Federal Statistical Office: Record half-year - But consumption slump slows down domestic tourism
In June, there were fewer overnight stays in German hotels - mainly domestic guests were absent. However, in the first half of the year, the industry remains roughly on course despite poor consumer sentiment.
In June, Germany's tourism industry saw a significant drop in domestic tourism, despite a strong start to the year. The Statistisches Bundesamt reported 48.9 million overnight stays in hotels and other accommodation establishments, a 2.9% decrease from the previous year's June. However, the first half of the year managed to maintain a record-high with 223.8 million overnight stays, a 0.3% increase from the first half of 2025.
The decline in domestic tourism was primarily due to a shift in the Pentecost holiday, which typically occurs in June. The Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry (BTW) also pointed to a gloomy consumer mood and poor transportation links as factors affecting the tourism sector, which contributes to nearly four percent of Germany's gross value added.
Domestic visitors accounted for 41.2 million overnight stays, a 3.6% decrease, while foreign visitors increased by 1.6% to 7.7 million. The report highlights that economic uncertainty, driven by international tensions, has dampened the desire to travel among broad population groups, with 40% of people stating they would spend less on travel in the current year, and 22% partially forgoing vacation trips.
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