Vorarlberg celebrates three awards at the Austrian Innovation Award for Tourism 2026

For the first time, the Federal Government and the federal states awarded the Austrian Innovation Award for Tourism (ÖIT) to companies operating in the congress tourism sector. With a pleasing outcome for Vorarlberg: Festspielhaus Bregenz took the top prize in the category for locations accommodating over 1,000 participants, recognised for its role in shaping the international congress industry and its high ecological standard. Lechwelten and Propstei St. Gerold each secured third place in their respective categories.

Every two years, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy and Tourism, along with the federal states, presents the Austrian Innovation Award for tourism. For the first time since 2012, event centres took centre stage, shaping the industry with professionalism, foresight, and innovative spirit. With the top prize for Festspielhaus Bregenz and a third-place finish for both Lechwelten and Propstei St. Gerold in their respective categories, Vorarlberg was in the spotlight at the award ceremony, presented by Tourism State Secretary Elisabeth Zehetner in Zell am See on 22 June.

The jury recognized Festspielhaus Bregenz as a co-creator of the international congress industry, as it collaborates with event centres around Lake Bodensee: the micelab:bodensee research network explores topics ranging from architecture to event psychology and brain research, all of which impact events. The network shares its findings with the industry. Festspielhaus Bregenz also sets new ecological benchmarks by covering 70 percent of its energy needs through the use of geothermal energy, lake water, and its own electricity generation.

Lechwelten in Lech Zürs am Arlberg has given a significant boost to the development of year-round tourism, the jury found. The concept combines international flair and local roots. Propstei St. Gerold was awarded for "a unique experience that brings together cultural heritage, regional identity, and modern usage". The location stands for relaxation, inspiration, and encounter – and thus has an impact that extends far beyond traditional tourism.

"These awards confirm the path that Vorarlberg has taken in the conference and business tourism sector", emphasizes Tourism Councillor Marco Tittler. "Meetings, congresses, and events make a significant contribution to value creation and year-round occupancy. Vorarlberg demonstrates that quality, sustainability, and regional roots are genuine advantages in the competition.

“The jury's selection makes clear what Vorarlberg stands for,” says Katrin Preuß, head of Convention Partner Vorarlberg. “The three award-winning establishments could hardly be more diverse – that's precisely their strength. Events are not only held in the city, but also in rural and alpine areas. They cater to different target groups and enable personal encounters that go far beyond traditional conference formats.”

“The congress industry is an essential component of successful tourism,” emphasizes Christian Schützinger, Managing Director of Vorarlberg Tourism. “It ensures a good occupancy rate during the shoulder season, attracts high-value guests to the region, and showcases the qualities of Vorarlberg's tourism industry. The award-winning establishments embody this with their professionalism, unique architecture, ecological focus, and openness to both local and international guests.”