Denmark records record year for foreign overnight stays – German guests are the largest group

Record figures from Danish tourism

Lars Bertolt Winther, head of tourism at Dansk Industri, put the development in perspective: "Neben den deutschen Gästen, die für den weit größten Anteil der ausländischen Übernachtungen stehen, können wir sehen, dass auch Gäste aus Norwegen und Schweden nach schwächeren Jahren wieder zurück nach Dänemark finden." The quote makes clear that the record is not carried by a single market alone.

The return of Scandinavian guests is considered particularly noteworthy by the association. After several weaker seasons, Norwegian and Swedish travelers have changed their behavior and are visiting Denmark more frequently again. This development is seen as a sign of a broad recovery across the entire region.

Alongside the core European markets, Denmark is also seeing arrivals from overseas. According to Dansk Industri, the number of overnight stays by guests from the USA is rising steadily. Danish tourism is thereby gaining in attractiveness on several continents at the same time.

Why Denmark is booming as a travel destination

Several factors are likely contributing to the boom: Denmark's image as a safe, well-organized travel country, the short travel distances especially for German vacationers, and increased interest in outdoor and nature-based holidays. Added to this are the capital Copenhagen and the coastal regions as well-known draws.

The Danish tourism industry therefore looks with confidence at the rest of the season. Dansk Industri interprets the figures so far as evidence that the country is gaining ground in the international competition among destinations – supported by a broad base of European and North American markets.

Outlook for the rest of the season

With the record in foreign overnight stays, Denmark is consolidating its position as one of the most popular short-trip destinations in Northern Europe. If the pace of growth continues, the country could end up recording the current season as a historic peak year.

The association intends to present the complete summer figures after the end of the main travel season. Until then, the overnight stay figures so far are considered a provisional record that continues the positive trend of recent years.

Dansk Industri also expects continued strong demand in the coming years. The industry is banking on Denmark's proven strengths: accessibility, safety, nature, and a high standard of service in the hotel and restaurant industry.