Stronger air links, longer holidays and wider regional travel are central to Germany’s strategy to attract more Indian visitors
Germany is aiming to double the number of overnight stays by Indian visitors by 2030, as it seeks to attract travellers looking for longer and more experience-led holidays, German National Tourist Board (GNTB) chief Petra Hedorfer has said.
Indian visitors recorded 928,635 overnight stays in Germany in 2025, an increase of 3.4 per cent from the previous year. The momentum has continued in 2026, with 537,565 overnight stays between January and July, up 2.9 per cent year-on-year. July alone recorded 85,400 overnight stays, a 3.6 per cent increase.
Hedorfer said the focus was not simply on increasing visitor numbers but on encouraging Indian travellers to spend more time in Germany, explore destinations beyond major cities and return for repeat visits.
Germany also sees significant economic value in the Indian market. GNTB research estimates that trips from India generated about €1.3 billion in tourism turnover in 2025.
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The tourism board is adapting its approach as Indian travellers become more diverse and increasingly interested in experiences, culture and regional destinations
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Its current strategy targets both premium travellers and the growing middle class, including millennials, Gen Z and families
Air connectivity is expected to play an important role. Germany has direct links from Frankfurt and Munich to five major Indian gateways. Flight seat capacity between India and Germany reached 744,252 during January-August 2026, around 5 per cent higher than a year earlier.
Visa processing will also remain important. Hedorfer said German missions currently indicate an average Schengen visa processing time of around 15 days once applications reach the consulate, while appointment and document-transfer times can vary.
Germany’s latest push comes as India strengthens its position as a major overseas travel market. The GNTB has recently expanded its engagement with Indian travel companies and is focusing on digital services, premium tourism, family travel, culture, shopping and honeymoon trips.
