Vienna records best-ever tourism year as visitor spending surges

Vienna has reported its strongest tourism year on record, with over 20 million overnight stays in 2025, a 6% rise on 2024, the city’s previous peak.

Accommodation revenue is also on track for a historic peak. Data from January to November shows confirmed revenues of €1.254 billion, up 4% year on year. November alone generated €131 million, reflecting 10% growth. “In 2025, we will very likely surpass the previous record of €1.4 billion which was set in 2024,” said Vienna Tourist Board CEO Norbert Kettner. “My heartfelt thanks go to all of the entrepreneurs working in our visitor economy and their employees – they made this success possible despite a multitude of challenges.”

International visitors accounted for 83% of overnight stays, up from 82% in 2024. Germany remained the top source market (3.54 million nights), followed by Austria (3.38 million) and the US (1.26 million), which generated the highest five-star hotel revenues. Strong growth also came from Spain, Poland, Canada, China, South Korea, and Japan, although some Asian markets remain below pre-pandemic levels.

Vienna’s hotel sector continues to expand, with 450 properties offering around 84,600 beds. Roughly 60% of capacity sits in four- and five-star categories, and the city now counts 26 luxury hotels, including the new Mandarin Oriental.

Major events are expected to support further growth, with nearly 50 large congresses and corporate meetings scheduled, alongside the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. Under its ‘Optimum Tourism’ strategy, Vienna is targeting sustainable, high-quality growth.