Schleswig-Holstein sees mixed summer bookings ahead of July holidays; short-term trend continues

Current booking picture

Ahead of the 4 July start of summer school holidays, the booking situation across Schleswig-Holstein is mixed. Some areas report high occupancy, particularly classic coastal resorts on the North and Baltic Seas, with some locations exceeding 80%. Overall demand remains "good to satisfactory" but has not yet reached 2025 levels, according to a spokesperson for the Tourismus-Agentur Schleswig-Holstein.

The booking situation is mixed; some already have good occupancy, others are less utilized.

Short-term booking trend

A state-wide trend toward ever more short-term bookings continues, with tourists increasingly waiting to gauge weather conditions before committing to trips. Many tourism businesses report that guests now book just a few weeks or even days in advance, a shift that operators say complicates planning.

Many tourism professionals report that guests increasingly book their trips depending on the weather, just a few weeks or even days before arrival.

Regional snapshots

On the island of Fehmarn, the peak travel period from mid-July to mid-August is well booked, though some capacity remains. In Grömitz, the busiest stretch runs from 18 July to 16 August, when occupancy reaches around 92%. The resort's "Ostsee in Flammen" event on the last weekend of August is almost fully booked. By contrast, the state capital Kiel shows an occupancy rate of just 53%, below the previous year's level. Travemünde's occupancy fluctuates between 50% and 60%, compared with a steadier 85% in 2025. In Flensburg, bookings are about 15% below last year's figures, though larger holiday homes are in demand.

Outlook

Despite the uneven picture, many tourism operators remain optimistic, expecting a surge in last-minute bookings in the coming weeks. The spokesperson stressed that flexible travellers can still find accommodation, even during peak times.

Anyone who is a bit flexible will always find something.