- Despite slight trip reductions in 2023/24, bookings rose by six percent, contributing to an overall turnover of over 83 billion euros, a 20 percent increase pre-pandemic.
- DRV President Norbert Fiebig anticipates sustained growth in the German travel market. Early bookings are becoming the new trend and demand for package holidays and cruises is markedly increasing.
DRV President Norbert Fiebig, in his address at the opening press conference of ITB Berlin, provided insights into the evolving preferences of German travelers. He highlighted that despite economic and geopolitical uncertainties, Germans prioritize travel to escape everyday life and gain new experiences.
Fiebig noted that the travel season of 2023/24 saw a minor decline in trips. However, this was offset by a six percent increase in bookings, leading to a turnover exceeding 83 billion euros, marking a 20 percent rise compared to pre-pandemic years. The market for organized travel, such as package tours and travel services offered by tour operators, enjoyed substantial growth, generating nearly 40 billion euros, a seven percent increase.
Looking towards 2025, Fiebig was optimistic. Surveys suggest that almost a quarter of Germans plan to spend more on holidays, with early bookings emerging as the new trend. Summer holiday bookings saw an 11 percent increase compared to the previous year, driven by ‘early birds’.
Fiebig also highlighted the surge in demand for package holidays, with a six percent rise in travelers opting for organized trips. Approximately 62 percent of bookings were made through travel agencies or websites, indicating the enduring appeal of traditional package holidays. The cruise sector also reported an 18 percent increase in bookings, spurred by a price decrease.
Spain, Turkey, and Greece remain the preferred destinations for German travelers in 2025. However, countries like Egypt and Albania are seeing increased demand due to their competitive pricing.
Fiebig emphasized the significance of sustainability in tourism and called for international cooperation to provide sustainable fuels for air and sea transport. Despite the global economic challenges, he believed the German travel market could expect growth of around six percent in 2025, provided a stable policy framework is in place to boost consumer confidence and promote sustainable growth.
Finally, Fiebig highlighted that travel is more than an economic factor. It represents a symbol of cultural exchange, diversity, hospitality, and tolerance. The German travel industry, he proclaimed, is committed to upholding these principles and promoting global dialogue.
