Europe’s rising stars
In 2025, Germans explored the world with unprecedented curiosity. While Western Europe remains the most popular region, analysis of 4.5 million trips documented via Polarsteps shows a clear trend toward more remote and lesser-known destinations.
The fastest-growing European destinations are on the Baltic coast and in the Balkans. Lithuania (+22%) and Latvia (+13%) are gaining popularity, as are Albania (+17%), Bosnia & Herzegovina, and North Macedonia (both +13%). The Baltic States benefit from the trend toward “coolcations”—holidays in cooler regions—combined with affordable prices and a quieter atmosphere than the usual hotspots.
Polarsteps Travel Trends 2025
The methodology is based on 4.5 million anonymized trips documented in the travel app Polarsteps between November 2024 and October 2025, covering over 5 million country visits. The 2026 forecasts are derived from 200,000 planned trips. In addition, a survey of 3,047 respondents from seven countries was conducted in late 2025.
USA loses ground
The USA is the biggest loser of the year: despite a weak dollar, trips to the United States fell by 24%, dropping it out of the German top 10 for the first time in years to 11th place. Geopolitical developments and stricter border controls likely contributed. Other notable declines include Cuba (-56%), Nicaragua and Mexico (both -21%).
Japan and central Asia on the rise
Japan is gaining popularity (+38%), benefiting from a favorable yen and more direct flights. Thailand tops the list of planned long-haul trips for 2026. Among the biggest global winners are Central Asian countries, with their Silk Road heritage and dramatic landscapes: trips to Kyrgyzstan rose 59%, Uzbekistan 46%, and Tajikistan 37%. Africa also sees growing interest, particularly Ethiopia, Morocco, and Namibia.
More adventure in shorter trips
The average trip duration decreases from 19 to 17 days, while the distance travelled remains nearly unchanged at 5,283 km—showing that Germans are packing more adventure into shorter trips. Many travellers deliberately plan only the essentials, leaving room for spontaneity.
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AI, social media & inspiration
More than half of German Polarsteps users can imagine using AI for trip planning or inspiration, for example to design a route. Compared with other Europeans, they are particularly open to this idea. Personal recommendations from friends, family, and expert sources such as travel guides and blogs remain the primary inspiration for 28- to 44-year-olds, while social media dominates among younger travellers. Overall, 77% of respondents feel inspired by other people’s travel content, with few feeling pressured to plan “more impressive” trips.
Private sharing preferred
Germans are more cautious about publicly sharing their travels than other Europeans: only 29% post publicly, compared with 44% in the UK, 32% in France, and 31% in the Netherlands. Eight out of ten prefer private sharing. Social media’s influence is also being questioned in the context of overtourism.
Gen Z seeks nature, freedom, and adventure in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, Generation Z shows a clear preference for outdoor adventures, followed by road trips, city breaks, and beach holidays. Their travel plans are shaped by freedom, adventure, and new experiences, whether travelling alone or with friends.
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