Germany Visa-Free Access for 26 Countries Boosts Tourism – 88% recovery in 2023, millions of visitors, and a surge in business travel.
Germany’s travel and tourism industry is witnessing a significant recovery, reaching 88% of its pre-pandemic levels in 2023.
This resurgence is fueled by the country’s strategic efforts to enhance accessibility, including visa-free access to all Schengen Nations (25 countries).
The number of overnight stays from international visitors in 2023 was 80.9 million, reflecting a substantial increase from 68.1 million in 2022.
Germany’s popularity as a destination is underscored by the influx of tourists from major source markets. The Netherlands tops the list with 1,15,00,000 travelers, followed by Switzerland (68,00,000), the USA (65,00,000), the UK (48,00,000), and Austria (42,00,000).
In 2023, Germany emerged as the second most popular European destination, with 5,38,00,000 trips, trailing only Spain, which saw 70.9 million trips.
The business travel segment has been a significant contributor to Germany’s tourism recovery.
European business trips to Germany increased by 21% in 2023, with a total volume of 1,11,00,000 trips.
This growth is paralleled by a 59% increase in holiday trips by Europeans to Germany.
Overall, Germany hosted around 183.3 million tourist arrivals in travel accommodations in 2023, an impressive rise compared to the previous year.
Flight bookings reflect this trend, with data from ForwardKeys showing that flight arrivals from the 13 largest European markets reached 37% of prior-year levels during the high season.
Additionally, Frankfurt Airport, Germany’s busiest, handled approximately 55,00,000 travelers in May 2024, marking a 6.9% increase and achieving 88% of the 2019 passenger levels.
Lufthansa, Germany’s flagship airline, plays a pivotal role in this recovery.
The airline transported 122.5 million passengers in 2023, up from 101.8 million in 2022. Its extensive network of regional and international flights, with hubs at Frankfurt and Munich airports, ensures robust connectivity.
Lufthansa City Airlines is poised to commence operations with its inaugural flight on June 26, offering new short- and medium-haul routes across Germany.
Lufthansa is also expanding its airline’s fleet expansion including the acquisition of 24 new aircraft: three Boeing 787-9s, two Airbus A350-900s, seven Airbus A321neos, eleven A320neos, and one Boeing 777F.
Additionally, five used aircraft have been added to the fleet: three A350-900s purchased and two A321P2Fs leased. However, the five A350-900s will not be operational until after the end of 2023.
In a move to modernize its fleet, Lufthansa sold nine older, less efficient aircraft in 2023, including three A321s, two A320s, and four A330s.
The lease agreements for three aircraft were also terminated. Furthermore, six Airbus A380s were sold back to Airbus as per a 2019 contractual agreement.
Moreover, Germany’s business travel segment generated €18 billion in revenue in 2019, with €10.5 billion from European travelers and €7.5 billion from overseas.
This sector continues to be a vital part of the tourism industry, contributing to the overall economic recovery.
The Luxury Collection is also making its grand debut in Germany with a new hotel designed by the internationally renowned architects Nieto Sobejano.
This stunning hotel encapsulates Munich’s timeless elegance and vibrant spirit through a contemporary design that honors the city’s rich history and culture.
Guests can look forward to experiencing unique and transformative stays that reflect the essence of the Bavarian capital.
Germany’s appeal is further highlighted by the impressive 32.6% increase in overnight stays from Indian tourists, totaling 826,703 in 2023.
This growth signifies Germany’s expanding reach in emerging markets.
List of 26 countries that can visit Germany visa free:
