Austria is the eighth largest tourist market worldwide and the fifth largest in Europe. In 2002 the Austrian tourism industry generated 20.8 billion Euro and accounted for 9.7% of total GDP. Altogether the industry employs around 500,000 workers which corresponds to approximately 14% of the total workforce. Currently tourism in Austria is growing rapidly. In 2002 alone overnight stays in hotels reached 116,8 million and the number of arrivals exceeded 27.4 million.

It is the immense offering of cultural activities and the beautiful unspoiled nature which make Austria one of the world's most popular tourist locations. Especially in wintertime Austria attracts many tourists who enjoy performing  winter sports in the spectacular ski resorts of the Austrian Alps.
According to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Austria is also in the world's top ten conference destinations.

It is expected that by 2020 guest arrivals in Europe will double. For that reason Austria is investing in further initiatives and projects especially aimed at the business, conference and recreation sectors of the tourist industry.
Moreover a recent study indicates that visitors are making shorter stays in Austria but spending more. In fact the share of overnight stays in upscale accommodations are rising whereas the stays in low priced hotels are falling. In 2001 average expenditure per tourist was 130 euros per overnight stay (Tourism Report).