Athens is recording an impressive increase in Easter bookings, according to data from PriceLabs.
Specifically, Athens, alongside Krakow, has seen a 51% rise in overnight bookings for the Easter period, a performance that places both cities at the top of the European rankings. The preference for these two cities is primarily attributed to their attractive pricing.
Budapest follows with a 50% increase, while Malaga and Dublin also show significant growth (+43%). Overall, demand rose in 18 out of the 22 analyzed destinations, confirming a steady recovery in peak-period travel and a shift among travelers toward more affordable options.
Shift towards more affordable destinations
The data highlights a clear trend: travelers are increasingly turning to destinations with lower accommodation costs. Athens, with an average daily rate (ADR) of 115 euros, remains significantly more affordable compared to other major European capitals.
Similarly, Krakow (98 euros) and Budapest (100 euros) are among the most budget-friendly destinations, further enhancing their appeal.
In contrast, traditionally expensive destinations maintain high prices. London recorded the highest average nightly rate at 428 euros, followed by Paris (386 euros), Rome (352 euros), and Amsterdam (282 euros).
Price increases across Europe
Alongside the increased demand, accommodation prices are trending upward across all markets. The largest increases were recorded in Prague (+27%), Paris (+24%), and Budapest (+21%).
However, rising prices do not seem to deter demand, as travelers continue to plan their Easter getaways, placing greater emphasis on value for money.
Mixed results in certain markets
There are, however, some exceptions. Regions such as Brittany (-26%), Bordeaux (-6%), and Paris (-6% in terms of demand) recorded a drop in bookings. According to PriceLabs, the rescheduling of school holidays to later dates in parts of France is affecting domestic travel patterns.
Strong demand, smarter choices
As PriceLabs founder Richie Khandelwal points out, travelers are expanding their search beyond traditional, high-cost destinations, seeking better value for their money.
The Bottom Line: The outlook for this year’s Easter confirms that travel demand remains robust, with price and destination competitiveness becoming increasingly important. In this environment, Athens appears to be capitalizing on its comparative advantage, combining high demand with relatively affordable accommodation costs.
