Home » EUROPE » Decline in Travel and Overnight Stays in Germany in May 2025: Here’s Everything You Need to Know Now

Friday, July 11, 2025

In May 2025, Germany’s hotel sector saw a decline in overnight stays. The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reported a 2.6% year-on-year decrease, totaling 47.5 million overnight stays compared to 48.7 million in May 2024. This article explores the reasons behind this decline, its impact on Germany’s tourism industry, and what it signals for the global travel sector.

Factors Behind the Decline in Overnight Stays

Germany’s tourism sector plays a vital role in the economy, attracting millions of domestic and international visitors every year. The decrease in overnight stays during May 2025 can be attributed to several key factors.

A major factor in the decline was the shift in the timing of the Whitsun (Pentecost) holidays. In 2025, the holidays occurred in June, unlike the previous year when they fell in May. As a result, fewer domestic visitors planned trips to Germany during the traditionally busy Whitsun period. This change especially impacted regions popular with German holidaymakers.

Impact on Domestic vs. International Tourism

The data shows a clear difference between domestic and international tourism. Domestic overnight stays decreased by 3.3%, a notable drop considering how important the Whitsun holidays are for local travel.

On the other hand, international tourism provided a silver lining. Foreign overnight stays increased by 1.5%. This increase suggests that Germany continues to appeal to international visitors, despite the downturn in domestic tourism. Germany remains a top destination due to its rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and business environment.

Why the Shift in Whitsun Holidays Matters

The change in the timing of the Whitsun holidays in 2025 had a significant impact on domestic tourism. Typically, this period is one of the busiest for German travelers. Germans often use the long weekend to visit holiday regions like the Baltic Sea, Bavaria, and the Alps.

With the holidays moved to June, many domestic travelers adjusted their plans, leading to fewer bookings in May. This temporary dip highlights the tourism sector’s sensitivity to changes in the holiday calendar. Germany’s tourism industry must adapt to such changes to reduce the impact on local travel.

2024 Comparison of Bookings at Stays: A Stronger Overall Picture

Despite the decline in May 2025, the year-to-date figures remain strong. By the end of May, Germany recorded 173 million overnight stays, just 0.8% fewer than in 2024. This shows that, while May saw a drop in bookings, Germany’s overall tourism sector remains strong.

The small decline compared to the record year of 2024 demonstrates the resilience of Germany’s tourism. Domestic tourism may face temporary setbacks, but the increase in international tourism helps offset the decline.

Broader Economic Impact on Germany’s Tourism Industry

The 2.6% drop in overnight stays has a direct effect on Germany’s tourism industry. Regions that depend heavily on domestic tourism, such as popular holiday destinations and cultural attractions, may see a decline in revenue. This could also affect sectors like hospitality, transportation, and retail.

However, the growth in international tourism offers a positive outlook. It shows that Germany remains a desirable destination for foreign travelers. As international travel grows, areas beyond the major domestic tourist spots will benefit, particularly those offering unique experiences for foreign visitors.

Germany’s tourism sector can use this time to innovate. With domestic tourism expected to recover in June, travel agencies and hotels can roll out marketing campaigns or special offers to encourage local visitors during other peak seasons.

Impact of Rising Travel Costs and Inflation on Stays

The decline in domestic tourism may also reflect broader economic conditions, such as inflation and rising travel costs. As fuel prices increase and hotel rates rise, domestic travelers may cut back on vacations.

Economic uncertainty might also deter some local travelers from taking holidays. Tighter budgets may lead to delayed or canceled trips. In contrast, international tourists may still see Germany as an attractive destination, especially with favorable exchange rates.

International Tourism: Resilient Amid Challenges

While domestic tourism decreased, international tourism increased by 1.5%. This growth indicates that foreign visitors continue to see Germany as an appealing destination. The rise in international arrivals could result from effective marketing, Germany’s cultural and historical attractions, and its role as a global business hub.

Visitors from North America, Asia, and other regions are drawn to Germany’s famous landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate and Neuschwanstein Castle. International festivals, events, and conferences continue to attract large numbers of tourists, contributing to the rise in foreign visits.

Global Travel Trends and Their Impact

Germany’s experience in May 2025 reflects broader trends in the global travel industry. Global tourism continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and faces ongoing economic challenges. In 2025, rising travel costs and shifting schedules influence tourism patterns around the world.

Travelers are reconsidering their plans due to inflation and high travel costs. However, international tourism remains robust, as tourists from financially stable countries continue to seek diverse destinations like Germany.

Germany’s tourism decline may be a localized issue, but it reflects broader changes in global travel. Economic pressures and changing travel habits affect both domestic and international tourism sectors.

Prospects for Germany’s Tourism in the Summer

Looking ahead, the outlook for Germany’s tourism industry is positive. The shift in the timing of the Whitsun holidays should be offset by an increase in domestic tourism during June. The summer season traditionally attracts both domestic and international visitors, and Germany is expected to experience a surge in bookings.

Germany’s tourism authorities are likely to focus their marketing efforts on attracting international visitors, particularly for summer festivals, business conferences, and cultural events. The global travel industry is also recovering, with many countries adjusting to new travel trends and economic conditions.

Conclusion: Resilience in the Face of Challenges

The 2.6% decline in overnight stays in May 2025 underscores the delicate balance between domestic and international tourism. While domestic tourism struggled due to the timing of the Whitsun holidays, international tourism remained strong. This highlights Germany’s enduring appeal to foreign visitors.

This decline is a short-term setback for Germany’s tourism industry. With strong international tourism and the summer season approaching, Germany’s tourism sector remains resilient. On a global scale, the travel industry continues to adapt to economic challenges, and Germany continues to rank as a top destination despite these difficulties.

As the world recovers from economic disruptions, Germany’s tourism sector is set for a rebound. It will leverage both domestic and international visitors to drive future growth.