Cautious Optimism for Germany’s Inbound Tourism in Summer 2025

Germany

Preliminary data from Germany’s Federal Statistical Office shows that international overnight stays in establishments with at least ten beds totaled 14.6 million between January and March 2025, a 2.6% decline from the same period in 2024.

Petra Hedorfer, Chair of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB), noted that international tourism is currently affected by volatile conditions, including calendar-related shifts and global trade tensions. Despite a slow start, she expressed optimism for the summer, pointing out that people’s desire to travel, relax, and experience different cultures generally outweighs short-term challenges. Recent analysis by the European Travel Commission suggests promising trends for the upcoming season, including longer stays and increased travel budgets. Germany remains Europe’s leading cultural tourism destination, benefiting from factors like value for money (22%), safety (18%), and mild climate (14%).

Despite the positive outlook, some challenges persist. Advance bookings of international flights to Germany from May to July 2025 remain 3.9% lower than the previous year, with seat capacity for Q1 2025 still 13.9% below 2019 levels. However, the upcoming UEFA EURO 2024 tournament is expected to stabilize figures during peak season.

Across Europe, travel intentions from April to September 2025 are slightly down at 72.2% compared to the previous year. Nonetheless, 80% of European travelers are planning longer holidays (over four nights), with 14% aiming for trips exceeding twelve nights. Additionally, 47% plan a budget of over EUR 1,500 per person, a 13% increase from last year.

One area of concern is the US market. In 2024, the US ranked as Germany’s second-largest inbound market with 7.2 million overnight stays. However, a recent GNTB survey revealed mixed signals: while a quarter of Americans with travel plans are undeterred by geopolitical tensions, a third are scaling back due to financial difficulties, and another quarter intend to cut travel spending despite sticking with their chosen destination. Nevertheless, Germany's reputation for safety and cultural appeal remains strong, and the GNTB's key accounts in the US market are cautiously optimistic about maintaining last year’s business levels.

The GNTB remains hopeful that Germany’s established appeal as a cultural and safe destination will continue to attract international visitors, especially as the summer season approaches.