Published on
January 3, 2026
Vienna, Austria, welcomes you with open arms this January. You can feel the city’s vibrant energy everywhere. The crisp winter air carries the scent of fresh adventure. The Holiday Fair Vienna 2026 turns your travel dreams into a beautiful reality. Sri Lanka joins as the special guest of honor. This tropical paradise will share its heart with every single visitor. It is the perfect time to plan your next great escape. Your journey starts right here in the heart of Europe.
A Grand Vision for Global Tourism
The Austrian Federal Ministry for Labour and Economy sees tourism as a vital force. Tourism contributes about 7.6% to the national gross domestic product. This event is a primary engine for that economic success. Over 430 exhibitors from 70 countries will gather under one roof. They aim to spark a global movement of discovery and joy. This fair is more than a simple trade show. It is a bridge between different cultures and people.
Officials from the Vienna Tourist Board emphasize the fair’s massive impact. They expect over 71,000 visitors to attend the four-day event. This turnout will provide a significant boost to local businesses. Hotels and restaurants in Vienna will see a surge in guests. The fair acts as a catalyst for future travel bookings. It helps family-owned businesses compete on a global stage. This event proves that the spirit of travel is stronger than ever.
Sri Lanka: The Jewel of the Indian Ocean
Sri Lanka takes center stage as the official partner country for 2026. The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau has built a stunning pavilion. It is a sensory journey into the soul of the island. You can smell the rich aroma of authentic Ceylon tea. You can see the vibrant colors of traditional island dancers. This partnership is a strategic move to grow international travel ties.
The Ministry of Tourism of Sri Lanka highlighted the importance of this exchange. They stated that this event brings the island’s heritage to the European market. Experts believe this will lead to a record number of European visitors. The “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” is trading its beauty for global recognition. Visitors can meet experts on wildlife, beaches, and ancient temples. It is a rare chance to feel the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality.
Discover 70 Countries in One Weekend
The fair is organized into geographical zones for easy exploration. Each area offers a unique glimpse into a different part of the world.
Europe: Explore all nine federal provinces of Austria. Discover the magic of Greece, Italy, and Croatia. Visit the emerging destinations of Albania and Poland.
Asia & Oceania: Immerse yourself in the traditions of Japan and Thailand. Learn about the hidden gems of Vietnam and Cambodia.
Africa & Middle East: Plan a safari in Namibia or Madagascar. Experience the history of Egypt and Jordan.
The Americas: Discover the vast landscapes of the USA and Chile. Taste the vibrant culture of Mexico.
These exhibitors offer exclusive deals for fair visitors. You can find luxury cruises from AIDA and Hurtigruten. You can book flights with Austrian Airlines or Air China. Every booth provides a new opportunity to learn and grow.
Vienna Drive: The Future of Mobility
Your fair ticket includes access to the spectacular Vienna Drive in Hall B. This exhibition focuses on how we will travel in the future. Over 40 top car brands will showcase their latest innovations. You can see the newest electric vehicles and hybrid designs.
Luxury Brands: Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, and Porsche.
Innovation Leaders: Tesla, BYD, and NIO.
Popular Manufacturers: BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, VW, and Hyundai.
The Austrian Exhibition Experts state that mobility is part of the holiday spirit. Better transport leads to better travel experiences for everyone. You can explore a dedicated children’s driving school in this hall. It is a fun way to learn about safety and technology. This section attracts a young and energetic audience to the fair.
Culinary Magic at the Flavours Stage
The Flavours Cooking Stage is where culinary diplomacy happens every day. Food is a universal language that brings people together. Chefs from Sri Lanka and Austria share their secrets. They use exotic spices and local ingredients to create magic. This stage highlights the importance of “culinary tourism.”
The Austrian Ministry of Agriculture supports these regional food showcases. They see it as a way to promote rural tourism and local farms. You can taste authentic Sicilian pastries or Austrian organic products. This emotional bond drives people to visit specific regions. The kitchen is truly the heart of the tourism industry.
Inspiration at the Travel Arena
The Travel Arena offers a non-stop program of expert talks. You can learn about trekking in Japan or the Northern Lights. Speakers share their personal stories of adventure and discovery. It is a place for the industry to exchange the latest trends. This year, the focus is on sustainable and responsible travel.
The Travel Cinema provides a unique “Silent Cinema” experience. You wear high-quality headphones to watch immersive travel films. It feels like you are already at your next destination. This technology allows you to escape the noise of the crowd. You can lose yourself in the beauty of distant lands.
Planning Your Visit to Vienna
Getting to the fair is simple and sustainable. Use the U2 subway line to reach the venue quickly. The Messe-Prater and Krieau stations are just steps away. ÖBB Rail Tours offers a special “Kombiticket” for extra value. This package includes your train fare and your entry ticket. It is the best way to travel from other parts of Austria.
Ticket TypePriceNotesStandard Adult€13.50Includes Vienna Drive accessYouth (15–18) / Students€10.50Valid ID requiredSeniors (62+) / Disabled€10.50Children (up to 14 years)FREENo ticket requiredÖBB Rail Tours TicketFrom €34.00Includes train and transit
Buying your tickets online is the smartest choice. You will save money and avoid long lines at the door. The fair is open until 6:00 PM most days. Sunday has a slightly earlier closing time of 5:00 PM. Make sure to arrive early to see everything.
A Celebration of Human Connection
The Holiday Vienna Fair is also a place for high-level meetings. Tourism ministers meet to sign new agreements. These deals ensure that travel remains affordable for everyone. The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Vienna hosted several briefings recently. They want to ensure the 2026 season is a great success. These talks help build a stronger global travel network.
This collaboration creates jobs for thousands of families. It supports everyone from hotel staff to airline pilots. The fair is a celebration of human creativity and hard work. It proves that we are stronger when we work together. The 2026 event is a beacon of hope for the world.
You will leave the fair with a soul full of inspiration. The world feels closer and more welcoming than ever before. Austria invites you to explore, dream, and discover. Your next great memory is waiting to be made. You have seen the beauty of the world in one weekend. These stories will stay with you for a lifetime. Grab your tickets and start your adventure today. Your heart knows exactly where it wants to go next.
