Published on
February 1, 2026
Tourism in Lower Austria has seen remarkable stability in 2025, with 7.3 million overnight stays recorded, reflecting a slight dip of just 0.4% compared to the previous year. The region continues to attract travelers, especially from neighboring Germany, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, with foreign visitors showing an impressive increase of 2.7% in overnight stays. Lower Austria’s commitment to establishing itself as a year-round destination with diverse offerings like health, culture, and gastronomy has been key in fostering such growth. As the region celebrates its steady tourism performance, it also looks ahead with ambitious plans for 2026, introducing quality-focused initiatives, new events, and improved infrastructure to further elevate the visitor experience and maintain competitiveness in the broader Alpine region.
Tourism Stability in Lower Austria for 2025
The year 2025 ended on a positive note for Lower Austria, with the tourism sector showing consistent results despite global economic uncertainties. The region welcomed 7.3 million overnight stays, marking a mere 0.4% decrease from 2024, which underscores the resilience of the tourism industry. Particularly noteworthy is the surge in foreign visitors, whose number grew by 2.7% compared to the previous year. This trend highlights the continued appeal of Lower Austria for international tourists, especially those from its neighboring countries.
The rise in foreign tourism is reflective of the region’s ability to cater to diverse interests. Lower Austria, with its blend of natural beauty, wine regions, and cultural offerings, remains a hub for European travelers. This year-end growth was particularly evident in December, where the region registered 459,500 overnight stays, a 0.2% increase from the same month in 2024. This slight growth, combined with a 7.3% increase in stays by foreign guests, indicates that the region’s efforts to diversify its tourism offerings are gaining traction.
A Year-Round Destination: Lower Austria’s Growing Appeal
What sets Lower Austria apart is its emphasis on becoming a year-round destination, offering something for every type of traveler throughout the entire year. The state has focused on promoting tourism through its renowned offerings in health, culinary experiences, and arts and culture. This strategic marketing has played a significant role in attracting a growing number of international tourists, who are seeking experiences beyond the traditional summer holiday.
The region’s success as a year-round destination has been further bolstered by its events calendar, including its famed wine festivals and cultural exhibitions, which keep tourists engaged throughout the year. The Wine Autumn, for instance, continues to draw visitors, making Lower Austria one of Europe’s most prominent wine tourism destinations. As more travelers seek seasonal variety, the region’s commitment to quality and experience-based travel is sure to inspire even greater demand in the years to come.
2026 Forecast: Exciting Initiatives and Key Events Await
Looking forward to 2026, Lower Austria’s tourism industry is preparing for an even more dynamic year, with several quality initiatives in the pipeline. One of the key projects is the expansion of the “Selected Stays” program, which aims to offer high-end accommodations to attract a premium clientele. This initiative will focus on elevating service standards and promoting luxury stays, further solidifying the region’s appeal to discerning travelers.
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Additionally, Lower Austria’s tourism authority has outlined several exciting cultural events and milestones to celebrate in 2026, such as the Lower Austrian State Exhibition and the 20th anniversary of the Grafenegg Festival. These events are expected to drive additional visitors to the region, enhancing its visibility on the international tourism map.
For those traveling in 2026, the region is also investing heavily in cycling infrastructure and promoting eco-friendly travel, making it an ideal destination for cyclists and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a solo trip, or a wellness retreat, Lower Austria offers diverse options for a memorable stay.
Enhancing Tourism with Modern Infrastructure and Digitalization
One of the core strategies for boosting Lower Austria’s competitiveness in the regional tourism market is investment in modern infrastructure. With neighboring Alpine destinations vying for the same tourists, the region is focusing on upgrading facilities, especially in the hotel and restaurant sectors. The expansion of cycling paths, for example, is designed to cater to a growing interest in sustainable travel.
Moreover, the tourism sector is embracing digitalization, particularly in the booking process. This technological advancement aims to simplify the travel planning experience for visitors, enabling easy access to accommodation, attractions, and local services. The introduction of the Lower Austria Card is another initiative aimed at increasing guest loyalty. Regularly updated with new destinations and experiences, this card provides visitors with a seamless and cost-effective way to explore the region’s offerings.
Top Travel Tips for Exploring Lower Austria
For those planning a trip to Lower Austria, here are some essential tips:
- Explore the Wine Regions: Lower Austria is world-renowned for its wine-growing regions, so don’t miss the chance to sample the local wines. The Wine Autumn is the perfect time to experience local wine culture.
- Embrace Year-Round Travel: Whether you’re visiting in the winter for a wellness retreat or in summer for cycling, Lower Austria offers year-round appeal. Take advantage of the changing seasons for a variety of experiences.
- Sustainable Travel: Lower Austria’s focus on cycling infrastructure makes it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers. Rent a bike and explore the region’s scenic landscapes and vineyards in an environmentally friendly way.
A Bright Future for Lower Austria’s Tourism
The tourism industry in Lower Austria is showing impressive resilience, despite a minor decline in overall stays. With its innovative approach to tourism, the region continues to position itself as a year-round destination for travelers. In 2026, expect even more exciting developments, including the introduction of high-quality stays, cultural milestones, and infrastructure enhancements. Lower Austria’s ongoing investment in modernizing its offerings ensures that it will remain an attractive and competitive destination for domestic and international tourists alike.
