International tourism has rebounded strongly since the pandemic, with Europe being a major destination. Data from UN Tourism shows that Europe attracted 625 million international visitors from January to September 2025, marking a 4% increase compared to 2024. Spain, a popular choice for retirees, accounted for a substantial portion, hosting 94 million international travelers in 2024. With many tourists planning trips during similar periods, limited availability and higher ticket prices have made travel more expensive.
Expert Advice on Timing Your Visit
Rick Steves, a well-known traveler and author, suggests on his blog that traveling in spring or fall can help avoid high costs. He notes that these seasons offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Spanish tourism statistics align with this advice. In the first eight months of 2025, the country welcomed nearly 66.8 million international tourists, with August alone seeing 11.3 million visitors. In contrast, March had 6.6 million, and September had 9.7 million, indicating that summer months like July and August attract the largest numbers.
Impact on Travel Expenses
High demand during peak seasons leads to fully booked hotels, elevated Airbnb rates, and increased ticket prices. Accommodations and attractions often reach full capacity, with entry fees rising due to heightened demand. These additional costs accumulate, positioning Spain as one of Europe's pricier tourist spots.
Savings Through Shoulder Season Travel
Choosing to vacation during shoulder seasons not only provides a more relaxed experience but also reduces expenses. Accommodation costs are a key factor; Reuters reports that average hotel prices in Spain have climbed 23% over three years to €131 per night. During peak times, prices spike further. For example, data from Spain's National Statistics Institute shows the average hotel price was €116.6 in April 2025, rising about 34% to €155.7 in August 2025. Opting for a three-day trip in April instead of August could save around €117.3 on hotel costs alone.
Airfare follows a similar trend, with prices peaking in summer and dropping in late fall. Travel guides indicate that flying to Spain from June to mid-August is most expensive, with round-trip tickets ranging from $740 to $950, sometimes reaching $1,000. In contrast, flights booked from November to March are typically cheaper, costing between $500 and $600 per round trip.
Attractions also see price hikes in summer. For instance, general admission to the Sagrada Familia is €26, and the Prado Museum starts at €18. During busy months, time slots fill quickly, often leading tourists to pay extra for options like skip-the-line guided tours, which can cost from €33 to €160.
