Summer travel is evolving, and staycations are expected to be a popular choice this year.
Historically, summer travel trends have changed with time. In the 1990s, families often opted for long road trips to beaches and national parks, focusing on creating lasting memories. The 2000s saw a boom in adventure and eco-tourism, fueled by budget airlines making travel more accessible. By the 2010s, travelers desired more experiential trips, including digital nomadism and solo adventures.
This year, the focus shifts to flavor, fandom, and local getaways. According to the Airbnb Summer 2025 Travel Trends Report, travelers are chasing culinary delights, concerts, and coastal escapes—embracing new ways to experience vacations.
Key trends for summer 2025 include:
Going for local, affordable foodie destinations like Rotterdam instead of Paris, and Alassio over Positano.
The rise of fandom travel, where fans travel long distances to see their favorite artists and athletes perform—often called «star chasers.»
An increase in spontaneous staycations within the US, Brazil, Spain, and Greece.
Meanwhile, travelers from the Netherlands and Belgium are seeking adventures abroad. Whether exploring lesser-known culinary spots, attending star-studded events, or enjoying last-minute staycations, these trends are shaping how people plan their summer getaways.
Ready to make your own summer escape? Book your vacation now with MWR LIFE. Create unforgettable memories, whether by exploring new destinations or enjoying the comfort of your own home. Summer is the perfect time to indulge in a personalized getaway—let us help you make it happen!
Foodies are expected to make up a sizeable portion of summer travel.
Travelers are avoiding the summer crowds and swapping culinary capitals for more local, affordable foodie destinations like Rotterdam over Paris, and Alassio over Positano. A recent consumer poll conducted by Panterra reveals that nearly half (47%) of travelers are prioritizing authentic local cuisine as their top food and beverage experience. For foodies looking to discover the next “it” dining destinations, the report highlights these top trending spots this summer:
Chiclana de la Frontera, Spain
Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Shillong, India
Marloth Park, South Africa
Arakawa City, Japan
Rawai, Thailand
Santa Teresita, Argentina
Sports fans will travel near and far for their favorite teams.
According to Panterra’s consumer survey, concerts are the second biggest reason people are hitting the road this summer, following family reunions, especially for Gen Z women. According to Airbnb, searches have spiked over 500% in cities like Houston and Manchester, England. About a quarter of participants anticipate traveling more for big events in the next year than they have previously, especially those in Brazil (45%), Mexico (38%), and the US (32%).
From global arena tours to international soccer tournaments, here are some big event destinations that are experiencing a surge in demand this summer:
Houston, TX, United States searches have surged +620% during Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter Tour dates in June6.
Manchester, England searches have surged +500% during the Oasis concert dates in July7.
Perth, Australia searches have surged +250% during the State of Origin Rugby game in June8.
Charlotte, NC, United States searches have surged +200% during Shakira’s concert dates in May.
Travelers can choose from a wide array of Airbnb properties.
Data reveals that Americans are embracing staycations over international travel, with more searches for trips within 300 miles of guests’ homes. For travelers looking for nearby, spontaneous adventures, Airbnb’s summer report also shares the top trending domestic destinations among US guests this summer, with unique stays ranging from cozy cabins to beach house retreats.
Shandaken, NY
Long Beach, CA
Grand Canyon Village, AZ
San Francisco, CA
Page, AZ
Bristol, TN
Sioux Falls, SD
Clemson, SC
Irvine, CA
Miami Gardens, FL