The IMSERSO Elderly Travel Program Expands Domestic Destinations and Budget for 2022–2023
The Institute for the Elderly and Social Services (Imserso) has expanded the travel options for older adults, increasing the total number of destinations by 28,442. The plan rose from 816,029 places to 844,471 for the 2022–2023 season, according to sources cited by Europa Press. This expansion reflects a steady emphasis on accessible travel for seniors across coastal areas, islands, and domestic tours.
In coastal and island itineraries, the allocation of places was preserved while the domestic tourism package saw a notable boost. The number of available spots grew from 137,475 to 165,917, marking an increase of 28,442 compared with the original plan. All itineraries are set to include cultural circuits as part of the enhanced offering.
The program’s overall budget for the season stands at 212.9 million euros, with user contributions contributing 66.7 million euros. The funding structure supports a broad slate of trips for elderly travelers while maintaining affordability across different regions.
IMSERSO’s Tourism Program runs from October to June, with prices varying by destination and trip length. For example, 10-day coastal and island stays across the peninsula and Europe are priced at around 455 euros, while four-day excursions to state capitals can be accessed for roughly 115 euros. These price points aim to balance accessibility with quality experiences for senior travelers across Europe and within national borders.
Policy discussions around pricing emerged as the year progressed. The Ministry of Social Rights and Agenda 2030 placed a freeze on rates, a move that has sparked dialogue within the tourism sector. Industry leaders and government officials have urged collaboration to review the program and ensure it remains sustainable amid inflationary pressures. While IMSERSO has denied altering participation terms, the broader context of hotel inclusions within itineraries continues to be a point of discussion in light of the price freeze and inflation dynamics.
Recent IMSERSO data show a reduction in the number of hotels participating in the program to 242, down from the previous season by 28. However, the agency notes a shift away from a fixed hotel count toward a flexible arrangement. Instead of a single pool of hotels, the program now rents a series of excursions and overnight stays distributed across autonomous communities, allowing for regional customization and broader access to accommodations.
The program continues to feature peninsula coast destinations with 8- and 10-day options across autonomous communities such as Catalonia, Andalusia, the Region of Murcia, and the Valencian Community, along with the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands. In addition to coastal routes, the itinerary includes cultural tours, nature-focused experiences, and domestic travel with stays ranging from 4 to 6 days in provincial capitals, Ceuta, and Melilla. These options broaden the appeal for seniors with varied interests and mobility levels.
Travel durations span from four days (three nights) to ten days (nine nights). Most trips to provincial capitals include a half-board arrangement, while other segments may provide full-board service to simplify planning for older travelers and their families. The broader aim is to offer flexible, enriching experiences that accommodate diverse needs and preferences while preserving affordability and safety across destinations.