(06.03.2024) The year 2023 proved to be exceptionally prosperous for Switzerland's hotel industry. According to reports from Switzerland Tourism and the Federal Statistical Office (OFS), the sector recorded nearly 41.8 million overnight stays, marking the highest total since record-keeping began in 1934.
Compared to 2019, the last complete year before the health crisis, the number of overnight increased by 5.6%. Notably, visitors from North America contributed to nearly 3 million overnight stays (+23.7%) in Swiss establishments, while those from Southeast Asia accounted for 754,000. This figure represents an increase of nearly 25% compared to 2019.
However, in 2023, Switzerland saw fewer European visitors than in 2019, with 12 million overnight stays (-1.4%). TheBritish (1.7 million overnight stays / +2.8%) and French visitors (1.4 million overnight stays / +10%) showed renewed interest in Swiss destinations. Conversely, the number of guests from Germany (-4%), the Benelux countries (-1.6%), and Italy (-1.1%) did not rebound to pre-crisis levels.
Swiss nationals also showed a greater inclination to holiday within their own country. The trend initiated during the pandemic seems to have continued in 2023 (20.8 million overnight stays / +16.3%).
Regions like Geneva (+3.6 million overnight stays) and Bern (+6 million overnight stays) both experienced growth of nearly 11% compared to 2019, surpassing the national average.
Summer remains the preferred season for travel in Switzerland, accounting for 39% of overnight stays, followed by winter (28%).
However, spring and autumn represent 15% and 18% of stays, respectively. Beyond simply promoting destinations, the sector now aims to direct tourist flows.
Last modification 06.03.2024
