Travel Trends 2026: Germans Plan Their Vacations Despite High Costs
Despite rising energy costs, the desire to travel remains stable among people in Germany. Current forecasts for the year 2026 show that interest in vacation destinations both at home and abroad continues to be very high. This was also a central theme at the "Germany Travel Mart" in Oberhausen, where experts discussed the future of tourism in Germany.
Tourism within the country, in particular, offers many surprises. One popular destination, for example, is Aschaffenburg, which is often referred to as the "Bavarian Nice" due to its mild climate and architecture. Those who enjoy a bit of humor can plan a road trip to German towns with unusual names such as "Petting," "Elend," or "Kotzfeld." Additionally, the more than 25 large theme parks in Germany remain important magnets for families and short-break travelers.
A new trend that is becoming increasingly important is so-called "bleisure travel." A study by the IU International University of Applied Sciences shows that more and more business travelers are combining their work with private vacations. "Workations"—working from a vacation spot—are also becoming increasingly popular among employees and tourism providers. The industry is increasingly adapting to these flexible demands.
There is also news regarding international travel. For travelers who enjoy flying to the USA, airlines are currently offering lower prices for flights to New York. Those who prefer vacationing at sea can rely on the future of Aida Cruises. The company's CEO stated that Germany will remain the most important core market for cruises in the coming years.
In summary, travel continues to hold a high priority for people in Germany. Whether it is a long-haul trip to New York, a cruise, or a discovery trip within their own region—despite economic challenges, Germans are finding ways to make their leisure time mobile and diverse.