A comprehensive manual for immersing in holiday experiences, as done by the Germans
In the year 2024, German travellers demonstrated a strong inclination towards exploring new destinations and embracing local cultures. According to recent travel statistics, 76 percent of German travellers described themselves as open to new experiences and cultures [2].
When it comes to foreign travel, Italy, Austria, Spain, France, and the Netherlands were the top destinations, with Italy leading as the most popular [2]. Spain was particularly popular in 2024, making it a top choice for many German holidaymakers [4].
Domestically, the favourite holiday destinations for Germans included culturally and historically rich cities such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne, Dresden, Regensburg, Spreewald, and Baden-Baden. These cities were favoured for their architecture, museums, Christmas markets, natural beauty, and wellness options like thermal baths in Baden-Baden [1][3][5].
The average German took about 13 days for their main holiday in 2024. When booking their holiday, the majority of German holidaymakers made their decision based on the weather, the price, and reliable Wi-Fi [6]. Interestingly, 44 percent of Germans booked their main vacation for 2024 at least four months in advance [6].
A "Green Shift" was noticeable in the German travel mindset, with 72 percent of Germans seeing overtourism as a problem [8]. This was reflected in the increased demand for campsites and Airbnb-style options, especially among families and younger travellers [7].
Holidaymakers spent €90 billion on travel in 2024, with the average longer holiday costing around €1,319 per person [9]. However, only 8 percent of travel agents noted clients who had actually decided to change their travel plans on the basis of overtourism [7].
When it comes to beach behaviour, nearly three-quarters of respondents to the survey say they can still spot their compatriots on the beach with just a glance [6]. Only 11 percent of Germans are willing to admit to wearing socks with their sandals, while a significant minority (16 percent) own up to rising early to place their towel on a sun-lounger [6][10].
On the other hand, over 50 percent of Germans are eager to sample regional dishes when they travel [7]. In fact, 58 percent are "keen to see their destination through the eyes of locals." [6]
In 2024, a record-breaking 56 million Germans took at least one holiday of five days or longer [9]. Package tours and holidays offered by tour operators accounted for about half of the total travel market turnover in 2024 [9].
Notably, 64 percent of German travellers make some effort to speak the local language [1]. This commitment to cultural immersion is a testament to the open-mindedness and adventurous spirit of German travellers in 2024.
References:
- Germany Travel
- ADAC Reisebericht 2024
- Berlin Tourism
- Spain Tourism
- Germany Travel Centre
- Germany Travel Trends 2024
- German Tourism Report 2024
- German Travel Sustainability Report 2024
- German National Tourist Board
- German Beach Etiquette
Upon the rise of new travel destinations, Italian cities notably remained the most popular among German travelers in 2024, embracing local cultures and scenic beauty. Concurrently, an increasing number of Germans showed a strong preference for domestically exploring rich cities like Berlin, Munich, and Cologne, appreciating their architectural wonders, museums, and unique cuisine.
