Europe’s Business Travel Spending to Reach $448B in 2026

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has reported that European business travel spending is set to reach €389.9 billion (approximately $448.2 billion) in 2026, marking a growth of 8.2 percent compared to 2025.

Despite ongoing economic challenges worldwide and political uncertainty in some regions, the European business travel market is expanding. GBTA identifies Europe as a key engine driving the global recovery in business travel.

Looking further ahead, European business travel spending is forecasted to rise to €414.5 billion ($476.5 billion) in 2027, and then to €441.6 billion ($507.6 billion) by 2028.

Countries leading this growth include Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.

The average cost per business trip across Europe is estimated at €850.7 ($986), with lodging as the top expense, followed by meals and beverages, then airfare.

Business travelers from the UK spend the most per trip, averaging €1,305 ($1,500), while travelers from Poland and Sweden tend to spend less—between €639 ($740) and €646 ($749) per trip.

GBTA also noted that sustainability and traveler experience are growing priorities, as businesses and travelers seek more environmentally friendly and productive travel options.

For an in-depth look, explore our YouTube channel where we discuss corporate travel management and explain the distribution in business travel.

Photo by Kaja Sariwating on Unsplash