How Austria is Outpacing Portugal, Poland, Switzerland, Albania, Sweden, Ireland, and Cyprus with Record Tourism Growth: New Report You Need to Know

Written By: Rana Pratap

Rana Pratap

My formal education culminated with a Master's in English from Dibrugarh University in 2015, but my real-world learning began simultaneously. Over ten years ago, while still a student, I joined Travel and Tour World as an intern, eager to nurture my love for travel in a professional setting. It has been a privilege to grow with this company, maturing from that initial role into a leadership position. As a Senior Writer and Team Leader today, I comfortably blend my passion for travelling with years of industry experience along with mentoring a creative team.

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January 19, 2025 7:48 PM

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Austria has emerged as Europe’s tourism leader, outpacing Portugal, Poland, Switzerland, Albania, Sweden, Ireland, and Cyprus with record growth in 2023. With nearly thirty one million international arrivals, Austria far exceeds Portugal’s over twenty six million and Poland’s approx. nineteen million, setting the benchmark for post-pandemic tourism recovery. While other countries like Switzerland and Ireland are making significant strides, and emerging destinations like Albania and Cyprus show impressive growth, none can match Austria’s visitor numbers or the diversity of experiences it offers.

Austria’s success is fueled by its ability to attract year-round tourists. In Tyrol alone, nearly eleven million visitors flocked to the region in 2023, while Salzburg and Vienna welcomed approx. six million and approx. six million, respectively. The country’s appeal is rooted in its alpine beauty, cultural landmarks, and rich history, making it a destination for all types of travelers.

Beyond numbers, Austria’s tourism industry has a profound economic impact, with pre-pandemic revenues reaching €37.9 billion. In comparison, Portugal generated €6 billion from tourist accommodations in 2023, and Poland’s tourism revenues are projected to reach $11.6 billion by 2028. These figures highlight Austria’s commanding lead in both visitor volume and economic returns.

Austria: Leading Europe’s Tourism Revival with Record Numbers

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Austria has emerged as a shining star in Europe’s tourism recovery, achieving approx. thirty one million tourist arrivals in 2023, a remarkable leap from over twenty six million in 2022. The country’s appeal lies in its seamless blend of natural beauty and cultural treasures. From the stunning Alps in Tyrol to the historic charm of Vienna and Salzburg, Austria offers something for every traveler.

Tyrol remains the top destination for international tourists, welcoming 10.7 million arrivals in 2023. Salzburg and Vienna follow closely with 5.9 million and 5.8 million arrivals, respectively, cementing their status as global favorites.

Austria’s tourism isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact. The industry significantly boosts the economy, contributing 7.6% to the GDP in 2019, and though the pandemic slowed things down, 2023 marks a solid comeback. Visitors spent approximately €37.9 billion in 2019, and the trends suggest a return to pre-pandemic spending patterns.

In terms of accommodation, Austria is also recovering well. The 2022/23 winter season, the first without pandemic restrictions since 2019, saw an occupancy rate of 34.7%, inching closer to pre-pandemic levels. The summer of 2023 further solidified this growth, with occupancy rates hitting 35.6%, just shy of the 36.5% recorded in 2019.

Vienna, though still adjusting to an increase in available beds, is closing the gap. The city’s number of overnight stays has almost matched pre-pandemic levels, a testament to its resilience and global appeal.

Austria: A Cultural and Scenic Wonderland

Vienna

1. Tour the Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens.
2. Marvel at St. Stephen’s Cathedral and climb the tower for stunning views.
3. Enjoy a performance at the Vienna State Opera.
4. Stroll through the elegant Hofburg Palace complex.
5. Visit the Belvedere Palace to see Gustav Klimt’s famous The Kiss.

Salzburg

1. Explore Hohensalzburg Fortress atop the city.
2. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace, now a fascinating museum.
3. Wander through the enchanting Mirabell Gardens.
4. Walk the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Take a day trip to the nearby Salzkammergut Lake District.

Innsbruck

1. Admire the Golden Roof in the medieval Old Town.
2. Take the Nordkette Cable Car for breathtaking alpine views.
3. Visit Ambras Castle, an art and history museum.
4. Ski or hike the surrounding Tyrolean Alps.
5. Stop by the Bergisel Ski Jump, which offers stunning panoramic views.

Portugal: Strong Growth, But Austria Leads the Pack

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Portugal witnessed an impressive recovery in tourism, with over twenty six million arrivals in 2023, up from over twenty two million in 2022. While this growth is significant, Austria outpaced Portugal by recording approx. thirty one million arrivals, cementing its position as Europe’s tourism leader.

Portugal remains a global favorite, drawing travelers from Spain (2.38 million visitors), the United Kingdom (2.35 million), and the United States (2.3 million). These figures showcase its magnetic appeal, but they still fall short of Austria’s diverse and widespread tourist base spanning Tyrol, Salzburg, and Vienna.

Economically, Portugal’s tourism sector brought in €6 billion in accommodation revenues, representing a 20.1% growth over 2022. However, Austria’s pre-pandemic levels of €37.9 billion in tourism spending provide a stark contrast, demonstrating its economic dominance in the sector.

Portugal’s overnight stays also showed growth, particularly among non-residents (+15%). Yet, Austria’s occupancy rates in the summer of 2023 reached 35.6%, edging closer to its pre-pandemic highs, while Portugal’s domestic travel (still dominant at 86%) reflects a more regional focus.

While Portugal’s tourism industry is thriving and continuing to grow, Austria’s ability to attract a higher number of international visitors and generate greater economic returns sets it apart as the leader in Europe’s tourism resurgence.

Portugal: Rich History and Vibrant Beaches

Lisbon

1. Discover the iconic Belém Tower and nearby Jerónimos Monastery.
2. Ride the historic Tram 28 through the city’s charming neighborhoods.
3. Visit the Alfama District for Fado music and narrow streets.
4. Explore São Jorge Castle for incredible views of the city.
5. Stop by the LX Factory for trendy shops, eateries, and street art.

Porto

1. Wander the colorful streets of the Ribeira District.
2. Tour the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.
3. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for views of the Douro River.
4. Enjoy wine tasting at Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
5. Visit the ornate Church of São Francisco, famous for its gilded interior.

Faro

1. Explore the Old Town (Cidade Velha) and its cobblestone streets.
2. Relax at the stunning Praia de Faro beach.
3. Take a boat trip to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
4. Visit the Arco da Vila, a historic gateway to the city.
5. Tour the Carmo Church, known for its eerie Bone Chapel.

Poland: Impressive Recovery, Yet Trailing Behind Austria

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Poland is steadily regaining its tourism momentum, with nearly nineteen million tourist arrivals in 2023, up from nearly sixteen million in 2022. Despite this strong recovery, Poland’s numbers remain far behind Austria’s approx. thirty one million arrivals, highlighting Austria’s dominance in the European tourism landscape.

Germany leads as the top source of visitors to Poland, contributing over 1.5 million tourists in 2023. Other significant contributors include Ukraine (858,000 tourists), the United Kingdom (588,000), and the United States (442,000). While these figures demonstrate Poland’s growing international appeal, they pale in comparison to Austria’s leading regions like Tyrol and Vienna, which collectively attract millions more annually.

Economically, Poland’s tourism revenue is forecasted to grow steadily, reaching $10.7 billion in 2023 and projected to climb to $11.6 billion by 2028. However, Austria’s tourism spending, which approached €37.9 billion in 2019, underscores its capacity to generate far greater economic contributions.

Poland’s hotel occupancy rates also indicate progress, with 65% occupancy in June 2024 and an average revenue of 373 zloty per occupied room. Yet, Austria’s consistent year-round appeal and higher occupancy rates position it as a more robust destination.

While Poland continues its upward trajectory, Austria’s unmatched ability to draw millions of international tourists and generate substantial economic impact keeps it firmly in the lead among European destinations.

Poland: Where History Meets Modern Charm

Kraków

1. Stroll through the Main Market Square, Europe’s largest medieval square.
2. Visit Wawel Castle and Cathedral for royal history.
3. Reflect at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
4. Wander through the historic Kazimierz Jewish Quarter.
5. Take a day trip to the stunning Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Warsaw

1. Tour the reconstructed Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Learn about history at the Warsaw Uprising Museum.
3. Admire the views from Palace of Culture and Science.
4. Stroll through Łazienki Park and its palace on the water.
5. Visit the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

Gdańsk

1. Explore the historic Long Market and Neptune Fountain.
2. Tour St. Mary’s Church, the largest brick church in the world.
3. Learn maritime history at the European Solidarity Centre.
4. Stroll along the Motława River and see the medieval crane.
5. Visit Westerplatte, the site of WWII’s first battle.

Switzerland: Strong Growth, but Austria Sets the Benchmark

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Switzerland experienced a remarkable rebound in tourism, attracting over eighteen million international visitors in 2023, a significant increase from over nine million in 2022. Despite this growth, Austria outperformed Switzerland with approx. thirty one million arrivals, underscoring its position as the leader in Europe’s tourism recovery.

Germany topped the list of international visitors to Switzerland, with 1.7 million arrivals contributing to 8.19% of the market share. The United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy also played vital roles in boosting Swiss tourism numbers. However, Austria’s widespread appeal, especially in Tyrol and Salzburg, brought in far greater visitor numbers, showcasing its broader reach.

Switzerland’s tourism revenue surpassed CHF 18.4 billion in 2023, a 12% increase from 2022 and even higher than pre-pandemic figures. This economic growth is impressive, but Austria’s pre-pandemic spending of nearly €37.9 billion highlights its dominant position in tourism contributions to the economy.

Switzerland’s alpine charm and luxury appeal remain strong draws, but its smaller size and specialized tourism focus mean it trails behind Austria’s more diverse offerings. Austria’s broader range of destinations and cultural experiences continues to attract millions more international visitors, reinforcing its role as Europe’s tourism leader.

While Switzerland is carving out its space with record revenues and consistent growth, Austria’s ability to dominate both visitor numbers and economic impact keeps it ahead in the race for European tourism supremacy.

Switzerland: Alpine Bliss and Urban Elegance

Zurich

1. Walk along the scenic Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most luxurious shopping streets.
2. Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich, an outstanding art museum featuring works by Swiss and international artists.
3. Take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich for serene views of the Alps.
4. Stroll through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) with its historic guild houses and cobblestone streets.
5. Explore the Swiss National Museum to dive into the country’s history and culture.

Geneva

1. Marvel at the iconic Jet d’Eau, a towering water fountain in Lake Geneva.
2. Tour the Palace of Nations, home to the United Nations Office in Geneva.
3. Visit the Red Cross Museum, an inspiring journey through humanitarian history.
4. Stroll through the Parc des Bastions, home to the Reformation Wall and beautiful gardens.
5. Explore the charming Carouge District, known for its artisan shops and cafes.

Lucerne

1. Walk across the historic Chapel Bridge and admire its 17th-century paintings.
2. Take the Golden Round Trip to Mount Pilatus, combining boat, cogwheel train, and cable car rides.
3. Visit the Lion Monument, a moving tribute to Swiss Guards who died in 1792.
4. Explore the Swiss Museum of Transport, one of Europe’s most comprehensive transportation museums.
5. Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Lucerne with a scenic boat ride.

Albania: Rapid Growth, But Austria Maintains Its Lead

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Albania has been a rising star in European tourism, welcoming approx. ten million million visitors in 2023, up from over seven million in 2022. This growth marks a significant recovery, but Albania still lags far behind Austria’s approx. thirty one million arrivals, emphasizing Austria’s commanding lead in Europe’s tourism landscape.

Western Europe continues to dominate as Albania’s primary market, with visitors from Italy, Germany, France, and Spain leading the influx. Albania has also seen growing interest from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Turkey, broadening its international appeal. However, Austria’s ability to draw millions more from diverse global markets, such as Tyrol’s 10.7 million arrivals, keeps it far ahead in terms of volume and diversity.

Tourism has become a vital part of Albania’s economy, contributing €2 billion in revenue in the first half of 2023 alone, a 23% increase year-on-year. Additionally, overnight stays in Albania skyrocketed, with a 48.2% increase, driven by both resident (60.9%) and non-resident (42.3%) visitors. However, these figures are dwarfed by Austria’s pre-pandemic spending of €37.9 billion and its sustained ability to attract high-spending international tourists.

Albania’s southern coast and central regions have seen particularly strong growth, with 70.5% and 39.5% increases in overnight stays, respectively. Occupancy rates in hotels also climbed to 44.8% in July 2023, up from 38.6% in July 2022. These are impressive improvements, but Austria’s year-round appeal and higher occupancy rates reflect a more established and consistent tourism infrastructure.

Albania is rapidly emerging as a desirable European destination, but Austria’s unmatched scale, economic impact, and global appeal keep it at the forefront of European tourism.

Albania: A Mediterranean Gem on the Rise

Tirana

1. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the vibrant heart of the city.
2. Explore Bunk’Art 2, a bunker-turned-museum detailing Albania’s communist history.
3. Ride the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
4. Wander through the colorful Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar) for fresh produce and souvenirs.
5. Discover the National History Museum, Albania’s largest museum.

Berat

1. Tour Berat Castle, which still houses families within its ancient walls.
2. Walk through the Mangalem Quarter, known for its “thousand windows” Ottoman-era houses.
3. Visit the Onufri National Museum, showcasing religious art and artifacts.
4. Stroll along the Osum River and admire the town’s picturesque setting.
5. Explore the nearby Bogove Waterfall, a hidden natural gem.

Saranda

1. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Ksamil, just a short drive away.
2. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, an ancient city with Greek and Roman ruins.
3. Visit Lekursi Castle for stunning views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea.
4. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife along the Saranda promenade.
5. Take a day trip to the mesmerizing Blue Eye Spring, a crystal-clear natural spring.

Sweden: A Steady Recovery, But Austria Sets the Pace

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Sweden welcomed nearly eight million international tourists in 2023, a 13.5% increase from the over seven million arrivals in 2022. While this marks a strong recovery for Sweden, it still falls significantly short of Austria’s impressive approx. thirty one million arrivals, highlighting Austria’s dominance in Europe’s tourism growth.

Sweden’s tourism recovery, though slower than Austria’s, reflects a gradual return to pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, Sweden hosted 7.62 million international visitors, just slightly higher than its 2023 numbers. Meanwhile, Austria has not only rebounded but surpassed its pre-pandemic success, cementing its status as a European leader.

In 2023, tourists spent $9.96 billion in Sweden, a 7% increase from pre-pandemic levels. However, Austria’s tourism sector generated far greater economic returns, with spending nearing €37.9 billion in 2019, showcasing its broader reach and higher visitor volume.

Hotels dominate Sweden’s accommodation sector, contributing 90% of all revenues, with occupancy rates reaching 58.3% in 2019. While these figures reflect solid growth, Austria’s widespread accommodation options and consistently higher occupancy rates ensure its position at the top of Europe’s tourism market.

Sweden’s appeal lies in its pristine natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and focus on sustainability. However, Austria’s more diverse offerings, from its alpine regions to cultural hubs like Vienna and Salzburg, continue to attract significantly more visitors, setting it apart as the leader in European tourism.

Sweden: Modern Sophistication Meets Natural Beauty

Stockholm

1. Wander through the Gamla Stan (Old Town), home to colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
2. Visit the Vasa Museum to see a 17th-century warship preserved almost entirely intact.
3. Explore the ABBA Museum, a tribute to the iconic Swedish pop group.
4. Take a boat tour of the Stockholm Archipelago, a collection of over 30,000 islands.
5. Tour the Royal Palace, one of the largest in Europe and still used by Sweden’s royal family.

Gothenburg

1. Spend a fun-filled day at Liseberg Amusement Park, a favorite for families.
2. Wander through the Haga District, known for its wooden houses, cafes, and unique shops.
3. Visit the Universeum Science Museum, featuring interactive exhibits and aquariums.
4. Take a stroll through the lush Gothenburg Botanical Garden.
5. Enjoy fresh seafood at the iconic Feskekôrka (Fish Church).

Malmö

1. Admire the modern architecture of the Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s tallest building.
2. Cross the Øresund Bridge to Denmark for a day trip.
3. Explore Malmö Castle, a 16th-century fortress housing museums and exhibits.
4. Stroll through Kungsparken, a serene city park with picturesque canals.
5. Visit Stortorget, the main square surrounded by historic buildings and cafes.

Ireland: A Tourism Hub, but Austria Steals the Spotlight

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Ireland welcomed over six million international tourists in 2023, a decline from the over seven million recorded in 2022 and significantly below its pre-pandemic peak of nearly eleven million in 2019. While Ireland works to regain its momentum, Austria’s remarkable approx. thirty one million arrivals in 2023 solidify its dominance in Europe’s tourism resurgence.

The majority of Ireland’s overseas tourists come from Britain, the United States, Germany, and France, accounting for 68% of all international arrivals. This reliance on a few key markets contrasts with Austria’s ability to attract diverse visitors across the globe, including record numbers to regions like Tyrol and Salzburg.

Ireland’s tourism revenue for 2023 totaled €6.4 billion, a strong figure but still modest compared to Austria’s pre-pandemic economic impact of €37.9 billion in tourism spending. While Ireland’s hotel industry thrived, with luxury hotels in Dublin seeing occupancy increases of 10.2%, Austria’s year-round destination appeal and higher visitor volumes keep it ahead of the pack.

Dublin remains Ireland’s most popular destination, with the surrounding areas boasting occupancy levels of 85% in 2023, followed by 83% in Dublin city center. However, these occupancy rates pale in comparison to Austria’s overall accommodation success, especially during key seasons like winter and summer.

Ireland continues to enchant visitors with its lush landscapes, historic landmarks, and warm hospitality, but Austria’s ability to consistently attract larger crowds and generate greater economic returns ensures it stays at the forefront of European tourism.

Ireland: A Blend of History and Natural Beauty

Dublin

1. Visit Trinity College to see the famous Book of Kells and the stunning Long Room Library.
2. Tour the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland’s iconic beer and enjoy a pint with panoramic views from the Gravity Bar.
3. Walk through St. Stephen’s Green, a serene city park perfect for relaxing.
4. Explore the historic Temple Bar District, known for its pubs, live music, and vibrant nightlife.
5. Discover the Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison steeped in Irish revolutionary history.

Galway

1. Stroll along the Spanish Arch and the nearby promenade for stunning harbor views.
2. Explore Eyre Square, the heart of Galway, surrounded by shops and cafes.
3. Visit the Galway City Museum to learn about local history and culture.
4. Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks.
5. Discover the scenic beauty of the Aran Islands, a short ferry ride from Galway.

Cork

1. Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle for the gift of eloquence.
2. Wander through the historic English Market, a haven for food lovers.
3. Visit Fota Wildlife Park, an open-air zoo with exotic animals.
4. Take a boat trip to Spike Island, known as “Ireland’s Alcatraz.”
5. Explore Cork Harbour, one of the world’s largest natural harbors.

Cyprus: Resilient Growth, But Austria Leads the Way

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Cyprus welcomed nearly four million tourists in 2023, an increase from over three million in 2022, marking a steady recovery. However, Austria’s record-breaking approx. thirty one million arrivals in the same year highlight its dominance in Europe’s tourism revival, leaving Cyprus far behind in terms of visitor numbers.

The United Kingdom remained Cyprus’s largest source of tourists, accounting for 23.7% of arrivals in December 2024. Other key markets included Israel (17.4%), Poland (9.4%), Greece (9.0%), and Germany (5.7%). While these markets contribute significantly to Cyprus’s tourism, they are not as diverse or large-scale as Austria’s wide-reaching appeal, which includes millions of visitors to Tyrol, Salzburg, and Vienna.

Tourism revenue in Cyprus for 2023 reached €2.99 billion, a 22.6% increase from 2022. This growth is commendable, but it pales in comparison to Austria’s economic impact from tourism, with pre-pandemic spending nearing €37.9 billion. Austria’s ability to attract both high-spending international visitors and domestic tourists sets it apart as a tourism powerhouse.

Cyprus’s hotel sector showed strong performance, with occupancy rates reaching around 80–85% during peak months like August and October 2024. However, Austria’s consistent occupancy rates throughout the year, supported by both winter sports enthusiasts and summer cultural travelers, highlight its advantage as a year-round destination.

Cyprus’s sunny beaches and Mediterranean charm make it a favored destination for many, but Austria’s combination of cultural richness, alpine beauty, and economic impact ensure it remains at the top of Europe’s tourism leaderboard.

Cyprus: Sun, Sea, and Ancient Wonders

Nicosia

1. Visit the Cyprus Museum, home to the island’s most significant archaeological finds.
2. Stroll down Ledra Street, a lively area that crosses the divide between North and South Nicosia.
3. Tour the Selimiye Mosque, a striking Gothic structure with Ottoman influences.
4. Discover the Leventis Municipal Museum, chronicling Nicosia’s history.
5. Enjoy local cuisine at one of the many traditional tavernas in the old city.

Limassol

1. Relax at Limassol Marina, a modern waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and yachts.
2. Explore Limassol Castle, housing the Cyprus Medieval Museum.
3. Stroll along the Molos Promenade, perfect for seaside views and family outings.
4. Visit the ancient city of Kourion, with its impressive Greco-Roman theater.
5. Spend a day at Lady’s Mile Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Paphos

1. Explore the Tombs of the Kings, an archaeological wonder and UNESCO site.
2. Wander through the Paphos Archaeological Park, featuring ancient ruins and mosaics.
3. Relax on the picturesque Coral Bay Beach, known for its golden sands.
4. Visit Aphrodite’s Rock, the mythical birthplace of the goddess of love.
5. Discover the charming Old Town of Paphos, filled with shops, cafes, and street art.

Austria’s record-breaking performance in 2023 has firmly positioned it as Europe’s tourism leader, outpacing Portugal, Poland, Switzerland, Albania, Sweden, Ireland, and Cyprus. With approx. thirty one million tourist arrivals, Austria not only surpassed these nations in numbers but also demonstrated its ability to generate significant economic impact. From Tyrol’s alpine allure to Vienna’s cultural splendor, Austria offers an unmatched blend of experiences that continue to attract visitors from around the globe.

While countries like Portugal and Poland showed remarkable growth and others, like Switzerland and Ireland, capitalized on niche markets, Austria’s year-round appeal and diverse attractions set it apart. Even emerging destinations like Albania and Cyprus, which posted impressive recovery figures, couldn’t match Austria’s dominance in scale and economic contribution.

Austria’s success underscores its status as a tourism powerhouse, driven by strategic development, exceptional visitor experiences, and a strong focus on sustainability. As Europe’s travel industry continues to recover, Austria stands as a model for how to blend tradition, innovation, and natural beauty to achieve unparalleled growth. It’s clear that Austria is not just bouncing back—it’s setting the pace for the future of European tourism.