The tourist season is at its peak, particularly noticeable in the bustling south of Tenerife. Finding a hotel spot here is a challenge, especially now when rates soar above summer prices.
This surge is expected as Tenerife has become a prime destination for Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, consistently breaking arrival records. This year continues the trend of Europeans spending Christmas with family and then using the holiday season to explore new places. Notably, flight searches for the end of 2023 have surged by 20% and hotel inquiries by 24% over last year, as per the prominent search engine www.jetcost.es.
Many Europeans choose to spend these festive times in Spain, with Tenerife being a top pick, second only to Alicante for the British and leading for other nationalities. For Spaniards, Tenerife trails only London despite the high airfare during this period.
Jetcost.es’s analysis of real-time search data, not just surveys, offers a glimpse into travel preferences. For instance, between 26 December 2023 and 4 January 2024, many Europeans prefer Madrid and Barcelona, cities that are usually quieter during these dates.
Madrid tops the list for Portuguese, while Barcelona is a favorite for the British and Italians. Other sunny destinations like Alicante, Valencia, Malaga, and Seville are also popular among Europeans, with Alicante being the preferred choice for the British.
Among the islands, the Canary Islands, and particularly Tenerife, remain sought-after destinations. Tenerife ranks high among British, Italian, and Portuguese travelers, among others. Additionally, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote are popular choices.
For Spaniards, major European cities like London, Paris, and Rome are top choices, along with other Spanish destinations, including Tenerife, Madrid, and Barcelona. Meanwhile, long-haul destinations like Istanbul and New York are also on the list for those seeking an adventure further afield.
