Malaysia ranks among top Asian getaways for European wanderlust

DIGITAL travel platform Agoda has recently unveiled its latest ‘Europe to Asia Summer Travel Trends’, and Malaysia is once again firmly on the map.

Ranked as the fourth most searched Asian destination by European travelers for the second consecutive year, Malaysia has seen a significant 20 per cent surge in interest compared to 2024, the highest increase among all top destinations.

According to Agoda, the most searched locations in Malaysia are Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and the Perhentian Islands, highlighting a growing appetite for both city adventures and island escapades.

Agoda’s insights, derived from accommodation searches for the peak European summer months of July and August, show Malaysia’s tourism magnetism on the rise, particularly among travelers from France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.
Agoda’s insights, derived from accommodation searches for the peak European summer months of July and August, show Malaysia’s tourism magnetism on the rise—particularly among travelers from France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. Photo: Canva

While these five markets continue to lead in search volumes, there’s notable momentum coming from France and the Czech Republic, each recording a remarkable 95 per cent year-on-year growth, with Poland close behind at 74 per cent.

Meanwhile, Spain overtook the UK in the search rankings this year, reflecting shifting travel interests among Europeans. Malaysia’s 20 per cent growth in travel searches leads the pack, but other Asian destinations are catching up.

China, benefitting from visa waivers introduced for several European countries, saw a 14 per cent increase, while Sri Lanka experienced a 13 per cent rise.

Still, Malaysia’s overall performance remains unmatched in growth among the top five destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the latter making its debut on the list.
Malaysia’s overall performance remains unmatched in growth among the top five destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the latter making its debut on the list. Photo courtesy of Agoda.

“Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality continue to captivate holidaymakers seeking authentic and diverse experiences.

“With a 20 per cent rise in searches this year, it’s clear that more Europeans are eager to explore all that Malaysia has to offer during their summer holidays,”said Agoda country director for Malaysia and Brunei, Fabian Teja.