GUIDE 2026Tour Operators

German Tour Operator Comparison

Objective comparison of TUI, DER Touristik, Alltours, FTI and Schauinsland. Find the right tour operator for your travel style and budget.

5 Major Operators
Independent Analysis
Updated 2026

German Tour Operator Market Overview

The German tour operator market is one of the largest in Europe, with Germans taking more foreign vacations per capita than almost any other nationality. The market is dominated by a few major players who together control over 70% of the package holiday business.

Each tour operator has its own strengths and target audiences. TUI focuses on premium quality and exclusive experiences, while Alltours and Schauinsland compete on price. DER Touristik offers a balanced mid-range option, and FTI specializes in flexible, adventurous travel.

Understanding these differences helps you choose the right operator for your travel needs, whether you prioritize price, quality, destination variety, or specific services like family amenities.

Tour Operator Profiles

TUI

Founded 1968 | Hanover

Market Share: ~25%4.5/5

Strengths

  • Market leader
  • Own airlines (TUIfly)
  • Exclusive hotels
  • Premium quality

Weaknesses

  • Higher prices
  • Less flexibility
Destinations:180+ countries
Price Level:Premium
Best for: Quality-conscious travelers seeking comprehensive service

DER Touristik

Founded 1917 | Frankfurt

Market Share: ~20%4.3/5

Strengths

  • REWE Group backing
  • Multiple brands
  • Good value
  • Strong in Europe

Weaknesses

  • Complex brand structure
  • Variable quality
Destinations:150+ countries
Price Level:Mid-range
Best for: Budget-conscious families looking for variety

Alltours

Founded 1974 | Duesseldorf

Market Share: ~10%4.2/5

Strengths

  • Competitive prices
  • Own hotels (allsun)
  • Good Mediterranean coverage

Weaknesses

  • Limited long-haul
  • Smaller network
Destinations:70+ countries
Price Level:Budget-friendly
Best for: Beach vacation seekers on a budget

FTI

Founded 1983 | Munich

Market Share: ~8%4.1/5

Strengths

  • Flexible booking
  • Good Asia coverage
  • Innovative packages

Weaknesses

  • Smaller scale
  • Less brand recognition
Destinations:100+ countries
Price Level:Mid-range
Best for: Adventure seekers and long-haul travelers

Schauinsland

Founded 1919 | Duisburg

Market Share: ~5%4/5

Strengths

  • Very affordable
  • Family tradition
  • Personal service

Weaknesses

  • Limited destinations
  • Basic offerings
Destinations:50+ countries
Price Level:Budget
Best for: Price-conscious travelers seeking simple packages

Quick Decision Guide

Best for Luxury

TUI

Premium hotels, exclusive experiences, own airlines and cruise ships.

Best Value

DER Touristik

Good balance of price and quality with strong European coverage.

Best Budget

Schauinsland

Lowest prices with straightforward packages for simple vacations.

Best for Beach

Alltours

Strong Mediterranean presence with own allsun hotel brand.

Best for Adventure

FTI

Flexible bookings, good Asia coverage, innovative packages.

Best for Families

TUI / Alltours

Best child fixed prices, kids clubs, and family-friendly hotels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the largest tour operator in Germany?

TUI is the largest tour operator in Germany with approximately 25% market share. They operate their own airlines, hotels, and cruise ships, offering the most comprehensive travel services.

Which tour operator offers the best value for money?

Alltours and Schauinsland typically offer the best budget options, while DER Touristik provides good mid-range value. The best value depends on your destination and travel style.

Are German tour operators safer than online booking?

Yes, German tour operators are legally required to provide insolvency insurance (Insolvenzversicherung). Package holidays also benefit from EU Package Travel Directive protections that individual bookings do not have.

Can I book through any travel agency?

Yes, all major tour operators distribute through independent travel agencies as well as their own shops and websites. Prices are typically the same regardless of where you book.

What happens if my tour operator goes bankrupt?

German tour operators must have insolvency insurance. You will receive a refund or be repatriated if abroad. This protection is one of the main advantages of booking with established operators.

Do tour operators offer price matching?

Most major operators do not officially price match, but travel agencies sometimes have negotiating room. The best strategy is to compare prices before booking and watch for promotional periods.

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