Graz Scores: ESC 2026 – Hotel prices explode after JJ’s victory!
Graz could become the venue for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026, while hotel prices have risen sharply.

Graz Scores: ESC 2026 – Hotel prices explode after JJ’s victory!
Preparations for the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) 2026 in Graz are getting rolling. After JJ's victory at this year's ESC in Basel, hopes of hosting the competition in Graz have increased significantly. Graz is increasingly being considered as a suitable venue, which is receiving positive feedback not only from the organizers, but also from politicians and experts. This reports steiermark.orf.at.
The city offers ideal conditions to host the ESC. The focus is on Graz’s cultural heritage and the city’s infrastructure. The availability of venues and technical facilities required for such a large event is particularly important.
Increased demand and infrastructural preparations
Since JJ's victory, demand for hotels in Graz for the planned period in May 2026 has increased sharply. Many accommodations are already almost fully booked, and some prices have even increased fivefold. Such a development clearly shows how much the ESC is being talked about in Graz. Loud graz.net Vienna is also being discussed as a possible alternative, but Graz has positioned itself as a cultural capital due to its status and is attracting attention.
In order to further advance the preparations for the ESC, a central platform was set up that brings together information on various aspects of the event. Planning, necessary infrastructure measures, political decisions and important dates are collected here to ensure that the event runs smoothly.
The look into the future
The increasing anticipation for the ESC 2026 in Graz could also have far-reaching economic effects. It is expected that not only the city but also surrounding regions will benefit from the event. Local companies, especially in the hotel and restaurant sectors, are already preparing for the onslaught.
The planning for the ESC 2026 in Graz is in full swing. While the competition with Vienna cannot be neglected, Graz is optimistic and ready to shine as the host city of the famous European music competition.