Jan 7th 2025
Tourist investment in Tyrol: future-proof investment with added value for the owner
What is a tourism investment and what should I look out for?
A tourism investment is a targeted investment in property that is designed to generate income from the tourism sector. Holiday properties that serve as tourist investments are often located in regions of tourist interest. These can be beach resorts, mountain regions, historic towns or other locations with tourist potential. In order to stand out from other accommodation, these properties are often designed and equipped to meet the needs of holidaymakers. This may include easy access to tourist attractions, special amenities or scenic views. Investors in tourist holiday properties usually aim for a return through regular rental income. Success depends on the attractiveness of the location, the quality of the property and effective marketing.
Why tourism property is becoming increasingly popular as an investment
The demand for holiday accommodation in top locations has risen steadily in recent years - despite or perhaps because of economic uncertainties. Several success factors come together in Tyrol:
- Year-round destination: heavily frequented in both summer and winter
- Limited property supply due to building restrictions & spatial planning
- Growing desire to travel both domestically and from abroad
- Stable property prices, even in times of crisis
For investors, this means that those who invest in a property in Tyrol that can be used for tourism benefit from ongoing rental income - and a potential increase in value in the long term.
Return potential - what can investors expect?
The gross yields on tourism investments in Tyrol typically range between 4% and 6% p.a. depending on the location, capacity utilisation and management model.
Sample calculation:
| Property type | Purchase price | Average occupancy rate | Annual turnover (gross) | Expected gross yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-room flat in Sölden | 450.000 € | approx. 150 days/year | approx. € 25,000 | approx. 5.5 % |
Example values, no guarantee. The actual return depends on many factors.
Location, location, location - where investments pay off
Holiday properties that serve as tourist investments should be located in well-developed and, ideally, already renowned regions with a high recreational value. The existing and planned (tourist) infrastructure plays a key role here.
Not every holiday property is automatically a good investment. Particularly popular in Tyrol:
- Kitzbühel: High exclusivity, top utilisation all year round
- Seefeld: Summer & winter tourism, close to Innsbruck
- Zillertal & Ötztal: Sports regions with a strong holiday apartment market
- Innsbruck surroundings: Combination of proximity to the city & recreational value
Tip: Pay attention to good accessibility, infrastructure (proximity to ski lift, town centre, gastronomy) and existing tourist dedication.
Attractive features and micro-location
The property should stand out from other accommodation in terms of facilities and micro-location and offer clear added value for potential paying guests and owners. This can include exclusive furnishings, special amenities such as an associated wellness area, close proximity to tourist attractions or a picturesque view in an impressive natural setting.
(Letting) management
It is important to ensure that the property is managed by an experienced operating company with good references. In a tourist context, the property must be offered professionally and internationally. In addition to well-known portals such as Booking.com, existing customer networks should ideally be utilised by the respective operator in order to achieve the highest possible booking rate and thus increase the return on investment. Pay attention to existing customer reviews in the references.
Consideration of legal regulations
The letting of tourist accommodation is generally subject to legal regulations. You should therefore obtain sufficient information before making an investment. You should also check the reputation of the estate agent and, ideally, the regional property developer.
As an experienced partner in this area, the entire Tirol Real Estate team will be at your side throughout the entire process.
Why tourist investments in Tyrol?
Tyrol is not only known for its breathtaking mountain peaks, but also for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque villages. This unique blend of nature and culture makes Tyrol a sought-after destination for tourists from all over the world. As an investor, you have the opportunity to invest in a region that offers clear locational advantages:
- Rising demand for tourism
Tirol is experiencing a constant increase in demand in the tourism sector. The region is a popular holiday destination in both summer and winter. Tyrol is the No. 1 tourist destination. - Cultural diversity & sports and leisure opportunities
The historic towns, traditional festivals and Alpine cuisine offer visitors an authentic experience. Tyrol is a paradise for outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, cycling and climbing in summer. - Outstanding infrastructure
Tirol has an excellent and intact infrastructure. State-of-the-art transport connections, innovative technologies and forward-looking infrastructure projects, such as the Brenner Base Tunnel, promote economic growth and create optimal conditions for companies and investors. - Moderate climate
Tirol benefits from its geographical location and the associated moderate climate. In view of the recent "climate caprioles" in established holiday regions (e.g. Southern Europe), Tyrol is enjoying increasing demand. - Energy, social and supply security
Tirol is characterised by a reliable energy supply, social stability and a secure infrastructure. This not only creates an environment worth living in, but also a reliable foundation for investment.
What is the added value of our projects
First-class micro-locations in Tyrol
Our projects are characterised by their excellent micro-locations. These selected locations not only offer impressive natural surroundings and numerous leisure opportunities, but also first-class accessibility and connections.
Regional project developer with many years of experience
We work exclusively with regional project developers with many years of experience. Their local expertise enables us to realise projects that blend seamlessly into the surroundings and meet the needs of the community.
Renowned operators with excellent ratings
We work with renowned operators who impress with their first-class service and excellent ratings. This not only ensures a first-class guest experience, but also strengthens the attractiveness of our projects for international bookings and guests.
International bookings and guests
Our projects attract guests from all over the world, which not only promotes cultural diversity, but also increases the profitability of these investments. The international focus makes our projects sought-after destinations for global travellers.
Lucrative returns + inflation protection
Invest with us in a promising future. Our projects not only offer a lucrative return, but also inflation protection by focussing on sustainable growth and long-term value retention.
Spoon-ready handover
Our projects are guaranteed to be handed over ready to use. From planning to realisation, we place the highest value on quality and perfection to ensure that your investment runs smoothly and successfully right from the start.
Tourist dedication & rental obligation - what counts legally
Not every property in Tyrol is authorised for tourist use. Important:
- The property must be designated for tourism in accordance with the Tyrolean Spatial Planning Act
- The flat may not be used permanently as a second home
- There is often a letting obligation via a professional operator concept
A discussion with the estate agent, notary or the local authority will provide clarity at an early stage.
For whom does a tourism investment make sense?
This type of investment is particularly suitable for:
- Professionals with a high income looking for alternative forms of investment
- Investors with a focus on tangible assets & inflation protection
- Austrians living abroad who want to build up assets in Austria
Risks & challenges - what you should know
Even tourist properties are not risk-free investments. Please note:
- Seasonally fluctuating occupancy (e.g. in transitional months)
- High purchase price in popular locations - often starting at € 400,000
- Ongoing ancillary costs (maintenance, reserves, operating costs)
- Dependence on tourism & travel trends
A precise profitability calculation & location analysis is mandatory before every purchase.
Checklist: What you should look out for when buying
- Is the tourist dedication secured?
- Is there a tried and tested operator concept with good ratings?
- Is the capacity utilisation realistically calculated?
- How high are the running costs compared to the expected return?
Holiday destination meets investment opportunity
A tourism investment in Tyrol combines emotion and return. Whether it's a flat in Kitzbühel, a studio in Zillertal or a chalet in Seefeld - the combination of earnings potential, value stability and occasional owner-occupancy makes this investment model so appealing. Choosing wisely means investing not only in square metres, but also in relaxation, security and sustainable wealth accumulation.
A tourism investment in Tyrol promises not only financial returns, but also a lifestyle. The charm of the Alps, the variety of activities and the cultural wealth make this investment a worthwhile option for those who not only want to diversify their portfolio but also experience the beauty of nature. Investing in Tyrol is not just investing in property, but in a piece of the Alpine dream. Take a look at our current tourism investment projects.
Get advice now & check investment opportunities
Are you interested in a holiday property as an investment?
Our team will support you from the property search to the signing of the contract - with in-depth market knowledge, legal security and tested operator concepts.