258.8 Million Nights in Three Months: EU Online Rentals Accelerate Again

Platform bookings keep expanding

Between April and June 2026, travellers spent 258.8 million nights in short-stay accommodation across the EU booked through Airbnb, Booking or Expedia. Eurostat says that was 5.3% more than a year earlier and 23.9% above the second quarter of 2024.

In absolute terms, the segment added 13.1 million nights in one year and 50 million over two years. The data cover major online platforms rather than all tourism, highlighting the fast-growing market for apartments, houses and similar rentals.

Sea and mountains share the lead

In the first quarter, the Canary Islands and France’s Rhône-Alpes region were the most popular destinations, each recording 8.8 million nights. Andalusia followed with 8.3 million. The top ten included five Spanish, three French and two Italian regions.

The list shows that short stays are not only a summer beach market. Islands offer mild winters, the Alps have a ski season, and historic cities attract demand across much of the year.

Growth also creates tension

Platforms give homeowners and small businesses income and bring visitors beyond hotel districts. The same growth can reduce long-term housing, raise rents for residents and add pressure to transport and municipal services.

The important question is therefore not only how many nights were booked, but how cities handle registration, taxation and limits on rental days. The market is still expanding, and the debate over balancing tourism with homes for residents will become sharper.

Source: Eurostat