Solo travel trend in Europe 2026 shows rising demand
New research released in August 2026 indicates solo travel is shifting from a niche activity to a mainstream holiday choice across Europe, especially in Germany where 36.1% of respondents plan a solo trip within the next year. The findings affect tour operators, destination marketers and solo travellers planning future trips.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Solo travel is now identified as a growing mainstream market segment
- Timing
- Findings published in August 2026
- Who is affected
- Tour operators, destination marketers and solo travellers in Europe
The details
- Announced by
- DERTOUR Group
- Takes effect
- August 2026
Research scope and methodology
The European Travel Trend Report compiled by Cologne‑based DERTOUR Group surveyed 8,000 respondents across 13 European markets and incorporated booking data from 16 source markets. The study measured intentions to travel alone within the next twelve months and compared them with previous years.
Key findings on German and European solo travel intentions
German respondents showed the highest solo‑travel intention at 36.1%, outpacing Sweden, France, the United Kingdom and Poland. The average stay of solo travellers was four days longer than that of accompanied travellers, who averaged 9.5 days. Almost thirty percent of solo travellers were aged 65 or older, highlighting a significant senior segment.
- German solo‑travel intent: 36.1% of respondents
- Average solo trip length exceeds group trips by four days
- Nearly 30% of solo travellers are 65+ years old
Industry response and commercial implications
German operators such as DERTOUR, Gebeco and Wikinger Reisen are adapting product portfolios to cater to solo guests, offering single‑room options, small‑group tours and shared‑interest itineraries. The research also identified accommodation pricing as a pain point, with 38.4% of solo respondents seeking rooms designed or priced for single occupancy. Safety features and emergency contacts were valued by roughly one‑quarter of respondents, suggesting opportunities for ancillary services.
- Single‑supplement demand: 38.4% want rooms priced for one
- Safety and emergency contact importance: 21.9% and 25.3% respectively
- Operators are testing room‑sharing and solo‑focused tours
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers should check whether operators now list single‑occupancy rates for upcoming tours
- Solo travellers may find longer average itineraries advertised for independent holidays
Cost and documents
- No new fees or documentation requirements are introduced by the research findings
- Operators that publish single‑room pricing may reduce overall travel costs for solo guests
What you need to do
- Review upcoming tour options for solo‑friendly product descriptions before booking
- Monitor operator websites for updated safety and emergency‑contact services
Who this affects
-
German solo travellers
The report shows the highest intention to travel alone among German respondents
What to do Look for tours and hotels that advertise single‑room rates and safety support
-
British solo travellers
ABTA data indicates a rise in solo holidays among UK residents
What to do Consider city‑break packages that highlight independent travel features
-
European tour operators
Research highlights demand for solo‑specific products and pricing structures
What to do Adjust product portfolios to include single‑occupancy options and safety services
Frequently asked questions
What percentage of Germans plan a solo trip in the next year?
According to the August 2026 DERTOUR report, 36.1% of German respondents said they are likely to travel alone within the next twelve months.
Are solo travellers staying longer than groups in Europe?
Yes, the research found solo customers stayed an average of four days longer than travellers accompanied by others, who averaged 9.5 days.
Do German tour operators now offer single‑room rates?
The study notes that 38.4% of solo respondents want rooms specifically designed or priced for single occupancy, prompting operators such as DERTOUR and Gebeco to introduce single‑room options.
What safety features are solo travellers looking for?
Around 21.9% of prospective solo travellers value additional safety measures, and 25.3% want a dedicated emergency contact, according to the DERTOUR research.
Is solo travel becoming popular among older Europeans?
Almost three in ten solo travellers surveyed were aged 65 or older, indicating a growing senior segment within the solo‑travel market.
