Rise in Travel Count
Germans took a record-breaking 277 million overnight trips last year, marking a significant increase from previous years and surpassing the pre-pandemic year of 2019 by 6 percent, according to data from the Federal Statistical Office.
The travel surge can be attributed to the expanding travel market, driven by factors such as rising disposable incomes, the desire for new experiences, and the availability of diverse travel options. One of the key drivers has been the growth in cruise travel, with cruise passenger numbers from Germany increasing markedly from thousands in 2021 to millions in 2024.
Transport methods varied, with car trips accounting for approximately 58 percent of private trips, followed by train travel at 19 percent, and buses and other means of transport each accounting for 3 percent. Air travel accounted for 17 percent of private trips made by Germans last year.
Domestically, river cruises within Germany are very popular, while internationally, cities like London, Paris, Rome, Milan, and Italian destinations such as the Amalfi Coast are among the top draws. Travel trends also indicate strong interest in southern France, the Caribbean (Turks & Caicos, St. Lucia, St. Barts, Antigua), and parts of Asia including Japan and Thailand. Italy remains a perennial favorite, with increased bookings, especially for culturally rich cities and unique locales such as Turin.
Last year's travel statistics also reveal a shift in travel patterns compared to previous years. Approximately 20 percent of Germans did not travel at all, a stark contrast to the travel-hungry nature of the majority who embarked on their journeys.
The number of trips made by Germans last year, primarily overnight stays, reached approximately 277 million, the highest value since 2012. This is a notable trend in travel behaviour, with Germans favouring a mix of classic European destinations and emerging international markets, combining cultural experiences with wellness and mindful travel trends.
Among the top destinations for private trips made by Germans last year were Italy, Austria, Spain, France, and the Netherlands. Domestic trips accounted for 163 million trips among the total private trips made by Germans last year.
As we look forward, it's clear that the travel industry will continue to evolve, with Germans showing a strong appetite for exploration and new experiences. The record-breaking travel numbers in 2021 serve as a testament to this, and it will be interesting to see where the next few years take us.
The travel surge among Germans can be attributed, in part, to their growing interest in diverse lifestyles, as reflected in their increasing numbers in cruise travel and the popularity of destinations like Italy, Spain, France, and more. Additionally, the shift in travel behavior suggests that Germans are not only keen on experiencing cultural destinations but also embracing wellness and mindful travel trends, as evidenced by their interest in southern France, the Caribbean, and Asian destinations such as Japan and Thailand.
