18 January 2026  Travel habits in Austria are changing. Classic package holidays focused only on sun and beach are no longer the main model for many travelers. Instead, individuality, flexibility and personal interests are shaping travel decisions. This is shown by the latest Travel Trend Check published by TUI Austria, based on a representative survey conducted by YouGov. The online survey was carried out between 17 and 29 December 2025 among 1,001 people in Austria aged 18 and over. The results were weighted by age, gender and region and provide insight into how Austrians are planning to travel in 2026. Solo Travel Becomes MainstreamOne of the most noticeable developments is the rise of solo travel. According to the survey, 31 percent of respondents want to travel alone, while around one third plan to be at least partly independent during their holiday. The main motivation is the wish for freedom and self-determination. Many travelers want to decide their own pace, activities and destinations without having to compromise.Traveling alone is no longer seen as unusual. Solo travelers choose a wide range of trips, from wellness stays and cultural journeys to active and adventure holidays. At the same time, many look for opportunities to meet other people during their trip, for example through shared activities or group excursions. Multi-Stop Holidays and a Return to NatureAnother strong trend is the multi-stop holiday. Almost two thirds of Austrian travelers can imagine combining several destinations within one trip. Instead of spending the entire holiday in one place, many prefer variety: a city break combined with time at the beach or in the mountains.Nature also plays a central role in travel planning. For 92 percent of respondents, landscapes and natural surroundings are important when choosing a destination. Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling or spending time in quiet natural areas are seen as a way to relax and create balance away from everyday life. Taste Tourism and Off-Peak TravelFood has become an important part of the travel experience. Taste tourism focuses on local cuisine, regional products and authentic food culture. Many travelers are willing to change their usual eating habits while on holiday in order to try local specialties and learn more about regional traditions.At the same time, off-peak travel is gaining importance. 74 percent of respondents plan to travel outside the main holiday season. Fewer visitors, more relaxed conditions and a more sustainable use of destinations are among the reasons. This trend is especially strong among travelers aged 55 and over. Image: Infographic showing Austrian travel trends for 2026. It visualizes solo travel, multi-stop holidays, nature-focused trips, taste tourism and off-peak travel using icons, figures and symbolic scenes in a modern, minimalist style. Illustration: © Fashion.at / Generated with ChatGPT (OpenAI) |