Vacation on the Mediterranean: Why German Germany turn their backs on their backs

Vacation on the Mediterranean: Why German Germany turn their backs on their backs

The longing of the Germans for sunny holiday destinations on the Mediterranean remains unbroken, despite increasing costs and economic uncertainties. More and more families are doing it to travel abroad to escape the rising prices for vacation offers in Germany. Thomas (name changed) and his family have been traveling to Egypt every year since 2021 and found the quality of service there to be convincing, which prompted them to give up their tradition to go on vacation in Germany. Before they traveled to Egypt, they spent their vacation in Germany.

Germany remains the most popular travel destination for the Germans, followed by the Mediterranean region. According to a report by RND, 36% of Germans spent their main vacation in their own country in 2024. The next places occupy Spain with 9%, Italy with 7%and Turkey with 6%. Interestingly, in 2020, 56% of Germans chose their own country for their main vacation during Corona pandemic. This shows that the desire to travel to the south is deeply rooted in the German psyche.

travel behavior in change

The travel preferences of the Germans have remained stable since the 1950s and 1960s. Nevertheless, there are changes: A study by the ADAC shows that 69% of those surveyed traveled abroad in 2024, which is an increase compared to 64% in 2022. This development is also reflected in the increase in "lots of magicians", which are five trips and more companies a year - an increase of 3% to 8%. This tendency shows that despite financial concerns, especially in people with a lower budget, vacation abroad becomes more popular again.

Despite the attractiveness of travel deals in southern Europe, the price for a vacation in Germany remains high, with average daily spending of 117 euros. Similar costs are estimated for southern European countries such as Spain and Turkey. According to RND, the total cost of a vacation in Germany is 1060 euros per person, while holidays in countries such as Italy or Spain are significantly more expensive.

sustainability and trends in tourism

The demand for travel in southern Europe is still high, although the trend "Coolcation", the vacation in cooler regions, does not gain in importance. Only 29% of German travelers plan to spend their main vacation in Germany in Germany - a low value. Many Germans prioritize costs about sustainability when traveling. Only 44% of holidaymakers have booked their main vacation 2024 four months in advance, which shows that spontaneous trips gain popularity.

The use of aircraft increases and increased to 37% in 2024, while the car still remains the most common means of transportation. Another interesting development is the increase in package tours to 32% in 2024. Many vacationers, 72% of the respondents, see overtourism as a problem and are ready to support alternative measures such as access fees to relieve overcrowded travel destinations.

Overall, the results of the ADAC tourism study 2025 illustrate that despite all financial uncertainties, the desire to travel abroad remains unbroken. German vacationers want uncomplicated arrival and departure as well as intact nature, while sustainability and political stability play a rather minor role in the booking process.