In the first half of 2024, Vienna recorded a remarkable increase in guest overnight stays and accommodation revenues. With an increase of 10% compared to the previous year and a total of 8,3 million overnight stays, the Austrian capital is consolidating its position as one of Europe's leading tourist destinations.

The positive development is also reflected in the financial figures, which show a significant increase in turnover of 14% compared to the previous year. These figures not only underline Vienna's appeal as a tourist destination, but also the important role that the tourism sector plays for the local economy.

In the period from January to June 2024, Vienna reached 8.260.000 overnight stays, an increase of 10% compared to the same period last year. The performance in June is particularly striking, where the city recorded 1.623.000 overnight stays, an increase of 6%. These figures reflect a stable growth trend that is also reflected in the source markets.

The strongest origin markets for Vienna in the first half of 2024 were Austria and Germany. With 1.653.000 overnight stays (+11%) and 1.608.000 overnight stays (+8%) respectively, these two countries top the list of main markets. Particularly noteworthy is the comeback of the USA, which has established itself in third place in the top 473.000 countries of origin with 11 overnight stays (+10%). Italy, Great Britain and France follow in fourth to sixth place, while Spain, Poland, Switzerland and Romania round off the top 10 list. The increase in overnight stays from these countries shows how important international tourism is for Vienna.

Economic impact and success factors

City Councillor for Economic Affairs Peter Hanke highlights the important role of tourism for Vienna's economy: "The balance sheet for the first half of 2024 clearly shows: Vienna's visitor economy is once again assuming its usual role as an economic engine and guarantor of year-round jobs." The positive effects of tourism extend to numerous adjacent economic sectors, including trade and gastronomy. Hanke also emphasizes the high level of acceptance of tourism among Viennese people, as nine out of ten respondents have a positive attitude towards tourism in the city.

Tourism Director Norbert Kettner adds that Vienna's success in the area of ​​quality tourism and its global positioning as a meeting destination has played a key role. "Our unconditional commitment to quality tourism, our appeal to a culturally interested and affluent audience, and Vienna's global positioning as a meeting destination have proven successful." With an international share of around 80% of overnight stays, Vienna is showing that the city has successfully built on the times before the pandemic.

Financial developments and capacity utilization indicators

The overnight turnover of Viennese accommodation establishments is also showing a positive development. In the period from January to May 2024, the establishments generated a turnover of 445,7 million euros, which corresponds to an increase of 14% compared to the previous year. The month of May in particular stands out, with net overnight turnover of 127,2 million euros, an increase of 24% compared to May 2023.

The average occupancy rate of hotel rooms in June was around 57,2%, slightly below the previous year's figure of 58,1%. Hotel room occupancy in the first half of 2024 was around 64%, while bed occupancy was 49,6%. Compared to the previous year's figures, these figures are relatively stable, indicating continued good, but not outstanding, occupancy. In addition, around 5.800 more hotel beds were offered in June than in the previous year, which corresponds to an increase of 8,2%.

Vienna shows an impressive tourism performance in the first half of 2024, both in terms of the number of overnight stays and financial turnover. The increase in overnight stays and turnover highlights Vienna's role as a leading tourism destination and reflects the city's successful positioning on the international market. Continuous adaptation to the needs of a demanding public and excellent performance in the field of quality tourism are key to this success.

With the positive developments affecting both the number of visitors and the financial indicators, Vienna is well positioned to continue to act as the city's economic engine. It is to be hoped that this trend will continue and that Vienna can further expand its position as a top travel destination.