Eurovision 2026: Innsbruck and Vienna duel for the role of host city

Austria is preparing for a new moment of glory on the European music scene, after the victory in 2025. Two cities are competing to host the competition: sophisticated Vienna and spectacular Innsbruck. The choice will be announced in August.

• Innsbruck: between Alpine peaks and visual emotions

Known for its exceptional mountain landscapes, the resort of Innsbruck has officially announced its candidacy for Eurovision 2026, under the slogan "Together at the top". The city is counting on its spectacular altitude, Olympic heritage and attractive proximity to all the sights - the main proposed hall, the Olympiahalle, is just a 15-minute walk from the old town. "We offer not just an event, but a complete experience in an unparalleled natural setting. Innsbruck is a bridge between nature, culture and modernity,” the local town hall says. The city, the capital of the Tyrol region, has also hosted major events such as the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, and promises "impressive images and emotional moments” for Eurovision, against a backdrop of peaks over 2,600 meters above sea level.

• Vienna: tradition, infrastructure and an invitation to dance

On the other hand, Vienna presents itself with solid assets: experience in organizing Eurovision, high hotel capacity and excellent international transport infrastructure. The city last hosted the contest in 2015, after Conchita Wurst's famous victory. Under the slogan "Europe, shall we dance?”, the Austrian capital wants to transform Eurovision 2026 into a spectacle that combines Viennese cultural tradition with a commitment to sustainability. "We are aiming for a responsible, positive and visionary event,” said Mayor Michael Ludwig. Vienna is betting on the metropolitan dimension and global visibility that only a city of its size can offer.

• ORF decision expected in August

Austrian public broadcaster ORF is set to announce the host city and official dates for Eurovision 2026 in August. Following the success of singer JJ at the 2025 edition held in Basel (Switzerland), Austria is on a mission to continue the tradition of organizational excellence imposed by the last editions. Until the final designation, music fans across Europe will be following with interest the "Austrian duel of hosts”, between the urban energy of Vienna and the alpine charm of Innsbruck.

The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the most watched music events in the world, bringing together artists and audiences from over 40 countries every year. Hosting the contest brings not only prestige, but also a significant tourist and economic boost for the chosen city.

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