ITB Berlin and IPK: International travel grows four per cent, South America leads - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Shortly before ITB Berlin opens from 3 to 5 March 2026, the international travel industry is reporting steady growth. According to the latest findings of the World Travel Monitor® by IPK International, international trips worldwide increased by four per cent in 2025 compared with the previous year. Growth rates are returning to single digits and are once again approaching pre-pandemic levels.

Regional differences: South America dynamic, North America slightly down

European outbound travel rose by four per cent, in line with the global average. North America recorded a slight decline of one per cent year-on-year. Despite this dip, the United States remained the world’s largest outbound travel market, ahead of Germany and the UK.

Asia posted moderate growth of five per cent. South America stood out with an 11 per cent increase in outbound travel, the strongest growth of all regions. This expansion was driven mainly by a significant rise in intra-continental travel.

High satisfaction levels at Arab destinations

Within the framework of the World Travel Monitor®, IPK’s Destination Performance Index (DPI) analyses travel satisfaction, recommendation rates and intention to return. In 2025, Dubai once again topped the global rankings, followed by Abu Dhabi, the Bahamas and Brazil. Dubai received the highest scores for service, accommodation and weather, while sustainability received the lowest ratings in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

In Europe, Switzerland ranked first, narrowly ahead of Austria. Both destinations achieved above-average scores for landscape and nature.

Holidays dominate, MICE rebounds

Almost three-quarters of all international trips in 2025 were holiday trips, with this segment growing by four per cent in line with the global average. Sun and beach holidays remained the most popular form of travel. Spain once again recorded the highest number of international trips worldwide.

Round trips and nature holidays achieved above-average growth, while event and wellness travel declined slightly. Business travel increased by six per cent, returning for the first time to 2019 levels. MICE travel showed particularly strong momentum, rising by eight per cent.

Longer stays and higher spending

The average duration of international trips increased slightly to around nine nights. This development was mainly driven by the high share of air travel and the recovery of long-haul trips. Rail travel recorded above-average growth.

Spending per trip rose by five per cent year-on-year. The largest share of expenditure went to accommodation. On average, transport accounted for around one quarter of total travel spending, while smaller shares were allocated to food and activities at the destination.

Positive outlook for 2026

Current indicators suggest that international travel demand will remain largely stable in 2026. Growth rates are expected to continue returning to pre-pandemic levels. At the same time, concerns about overtourism and sustainability are shaping traveller behaviour and creating new opportunities for destinations of all sizes.

With ITB Americas launching for the first time in Guadalajara, Mexico, from 10 to 12 November 2026, ITB is expanding its global presence. The new B2B trade show will cover North America, Central America, Latin America and the Caribbean, reflecting the growing importance of the region in global travel.

At the ITB Berlin Convention 2026, held from 3 to 5 March under the motto “Leading Tourism into Balance”, trade visitors will gain practical insights into the future of tourism. Across 17 theme tracks and four live stages, experts from companies including Airbnb, Expedia, Phocuswright, Google, Booking.com, G Adventures, Microsoft and TUI will discuss trends, digital innovation and sustainable strategies for the industry.

Image Credit: © ITB Berlin