For the past few years, Russian tourism has faced numerous challenges due to global events, economic fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions. However, 2025 marks a significant comeback, with Russian travelers once again filling the streets of Paris, Rome, and Barcelona. Hotel bookings, visa approvals, and alternative travel routes have all played a role in reviving this long-standing trend.
This article explores the driving forces behind this resurgence, the hurdles Russian tourists are overcoming, and what the future holds for their European adventures.
Why Are Russian Tourists Returning to Europe?
Russian outbound tourism has seen a remarkable recovery. In 2024 alone, over 29 million trips abroad were recorded, with 11.5 million for leisure travel—a 25% increase compared to 2023. European countries such as Italy, Spain, and France have seen hotel bookings rise by 33%, 65%, and 45% respectively, signaling a strong comeback.
Key Factors Behind the Resurgence
Several elements have contributed to the renewed travel interest:
1️⃣ Economic Stability & Higher Disposable Income
The Russian economy has shown signs of stabilization, allowing more people to afford international trips. Travelers are willing to spend more on accommodations, dining, and shopping—boosting local economies in their destinations.
2️⃣ Easier Access to Schengen Visas
In 2024, Schengen visa issuance for Russian tourists stabilized, with 17 out of 29 Schengen-zone countries granting visas. This has significantly improved travel accessibility.
3️⃣ Alternative Travel Routes
Although direct flights between Russia and the EU remain suspended, determined tourists are finding creative solutions. Many now transit through Turkey, Serbia, or the UAE to reach their European destinations. While this has increased travel costs and durations, it hasn’t dampened enthusiasm.
Challenges Russian Tourists Are Facing
Despite the travel revival, Russian tourists still face several obstacles:
🚨 Higher Costs: A Moscow-to-Paris trip that once cost a few hundred euros now exceeds €2,000 due to indirect routes.
⏳ Longer Travel Times: What used to be a quick 3-hour flight now requires 12+ hours with layovers.
🌍 Geopolitical Uncertainty: Visa policies and travel restrictions remain unpredictable, requiring travelers to stay informed.
Emerging Travel Trends Among Russian Tourists
As Russian travelers return to Europe, their preferences are evolving. Here are some key trends shaping the travel industry in 2025:
🏡 Longer Stays: Instead of short weekend trips, many tourists now opt for extended vacations to make their travel expenses worthwhile.
🏢 Apartments Over Hotels: More travelers are choosing rental apartments over traditional hotels for a home-like experience.
📅 Advance Booking: Russian tourists are planning their trips much earlier, securing better deals and reducing last-minute travel stress.
What’s Next for Russian Tourism in Europe?
The outlook for Russian tourism in Europe is promising. With visa processing stabilizing, alternative travel routes becoming more refined, and economic recovery supporting international spending, Russian travelers are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels in the coming years.
Tourism-related businesses—hotels, airlines, and travel agencies—are adjusting to meet the demand, ensuring that Russian travelers continue to explore Europe despite challenges.
FAQs About Russian Tourism in Europe
❓ Which European destinations are most popular among Russian travelers?
📍 Italy, France, and Spain continue to be top choices, with high hotel booking rates in 2025.
❓ How are Russian tourists reaching Europe without direct flights?
✈️ They are traveling via Turkey, Serbia, and the UAE, though this has increased travel costs.
❓ Is it easy for Russians to get a Schengen visa in 2025?
🛂 Yes, visa issuance has stabilized, with 17 out of 29 Schengen-zone countries granting visas to Russian tourists.
❓ What travel trends are emerging among Russian tourists?
🏡 They prefer longer stays, apartment rentals, and advance bookings to maximize their trips.
❓ What is the future of Russian tourism in Europe?
🌍 The market is expected to grow steadily, with travel demand rebounding as more visa options and flight routes open up.
Final Thoughts
Despite obstacles, Russian tourism in Europe is experiencing a strong resurgence. From charming streets in Rome to sunny beaches in Spain, Russian travelers are once again embracing European destinations.
As visa rules relax and new travel strategies emerge, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Russian tourists abroad. The love for European culture, history, and lifestyle remains unwavering—and now, more than ever, they are ready to explore.
Sources The Moscow Times
