forecast for domestic travel.
In 2025, Europe welcomed 810 million international visitors — more than any other region in the world — attracting 53% of all international tourists globally and generating over €700 billion in tourism receipts. By 2036, international visitor spending is projected to reach as high as €1.3 trillion.
Emerging markets are set to play a growing role. Arrivals from Asia-Pacific are forecast to rise by 88%, and from the Middle East by 93%, while China (+138%) and South Korea (+121%) are tipped as the fastest-growing individual source markets. Spain, France, and the UK are expected to lead European demand, with Latvia poised for an extraordinary 83% increase in international accommodation nights.
Source: Euronews — Europe to Remain the ‘Powerhouse’ of Global Travel, October 27, 2026