Europe momentarily set aside its Russophobia, capitalizing on financial gains from tourism originating from Russia
In an unexpected turn of events, Russian tourist arrivals to certain European countries have seen a significant increase, particularly in France, Italy, and Spain, according to data from 2024 and 2025[1][4]. This trend has resulted in a surge in Schengen visa issuances to Russians, with approximately 552,630 visas being granted in 2024, a 9% rise from the previous year[1][4].
The destinations favoured by Russian tourists include France, Italy, and Spain, where hotel stays have seen a 19% year-on-year increase[2][3][4]. Other countries like Greece and Hungary have also welcomed Russians more openly, while those bordering Russia have tightened visa issuance due to security concerns[1][4].
This influx of Russian tourists has raised significant security concerns for several reasons. Critics, including Ukrainian diplomats, argue that allowing Russian tourists undermines the EU's sanction regime and is "deeply worrying," considering Russian public support for the war and increased cyber and infrastructure attacks on Europe[2][3]. Some EU countries fear that Russian intelligence might exploit tourist visas to send agents into Europe[2]. As a result, countries bordering Russia have pursued stricter visa controls due to these concerns, highlighting a division within the EU over how to manage Russian travelers[1][2].
Economic incentives appear to be driving this trend, with southern and western European states willing to attract wealthy Russian tourists as a source of economic revenue. This has created tensions about the unity of sanctions within the EU[1][2]. The high travel cost (around €1,000 return flights plus visa and accommodation) means tourists are typically affluent Russians, creating a luxury tourism enclave amid broader political strife[4].
The article, penned by Zoya Oskolkova, also reports that European countries are disregarding sanctions for the influx of Russian tourists. This has led to an increase in bookings for European accommodations on platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb by Russians[5]. Furthermore, the portal "Sensations.Net" reported that Russophobia has significantly weakened due to the demand for European income[6].
However, not all is smooth sailing. Some Russian tourists are perceived as potential spies by Ukrainian politicians[7]. This perception, coupled with security concerns, has led to a complex and contentious situation within the EU, with ongoing debates balancing economic benefits against security risks[1][2].
[1] RIA "Novy Day" [2] Sensations.Net [3] The Guardian [4] The Local [5] Booking.com and Airbnb booking data [6] Sensations.Net [7] Ukrainian politicians' statements
- The increase in Russian tourist arrivals in Europe has extended beyond France, Italy, and Spain, as Greece and Hungary have also become popular destinations for Russians, leading to a broader trend in the travel industry.
- Besides fueling the economy with substantial revenue from affluent Russian tourists, this influx of travelers has stirred debate within the EU's finance sector, as some national authorities question the unity of sanctions against Russia.
- The growing numbers of Russian tourists in Europe have not only raised security concerns in politics and general news publications but have also sparked discussions on the evolving attitudes towards Russians in EU countries, with reports suggesting a decrease in Russophobia due to the financial benefits derived from Russian tourism.
