Price, Cleanliness, and Location Emerge as Top Priorities

A recent survey conducted by MEININGER Hotels, in collaboration with the market research institute Appinio, explored the city travel habits of Germans. The survey, which included 2,101 participants aged 16 to 65, found that despite regional differences, Germans share common preferences when it comes to city trips. The survey focused on trips lasting two to four days and highlighted that price, cleanliness, and location are the most important factors when choosing accommodation.

Regional Travel Tendencies

The survey revealed that Berliners are the most eager travelers, with nine percent traveling more than six times a year, compared to the national average of four percent. In contrast, northern Germans, particularly those from Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg, and Bremen, are more reserved, with a significant percentage avoiding city trips altogether.

Travel Companions and Budgets

When it comes to travel companions, 59 percent of Germans prefer to travel in pairs, while 35 percent opt for small groups. Solo travel is also notable, with 17 percent of travelers regularly traveling alone, and Hamburg showing a higher inclination towards solo trips at 30 percent.

Regarding travel budgets, nearly half of the respondents plan their trips with a budget of 500 to 1,000 euros per person, while 40 percent keep their spending below 500 euros. The survey highlighted that travelers from Rhineland-Palatinate, Lower Saxony, and Saxony are particularly budget-conscious, with a significant portion spending less than 500 euros per person.

Accommodation Preferences

When selecting accommodations, 57 percent of Germans prefer hotels, while a quarter choose vacation rentals. Price is the most critical factor for 67 percent of respondents, followed by cleanliness and location. Travelers from Saxony-Anhalt, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and Schleswig-Holstein are especially price-conscious, while those from Bremen prioritize cleanliness.

The survey also found that most city travelers spend between 50 and 100 euros per night per person on accommodation. Travelers from Saxony and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are particularly budget-conscious, with a notable percentage spending less than 50 euros per night.

Leisure Activities and Regional Differences

Culinary experiences top the list of leisure activities for city travelers, with 57 percent of respondents prioritizing food and drink. This trend is consistent across all federal states. Sightseeing, relaxation, culture, shopping, and entertainment are among the most popular activities.

Regional differences are evident in leisure preferences. In Baden-Württemberg, sightseeing is highly valued alongside culinary experiences. Saxony travelers show a strong interest in cultural offerings, while Bremen residents prioritize relaxation activities. Brandenburgers are keen on shopping, while Hamburg residents prefer entertainment options like concerts and festivals.