Germany is reporting record results for 2018, with provisional figures from the Federal Statistical Office revealing that 87.7 million foreign visitors stayed overnight from January to December in accommodation establishments with at least 10 registered beds. That is 3.8 million more international overnight stays than in the previous year, and represents a 5% increase.

Commenting on the results, Petra Hedorfer, chief executive officer of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB), said: “At plus five percent, German incoming tourism grew even more dynamically in 2018 than in the two previous years (plus 1.4% and plus 3.6%). Favorable economic conditions and stability in important source markets contributed to this excellent result.”

“On the other hand,” Hedorfer said, “we see here the confirmation that together with our partners we are consistently aligning our global marketing efforts with current challenges of the digital transformation. This enables us to analyze even more efficiently individualized customer needs, and develop suitable offers with our tourism partners.”

The 2018 results show that Canadian visitors made a significant contribution, posting an increase of just over 3% between January and November.

Julia Dywelski, director marketing and sales for the German National Tourist Office in Canada, said that: “2018 was all about presenting Germany as a culinary destination. From amazing home-style cooking pubs to high end Michelin starred restaurants, Destination Germany offers a world of flavours to satisfy every kind of traveller.”

2019 will mark the 100th anniversary of the Bauhaus architectural movement as well as the 30th anniversary of the fall of the wall.

With the roll out of a digital marketing offensive, Destination Germany will focus their communication efforts on creating and further branding awareness and inspiration to guarantee an unforgettable travel experience.