Vintage holidays major trend in summer 2025

Nostalgic, simple, atmospheric and with plenty of 'couleur locale'. Recent research conducted among customers of tour operator TUI shows that 77% of those surveyed prefer this type of destination. It is in line with the trend TUI already saw at the beginning of this year: vintage holidays are in demand; holidays that evoke the feeling of former times and are also price-interesting destinations. TUI is therefore noticing increasing interest in countries such as northern Macedonia, Albania and Slovenia this summer, both for car and flight holidays. 

What makes these destinations popular? 

The destinations perfectly match many travellers' need for simplicity, tranquillity and the charm of yesteryear. Old times revive with fond memories of holidays of yesteryear when life was a lot more uncomplicated. 32% of those surveyed indicated as a reason for a vintage holiday that they would like to go back to places they have been before and have fond memories of. Moreover, they are also price-interesting destinations, where you pay less than €10 for a good meal and around €1 for a cup of coffee.

Relaxation, local cuisine and small scale

For 62% of respondents, relaxation is the most important aspect of a holiday, followed by getting to know the local cuisine (49%). 42% choose small and quiet accommodation without entertainment.

Vintage holiday top 5

Besides the traditional summer destinations like Spain, Greece and Turkey that traditionally make up the top three popular destinations, the top five vintage destinations look as follows:

1) Croatia
2) North Macedonia
3) Slovenia
4) Albania
5) Bulgaria