Recreational tourism is the movement of people in their free time for the purpose of recreation necessary to restore the physical and mental strength of the person. For many countries of the world this type of tourism is the most widespread and mass. The development of this type of tourism requires recreational resources. Recreational resources are an important part of the natural potential of the region. Climate is often a deciding factor in choosing a tourism destination, whether it is a balmy, warm climate for outdoor activity or a cold, snowy climate for skiing.
Recreational tourism is characterized by a long duration of the trip, fewer visited destinations and a long stay in one place (usually a resort on the coast). Another feature is the widespread use of air transport and charter flights.