The demand for car rentals in Europe has seen a significant increase in 2024, with Italy and Spain standing out as the most sought-after destinations. According to a recent study by Hibou, a company specializing in consumer research and insights, both Brazilians and travelers from other parts of the European continent have shown a growing interest in exploring these countries by car.
The study revealed that even with the end of the school holiday period, a significant portion of the Brazilian population still plans to travel by the end of the year. Specifically, 53% of Brazilians surveyed indicated that they intend to take trips in the coming months. The research, conducted in July 2024, included the participation of over 1,300 people.
This increase in car rental demand can be attributed to various factors, including the easing of travel restrictions, the desire to explore new regions with greater freedom, and the search for safer and more private transportation alternatives during the pandemic. Additionally, the growth of domestic tourism and the rediscovery of local destinations in Europe have also driven this trend.
Tourism and mobility industry experts highlight that the ease of transportation provided by car rentals allows travelers to access less-explored destinations and personalize their trips according to their preferences. With the gradual resumption of tourism activities and the appreciation of more authentic experiences, car rentals have solidified as an increasingly popular option among tourists.
Europe has established itself as one of the preferred destinations for international travel, with Italy and Spain standing out, according to recent data from Rentcars, a renowned online car rental platform. The increased demand for these countries reflects a growing trend among travelers looking to explore the European continent in a more flexible and personalized way.
Several factors have contributed to this growth. The high competitiveness in the tourism sector, the hosting of major events, and the recent drop in car rental prices are among the main drivers of this trend, as highlighted by Rentcars. The platform, which allows users to compare prices and rent vehicles from various agencies worldwide, reports that the cost of renting a car in Europe is, on average, 11% cheaper in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Among the most searched European destinations, major capitals such as London, Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam stand out as the most sought-after locations for car rentals. Paris, for instance, is among the destinations with a notable increase in demand, reflecting the popularity of major European cities among tourists from other continents.
The flexibility and convenience offered by car rentals have attracted more and more travelers who wish to explore Europe’s diverse regions independently. With lower prices and increased market competition, the possibility of discovering new destinations and creating personalized itineraries becomes an increasingly attractive option for tourists.
Overall, Rentcars’ projections indicate a significant increase in car rental demand across various European cities in 2024. Rome, Italy, stands out with a 24% rise in searches compared to the previous year. This growth can be attributed to tourists’ interest in exploring not only the historic city but also the beautiful landscapes and villages in the surrounding areas.
Paris, the host city of the 2024 Olympics, and Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, have also recorded an increase in searches, with a 16% rise in car rental demand. The anticipation surrounding the Olympic Games in Paris, along with the cultural charm and rich history of both cities, attracts travelers looking to make the most of their stay.
In London, England, car rental demand has risen by 14% compared to last year. The British capital, known for its blend of tradition and modernity, serves as a gateway to exploring the rich diversity of the English countryside and other iconic cities.
Although all these major capitals are famous for being ideal destinations for exploring on foot, many tourists choose to rent cars to visit neighboring cities and rural areas that may be less accessible by public transport. The ability to take day trips or create customized itineraries provides a more flexible and comprehensive travel experience, allowing tourists to better experience local culture and scenery.
Beyond the major capitals, cities outside the main tourist circuit are gaining prominence in car rental demand. Barcelona, Spain, has seen an impressive 53% increase in searches, reflecting the growing interest in exploring the vibrant coastal city and its attractions. Munich, Germany, also shows a significant 19% rise, highlighting the Bavarian city’s popularity among tourists.
Among European travelers moving within the continent, Rentcars highlights Italy as the country with the highest increase in car rental demand in 2024. With an impressive 226% growth compared to last year, Italy has established itself as a preferred destination for those wanting to explore its diverse regions and landscapes. Spain also shows a notable 195% rise in demand, followed by Greece with 154%, Croatia with 129%, and Portugal with a 49% increase.
These figures reflect a growing trend among tourists seeking more personalized and flexible travel experiences in Europe. The ability to explore not only the capitals but also neighboring regions and lesser-known areas has attracted an increasing number of travelers eager to make the most of their stays.
This rising trend in car rental demand across European cities underscores tourists’ desire to venture beyond traditional destinations and enjoy the flexibility of a rental vehicle. While major capitals continue to draw significant attention, cities like Barcelona and Munich are also standing out, offering new opportunities to discover different aspects of Europe.
For European travelers exploring the continent, the increase in car rental searches in countries like Italy, Spain, Greece, Croatia, and Portugal highlights the appetite for more personalized experiences and the opportunity to immerse in a variety of landscapes and cultures. With these insights, it is clear that the flexibility and freedom provided by car rentals are becoming increasingly valuable for those looking to make the most of their European travels.
Thus, the combination of more affordable prices and the growing desire to explore new regions is shaping the European tourism landscape in 2024, promoting a richer and more diverse travel experience for visitors.
