Enjoying a Vacation in Germany
In Germany, bus travel accounts for 8% of trips from other European countries, while the majority (48%) are made by car [1]. The remaining trips are split between other modes of transport, such as air travel, car rentals/driving, train travel, and cruises or boat tours [1].
The top countries of origin for tourists visiting Germany within Europe are neighbouring nations like France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy [2]. These countries have strong cultural and historical ties to Germany and easy transportation links, making them popular destinations for European tourists.
The primary reason for Europeans visiting Germany is for holidays (58%) [2]. Business travel accounts for 22% of the total trips, while other types of private travel account for 20% [1].
When it comes to the number of overnight stays, the Netherlands ranks first with 11.5 million, followed by Switzerland with 6.8 million, the USA with 6.5 million, and the UK with 4.8 million [1]. Germany itself has the highest number of visitors, with a staggering 411 million overnight stays [1].
Foreigners account for 85.3 million overnight stays in Germany [1]. A significant number of trips (32%) are made by aeroplane, with many visitors arriving at major airports like Frankfurt [2]. Rail travel accounts for 9% of trips from other European countries [1].
Popular tourist destinations in Germany include cities like Hamburg, known for its impressive harbor and historic districts, Heidelberg, famous for its castles, and Münster, a historic peace treaty site [1][2]. Scenic and nature tourism is also a draw, with the Mosel Valley offering romantic river landscapes, vineyards, and castles [3].
Architecture and urban experiences, such as Gothic cathedrals, modern concert halls, and picturesque old towns, are also attractive to visitors [1][2]. Culinary tourism is another draw, with local foods and wines like Riesling in regions such as the Mosel Valley being popular choices [3].
Guided group tours are popular among European tourists, allowing them to efficiently experience multiple countries and famous sites, often including iconic castles like Neuschwanstein and cultural landmarks in Germany and neighbouring countries [2].
In summary, European tourists mainly travel by air combined with tours or car rentals, originate mostly from nearby European countries, and visit Germany primarily for its historical sites, scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and culinary experiences. Poland ranks 6th in terms of the number of trips to Germany from other European countries (4.2%), while Belgium ranks 10th in terms of the number of overnight stays in Germany (3.0 million) [1].
Behind the influx of tourists to Germany, Deutschland.de is an invaluable resource for those planning their travel, providing comprehensive information about lifestyle, historic sites, and scenic beauty. On their journey, many tourists choose to explore the country's vivid culinary scene, sampling regional wines like Riesling in the Mosel Valley, or delving into traditional dishes while touring cities such as Hamburg, Heidelberg, or Münster.
