Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovenia projected to see steady visitor growth in 2026
Projections indicate the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovenia will each experience modest growth in tourist arrivals and overnight stays throughout 2026, affecting travelers planning visits to these Central European destinations.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Projected modest increases in tourist arrivals and overnight stays for 2026
- Timing
- Forecasts cover the calendar year 2026
- Who is affected
- Travelers planning trips to the Czech Republic, Hungary or Slovenia
The details
Overall visitor outlook for 2026
Research released on 4 November 2026 outlines expected growth for three Central European markets in 2026. The Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovenia are all projected to see modest year‑on‑year increases in total accommodation guests, international arrivals and overnight stays.
These forecasts are based on comparative economic analysis of 2025 performance and anticipated demand drivers such as cultural tourism, thermal wellness, heritage attractions and outdoor adventure.
Czech Republic projections
The Czech Republic recorded 23.6 million accommodation guests in 2025 and is forecast to host between 23.8 million and 24.2 million guests in 2026. International tourist arrivals are expected to rise to roughly 11.1–11.3 million, with total overnight stays climbing to 59.0–59.8 million nights.
- Growth focus includes dispersing visitors beyond Prague toward Moravia, South Bohemia and UNESCO spa hubs
- Rail connectivity improvements aim to support regional tourism
Hungary projections
Hungary welcomed 19.55 million tourists in 2025 and forecasts for 2026 suggest total arrivals of 19.7–20.2 million. Guest nights are projected at 47.5–48.5 million, with international arrivals around 10.1–10.4 million.
- Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is expected to handle up to 20.8 million passengers
- Thermal wellness and lake tourism remain key demand drivers
Slovenia projections
Slovenia recorded approximately 7.0 million tourists in 2025 and expects 7.4–7.5 million arrivals in 2026. Overnight stays are forecast at 18.8–19.0 million, with foreign tourist overnight stays reaching 14.2–14.5 million.
- Efforts continue to balance pressure on Lake Bled and Ljubljana with promotion of alpine and eco‑tourism
- Mountain resort bednight share is projected to rise to 32–33 percent
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers should note that higher visitor numbers may increase demand for accommodation in major hubs such as Prague, Budapest and Lake Bled.
- Regional dispersal initiatives could make secondary destinations like Moravia, South Bohemia, the Julian Alps and eastern Slovenian spas more accessible.
Cost and documents
- No new fees or documentation requirements are mentioned in the forecast.
- Travel costs may be influenced by higher demand in popular cities during peak periods.
What you need to do
- Monitor accommodation availability in primary cities and consider booking early for peak travel dates.
- Explore travel options to secondary regions promoted for dispersal, such as Moravia or the Julian Alps.
Who this affects
-
Visitors to the Czech Republic
The forecast predicts a modest rise in total guests and overnight stays for 2026.
-
Visitors to Hungary
Projected tourist arrivals and guest nights are expected to increase slightly in 2026.
-
Visitors to Slovenia
2026 forecasts show growth in total arrivals and overnight stays, especially in mountain resorts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the expected number of tourists in the Czech Republic for 2026?
The forecast estimates between 23.8 million and 24.2 million total accommodation guests in the Czech Republic for 2026, with about 11.1–11.3 million international arrivals.
How many overnight stays are projected for Hungary in 2026?
Hungary is projected to record between 47.5 million and 48.5 million guest nights in 2026, reflecting a modest increase from 2025.
Will visitor numbers to Slovenia continue to grow in 2026?
Yes, Slovenia is expected to see total tourist arrivals of 7.4–7.5 million and overnight stays of 18.8–19.0 million in 2026.
Which source markets are most important for these three countries?
Germany remains the dominant foreign feeder for the Czech Republic and Slovenia, while it also leads for Hungary; the United Kingdom and the United States are significant contributors across all three destinations.
Are there any new travel restrictions or visa changes for 2026?
The forecast does not mention any new travel restrictions, visa changes, fees or documentation requirements for 2026.
