The 70. Eurovision Song Contest causes mixed feelings in the Viennese hotel industry. Many beds are still free and cheaper accommodations, such as, are particularly benefiting from the major event Felix Neutatzchairman of the hotel industry specialist group in the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, WHAT explained. Two to three star establishments can boast above-average booking figures. In the luxury sector, however, there is restraint.
The occupancy rate is currently only around 70 percent. This is viewed as quite positive by the interest group and the tourism association. However: According to the industry, a May weekend with a public holiday is also very well booked.
The event primarily attracts younger audiences
The song contest primarily attracts younger audiences to the city, says Neutatz, while the four- or five-star hotels, which would probably be particularly busy on a long May weekend, are even registering declines. “The song contest is also a deterrent,” he states.
Given the party atmosphere throughout Vienna, guests from the high-priced segment would sometimes switch to other destinations. Some may have postponed their vacation. As Neutatz explained, it is already clear that the booking situation in June corresponds to the usual picture again.
Last minute offers possible
For the ESC days could Higher category hotels The chamber says that in the short term we will try to attract last-minute guests with attractive offers. There is still availability there, especially. “There are still enough rooms to be found,” assured the department head.
In the run-up to the contest week, Vienna Tourism also stated that the current development leaves room for short-term bookings. “With over 42,000 rooms in 450 hotels of all categories, anyone who wants to be part of the Eurovision Song Contest experience in Vienna will find suitable accommodation,” said the organizer Vienna tourism boss Norbert Kettner convinced.
The hotel association recently confirmed that there are unjustified concerns about a shortage of beds. The reason was one or two unorthodox advertisements in which even furniture stores were advertised as quarters. “The song contest obviously stimulates the imagination a lot,” speculated ÖHV general secretary Markus Gratzer in a broadcast.