Holidays in this popular holiday country became considerably more expensive

Tapas, sangria, beaches, and sun: Spain is a favorite holiday destination for many. Unfortunately, that comes with a rising price tag. Holidays in the Southern European country have become more than 25 percent more expensive in three years.

Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations for the Dutch. Bad news for many Dutch travelers: tourism costs in Spain are rising faster than average due to the energy crisis and the post-COVID-19 tourism boom, reports InSpanje .

Spain's popularity as a holiday destination drives up prices. Up to August 2025, international visitors to Spain increased by 4.1 percent, spending 7.2 percent more than in the same period in 2024.

Costs for businesses have also risen sharply. Labor costs, in particular, are higher, due to rising wages, pensions, and the minimum wage. In addition, there are higher social security contributions. This can encourage businesses to raise prices to maintain their margins.

Accommodation and food service, in particular, became more expensive. Hotels rose by 14.6 percent, apartments by 14.4 percent, and campsites by 10.1 percent. Eating out rose by an average of 9.5 percent over the past three years.

These price increases are part of a broader trend. Holidays have generally become more expensive this year. The average travel price per person rose by 3.9 percent and per booking by 3.2 percent. The average last-minute travel price rose by 5 percent. According to the ANWB (Royal Dutch Touring Club), holidays have become more expensive due to inflation.

To keep those prices down, people are making different choices. They're choosing different accommodations, such as an apartment instead of a hotel, or going on holiday outside the traditional peak season. The travel industry organization ANVR has observed that the Dutch are booking their holidays later and less frequently this year due to the higher prices . According to ANVR, the Dutch are already price-conscious when booking.