Vom Sommer in den Herbst: Warum immer mehr Deutsche im Oktober verreisen

Munich, September 4, 2025 – Der traditionelle Sommerurlaub findet längst nicht mehr nur in den klassischen Hochsaisonmonaten statt. Der Verband Internet Reisevertrieb e. V. (VIR) beobachtet einen deutlichen Trend: Immer mehr VerbraucherInnen verschieben ihre Reisen bewusst in den Herbst.

The analyses by Travel Data + Analytics GmbH (TDA) also reflect this trend. This trend becomes particularly clear when looking at the booking figures available as of the end of July for October 2025 and October 2019: Here, there is a 75.6% increase in revenue. When considering the entire summer season from May to October, a 28% growth in bookings can be observed between 2025 and 2019. Compared to the previous year, October also shows growth of 10.9%, underscoring the steady trend. By comparison, the entire summer season grew by only 6% over the same period. This makes October the fastest-growing travel month during the summer season.

According to the VIR, there are three reasons for this trend: climatic conditions, costs, and demographic change. An increasing number of Germans fall into the category of so-called “empty nesters” —that is, people whose children have already left home or who are already retired. These consumers are no longer tied to traditional vacation periods and can now plan their travel dates flexibly and according to their individual preferences. In addition, most traditional summer destinations remain pleasantly warm even in October. Popular destinations such as the Canary Islands, Spain, Italy, and Greece still enjoy summer-like temperatures between 20 and 28 degrees in October. Furthermore, some destinations and hosts are responding to the growing demand during the shoulder season. Greece, for example, is extending the vacation season into November.

Another important factor is the rise in prices during the traditional summer months. In contrast, prices for accommodations and flights in October are often significantly lower in many destinations. Travelers benefit from attractive deals and special discounts during this time, as many hotels, resorts, and tour operators aim to boost demand during the off-season. Families and flexible travelers, in particular, can take advantage of these price benefits and plan their vacations in a more relaxed and budget-conscious manner. As a result, October becomes an attractive alternative—not only in terms of weather but also financially—for many Germans who value good value for money.

“We’re seeing a shift in people’s travel habits,” explains Michael Buller, CEO of VIR. “The traditional concept of a summer vacation no longer appeals to an increasing number of travelers. Instead, we’re seeing a shift in summer vacation bookings toward October. We expect this trend to continue to grow.”

Conclusion: October is no longer just a shoulder-season month. It has become a genuine alternative. Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and more affordable rates make it a travel month that could increasingly replace the traditional summer peak season.

You can download the press release here in PDF format.