Market Data Tourism & MICE: Warsaw grows faster than Central and Eastern European cities, while the tourism market remains resilient to global changes
High attendance, engaged discussions and one clear conclusion: the tourism market is evolving rapidly, but its foundations remain strong. On April 10, the latest edition of “Market Data: Tourism & MICE”, organised by the Warsaw Tourism Organization, took place at the Copernicus Science Centre.
Once again, the event brought together representatives of key companies and institutions shaping the market: from global booking platforms such as Booking.com and Expedia Group, through Airbnb and STR, to aviation stakeholders including LOT Polish Airlines, public administration, the City of Warsaw, and advisory and analytics firms such as Colliers and ForwardKeys.
It is this combination of perspectives that defines the strength of the event.
Warsaw in the regional context
One of the most recurring themes was Warsaw’s growing position. Data presented during the conference shows that the city is developing faster than other Central and Eastern European cities.
Warsaw continues to strengthen its role not only as a tourist destination, but also as a conference hub. This is reflected both in tourism data presented by the city and in insights from the aviation sector and booking platforms.
Infrastructure development and the expansion of air connectivity were also highlighted as key factors directly influencing the city’s inbound and conference potential.
A stable market despite uncertainty
Speakers agreed on one point: despite geopolitical tensions and changing macroeconomic conditions, tourism remains one of the most resilient sectors.
Data analysed by Colliers, Expedia Group and STR shows that as incomes rise, so does the willingness to travel. The growing global middle class will continue to drive demand in the years ahead.
Currently, the strongest impact on tourism flows comes from markets such as the United States, China, the United Kingdom and India.
As one of the speakers noted, regardless of global uncertainty, people continue to prioritise travel.
Changing traveller behaviour
The way people plan their trips is clearly evolving. Data presented by Booking.com, Expedia Group and Airbnb indicates that the following trends are gaining importance:
- earlier booking decisions
- flexibility in reservations
- more conscious comparison of offers
Over one third of travellers now book well in advance, while the ability to easily modify plans has become a standard expectation.
Road trips are also making a comeback, with the journey itself becoming part of the experience. At the same time, shorter and more diverse trips are gaining popularity, alongside the growing “set-jetting” trend, where travellers choose destinations known from films and series.
Technology and AI: a tool, not a replacement
A significant part of the discussion focused on technology and artificial intelligence. The key takeaway is clear: while AI plays an increasingly important role in travel planning and data analysis, authenticity remains crucial.
Content created entirely by AI is perceived as less credible. It is still human perspective that provides meaning, context and emotional connection.
In practice, this means that technology supports decisions, but does not replace the experiences that define travel.
Warsaw aligned with global trends
Data presented by event partners shows that Warsaw is developing in line with global trends. Demand for accommodation is growing, particularly during periods of major events such as concerts and sports events.
There is also a visible increase in demand for tourism experiences, as well as shifts in traveller structure, with couples and solo travellers becoming more prominent segments.
Warsaw remains a stable market that can respond quickly to short-term fluctuations while maintaining long-term growth.
Data and perspective go hand in hand
An important part of the event were panel discussions, including a session on the future of short-term rentals with representatives of public administration, the City of Warsaw and major platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com. The panel also featured Maciej Fijałkowski, Secretary of the City of Warsaw, and Dominik Borek, Director of the Tourism Department at the Ministry of Sport and Tourism. The discussion was moderated by Professor Piotr Zmyślony.
The common thread throughout the day was the need to look at the market from multiple perspectives. Only by combining data from different sectors – aviation, hospitality and booking platforms – can a complete picture be formed.
As highlighted by Mateusz Czerwiński – President of the Board, it is this broader perspective that enables better understanding of the market and more informed business decisions.
A shared space for the industry
“Market Data: Tourism & MICE” is not just a data-driven event, but a practical tool supporting the industry in decision-making and strategic planning.
Participants actively engaged in discussions, asked questions and continued conversations in a more informal setting during networking breaks and the evening gathering.
The key takeaway from this edition is clear: the tourism market is not slowing down, but it is becoming more demanding. Access to data and the ability to interpret it effectively are now a real competitive advantage.
