Traveling to Europe? What´s new, What´s Changing
From new routes and regulations to cycling tours and cultural immersion, here’s how European travel is evolving — and why your next trip might be the best one yet.
For those dreaming of Europe, 2024 was a record-breaker. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, a whopping 742 million travelers visited the continent last year — a 5% increase over 2023 and higher than pre-pandemic levels.
No surprise, really. With 44 countries, Europe offers a feast of geography, cuisine, culture, and history. Even as a resident here, I’ve barely scratched the surface.
But 2024 wasn’t just about bigger numbers. It was also a summer of pushback. Cities like Venice reintroduced day-tripper fees, southern countries like Spain and Portugal faced tourism fatigue, and locals grew louder about housing shortages. Yet, it’s not all doom and gloom. The EU is shifting focus from “managing” tourism to regenerating it — creating experiences that restore, not just consume.
So, what does this mean for you in 2025 and beyond? Let’s break it down.
Travel Logistics
Accommodations
This summer included anti-tourist protests — but also opportunities. In high-density tourist zones, locals are feeling the housing squeeze. What was once a quiet fishing village may now have more Airbnb rentals than residents. Some countries have actively reduced the number of available vacation rentals.
In Portugal, where I live, there are multiple applicants for every long-term rental. My own apartment was listed as a “partial year rental,” but I negotiated with the owners to allow a year lease. Immigration is happy, and the owners don´t have to worry about wear and tear on the apartment. (I feel blessed — no suitcase shuffle every May!)
Travelers play a role here too. Do your research and, when possible, book accommodations designed for tourists rather than edging locals out. And remember the magic of shoulder season — fewer crowds, better prices, and more authentic encounters.
Documentation
After years of delays, ETIAS (Electronic Travel Information and Authorization System) is now expected to launch in 2026. Note, like many government rollouts, ETIAS has been delayed for years. But, it looks like it will happen. Fingers crossed.
Let’s clear this up: ETIAS is not a visa. It’s a mandatory travel authorization (costing around $7–10 USD, valid for three years) required for U.S., Canadian, U.K., Australian, and other travelers entering the European Schengen Zone.
In plain terms: no ETIAS, no boarding pass. So when you book that dreamy villa in Greece — don’t forget to register online.
Airlines
U.S. airlines are responding to the post-pandemic travel boom. American, United, and Delta are adding new transatlantic routes through 2026. Think Budapest, Prague, Athens, Milan, Zurich — plus more flights to Spain and Portugal.
Tip: Check your air miles now. You might find new destinations within reach.
Security
Here’s a real conversation I had recently while pulling out my laptop at TSA:
“Do I need to remove my shoes?”
“No!”
“Laptop?”
“No!”
“Liquids?”
“No!”
Welcome to the age of CT scanners and faster screening. Meanwhile, Portugal’s Lisbon airport is using automated eGates (though my last experience — 26 rows deep — suggests it’s still a work in progress).
The 3.4-ounce liquid rule is under review, and biometrics are becoming standard. Personally? I love the tech, but still believe nothing replaces good ol’ eye contact with an intuitive border officer who lacks a personality.
Beyond Logistics: New Ways to Explore
Forget the fly–rental car–checklist–return model. Europe is expanding opportunities for slow, immersive travel:
Cycling tours through the French countryside
Walking and hiking journeys that connect villages and landscapes
River cruises on smaller, greener ships such as France´s Ponant
Adult summer camps (yes, really) for cooking, harvesting grapes, or even milking a goat
Multi-country rail adventures (luxury or budget) for a hit of nostalgia
Combo travel: three days on a bike, then a train to ski in Switzerland
Eco-camping: Hello yurts with Egyptian Cotton sheets, hiking trails, and hot outdoor showers.
Travel is moving toward experiences that feel personal, regenerative, and rooted.
Combine rail, sea, and cycling for memorable trips.
Europe’s Shift to Regeneration
The EU is leading a mindset shift: not just sustainability but regeneration. A few examples:
Amsterdam’s Doughnut Economics: easing pressure in crowded zones, boosting mobility, and spreading visitors across the city.
Ireland’s Just Transition: peat-cutting lands transformed into cycling networks and restored wetlands.
Biosphere Reserves: tourism revenue funding conservation, local farmers, and cultural education.
This isn’t greenwashing. It’s about leaving destinations better than we found them.
The Bottom Line
Travel to Europe is evolving. New rules, new routes, new tech. But the old truths still apply:
Be a respectful guest.
Travel with humility and curiosity.
Leap out of your comfort zone.
Because here’s the thing: Europe isn’t closing its doors. It’s reshaping how we enter — and how we engage once we’re here.
And honestly? That’s a gift. By embracing these changes, your next trip won’t just check boxes — it will connect you more deeply to Europe’s culture, people, and natural beauty.
So pack light, stay flexible, and maybe book that “out of your comfort zone” journey you’ve always dreamed of. Now, if you´ll excuse me, I´ve got a train to catch.
Thank you for your support.