Germany’s Travel & Tourism Sector to Break All-Time Records in 2025

Germany

Germany is set to make Travel & Tourism history in 2025, with every major performance indicator expected to reach record levels, according to new data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

Record Spending and Economic Impact

International visitor spending is forecast to hit an unprecedented €57 billion this year—marking the highest inbound tourism spend ever recorded in Germany.

WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) predicts that the sector’s total contribution to GDP could reach an all-time high of €499 billion in 2025, equivalent to 11.6% of the country’s GDP. Employment supported by the sector is also projected to reach a record 6.5 million jobs, accounting for 14% of national employment.

Domestic visitor spending is expected to exceed previous benchmarks, rising to €425 billion in 2025.

This robust growth positions Germany as not only a European leader in Travel & Tourism but also a global model for recovery and reinvention.

Policy Backing and Sustainable Growth

Germany’s tourism policy exemplifies forward-thinking governance. By positioning tourism within the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie), the government has fostered close cooperation between industry leaders and policymakers, ensuring the sector grows sustainably.

Importantly, this focus on sustainability has not impeded economic success. Germany’s approach demonstrates that environmental responsibility and economic prosperity can coexist.

Leadership Remarks

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, stated:

“This is a landmark year for Travel & Tourism in Germany. To break records across every major measure—international and domestic spend, GDP contribution, and jobs—is a stunning achievement.

“It shows a sector not just recovering, but roaring back to life. Germany is once again a powerhouse in global tourism, and this momentum must be protected with smart investment and bold ambition.”

Germany’s broad appeal—from cultural city breaks and outdoor adventures to wellness retreats and global events—is helping to re-establish the country as a top-tier international destination.

2024 in Review

WTTC data for 2024 reflected strong sector performance:

· Travel & Tourism contributed €484 billion to the German economy

· The sector supported 6.1 million jobs

· Domestic visitor spending reached €422.3 billion

· International visitor spending totalled €45.1 billion

These achievements laid the foundation for the historic forecasts in 2025. Continued momentum, particularly in international markets, will require sustained investment in transportation infrastructure, destination marketing, and visitor experience.

Outlook to 2035

Looking ahead, WTTC projects even stronger growth:

· By 2035, the Travel & Tourism sector is forecast to contribute €579 billion to GDP (12.1%)

· The sector is expected to support 7.6 million jobs

· International visitor spending is projected to rise to €74 billion

· Domestic spending is forecast to exceed €480 billion

To realise this potential, stakeholders must remain committed to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing global competitiveness.

For more information and to access the full factsheet, including WTTC’s latest Environmental Social Research (ESR), please visit the WTTC Research Hub.