The end of winter brings a renewed sense of wanderlust among the French as they look ahead to spring travel plans. According to a recent survey conducted by KAYAK.fr and Ipsos, 27% of French people place the weather at the top of their priority list when selecting a getaway destination this coming season.
French travelers are not only focused on sunny skies; accessibility and budget are also significant factors influencing their decisions. Approximately 21% of respondents prioritize destinations that are reachable in under two hours, while 65% indicate that they plan to spend less than 500 euros per person on their spring escape.
"With the winter holidays officially over, the desire to travel under warmer skies is palpable. The French are eager to explore cozy destinations without breaking the bank," said a spokesperson from KAYAK.fr.
The top European destinations for spring travel according to the KAYAK.fr survey include Lisbon, Rome, and Porto. Lisbon, in the lead position, experienced a 4% decrease in searches compared to last year but remains appealing with an average ticket price of 176 euros, a 10% increase from 2024. Rome follows, with an 8% drop in searches and an average cost of 163 euros, while Porto remains stable with an average fare of 162 euros, showcasing a 10% increase compared to the previous year.
Interestingly, Ajaccio, located in France, reported a 27% increase in search queries compared to last year, indicating a growing interest in this domestic destination.
Despite a focus on budget, only 5% of those surveyed expressed willingness to spend more than 1000 euros on their getaway, highlighting a trend towards economical trips. KAYAK.fr recommends several appealing destinations suitable for various types of travelers: Marrakech, Seville, and Rome are suggested for those seeking sunny locales while being just a short flight away. In contrast, nature enthusiasts are encouraged to explore Madeira, the Cinque Terre, or Corsica for rejuvenating escapes.
The nature and culinary experiences are especially important in the minds of French travelers this spring. Approximately 33% prioritize hiking and nature-related activities, while 18% choose culinary experiences as their top pick. Furthermore, 30% select culinary activities as a second option, reflecting the enduring popularity of gastronomic tourism in France. City exploration also ranks high on the list, with 13% opting for urban visits and shopping, and 10% selecting museums as their main interest.
Overall, the survey points to a preference for shorter trips, with 48% indicating a preference for weekend getaways lasting three to four days. About 45% favor longer breaks of a week or more, highlighting the popularity of the long weekend as an ideal format for quick and refreshing trips.
Not only are domestic trips and quick getaways appealing, but a seminar held in Thanh Hoa, Vietnam, on March 20, 2023, titled "Tourism Trends 2025" highlighted several global tourism dynamics affecting the travel industry. Nguyen Anh Tuan, director of the Vietnamese Institute for Tourism Development Research, emphasized that domestic tourism is a major growth driver in Vietnam, with tourists increasingly seeking high-quality services and relaxing experiences.
"Travelers today are willing to spend more for quality experiences rather than opting for budget-only options," Tuan noted during the seminar. This suggests a shift in consumer behavior, as tourists display a readiness to invest in their leisure time.
The outbound travel market in Vietnam is trending toward new destinations, notably the Middle East and Europe, thanks to favorable visa policies, allowing more travelers to explore international locations.
Tran Thi Kim Qui, general director at FLC Hotels & Resorts, added that today's tourists are not just looking for accommodations but for holistic experiences encompassing relaxation, gastronomy, culture, and entertainment.
All these dynamics, according to experts, indicate that 2025 could be a booming year for tourism globally if businesses can capitalize on the emerging trends and adapt to the evolving needs of travelers.
Experts are also emphasizing the role of digital transformation in the tourism sector, highlighting how technology improves traveler experience through intelligent applications. Digital solutions can personalize itineraries and provide real-time assistance to travelers.
"While AI and digital tools have proven effective in supporting tourism operations, the human factor remains essential to create unique experiences that resonate with tourists," Qui concluded.
In summary, as spring approaches, French travelers are looking for sunny escapes that cater to their desire for accessibility and affordability. The insights gathered from KAYAK.fr and the latest tourism trends discussed in the Thanh Hoa seminar significantly reflect a shift in consumer preferences towards a richer travel experience while integrating technology into this evolving landscape.
