German travelers undertook a record number of trips in 2024, both domestically and abroad, according to data released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). A total of 277 million private and business trips, involving at least one overnight stay, were recorded, marking the highest figure since records began in 2012.
The number of trips lasting multiple days increased by 11 percent compared to 2023 and by 6 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019. International travel experienced a more significant rise, reaching 114 million trips – a 12 percent increase year-on-year and a 15 percent increase compared to 2019. Domestic travel also saw a strong rebound, climbing 10 percent to 163 million trips, slightly exceeding the levels observed in 2019.
Popular destinations for German travelers in 2024 remained consistent with previous years. Italy topped the list, accounting for 14 percent of all outbound trips, followed by Austria (13 percent), Spain (10 percent), France (8 percent) and the Netherlands (7 percent). These five countries have consistently held their position as favored destinations for German travelers over the past decade.
Private travel accounted for approximately 240 million trips in 2024, representing an 11 percent increase year-on-year and a 9 percent increase compared to 2019. Business travel experienced growth as well, rising 8 percent to 37 million trips. While approaching pre-pandemic levels, business travel numbers remain 10 percent below those recorded in 2019.
Regarding transportation methods, automobiles remained the predominant choice for multi-day trips in 2024. Cars were utilized for 58 percent of trips involving overnight stays, both within Germany and abroad. Rail travel accounted for 19 percent, while air travel was utilized for 17 percent. Coach travel and other forms of transport each accounted for 3 percent of total travel modes, with minimal changes observed in transportation preferences over recent years, Destatis reported.
