Germany sees continued growth in Canadian overnight stays

Canadian travellers recorded 748,581 overnight stays in Germany in 2025, an increase of six per cent over the previous year, according to the German National Tourist Office (GNTO).

Growth continued at a slower pace in 2026, with Canadian overnight stays rising 0.4 per cent from January to August compared with the same period in 2025.

Canadian overnight stays have grown by 20 per cent since 2016 and surpassed their 2019 level. 

Germany also ranked fifth among European destinations for Canadian outbound trips in 2025, according to IPK International’s World Travel Monitor.

With its renewed presence in Canada, the GNTO is highlighting Germany’s cultural heritage, culinary traditions and regional experiences.

“Germany offers Canadians so much to discover, whether they are visiting for the first time or returning to explore somewhere new,” said Anja Brokjans, director, marketing & sales Canada, German National Tourist Office. 

“Culture, food and local traditions are often what make a trip memorable. We want to inspire Canadians to explore that variety and experience more of what Germany has to offer.”

Touring holidays lead Canadian demand

Touring holidays accounted for 56 per cent of Canadian holiday trips to Germany in 2025, while 23 per cent were city trips or visits to an event, according to IPK International.

The GNTO is highlighting itineraries that combine museums, castles and historic towns with wine regions, landscapes and local culinary experiences.

Its culinary focus includes bread culture, regional specialities, local wines and seasonal celebrations. Christmas markets, traditional crafts and seasonal baking are also part of its holiday travel offering.

International overnight stays increase

Germany also recorded growth in international overnight stays during each of the three peak summer months in 2026, according to preliminary figures from Germany’s Federal Statistical Office.

Compared with 2025, international overnight stays increased 1.3 per cent in June, 3.2 per cent in July and 1.3 per cent in August.

Germany recorded 9.9 million international overnight stays in August. 

From January to August 2026, the total reached 57 million, an increase of one per cent year over year.

“The positive development during the peak travel season underlines Germany’s strong appeal and competitiveness as a travel destination,” said Petra Hedorfer, chief executive officer of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB).

Research commissioned by the GNTB in 19 countries during the summer found that potential travellers described Germany as educational, exciting, fascinating, relaxing and romantic.

Hedorfer noted that the summer results offered further growth opportunities for the autumn and Christmas season.

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