Tourists who enjoy luxury during their holidays, with an average expenditure of €8,000 per trip, prefer Spanish gastronomy and wellness treatments. This puts Spain at the top of the list as the favourite luxury travel destination for 2024.
This is evident from a study by the international travel guide Condé Nast Johansens. The ‘Hábitos vacacionales de lujo 2024’ research shows that Spain is the preferred choice for luxury tourism worldwide. This puts the country ahead of countries such as France, Italy, Greece and the United States. Nearly a third of respondents plan three to four luxury trips per year. They mainly make them outside the high season, with September being the most popular month. Most luxury travellers stay three to nine nights and choose to travel with their partner or friends, rather than family.
Booking preferences and accommodation types
Luxury travellers are increasingly booking directly through the hotel’s website, with 68% indicating this preference. Boutique hotels and independent luxury hotels are the most popular choices for accommodation. This is followed by international hotel chains and private villas. The quality of the bed and a good breakfast are crucial factors when choosing a hotel.
Wellness and spa treatments in the spotlight
Wellness treatments are an important part of the luxury holiday. Spending more than €3,100 on spa outings is therefore a significant expense. Massages, facials and holistic retreats are particularly popular. Most travellers enjoy these treatments with their partner or a friend.
Price remains a deciding factor
Despite the luxurious nature of their trips, the price of accommodation is still the most important consideration for travellers. The climate and the costs of transport follow in second and third place. Recommendations from family and friends, travel guides and online travel articles are valuable resources for planning luxury trips. For 54% it is important whether the hotel offers discounts and promotions. The time it takes to reach the holiday destination is important for 47% and the flexibility to cancel the reservation is valued fifth (43%).
Spain’s position as the top luxury travel destination highlights the country’s attractiveness to affluent tourists looking for a combination of culture, gastronomy, and relaxation.
