Europe set a new tourism record in 2024, with 742 million international visitors, marking a 5% increase over 2023. As tourism continues to grow in 2025, travelers can expect expanded airline routes and updated regulations across popular destinations. Here’s everything you need to know.
UPDATED: March 12, 2025. The ETIAS visa waiver program has been delayed by the EU until 2026.
Europe set a new tourism record in 2024, with international visitors surpassing pre-pandemic levels. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, 742 million travelers visited Europe last year—5% more than in 2023.
The outlook for 2025 remains strong, with tourism expected to continue growing. U.S.-based airlines like United and American are expanding their routes to popular destinations, including Milan, Rome, Palermo, Madrid, and Nice.
As visitor numbers rise, travelers should prepare for key changes to travel in Europe in 2025. From new airline routes to updated regulations, here’s what you need to know before your next trip.
ETIAS visa waiver 2025
After years of delays, the Electronic Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is finally launching in summer 2025—and if you’re planning to travel to Europe in 2025, you need to pay attention.
This is not a visa but rather a visa waiver and mandatory travel authorization for citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and several other countries before entering the Schengen Zone. Airlines will deny boarding without it, and you won’t be stepping foot in Europe.
The cost is $7 USD, and it’s valid for three years. Just like travel insurance, you should handle this online as soon as you book your flight or hotel to avoid any last-minute headaches.
Meanwhile, the U.K. has its travel authorization system, the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), which is already in effect. It costs £10, but you don’t need one if you’re transiting through Heathrow.
Bottom line? The rules for traveling to Europe in 2025 are changing, and a little preparation will save you from unnecessary stress at the airport. Get your paperwork sorted early and travel smarter.
Rome’s 2025 Jubilee
The 2025 Jubilee in Rome is set to be one of Europe’s most significant events, drawing an estimated 39 million pilgrims to the Eternal City. Organized by the Catholic Church, this historic event will attract visitors from around the world, making it an exceptionally busy year for tourism.
With such a surge in visitors, Rome’s top attractions—like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, and St. Peter’s Basilica—will be in extremely high demand, especially during the peak summer months. Hotels in Rome are already filling up, and last-minute travelers may find themselves scrambling for availability. If traveling to Rome in 2025 is on your list, the best move is to lock in your dates now and book tours, tickets, and accommodations well in advance to avoid missing out.
The good news? Many of Rome’s most iconic sites, including the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and Ponte Sant’Angelo, have undergone significant renovations ahead of the Jubilee, looking more stunning than ever. Plus, the city has unveiled its newest pedestrian-friendly piazza, Piazza Pio, a project years in the making to enhance its walkability for this monumental event.
If there was ever a time to experience Rome at its best, 2025 is it—but only if you plan.
Venice’s 2025 Tourist Tax: The Venice Access Fee for Daytrippers
If you plan a day trip to Venice in 2025, get ready to pay an access fee. After years of debate, the city has reinstated the Venice entry fee, which will be in effect on select peak days from April 18 through July 27 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
While there are some exemptions, most foreign tourists visiting for the day must pay €5 to enter. The fee can be quickly paid online, so take care of it before arriving. Overnight hotel visitors are exempt, as the fee is designed to reduce overcrowding from day-trippers rather than long-term guests.
If Venice is on your 2025 itinerary, plan accordingly—or better yet, consider staying overnight to experience the city’s quieter, more magical moments without the daytime crowds.
Paris Metro Fare Increases in 2025
The Paris Metro remains one of the easiest and most efficient ways to navigate the city. Still, as of January 1, 2025, ticket prices have increased across the Metro, buses, and RER trains, including routes to Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).
Here’s what to expect:
- A one-way Metro ticket now costs €2.50
- A bus ticket is €2
- A full-fare RER ticket to the Paris Region, including CDG Airport, is now €13
The Navigo Jour Pass (Day Pass) is a convenient and cost-effective option for those planning to use public transport frequently. Available as a physical card and in Apple Wallet for Apple Pay users, it allows travelers to purchase and tap effortlessly throughout Paris.
While the price hikes may sting, public transportation in Paris is still one of the best ways to explore the city affordably and efficiently. Plan accordingly and take advantage of digital ticketing for a smoother ride.
New Train Routes for 2025
With the growth of demand on the European market continuing to grow, new train routes will make it easier for travelers to reach major European cities. Taking the train in Europe is often easiser, more comfortable, and an eco-friendly way to get around Europe. Eurostar announced a new route between London to Amsterdam in under 4 hours. There is also a new connection between Paris and Berlin. The old night train run by Austria’s OBB network typically takes 13hrs. Now, the new highspeed train runs daily and takes 8hrs.
New Airline Routes for 2025
U.S.-based airlines are doubling on European travel in 2025, adding new routes and increasing service to some of the continent’s most popular destinations. If you plan a trip to Europe in 2025, you’ll have more direct flight options than ever.
Here’s what’s new:
- American Airlines is expanding service to Rome (FCO) from Philadelphia (PHL) to twice daily during peak travel season. They’re also adding new flights to Milan (MXP), Nice (NCE), and Edinburgh (EDI).
- United Airlines is launching brand-new routes from Newark (EWR) to Palermo, Sicily (PMO) and Bilbao, Spain (BIO) in May 2025.
- Also in May, United will introduce a direct flight from Washington D.C. (IAD) to Nice (NCE), making it even easier to reach the French Riviera.
With increased flights and new destinations, 2025 is shaping up to be a great year for European travel—so book early to take advantage of these expanded routes.
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