As families prepare for the herbstferien (autumn holidays), Germany’s most popular travel regions — from the Harz mountains to the Lüneburg Heath and the North Sea coast — are looking ahead with optimism. Hoteliers and guesthouse owners expect a steady stream of visitors eager to enjoy nature, hiking, cycling, and city breaks during the October break.
Despite economic uncertainty, the travel sentiment across Lower Saxony remains strong, according to a new report by Süddeutsche Zeitung and the German Press Agency (dpa).
Tourism Outlook: Positive Vibes for Herbstferien 2025
The herbstferien season traditionally marks one of the last travel peaks before winter. According to tourism officials in northern Germany, booking activity has been brisk, though many destinations still have available accommodations for last-minute travelers.
A spokesperson for the Tourismus-Agentur Nordsee (TANO) in Wilhelmshaven stated that “coastal hosts are seeing high demand, but plenty of rooms remain available.” The average occupancy rate along the North Sea coast currently ranges between 50% and 80%, with many travelers waiting for favorable weather before finalizing their bookings.
“About two-thirds of local businesses are satisfied with the current situation,” TANO reported, “though some had hoped for even higher demand.”
Harz Region: Moderate Bookings but Growing Interest
In the Harz mountains, the picture is mixed. While some popular towns such as Goslar and Wernigerode are already near full capacity, others still have open rooms. The Tourismusverband Harz expects a rise in bookings once the holidays officially begin.
Hoteliers remain hopeful that sunny weather will encourage more families and hiking enthusiasts to book spontaneous getaways. Several hotels and guesthouses are promoting herbstferien packages that combine wellness experiences with guided mountain tours.
“We’re optimistic that last-minute travelers will fill the remaining spots,” said a representative from the regional tourism board.
Lüneburger Heide: Nature and Relaxation Still in Demand
Although the heather bloom season has ended, the Lüneburger Heide remains a favorite among walkers and cyclists. Many tourists seek tranquility in the scenic countryside during the herbstferien period.
According to the Lüneburger Heide GmbH, the region’s booking levels are comparable to last year’s — a strong sign of stability. “Our autumn bookings are solid,” a spokesperson said. “Visitors increasingly decide at the last minute, depending on weather forecasts.”
Rural accommodations, farm stays, and eco-lodges have become particularly popular among families seeking affordable and sustainable holiday options.
Short-Term Bookings Define Autumn Travel Trends
A defining trend of the herbstferien 2025 season is the rise of spontaneous travel decisions. Experts note that uncertainty about weather, energy prices, and school schedules has made travelers more cautious.
Many families now book just a few days before departure — a shift that poses challenges for hotels and guesthouses but also allows flexibility. Online booking platforms and mobile apps have made it easier to compare offers in real time, boosting last-minute tourism across rural Germany.
Why Domestic Tourism Is Holding Strong
Despite inflation and high living costs, domestic tourism remains resilient. Germans are prioritizing shorter regional trips over expensive international vacations. With fuel prices stabilizing and train connections improving, regions such as the Harz, Heide, and North Sea coast are benefiting from increased local travel.
Tourism analysts say this trend reflects a growing appreciation for nature-based recreation, where hiking, cycling, and cultural excursions provide a stress-free break from urban life.
Bottom Line: Optimism for the Herbstferien Season
From the North Sea to the Harz mountains, hosts and tourism agencies agree: Herbstferien 2025 is shaping up to be a promising season. With flexible booking patterns, mild weather forecasts, and an appetite for outdoor experiences, Germany’s local travel industry is preparing for a busy October.
For travelers, this means there’s still time to find great deals — and enjoy the beauty of Germany’s autumn landscapes without the crowds of summer.
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