European business travel shows strong growth ahead
Spending projected to surpass €440 billion by 2028 as sustainability and traveller experience take center stage
Despite persistent economic and geopolitical headwinds, Europe’s business travel sector continues its steady recovery and is now a major driver of global growth. New GBTA data projects consistent year-over-year increases, with spending set to reach nearly €442 billion by 2028, reflecting Europe’s ongoing resilience and strategic importance to global corporate travel.
Key takeaways
- Strong upward trajectory: European business travel spending is projected to grow 8.2% in 2026, reaching €389.9 billion, and continue rising to €441.6 billion by 2028.
- Western Europe dominance: Western Europe will account for 88% of all European business travel spend in 2025, led by Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.
- Purpose-driven travel: Top reasons for business trips include training, conferences, and internal company meetings, reflecting a focus on collaboration and learning.
- Average trip costs: The typical European business trip costs €850.7, with UK travellers spending the most (€1,305) and Poland and Sweden the least (~€640).
- Shift in traveller mindset: 83% of travellers view business travel as essential for meeting objectives, but Europeans remain more cautious toward AI trip booking and mixing leisure with work trips.
- Rail on the rise: 38% of European business travellers used rail on their last trip—significantly higher than other regions—showing a growing preference for sustainable travel modes.
- Corporate travel structure: About one-third of European companies now have a dedicated travel manager or team, highlighting the professionalization of travel management across the region.
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