The report reveals emerging trends among German travelers

As the leaves change color and a bit of crispness fills the air of the Rhine Valley, something reassuring remains, like sipping hot glöwein: Germany’s passion for travel. Marriott Bonvoy’s latest report, “Ticket to Travel 2026,” suggests that Windows Vista isn’t just surviving—it’s accelerating.

In a survey of 2,041 German adults, a remarkable 77 percent want to match or increase the number of vacations they take by 2025, aiming for an average of about four trips: about 1.7 domestic trips, maybe 1.5 short getaways, and one more discreet, longer trip abroad. Even with ongoing economic concerns, This constant desire to explore suggests a significant move towards more deliberate and passion-driven travel. But what exactly will Germany’s holidays look like next year? The report points to travel trends that could shape how German travelers pack.

Luxury as the perfect bookend

Forget more luxurious packages; Germans seem to play it strategically, treating high-end hotels like a shot of espresso—powerful, but short. Almost half, or 46 percent, have already planned a luxury stay at the start or end of their trip, which is especially popular with Gen Z, with 73 percent agreeing to this idea. Why is it so interesting? Nearly 34 percent find that this relaxing start helps them quickly transition into “vacation mode,” leaving work emails behind. Meanwhile, about 38 percent believe in a happy ending, returning home rather than exhausted. And perhaps for 26 percent, it’s a good way to manage expenses: some assets that are affordable without completely draining their savings.

“It doesn’t have to be luxurious, but it has to be well-placed,” observes Stefan Kuhr, regional vice president for Germany, Austria and Switzerland at Marriott International. This trend of “conscious indulgence” reflects a broader vision: travel as therapy, where one night with high-quality linens and attentive service can enhance the entire trip.

Hobby takes center stage

The days of simply lying in the sun may be gone; It looks like 2026 will be a year where the Germans follow their interests. A strong 56 percent have already traveled by plane or car – for adventures like sampling street food in Sicily, enjoying heavy metal music in Viken, or playing golf in Tuscany. Gen Z appears to be leading the trend at 80 percent, turning vacations into personal explorations, with slightly more men than women (61 percent vs. 51 percent) pursuing these tailored experiences.

This growth in “interest-based travel” emphasizes a cultural shift: vacations as opportunities for self-discovery, combining relaxation with the satisfaction derived from meaningful activities. Expect an increase in specialty bookings—from wine retreats in Moselle to eSports tournaments in Hamburg—suggesting that the best souvenirs are often stories tied to personal fulfillment.

Domestic destinations draw record numbers

Amid global uncertainty and potential flight disruptions, the appeal of home is strengthening. Almost a third (31 percent) of Germans are now planning an actual holiday in Germany in 2026, a significant increase from 23 percent last year. This “staycation boom” is particularly pronounced among seniors: around 40 percent of over-65s prefer Germany, compared to just 18 percent of 18- to 24-year-olds who generally seek international experiences.

Germany is the top domestic choice, and for those traveling internationally, the Mediterranean area is particularly popular: Spain (around 17 percent), Italy (around 16 percent), and Greece (around 15 percent). From the breathtaking castles of the Black Forest to the airy dunes of Celt, these local getaways offer authenticity without the hassle of a long journey—ideal for a nation that values ​​efficiency and fun.

AI Copilot in trip planning

Technology from Silicon Valley is making inroads into Germany, albeit with some skepticism. Nearly one in three travelers (34 percent) have started using AI to plan trips—rising to nearly 70 percent among younger individuals—employing chatbots to find deals or recommend lesser-known destinations. However, when it comes to booking, there is caution: only 11 percent are comfortable letting an algorithm control them, while 29 percent feel uneasy at the thought. On the topic of using AI in travel, Germany’s position is very central. Countries such as Turkey (with 61 percent approval) and Egypt (79 percent) are significantly improved. It’s reasonable to anticipate the combination of AI-driven efficiency and human interaction in the future, especially as tools like the Marriott AI concierge become more sophisticated. The idea is that algorithms take care of mundane tasks, while human insight addresses more emotional aspects.

Multi-Country Marathon

When it comes to travel, why limit yourself to one country? Surprisingly, almost 40 percent of German travelers are considering trips that include multiple destinations in 2026 – 16 percent are certain, and another 23 percent are confident. Young travelers, especially 18 to 24-year-olds, are leading this trend. A remarkable 28 percent are definitely planning multi-country trips. This is double the average for all age groups.

This growing trend of “country hopping,” perhaps involving a train trip from Berlin to Prague or cycling from Amsterdam to Brussels, combines adventure with ease. This is mainly facilitated by the increasingly open borders and the presence of budget airlines in Europe’s Schengen area. Additionally, it reflects the behavior of tech-savvy millennials and Gen Z individuals, who see boundaries as an offering rather than a hindrance as they pursue diverse and easily manageable experiences.

Clean sheets, smart spending, and self-care

Despite these broad travel trends, there remain some considerations for German travelers when booking. Above all, cleanliness ranked first at 89 percent, followed by price (84 percent) and location (83 percent). These are, however, persistent considerations for German travelers. However, at the core of the travel experience, “self-treatment” is a priority for 44 percent of travelers. It slightly lowers family ties (43 percent) and immersion in nature (41 percent). The fact that self-care rates are so high suggests that travel is seen as an important break – an opportunity for relaxation, personal exploration, and even a visit to the spa.

Looking ahead to 2026, data from Marriott Bonvoy suggests that German travel will be defined by a combination of adventure and contemplation, as well as a balance between global exploration and an appreciation for local experiences. With a strong will to travel and a smart attitude, German travelers are not only prepared to travel but also really enjoy their trips. Whether it involves a solo visit to Salzburg or a family vacation in the Bavarian Alps, the basic principle remains the same: for Germans, travel itself represents the ultimate pleasure, so packing accordingly is key.