A holiday in Germany can, despite extra travel costs, turn out to be cheaper on average than a comparable holiday in the Netherlands. This is evident from an analysis by Duitsemilieusticker.nl. City trips and holidays in hilly areas, in particular, are more affordable across the border.
Germany cheaper in four out of six holiday types
A comparable holiday in Germany is on average 6 percent cheaper than a holiday in the Netherlands. This is evident from an analysis by Duitsemilieusticker.nl, in which six types of Dutch holidays were compared with a German alternative.
In four of the six scenarios examined, Germany proved to be more favorable. The analysis looked at factors including accommodation, the drive from Utrecht, parking, food and drink, tourist tax, and any entrance fees or activities.
This is relevant for the leisure sector, as price sensitivity continues to play a significant role in the holiday choices of Dutch guests. The total budget weighs heavily, especially for families and short breaks.
Biggest difference between city trips and hill holidays
The difference increases, especially for city trips. According to the analysis, a weekend in Amsterdam for two people comes to approximately €1.246. A comparable weekend in Berlin costs an estimated €1.046. That is a difference of €200, or 16 percent.
Germany is also cheaper for holidays in hilly areas. According to the calculation, a week of hiking, cycling, or relaxing in the Sauerland costs €1.457. For South Limburg, the comparable holiday comes out to €1.687.
As a result, the Dutch holiday tourism sector faces competition from destinations just across the border, where hospitality and accommodation in certain segments may be priced lower.
The Netherlands is not always more expensive
The analysis also shows that Germany is not an automatic money-saving route. For a weekend of culture or shopping, Maastricht is slightly cheaper than Düsseldorf according to the calculation: €882 versus €917.
The Netherlands also turns out to be more favorable for a family holiday in nature. A week in the Veluwe or Drenthe costs an estimated €1.483, while a comparable holiday in the Harz or Eifel comes to €1.657.
“So it’s not as simple as: Germany is always cheaper,” says Mattijs Wijnmalen, co-founder of Duitsemilieusticker.nl. “Those who mainly want to shop or spend a week in nature with the family can perfectly well stay in the Netherlands. But for a city trip, beach holiday, or vacation in the hills, Germany quickly becomes financially attractive.”
Beach and amusement park: small price difference
According to the analysis, Germany is also cheaper for beach holidays and theme park trips, but the difference is smaller. A week in Zandvoort for a family of four comes to €2.248. A stay in Travemünde on the Baltic Sea costs an estimated €2.021.
For theme park trips, the difference is limited. A two-day trip to Efteling, including an overnight stay at the park's hotel, costs €957 according to the analysis. Phantasialand comes in at €915.
For Dutch entrepreneurs, this underscores that price is not the only distinguishing element. Accessibility, experience, service, surroundings, and packages remain decisive factors in the guest's choice.
About the analysis
Duitsemilieusticker.nl compared six Dutch holidays in June with a comparable German alternative. For each comparison, a travel scenario was calculated, including accommodation, car journey from Utrecht, parking, food and drink, tourist tax, and any entrance fees or activities.
Personal expenses such as shopping and souvenirs are not included. The amounts are rounded and intended as guide prices. Actual costs may vary depending on the travel date, provider, and availability.
More information
Source and more information: Duitsemilieusticker.nl