Travel Trends 2026: Germans Plan Their Summer Holidays Despite Higher Costs
The 2026 summer season has begun, and Germans are showing a great desire to travel despite rising energy costs. According to a recent interim report by the German Travel Association (DRV), there is even a slight increase in turnover this year. A survey confirms this trend: the desire for holidays remains stable, and many people have already firmly planned their trips.
A large proportion of vacationers want to spend their holidays in their own country. Around 42 percent of those surveyed plan a trip within Germany. There are often interesting discoveries to be made right on one's doorstep. For example, few people know that the world's most leaning tower is not in Pisa, but in Germany. Specialist events such as the “Germany Travel Mart” in Oberhausen also show that tourism in Germany is becoming increasingly attractive for guests from both home and abroad.
Those who prefer to travel further afield often choose classic destinations such as Egypt. The country is a favorite for many German vacationers because of the sun, the culture, and the short flight time. However, more distant destinations are also gaining importance: the number of German visitors to Brazil has increased by almost 20 percent compared to the previous year. For such international trips, experts recommend finding out about suitable credit cards in good time to save on costs when making payments abroad.
Although technology is becoming increasingly modern, German travelers are still cautious about one topic: Artificial Intelligence (AI). A study by YouGov shows clear skepticism toward AI applications in the travel sector. While many vacationers can imagine using technology, they hesitate when it comes to the actual application. When planning the most important weeks of their year, they often prefer to rely on proven methods and personal advice.
Overall, the travel industry is looking to the future with optimism. Despite economic challenges, holidays remain an indispensable part of the year for many people in Germany. Whether on a city trip to the North Sea coast or on a beach in South America – the variety of chosen destinations ensures a positive balance this summer.