Semana Santa 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most appealing times for travelers, as many plan to take advantage of the holiday break from April 13 to April 20. This surge in travel interest leads to increased flight prices, making early planning and wise booking strategies more important than ever.
Given the high demand for airfare during this festive period, travel agents recommend booking flights at least three months in advance. Agustín Vázquez, veteran travel agent and director of Ola Mundo! noted, "For Easter, the first holiday period of the year, many begin packing their bags for their first trip of the year. While it tends to be pricier, the joy of traveling during Semana Santa can't be underestimated."
Vázquez emphasizes the significance of booking on specific days and times, explaining, "Several studies show the best deals are often available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, particularly if you aim for the early hours." This practice can increase the chances of scoring more affordable tickets. Popular travel days tend to peak around April 11, 12, and 17, which may increase prices.
For those aiming for cheaper flights, flexible travel dates can make all the difference. Opting to fly on less popular days, such as Tuesday, April 15, or Wednesday, April 16, is recommended as these dates often yield lower airfare. Vázquez suggests early morning or late-night flights as another cost-effective alternative.
While major cities like Paris, London, and Rome are among Europe’s most visited destinations, many travelers are discovering lesser-known, economical options. Cities like Krakow, Budapest, and Bucharest are touted for their rich history and culture without the hefty price tag commonly associated with more popular tourist spots.
Krakow, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town and historic sites like Wawel Castle, remains among the most affordable cities to explore. Budapest, famous for its thermal baths and stunning architecture, also offers excellent value for money, appealing to budget-conscious travelers.
Bucharest, with its eclectic architecture blending neoclassical, Bauhaus, and art deco styles, surprises visitors with its dynamic atmosphere and nightlife. While these cities provide budget-friendly alternatives, Vázquez notes, "Flexibility and early planning shouldn't just be for flights but also for accommodations and activities once you arrive."
Close to home, many travelers from Galicia are flocking to traditional holiday spots. "Canarias remains the top choice for Galicians, especially as the weather warms up," Vázquez explains, highlighting how the archipelago's popularity leads to high demand for flights.
Portugal also ranks high on the list, with many opting to drive there during this festive time. Vázquez adds, “There’s lots of connectivity to these destinations from Galician airports, making them very accessible.”
Travel experts expect this trend to continue, believing 2025 will be another good year for travel, especially as restrictions from the pandemic continue to ease. Oscar Regal, director of Viajes Embajador, states, "The Easter season is incredibly important to us as we head back to international travel." Regal points out new direct flights this year to destinations like Istanbul, with specific routes scheduled from A Coruña.
Regal highlights the growing interest among travelers. “We’ve seen more options this year, including direct flights to cities like Vienna and Milan, both of which are increasingly popular,” he declares.
An important feature of this year's planning efforts is the rising trend of tourist trains, which provide unique travel experiences throughout Spain. New routes and services are being introduced to facilitate holiday travel, including luxurious options like the Transcantábrico, which promises stunning views and exceptional service.
Regal concludes by underscoring, “Anticipation is key; travelers can no longer rely on last-minute discounts as they used to.” He recommends early planning as the best strategy for securing both flights and accommodations this Semana Santa.