Published on
November 11, 2025
Austrians are gearing up for their 2026 vacations, with Greece, Turkey, and Spain emerging as the top destinations in TUI’s latest survey. The survey reveals a strong preference for these Mediterranean hotspots, driven by their appealing mix of cultural richness, scenic landscapes, and favorable travel conditions. As travel restrictions ease and tourists seek both relaxation and adventure, these countries continue to attract Austrian travelers looking for unforgettable experiences in 2026.
Austrian travelers are displaying a strong appetite for vacations in 2026, with a particular focus on popular beach destinations, despite the ongoing economic challenges that are prompting more cautious spending decisions. A recent survey reveals that a significant 76% of Austrians plan to take at least one trip during the summer of 2026, underlining the enduring importance of vacations as a vital necessity for many. Despite uncertainties, travel remains a priority, and Austrians are clearly eager to explore new destinations, particularly those that offer traditional vacation experiences like sun, sea, and sand.
When it comes to the types of holidays Austrians are considering, beach vacations continue to dominate the preferences of travelers, with 50% of respondents indicating that they are most attracted to these classic getaway options. This trend is especially strong among individuals aged 25-44, who seem to prefer the relaxation and familiarity of beach resorts. Following beach holidays, city breaks emerge as the second most popular option, with 37% of participants planning to spend time in urban centers. Nature retreats, such as visits to lakes or mountains, appeal to 30% of travelers, highlighting that a significant number of Austrians are still inclined toward exploring natural landscapes alongside the traditional sun-and-sand options.
In terms of travel preferences, 58% of respondents intend to travel by air in the summer of 2026, with a strong inclination toward medium-haul routes. This preference is particularly noticeable among younger age groups, with 18-34-year-olds showing the most interest in short-to-medium haul destinations. A total of 47% of those surveyed are planning trips to destinations that fall within this medium-haul category, while 18% are considering long-haul flights, with aspirations to explore farther-reaching locales. The survey also highlights that demand for Mediterranean destinations, such as Greece, Turkey, and Spain, remains consistently high. These countries continue to be popular travel choices, benefiting from strong connections with Austria, with numerous weekly flight options available to these destinations, ensuring a smooth and accessible travel experience.
While sustainability has become a growing issue in the global travel sector, it appears to be a secondary consideration for many Austrian vacationers. Around 39% of respondents stated that they do not place a significant emphasis on sustainability when choosing their holiday options. However, younger generations—especially those between 18 and 24 years of age—are more likely to express interest in environmentally friendly travel practices. These younger travelers are generally more aware of the environmental impact of their decisions, but only a small percentage, 12%, are willing to pay extra for eco-friendly alternatives. This suggests that while there is growing awareness, price remains a more dominant factor when it comes to travel decisions.
As the economic climate continues to put pressure on household budgets, price remains one of the most crucial factors influencing Austrian travelers’ decisions. To save money, many travelers are turning to off-peak travel. According to the survey, 31% of participants plan to travel during off-peak times to avoid peak season prices, a strategy that helps them cut costs. Additionally, 30% of respondents actively search for discounts and offers to reduce the overall cost of their vacations. Early booking discounts are another tactic being used by 22% of travelers, with some providers offering as much as 30% off when reservations are made well in advance. These discounts are particularly appealing to those looking to secure the best value for their travel dollars.
However, even as travelers remain focused on cutting costs, many are still choosing to spend on premium services that enhance their vacation experience. The survey shows that a significant number of Austrians are willing to pay extra for added comforts such as short excursions, rooms with scenic sea views, direct access to the pool, rental cars, and private transportation. These extra services are seen as key to enhancing the overall vacation experience, suggesting that while price is important, the desire for quality and convenience remains high among travelers.
The survey also indicates that, in 2026, Austrian consumers plan to cut back on spending in various areas unrelated to travel. For example, 18% of respondents are planning to reduce their expenditure on dining and entertainment, while 13% intend to spend less on electronics, and 11% plan to spend less on clothing and footwear. This indicates that Austrians are adjusting their budgets in other areas of their lives, potentially to maintain or increase their travel expenditures. Interestingly, only 10% of respondents say they plan to reduce their travel spending, a trend that has not yet been reflected in industry figures. According to reports from travel providers, the average per capita spending on summer holidays has actually increased by 4.3% compared to the previous year, which suggests that Austrians are still committed to enjoying their vacations, even if they are tightening their belts in other areas.
This data was collected through an online survey conducted by YouGov Germany, which took place between September 29 and October 1, 2025. A total of 1,003 individuals from Austria participated in the survey, with the results weighted to ensure they are representative of the broader Austrian population. This weighting took into account various demographic factors, including age, gender, and region, ensuring that the findings provide an accurate snapshot of Austrian travel intentions for the upcoming summer season.
Austrians are set to flock to Greece, Turkey, and Spain for their 2026 holidays, according to TUI’s latest survey, driven by the allure of these destinations’ rich culture, stunning landscapes, and ideal travel conditions.
Overall, the survey underscores a continued strong demand for travel among Austrians, particularly for traditional beach holidays, despite rising economic concerns. While there is a growing awareness of sustainability, price remains a dominant factor, and Austrians continue to prioritize travel experiences that offer both value and quality. As summer 2026 approaches, it appears that Austrian travelers will continue to seek out their ideal destinations, balancing their desire for vacation with their careful attention to cost.
