The pandemic threw the travel sector into turmoil. In 2022, though, things started to return to normal with more and more people heading overseas. That trend is likely to continue with the return of the much-loved city break.
Over the last few years, people were more likely to turn to destinations in their own country for short stays. Now, with travel restrictions lifted, Expedia’s recent survey reckons the city break will be back with a bang.
The resurgence will be shaped by the pandemic and the current cost of living crisis. For example, the survey reckons properties with kitchens are showing the most interest, with people looking to save money by eating at home. Hotels rated three stars and below have been attracting more interest than four and five stars.
People are looking to keep it short, simple and low-budget. By saving money on luxuries such as hotels and food, they are giving themselves more to spend on the actual experience.
The Netflix effect
Destinations featured in TV shows are growing in popularity. Locations featured in popular shows such as the Crown, House of the Dragon or Lord of the Rings have been experiencing a significant uplift in visitors.
For example, House of the Dragon stars gave locations in Cornwall and Devon a bit of free publicity, when talking about the “amazing locations” they had been filming in.
The programme featured the small village of Hartland, in Devon, which is already a popular tourist location alongside St Michael’s Mount.
Now as foreign trips become easier, many people are taking the opportunity to visit the places they have seen on screen over the last couple of years.
Which cities to visit
So, if city breaks are on the rise, which places are likely to see the biggest surge?
Common visitor favourites such as London, Venice, Rome and Paris will all feature highly. With plenty of history and loads of popular attractions, they’re perfect for a quick trip. Paris might also see an uptick in visitors as it hosts the 2024 Olympics.
Those cities offering special events will also be at a distinct advantage. Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival always boosts numbers during the summer and Sydney’s World Pride attracts millions.
Alternatively, for a more off-beat experience, the Sziget Festival in Budapest is fast becoming one of the must-see music events in Europe.
Looking for hidden gems
Moving away from traditional tourist hotspots for a moment, many visitors will be seeking out alternative city breaks.
Top European countries offer a host of experiences beyond the capitals such as Marseilles in the South of France, Bruges in Belgium or Granada in Spain.
Eastern Europe, meanwhile, continues to surprise and delight with Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Ljubljana in Slovenia.
City breaks, then, are very definitely back on the menu for 2023. Each one will offer a truly unique and memorable experience and can offer different options for all bank balances.
Contact us today to discover affordable real estate options in Europe.
