Summer wanderlust: Exploring Europe’s top seasonal summer hotspots
Written byTjasa Pele
Digital Marketing Specialist
Welcome to a journey that will inspire your summer wanderlust and introduce you to the crème de la crème of seasonal hotspots in Europe.
As the temperatures rise and the world awakens to the sun’s warm embrace, it’s time to look into the most sought-after European summer destinations for travelers worldwide. We’ve delved into our space-based flight data for 2022 to bring you some fascinating insights. Let’s reveal the top three European countries that had a monthly maximum number of flights in either July or August of 20,000 or more, with a focus on the most popular one.
Greece
The most popular destination for the European summer vacation is all-time favorite Greece, beckoning travelers with a staggering 287,070 international flights, a number that rises nine times during the busy summer months compared to the lowest month of February. This is a vibrant testament to the allure of this Mediterranean gem, which sees the highest number of visitors in August.
Increase in flights during summer months:
10x
Busiest month:
August
Croatia
Croatia emerges as a formidable contender, securing the second spot with over 55,150 international flights. As the summer months approach, the number of flights more than doubles, transforming this gem of the Adriatic into a bustling tourist destination. July reigns supreme as the busiest month to travel to Croatia.
Increase in flights during summer months:
6x
Busiest month:
July
Albania
In a surprising twist, Albania takes place as Europe’s third most seasonable summer destination. With more than 25,530 international flights, the flight density during the summer months soars fivefold compared to the quieter seasons. The hidden gem is quickly unveiling itself to the growing number of travelers, the majority of whom decide to explore it during July.
Increase in flights during summer months:
5x
Busiest month:
July
Mapping the Greek air: Analyzing the most seasonal and high traffic journeys of the summer
As summer approaches, the Scandinavian countries alongside Czechia lead the way in opening their routes to eager flyers heading to Greece, with Rhodes, Corfu, and Kos among the top three destinations. But looking beyond the seasonal connections, which countries generate the highest inbound air traffic to this Mediterranean paradise? The UK, Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Poland emerged as the frontrunners, sending a significant number of travelers to experience Greece’s wonders.
Most seasonal departure destinations:
Countries generating the highest traffic:
As the seasons change, so do the arrival airports frequented by eager travelers heading to Greece. During the summer months, Rhodes emerges as the top choice with over 30,930 travelers, followed by Corfu (21,090+), Kos (15,750+), Kasteli (11,110+), Santorini (10,600+), and Zakynthos (8690+) as the go-to arrival points for an unforgettable Greek adventure. Among the most seasonable connections are Rhodes to Israel and the UK, Corfu to the UK, and Chania to Denmark.
Most seasonal arrival airports:
Arrival airports with the highest traffic:
Athens is taking center stage as the Greek airport, facilitating seamless connections between the mainland and its diverse array of islands and international hubs. With over 96,420 arrivals, Athens solidifies its position as the essential gateway for travelers and generates the highest air traffic during the summer. It is no surprise that all the highest traffic routes are executed from Athens to neighboring countries like Larnaca or international connecting hubs like Paris, Heathrow, Rome, and Istanbul.
The second Greek arrival airport generating the highest traffic is Rhodes (30,930+), followed by Thessaloniki (26,760+), Heraklion (21,820+), Corfu (21,090+), Kos (15,750+), and Chania (15,580+).
Most seasonal routes
Rhodes – Tel Aviv
Rhodes – Gatwick
Chania – Copenhagen
Rhodes – Manchester
Highest traffic routes
Athens – Larnaca
Athens – Paris
Athens – Heathrow
Athens – Rome
Athens – Istanbul
Unlocking European summer travel patterns: A glimpse into Greek airport choices
Our analysis of the data also revealed intriguing airport preferences among European countries. German and Scandinavian travelers can’t seem to get enough of the iconic beauty of Crete, while Brits have a soft spot for the charm of Corfu. Most Europeans, on the other hand, gravitate towards the buzzing capital of Athens and the vibrant vibes of Rhodes. These favorite Greek airports highlight the diverse tastes and preferences of European travelers.
Favorite Greek airports by countries:
Among the most seasonable departure airports connecting to the preferred islands are Birmingham, Helsinki, Bristol, Oslo, and Billund, meaning they increase their connections or start operating in Greece during the summer. Looking at the European airports bringing in the most traffic, we can find among the top 5 the traditional hubs like Gatwick, Munich, Amsterdam, Manchester, and Paris.
Most seasonal departure airports:
Departure airports with the highest traffic:
Based on space-based insights like these travelers, airlines and the tourism industry can optimize their schedules, cater to peak demand, and enhance the overall travel experience, while travelers gain valuable insights for planning their Greek escapades. It’s all about transforming data into remarkable travel experiences!
