Offenbach's tourism surges with 5.2% growth in early 2023
Tourism in the Offenbach district has seen a strong rebound in early 2023. Overnight stays in the first half of the year doubled compared to the same period in 2022. Growth of 5.2% outpaced the national average and most other major German cities, though it still lags behind pre-pandemic figures from 2019.
The district recorded around 430,000 overnight stays between January and June 2023. This increase of 5.2% surpassed Germany's overall growth of 2.8% and outperformed cities like Munich (3.1%) and Stuttgart (1.9%). Only Hamburg, with a rise of 6.4%, saw a bigger jump.
Business travel, conferences, and congresses remain key drivers for the local hospitality sector. Employment in the industry has steadily grown, rising from 4,877 jobs in 2013 to 5,390 in 2020. Despite the positive trend, challenges persist. The sector continues to recover from pandemic restrictions while facing rising energy and food costs. A looming VAT hike—from 7% to 19% in 2024—has raised concerns among restaurateurs, who warn of financial strain. Labour shortages add further pressure. For visitors, the district offers nearly 100 accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites. An online directory at https://www.kreis-offenbach.de/overnight-stays allows filtering by 60 amenities. Monthly statistics, broken down by municipality, are also available at https://www.kreis-offenbach.de/accommodation.
The Offenbach district remains a popular destination for both domestic and international travellers. While tourism numbers are climbing, they have yet to reach 2019 levels. The sector's economic importance is clear, though ongoing challenges could shape its future growth.
