Last Updated on February 13, 2025
The February half-term is one of the most anticipated times for British families to enjoy a short break before the arrival of spring. Many of my British friends are already planning their getaways.
GuruWalk, the world’s leading free tour platform reveals a growing interest in European culture destinations with Rome and Bucharest topping the list of the most booked cities followed by Prague, London and Budapest.
The top five cities – Rome, Bucharest, Prague, London, and Budapest – account for 20% of all bookings made by British travelers during the February half-term.
Rome leads with nearly 6% of total bookings, while Bucharest, Prague, and London each represent around 3.5%, and Budapest following closely with 3.3%. This highlights the growing popularity of these culturally rich destinations among British tourists.
Top 10 Cities Most Popular with British Travelers for the February half-term
- Rome (Italy) – A must-see for lovers of history, art, and Italian cuisine.
- Bucharest (Romania) – Known as the “Little Paris” of the East offering a unique blend of historic architecture and modern life.
- Prague (Czech Republic) – Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant atmosphere attract thousands of visitors.
- London (United Kingdom) – Always a favorite, the British capital blends history, culture, and modernity.
- Budapest (Hungary) – Famous for its thermal baths and stunning architecture along the Danube.
- Lisbon (Portugal) – With its colorful neighborhoods and Atlantic views, it’s one of Europe’s most charming cities.
- Copenhagen (Denmark) – A cozy city with a strong focus on sustainability and perfect for exploring on foot.
- Seville (Spain) – A jewel of Andalusia full of history, flamenco, and delicious cuisine.
- Vienna (Austria) – Known for its classical music, imperial palaces, and café culture.
- Valletta (Malta) – A fortified city filled with history and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Looking at preferences of British travelers by country, the top three destinations – Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom – account for 30% of all bookings planned for the February half-term.
Italy leads with 11% of total bookings, followed closely by Spain with 10%, while the United Kingdom represents 9%. These numbers highlight the enduring appeal of Southern Europe among British tourists, alongside a growing interest in domestic travel options.
Top 5 Most Booked Countries
Italy – With its unparalleled cultural heritage, Italy remains a top destination for Britons.
Spain – From historic cities to sunny coasts, Spain offers something for everyone.
United Kingdom – London remains a standout urban destination, while other cities continue to grow in popularity.
Germany – Berlin, Cologne, and Munich are among the most visited for their cultural and culinary offerings.
Portugal – Lisbon and Porto lead the way, solidifying Portugal as a destination on the rise.
Comparing 2025 to 2024
Compared to February half-term bookings in 2024, this year’s data reveals a significant shift in the preferences of British travelers. Rome has moved from 8th place in 2024 to the top spot in 2025, reflecting a growing interest in the Italian capital, which celebrates the Jubilee this year.
Similarly, Bucharest, which did not feature in the top 10 last year, has now secured 2nd place, indicating its rising popularity among travelers seeking alternative cultural destinations. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Marrakesh, previously among the top 10 in 2024, have been replaced by Bucharest and Valletta, highlighting a diversification of travel choices towards less traditional but equally enriching locations.
A similar trend was noted when comparing country-level data from the February half-term in 2024. Italy, which ranked third during this period last year, climbed to the top position in 2025, driven by the growing appeal of cities like Rome and Florence.
Spain, the most booked country in the 2024 February half-term with over 14% of total bookings, now holds second place, while the United Kingdom maintains its third position, reflecting continued interest in domestic travel. Notably, Hungary, which were among the top five last year, have made way for Germany. Portugal stays within the top five.
“These results reflect a fascinating shift in travel preferences among British tourists. The rise of cities like Bucharest and the significant leap of Rome to the top position show that travelers are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences beyond the more established destinations,” Belén Casanova, Head of Supply at GuruWalk, said. “The comparison with last year clearly highlights this trend, with destinations like Bucharest and Valletta gaining traction. This shift towards lesser-known cities demonstrates a growing curiosity for new cultural perspectives and more intimate travel experiences.”
The Importance of the Third Half-Term for British Tourism
The February half-term is particularly significant as it offers families an opportunity to travel without the crowds of the summer holidays. In this context, free walking tours play a crucial role by providing personalized and affordable experiences. Travelers can explore destinations with passionate local guides, turning each visit into a unique and enriching experience.
During the half-term, GuruWalk offers a wide variety of tours, ranging from historical walks to gastronomic routes and local legend tours.
