Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, Romania
Eastern Europe is establishing itself as the fastest growing region in European tourism, with Poland taking center stage.
A new travel report revealed a increase in last minute bookings for holidays in a range of European destinations, with Eastern Europe emerging as a favorite among travelers in 2025.
According to the latest from lastminute.com, cities in Baltic and Balkan countries are experiencing some of the fastest growth in popularity, driven by the growing demand for cultural experiences and affordable getaways.
The featured destination is Gdanskwhich has seen a remarkable 97% increase in bookings compared to 2024. Located on the Baltic Sea coast, the historic port city is known for its colorful architecture and maritime heritage, with many buildings in its Old Town dating back to its time as an important center of the Hanseatic League. Visitors are attracted by sights such as the Main Town Hall and the picturesque Motława riverfront.
Next is Bucharestwhere bookings increased by 71%. The capital of Romania is gaining prominence for its eclectic architecture, which mixes Art Deco, Art Nouveau and styles from the communist era. One of its main attractions is the Palace of Parliamentconsidered the largest parliamentary building in the world, which also houses the National Museum of Contemporary Art.
Another Polish city, Krakowrecorded a 58% increase in the number of visitors. Its well-preserved historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to attract tourists with highlights such as the Main Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica and Wawel Castle. Nearby, the Wieliczka Salt Mine offers another UNESCO-listed experience, adding to the city’s cultural appeal.
In addition to cities, the Albanian Riviera also showed a significant increase in demand, with a 53% growth in reservations. Often dubbed the “Maldives of Europe” on social media, the region is known for its crystal clear waters and paradisiacal beaches. Destinations like Ksamil, Saranda and Dhërmi are attracting increasing numbers of visitors, while the capital, Tirana, offers an additional cultural context for travelers exploring the country.
Completing the top five is Rigawhich recorded 40% growth in bookings. The Baltic capital is famous for its medieval old town and impressive collection of Art Nouveau architecture, making it a popular choice for culture-focused trips.
The report, based on travel data from key European markets, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.
