As the Mediterranean sun draws travelers to coastal paradises, a new survey reveals that Greece is the number one international destination for Romanian tourists planning their summer 2025 holidays. Despite inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty, Romanians are increasingly prioritizing travel, with higher holiday budgets and a strong desire for longer, sun-drenched getaways.
The findings, published jointly by Raiffeisen Bank Romania and Appinio, a global market research firm, highlight Greece’s enduring appeal as a vacation hotspot, beating out neighboring Bulgaria and Turkey. The survey, conducted between May and June 2025, gathered insights from 1,000 Romanian respondents, uncovering key travel trends and spending behaviors.
Greece Leads International Picks; Domestic Travel Still Strong
According to the survey:
- 24% of respondents plan to vacation in Greece, placing it firmly at the top of international preferences.
- Bulgaria (18%) and Turkey (15%) follow as next most favored foreign destinations.
- However, 70% of those surveyed said they will also explore domestic travel, with Romania’s seaside resorts and Carpathian Mountains still holding strong appeal.
Greece’s picturesque islands, affordable packages, and rich cultural experiences remain top motivators for Romanian travelers. Destinations like Thassos, Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini continue to attract both families and young couples seeking a balance of relaxation and exploration.
Travel Duration and Style: Seaside Stays Dominate
When it comes to the type and duration of holidays:
- Around 50% of respondents prefer 5 to 10-day seaside vacations, with a strong focus on all-inclusive beach resorts.
- Weekend getaways remain popular, with 32% opting for mountain destinations, while 25% choose short seaside escapes.
- 25% of respondents enjoy city breaks, both domestic and international, favoring cultural and historical experiences.
- 21% prefer remote or rural destinations for longer stays—typically up to three weeks—often to disconnect or reconnect with nature.
These travel preferences reflect a growing diversification in vacation planning, with Romanians seeking balance between coastal relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment.
Romanians Plan to Spend More on Travel in 2025
A major takeaway from the research is the sharp increase in projected travel spending for 2025. Despite economic fluctuations and political uncertainty, Romanians are willing to allocate larger budgets to ensure memorable holiday experiences.
Key financial insights from the survey:
- 63% of respondents expect to spend 10–50% more on their holidays compared to 2024.
- The average vacation budget for two people is approximately 7,200 lei (€1,450).
- 20% plan to spend under 3,000 lei (€600).
- 35% will allocate between 3,500 and 6,000 lei (€700–1,200).
- A small but growing segment (5%) is budgeting more than 15,000 lei (€3,000+) for premium travel experiences.
These numbers underscore a resilient and evolving travel mindset. Romanian tourists are not only returning to international travel in full force but are willing to invest more for comfort, flexibility, and quality.
Financial Planning: More Romanians Save Ahead for Travel
When asked how they plan to fund their vacations:
- 58% are saving in advance, showcasing a stronger commitment to financial planning.
- 43% rely on monthly disposable income.
- 20% plan to use credit cards or vacation vouchers to supplement their travel expenses.
These figures reflect a shift toward more responsible and proactive budgeting for leisure. According to Mihail Ion, Vice President for Capital Markets and Financial Planning at Raiffeisen Bank Romania:
“The fact that many Romanians are setting money aside for vacations reflects a more mature approach to financial planning. It’s encouraging to see saving becoming a natural habit—even for goals like relaxation and personal reconnection.”
This signals a cultural shift where vacation planning is becoming an integral part of household financial management.
Broader Travel Trends: Beyond the Beach
While the Greek islands and Black Sea coast remain perennial favorites, the survey also noted growing interest in mountain retreats and off-the-beaten-path escapes. In particular, Transylvania, Maramureș, and rural Greece are gaining popularity for their tranquility, authenticity, and appeal to eco-conscious travelers.
Urban exploration also remains a top choice, especially among young professionals. Cities like Athens, Istanbul, Sofia, and Bucharest offer short cultural city breaks with rich history and vibrant local food scenes.
Travel in Context: Inflation and Economic Impact
Economic uncertainty remains a factor in shaping travel plans. About 40% of respondents cited:
- Limited finances
- Uncertainty about taking time off
- Work-related commitments
- Competing expenses, like home renovations or family obligations
However, the data suggests that travel is still viewed as a valuable investment in well-being and a priority for many households in Romania.
Conclusion: Greece Continues to Win Romanian Hearts in 2025
As the summer season gains momentum, Greece stands out once again as Romania’s top international travel destination, thanks to its affordability, accessibility, and coastal charm. With rising budgets, longer stays, and greater emphasis on saving, Romanians are redefining how they plan and enjoy holidays in 2025.
Whether it’s a Greek island escape, a Carpathian mountain retreat, or a Balkan city break, the Romanian traveler is more intentional, financially savvy, and eager to explore than ever before.
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