European tourism develops, and Germany is one of reasons for that growth. In 2013, the number of arrivals in Europe added 5.4% as it is stated in the latest report prepared by ITB Berlin and the European Travel Commission. Surprisingly, the majority of foreign travelers to Europe come from two large European countries Germany and the UK.
Last year, as many as half of international arrivals in Europe came from just 8 countries. Germany strengthened its position of the biggest source market the country contributed 14% of all international arrivals. The second place is occupied by the UK 9% of all international arrivals to Europe come from this country. Finally, the third place is occupied by Russia with the share of 6%. However, current political situation makes it not clear whether the country will retain its position. Places four to six are occupied by France, the Netherlands, and Italy respectively. The high position of the Netherlands is fantastic if take into consideration small population of the Dutch country. The seventh place is occupied by the first extra-European market the United States. In 2013, the share of international arrivals from this country added significantly.
In terms of growth, Russia posted the highest increase in 2013 international arrivals to Europe from the country added 13%. In Germany and the UK the growth was quite modest. For example, the growth of tourists from Germany estimated just 1.5%. The three countries are expected to remain biggest source markets until 2016, and then China will slowly make its way to the top. Currently, the share of China’s tourist arrivals is only 1.3%, but the share of the segment is increasing fast.
According to the study, the number of international arrivals will keep growing until 2016, adding around 3.8%. While western European countries will get more visitors from main source markets, northern European countries will benefit from the US tourists.