How Europeans Spend Their Leisure Time: A Colorful Snapshot of Everyday Life

Leisure is more than just time off; it reflects culture, lifestyle, and the values people place on togetherness and enjoyment.
Across Europe, how households spend their money and their free moments reveals a fascinating mix of traditions and priorities. Insights highlight both the differences and the shared love for leisure across the continent—including in Luxembourg, where cultural life and dining out hold a special place.

On average, European households devote about 6.7% of their budgets to dining out, though the numbers vary widely. In Ireland, the figure is nearly 14%, fueled by the country’s thriving pub culture, while Spain follows with 12.7%, where tapas and long evenings of food and conversation remain a cherished ritual. In contrast, Romania and Poland spend far less on eating out, where home-cooked meals and family gatherings are more common.
Luxembourg sits comfortably in between, where dining out is not only about food but also about cosmopolitan living. With its blend of French, German, and local influences, eating out in Luxembourg reflects the multicultural fabric of the country itself.

When it comes to cultural activities, the picture is just as diverse. Ireland leads in sports attendance, filling stadiums with energy and passion, while Italy and Poland remain loyal to cinema nights. Latvia shows a strong enthusiasm for museums, celebrating history and heritage, while Cyprus favors live performances such as concerts and theatre. Luxembourg, though smaller in size, stands out for its vibrant mix: from classical music at the Philharmonie to art exhibitions and open-air cultural festivals, the country offers a rich calendar of events. Its central location in Europe also means Luxembourgers often blend local traditions with international influences, making leisure time both varied and distinctive.

What emerges is a Europe united by its love of free time, yet beautifully diverse in expression. In Spain, leisure might mean a shared plate of tapas; in Dublin, a rugby match; in Riga, an afternoon at a museum; in Nicosia, a night at the theatre. And in Luxembourg, it might be a dinner with friends in the bustling Grund, followed by a concert or art exhibition that speaks to its multicultural spirit.

Ultimately, Europe’s leisure habits form a colorful tapestry. Each country brings its own traditions and priorities, proving that while everyone values time to relax and connect, the ways of doing so are uniquely shaped by culture, history, and lifestyle. 

A Shared Love for Leisure, Different Expressions
What’s clear is that while Europeans share a strong appreciation for leisure, how they enjoy it is beautifully diverse. Whether it’s sipping coffee on a Spanish terrace, cheering in an Irish stadium, strolling through Latvian museums, or catching a film in Poland, leisure is about more than entertainment—it’s about connection, community, and culture. 

 Europe’s leisure landscape is as rich and varied as its languages and cuisines. Each country offers a unique lens into what people value most when they set work aside and choose joy.

Leisure in Europe: Insights from open data | data.europa.eu
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