(20.11.2024) Swiss tourism appears resilient despite the challenges of a strong franc and a mixed economic outlook. Compared to winter 2023-2024, overnight stays are expected to rise by 0.8% (+149,000), reaching a total of 18.1 million during the 2024-2025 season, according to a study by the BAK Economics Institute.
Following a record-breaking summer with 23.5 million overnight stays, the Swiss tourism sector is projected to sustain strong performance through winter 2024-2025. Supported by real wage growth, domestic demand remains robust, with an anticipated increase of 0.5% (+44,000) over the winter season of 2023-2024.
However, the study commissioned by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) forecasts a slight dip in demand from European countries (-0.3% / -18,000 overnight stays) due to challenging economic conditions, particularly in Germany.
Among long-distance markets, the United States stands out. North American tourists, who typically favor summer visits to Switzerland, are showing increased interest in winter stays at Swiss resorts. BAK Economics projects a 3.6% rise (+123,000) in non-European markets this winter, and a substantial 9.8% growth for 2024 overall.
During the summer of 2025, overnight stays are expected to grow again (+1.8% / +445,000), bringing the total to 24.8 million. Major events like the Eurovision in Basel and the European Women’s Football Championship are anticipated to impact tourism positively.
The study also notes that domestic demand has been a key driver of Swiss tourism since the start of the health crisis in 2020. According to BAK Economics' projections, this trend is expected to remain relatively steady in 2025 and 2026.
Last modification 19.11.2024
