The German Federal Cabinet has approved a new national tourism strategy that places infrastructure, mobility and sustainable tourism at the centre of its plans to strengthen the country’s travel sector.
The policy marks a departure from past practice by defining the federal government’s coordinating role and linking tourism more clearly to transport, accessibility and regional economic development.
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Public and private sector groups across tourism and transport have expressed cautious support for the strategy’s objectives as well as concern over implementation and costs.
Strategy highlights sustainable travel and regional connectivity
The strategy identifies modern, sustainable infrastructure as a core foundation for boosting tourism competitiveness in Germany. It emphasises that effective transport connectivity — including railways, roads, waterways, and electric mobility networks — is essential to shape accessible and attractive destinations.
The plan also includes improved cycling and hiking infrastructure to support low-impact travel and broaden visitor reach beyond major urban centres.
The document underscores that mobility systems must be climate-aligned and capable of facilitating seamless travel at a time when travellers increasingly value ease of access and sustainable travel options.
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By GlobalDataBy positioning tourism within a broader policy framework that integrates regional development and cross-sector mobility, the federal government aims to support resilient destination growth.
The strategy makes clear that a coordinated approach between federal, regional and local authorities is vital to ensure that infrastructure investments translate into measurable gains for destinations.
Industry responses underline importance of implementation and cost factors
Industry groups have welcomed the strategy’s approval as a positive signal for the travel and tourism industry in Germany. The Deutscher Tourismusverband described the federal government’s clear commitment and emphasis on infrastructure as a constructive development for long-term quality and competitiveness in travel regions.
Organisations representing attractions and leisure sectors noted that ongoing dialogue with companies will be crucial in translating strategy objectives into workable solutions.
The Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG) also expressed support for the strategy, highlighting the potential to strengthen connectivity and international access.
At the same time, BARIG emphasised that high location costs, including airport charges and aviation fees, remain a barrier for airlines and could limit the effectiveness of tourism growth measures unless addressed.
The group has called for further cost reductions to enhance competitiveness in the international market.
Broader context for travel infrastructure and economic development
The approval of this national policy comes amid wider recognition of tourism’s economic role in Germany and across Europe.
Tourism contributed significantly to GDP and employment in recent years, reinforcing the need for coherent policy frameworks that support sustainable travel and resilience.
The strategy reflects broader European efforts to integrate tourism with mobility and climate policy as destinations seek to balance growth with environmental and social goals.
Investing in infrastructure is also seen as essential to unlocking regional potential and encouraging domestic and international visitors to explore beyond major hubs.
For the hotel sector and wider hospitality industry, improvements to transport links and accessibility could affect visitor flows and investment decisions. As implementation begins, monitoring progress and ensuring funding certainty will be key to achieving the strategy’s stated aims.
