Austria’s Tourism State Secretary, Elisabeth Zehetner, has declared the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna a monumental opportunity for the nation’s tourism sector. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Zehetner highlighted the event’s potential to showcase Austria to a global audience. She described it as the ‘world’s biggest campaign for holidays in Austria,’ promising significant economic value for the future.
Vienna gears up for a global spotlight
The 70th Eurovision Song Contest, set to take place in Vienna in May 2026, is not just a celebration of music but also a powerful international platform for Austria’s economy, particularly its thriving tourism industry. Tourism State Secretary Elisabeth Zehetner emphasised this point during a press conference held on Thursday. She underscored the immense potential for Austria to present itself as an attractive holiday destination to millions of viewers worldwide.
Zehetner’s remarks highlight the significant economic impact expected from hosting such a large-scale event. The influx of international visitors for the contest, which includes fans travelling from over 70 countries, directly boosts local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and various service providers across Vienna. This short-term boost is crucial for the city’s economy and provides a vibrant atmosphere for residents and tourists alike.
Beyond the immediate financial benefits, the State Secretary stressed the long-term value that the Eurovision Song Contest brings. The extensive media coverage and global viewership act as an unparalleled marketing campaign, raising Austria’s profile as a tourist destination. This increased visibility is expected to encourage future visits, thereby generating sustained economic growth and strengthening Austria’s position on the international tourism map.
With the contest taking place at the Wiener Stadthalle, the city is preparing to offer a comprehensive experience, including the Eurovision Village at Rathausplatz and other cultural events, ensuring that the entire city embraces the spirit of Eurovision. This holistic approach aims to maximise the positive exposure for Vienna and Austria, solidifying Zehetner’s vision of the event as the ‘world’s biggest tourism campaign’.
