Why do holidays make us so happy?
If asked, “Do holidays make you happy?”, most people would probably answer “yes!” without a second thought. But have you ever wondered why that is?
14 July 2025
The Psychology of Holidays
When you’re on holiday, you don’t have to work and can do whatever takes your fancy. That much is clear. But that is by no means the only reason why holidays make us happy. Another reason lies within our psyche. Even as we think about all the things we’ll experience on holiday, and dwell on lovely hotels and good food, the reward centre in the brain becomes active. The result? A surge of dopamine!
In fact, studies show that people are often happiest just before going on holiday, because the reward centre is already extremely active in anticipation of a positive experience. An increase in dopamine boosts motivation; we feel more alert, focused and full of energy. This may also be why, before going on holiday, we even get round to dealing with those emails that have actually been waiting for attention in our inbox for weeks. Plus: finally getting round to tasks that have been long overdue triggers the release of serotonin. And that, in turn, makes us feel content.
Unlike everyday life
On holiday, we break free from our daily routines. Instead of a quick coffee on the go, we enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the sea in the morning. Instead of a marathon of meetings, we go for a bike ride along the Croatian coast. And in the evening, the stunning play of colours at sunset in the harbour of Sutivan beats even the best streaming series. So the brain receives completely new stimuli. This reduces stress and lifts our spirits.
Speaking of stress: it raises cortisol levels in the blood – and with them the risk of certain health conditions. It is therefore desirable to keep cortisol levels as low as possible. The fact is that even a few days’ break can lower cortisol levels, partly because we sleep more and better. Does a holiday make you happy? Yes! But it’s also good for your health!
Time for what really matters
Without the pressure of time and deadlines, a holiday offers plenty of scope for the things that often get neglected in everyday life. For example, hobbies, getting enough sleep, simply enjoying yourself and gaining new experiences. When you spend your holiday with your loved ones, you create new experiences that strengthen your social bonds. Studies on human longevity have shown that strong social bonds are a key factor in life expectancy.
Those who use their holiday to consciously put their mobile phone away and practise a bit of digital detox are more mindful and experience even more moments of happiness. Instead, you should set off on long walks along the beach, extensive hikes and sightseeing on foot. Because spending time in the fresh air, in the sun and in daylight helps your body absorb vitamin D. And we need that for a balanced mood, bone health and a strong immune system.
Even once you’re back home, holidays make you happy. Because when you reminisce or look at photos, you relive those positive moments and feelings. What’s more, getting to know other ways of life helps us broaden our horizons – and makes our own everyday lives seem in a new light.
Tip!
Book your unforgettable holiday in Croatia now! At Hotel Lemongarden, you’ll find a seaside hideaway perfect for life’s special moments.
