As the leaves change color and a certain crispness fills the Rhine Valley air, something remains dependably comforting, much like sipping warm Glühwein: the German enthusiasm for travel. A recent report from Marriott Bonvoy, “Ticket to Travel 2026”, suggests that wanderlust isn’t just surviving—it’s picking up speed.
In a survey of 2,041 German adults, a notable 77 percent intend to match or exceed their 2025 vacation count, aiming for an average of roughly four trips: around 1.7 domestic adventures, maybe 1.5 shorter escapes, and one more ambitious, longer trip abroad. Even with ongoing economic concerns, this persistent desire to explore suggests a significant move toward more deliberate and passion-driven travel. But what exactly will shape the German vacation next year? The report points to travel trends that could redefine how German travelers pack.
Luxury as the Perfect Bookend
Forget excessive luxury packages; Germans seem to be playing it strategically, viewing high-end hotels as a shot of espresso—powerful, but concise. Close to half, or 46 percent, have already planned a luxurious stay at the beginning or end of a trip, which is proving especially popular with Gen Z, with a solid 73 percent embracing this idea. Why is this so appealing? Approximately 34 percent find that this comfortable start helps them quickly transition into “vacation mode,” leaving work emails behind. Meanwhile, around 38 percent believe in the relaxing end, returning home refreshed instead of exhausted. And maybe for 26 percent, it’s a smart way to manage costs: some opulence that’s affordable without completely draining their savings.
“Luxury doesn’t need to last, but needs to be well-placed,” observes Stefan Kühr, Regional Vice President for Germany, Austria, and Switzerland at Marriott International. This trend of “conscious indulgence” seems to reflect a wider perspective: travel as a form of therapy, where a single night with high-quality linens and attentive service can enhance the whole trip.
Hobbies Take Center Stage
The days of simply lounging in the sun may be fading; it looks like 2026 will be a year where Germans pursue their interests. A solid 56 percent have already traveled—by plane or car—to indulge a passion, such as sampling street food in Sicily, enjoying heavy metal music at Wacken, or playing golf in Tuscany. Gen Z appears to be leading this trend at 80 percent, turning vacations into personal explorations, with slightly more men than women (61 percent versus 51 percent) pursuing these tailored experiences.
This growth in “interest-based travel” emphasizes a cultural shift: vacations as chances for self-discovery, combining relaxation with the satisfaction derived from meaningful activities. Expect an increase in specialized bookings—from wine retreats in the Mosel to e-sports tournaments in Hamburg—suggesting that the best souvenirs are often stories linked to personal fulfillment.
Domestic Destinations Draw Record Crowds
Amid global uncertainty and potential flight disruptions, the attraction of home is strengthening. Nearly a third (31 percent) of Germans now plan their main 2026 vacation within Germany, a notable increase from 23 percent last year. This “staycation boom” is especially pronounced among seniors: About 40 percent of those over 65 prefer Germany, compared to only 18 percent of those aged 18 to 24, who generally seek international experiences.
Germany is the top domestic choice, and for those traveling internationally, the Mediterranean area is especially favored: Spain (around 17 percent), Italy (roughly 16 percent), and Greece (near 15 percent). From the charming castles of the Black Forest to the breezy dunes of Sylt, these local getaways offer authenticity without the inconvenience of long travel—ideal for a nation that values efficiency and leisure.
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AI Copilot in Trip Planning
Technology from Silicon Valley is making inroads in Germany, though with some hesitation. Approximately one in three travelers (34 percent) have started using AI to plan trips—jumping to almost 70 percent among younger individuals—employing chatbots to find deals or suggest lesser-known locations. However, when it comes to making bookings, there is caution: only about 11 percent are comfortable letting an algorithm take control, while 29 percent feel uneasy at the thought. On the subject of using AI in travel, Germany’s position is fairly central. Countries such as Turkey (with 61 percent adoption) and Egypt (a striking 79 percent) are considerably more advanced. It’s reasonable to anticipate a blend of AI-driven efficiency and human connection in the future, particularly as tools such as Marriott’s AI concierge become more sophisticated. The idea is that algorithms take care of the routine tasks, while human insight addresses the more emotional aspects.
Multi-Country Marathons
When it comes to travel, why limit yourself to a single country? Surprisingly, nearly 40 percent of German travelers are considering itineraries that incorporate multiple destinations in 2026—16 percent are certain, and another 23 percent are leaning towards it. Younger travelers, specifically those aged 18 to 24, are leading this trend. A considerable 28 percent of them are definitely planning multi-country trips; this is nearly double the average across all age groups.
This rising trend of “country hopping,” perhaps involving a train journey from Berlin to Prague or cycling from Amsterdam to Brussels, combines adventure with ease. This is primarily facilitated by the increasingly open borders within Europe’s Schengen Area and the availability of budget airlines. Furthermore, it reflects the attitude of tech-adept millennials and Gen Z individuals, who see borders as more of a suggestion than a barrier as they pursue varied and easily manageable experiences.
Clean Sheets, Smart Spends, and Self-Pampering
Despite these broad travel trends, certain considerations remain consistent for German travelers when booking. Above all, cleanliness takes precedence at 89 percent, followed by price (84 percent) and location (83 percent). These are, after all, enduring considerations for German travelers. However, at the core of the travel experience, “treating oneself” is the top priority for 44 percent of travelers. This slightly edges out family bonding (43 percent) and immersion in nature (41 percent). The fact that self-care ranks so highly suggests that travel is seen as a vital break—a chance for rest, personal exploration, and maybe even a visit to the spa.
Looking ahead to 2026, Marriott Bonvoy’s data suggests that German travel will be defined by a combination of adventure and thoughtfulness, as well as a balance between global exploration and an appreciation for local experiences. With both a strong desire to travel and a discerning approach, German travelers are set to not just travel but to truly enjoy their trips. Whether it involves a solo visit to Salzburg or a family vacation in the Bavarian Alps, the underlying principle remains the same: for Germans, the journey itself represents the ultimate indulgence, so packing accordingly is key.