Record in overnight stays: German tourism records 223.8 million guests in the first half of 2026

More guests from abroad

Mehr Gäste aus dem Ausland

DTV sees confirmation for modernization

In addition to growth in domestic travel, the industry also recorded rising numbers of foreign guests. The federal office's survey shows that Germany was in greater demand from both European neighbors and overseas markets. Tourism experts see this as confirmation that marketing and investments in tourism infrastructure are taking effect.

Economic significance of tourism

DTV sieht Bestätigung für Modernisierung

Outlook for summer and the full year

The German Tourism Association (DTV) assessed the half-year figures as a positive signal. DTV President Reinhard Meyer stated that the record proves the industry is being rewarded for its efforts in quality, sustainability, and digitalization. Municipalities and businesses must continue on this course to maintain the high level, Meyer said according to a release.

Challenges remain

Wirtschaftliche Bedeutung des Tourismus

Significance for regions and municipalities

The tourism industry is one of the labor-intensive economic sectors in Germany. Hotels, restaurants, transport providers, and retail benefit directly from rising overnight stay numbers. According to DTV estimates, hundreds of thousands of jobs depend directly or indirectly on tourism. The new half-year record suggests these employment effects will continue to increase.

Ausblick auf Sommer und Gesamtjahr

Industry representatives expect persistently high demand for the second half of the year in light of the half-year figures. The summer months and the Advent season are traditionally strong travel periods. If the trend continues, the full year 2026 could also reach new record levels. The Federal Statistical Office plans to present the complete annual figures in spring 2027.

Herausforderungen bleiben

Despite the record figures, the industry points to existing challenges. These include rising energy and labor costs, a shortage of skilled workers in the hotel and restaurant industry, and pressure to operate more climate-friendly. Meyer emphasized that investments in sustainable offerings and in the training of skilled workers are crucial to securing competitiveness in the long term.

Bedeutung für Regionen und Kommunen

Regions with a high tourism offering are likely to benefit particularly from the new record – for example, on the North and Baltic Seas, in the Alps and low mountain ranges, as well as in cultural cities such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne. For municipalities, this means rising revenues from the overnight stay tax and higher guest spending in restaurants and retail. The DTV sees this as confirmation of targeted investments in local tourism concepts.