Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Türkiye, Cyprus, Malta, Albania, Croatia Supercharging Tourism with Visa Free Travel, New Airline Routes, Easy Cruise Network and Luxury Hotels, What American Tourists Are Liking Now

Curious? You should be. Because the Mediterranean just raised the bar. And this is only the beginning.

While the world has been watching the Mediterranean revival, a quiet yet powerful comeback has been brewing farther north and east. Central and Eastern Europe, long considered a value-driven destination, is finally reclaiming its momentum post-COVID. And the data speaks clearly: an 8% year-on-year increase in arrivals.

The numbers tell one story, but the ripple effect paints a bigger picture. That modest 2% rise in the Southern Mediterranean means tens of thousands more hotel bookings, dining experiences, and guided tours during periods that were previously barren. The 8% jump in the east translates into local investment, airport activity, and renewed interest from major travel brands.

In Rome, every stone tells a story. American visitors are captivated by its open-air museum feel, from the Colosseum to Vatican City. The pasta helps too. Florence, meanwhile, enchants art lovers and romantics with its Renaissance glory and cozy streets.

Lisbon has become a darling among U.S. travelers for its laid-back charm, pastel streets, and vibrant neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. The trams are cute, the seafood is fresh, and the sunsets from Miradouros are unforgettable.

Ayia Napa offers a livelier scene, especially for younger travelers. Its beaches, nightlife, and water sports attract those looking for Mediterranean fun with a twist of Cypriot flavor.

Tiny but mighty, Malta is winning American hearts with its unique mix of cultures, languages, and landscapes. Valletta, the fortified capital, is a UNESCO treasure full of baroque architecture, sea views, and charming streets.

Skip the queues at the Colosseum and wander the silent ruins of Ephesus instead. Trade the Amalfi crush for coastal Alentejo. Leave behind over-touristed hotspots for hidden Baltic gems.

Source; UNWTO