International Travel Rises 4% in 2025, South America Leads Regional Growth :: Hospitality Trends

International travel increased by 4% worldwide in 2025, with holidays making up the majority of trips and South America experiencing the highest regional growth, according to data released ahead of ITB Berlin 2026 by IPK International’s World Travel Monitor.

International travel worldwide rose by 4% in 2025 compared to the previous year. This growth continues the upward trend seen in recent years, bringing international tourism closer to pre-pandemic levels. The data, compiled by IPK International’s World Travel Monitor, indicates that the rate of increase has returned to single digits after the sharp fluctuations during the pandemic.

Regional Performance

Travel patterns in 2025 varied by region. Outbound travel from Europe increased by 4%, matching the global average. North America saw a slight 1% decrease in outbound travel, but the United States remained the leading country for international travel, followed by Germany and the United Kingdom. Asia recorded a 5% increase in outbound travel, slightly above the global average. South America experienced the strongest growth, with outbound travel rising by 11%, primarily due to increased intracontinental trips.

Destination Satisfaction and Rankings

IPK International’s Destination Performance Index measured satisfaction, recommendations, and intentions to return among international holiday travelers. In 2025, Dubai ranked highest globally, followed by Abu Dhabi, the Bahamas, and Brazil. Dubai received top ratings for service, accommodation, and weather, while sustainability was rated most negatively in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In Europe, Switzerland led the rankings, just ahead of Austria, with both destinations receiving high marks for landscape and nature.

Travel Purposes and Segments

Holiday trips accounted for nearly three-quarters of all international travel in 2025, growing by 4%. Sun and beach holidays remained the most popular, with Spain recording the highest number of international trips. Round-trip and nature-focused travel segments showed above-average growth, while event and wellness travel declined slightly. Business travel increased by 6%, returning to 2019 levels for the first time since the pandemic. Meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) travel grew by 8%.

Travel Duration and Spending

The average duration of international trips increased slightly in 2025, reaching around nine nights. This rise was attributed to a higher proportion of air travel and a recovery in long-haul trips. Rail travel also saw above-average growth. Spending per trip increased by 5% year-on-year, with most expenditure going toward accommodation. Transport accounted for about 25% of travel spending, while food and activities accounted for smaller shares.

Outlook for 2026

Projections for 2026 suggest that international travel demand will remain stable, with growth rates expected to return to pre-pandemic levels. However, concerns about overtourism and sustainability remain significant for travelers and destinations.

ITB Berlin and ITB Americas Developments

In response to developments in the Americas, ITB is expanding its international presence with the launch of ITB Americas, scheduled for 10 to 12 November 2026 in Guadalajara, Mexico. This new B2B trade show will cover North, Central, and South America as well as the Caribbean. The ITB Berlin Convention 2026, running from 3 to 5 March, will focus on the theme “Leading Tourism into Balance,” addressing growth, innovation, and sustainability in the travel industry. The event will feature 17 thematic tracks and presentations from industry experts.

Conclusion

The latest data from IPK International highlight a stable recovery in international travel, with both holidays and business travel showing growth. South America led regional increases, while travel duration and spending also rose. The travel industry is preparing for continued stability and growth in 2026, with sustainability and overtourism remaining key issues.