German travel sector soars to new heights in 2025, fueled by extended trips
2025 proved a watershed year for Germany’s tourism industry. Despite a slight dip in the total number of trips, the sector achieved record-breaking revenue, driven by a significant surge in longer vacations and a growing embrace of digital planning.
Longer stays drive spending surge
The Research Association for Holidays and Travel (FUR) data reveals that Germans took a record 57 million vacations of five days or longer in 2025. This represents a notable shift in holiday habits, with travelers prioritizing extended getaways over shorter breaks. The total spending on these trips reached nearly 92 billion euros, a testament to a willingness to invest more in Travelexperiences.
While the total number of trips edged down to just under 68 million – even factoring in repeat visitors – the value of those trips climbed sharply. This isn't simply a matter of fewer journeys; it's a fundamental change in how Germans choose to spend their leisure time.
Overseas Travel dominated, accounting for almost eight out of ten trips (around 53 million). Spain maintained its position as the top destination, outpacing Turkey and Italy. Greece and Austria experienced stronger growth, indicating a sustained interest in Southern European destinations. Domestic Travel, while still popular, saw a slight decrease.
The rise of digital tools is also reshaping the Travel landscape. Online bookings now account for nearly 58% of reservations, a significant jump from the previous year. Artificial intelligence is increasingly playing a role, assisting with trip planning and reservations for roughly one in five trips.
Schleswig-Holstein led the German states in household spending, followed by Bavaria and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Despite a slight dip in spending for most regions, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania remained steady.
Looking ahead to 2026, the outlook remains positive. A substantial 76% of German travelers are confident they will take a vacation, and nearly half have already decided where to go. That desire for respite, for a break from routine, is a powerful force. The sustained demand suggests that the tourism sector will continue its upward trajectory. The figures speak for themselves: Germany's travel industry is not just recovering; it's evolving.