Skiing and Snowboarding in Austria 2024-2025

Austria is a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders, offering some of the most spectacular slopes in the world. Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Austria’s resorts are renowned for their stunning alpine landscapes, world-class facilities, and charming mountain villages. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced skier, Austria's variety of ski destinations is huge. Large or small, difficult or easy, famous or unknown—you can choose anything your heart desires.

The higher the mountain and larger ski resort—the higher the price. Ski resorts in Carinthia and Styria are considered to offer better value than in Tyrol, Vorarlberg, and Salzburg. They are also less crowded. Nevertheless, you should choose a place for skiing according to your professional level. If you are a beginner, there is no need to go to Arlberg, as its ski trails can be difficult.

Ski Season

The ski season in Austria typically runs from late November to mid-April, depending on the altitude of the resort and snow conditions. The higher-altitude resorts, particularly those with glaciers, can offer skiing as early as October and continue well into May. The peak season is from mid-December to late February, when snow conditions are generally at their best, and the resorts are buzzing with visitors. The most crowded period is the holiday season, from December 25 until January 2. February is busy because of school and university vacations. March and early April are also popular, as the days are longer and the weather tends to be milder, creating perfect conditions for sun-soaked skiing. For those looking to avoid crowds, early December and late March offer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.

Tyrol Region

Tyrol is arguably Austria’s most famous skiing region, home to several world-renowned resorts. This area, located in western Austria, boasts a perfect combination of reliable snow, high-altitude skiing, and picturesque alpine villages.

St. Anton am Arlberg

One of the most iconic ski resorts in Austria, St. Anton is located in the Arlberg region. Known for its challenging terrain and vibrant après-ski scene, it attracts advanced skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. St. Anton has over 186 miles (300 km) of groomed slopes and 124 miles (200 km) of off-piste terrain. For snowboarders, the Stanton Park is a major draw with its excellent jumps and rails. The ski season starts in late November and usually lasts until late April. A day pass costs around €60-65, while a six-day pass is approximately €300-330. St. Anton is famous for its après-ski, with bars like MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh offering lively parties from mid-afternoon onwards.

Ischgl

Ischgl is another top resort in Tyrol, known for its extensive ski area and legendary après-ski. The resort offers 148 miles (239 km) of interconnected slopes that extend into Switzerland, giving visitors the option to ski across borders. Ischgl is also a favorite for snowboarders, thanks to its wide-open pistes and world-class snow parks. The ski season here runs from late November to early May, offering a long winter sports season. Day passes are priced at around €60-65, and a six-day pass costs approximately €300. The après-ski in Ischgl is second to none, with lively venues like Trofana Alm and Niki's Stadl providing entertainment late into the night.

Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel is one of Austria's most glamorous and iconic ski resorts, located in the Tyrol region. It is known for its stylish ambiance, historic charm, and world-class skiing. Kitzbühel is home to the famous Hahnenkamm race, one of the most challenging downhill ski races in the world, which draws professional athletes and spectators from all over Europe each January. The ski season in Kitzbühel runs from late November to mid-April. A day pass costs around €60-65, and a six-day pass is priced at approximately €290-320. Après-Ski: Kitzbühel offers some of the most glamorous après-ski experiences in Austria. Bars like The Londoner and Streifalm are popular spots for après-ski revelers, while the town itself is full of chic restaurants and high-end boutiques.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck, often referred to as the "Capital of the Alps," offers a unique blend of urban culture and alpine adventure. Surrounded by towering mountain ranges, it is one of the few cities in the world where you can step off a plane and be on the ski slopes within 30 minutes. Innsbruck is not just a gateway to several nearby ski areas but also a vibrant city full of history, culture, and charm. With its central location, it provides easy access to multiple ski resorts, making it an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Axamer Lizum

One of the most popular ski resorts near Innsbruck is Axamer Lizum, located just 11 mi (19 km) from the city. This resort offers 24 mi (40 km) of slopes, with a mix of red and black runs, making it ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers. Axamer Lizum was one of the venues for the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, and its modern facilities reflect its Olympic heritage. The season typically runs from December to mid-April. A day pass costs around €45-50, while a six-day pass is about €220-250. Innsbruck offers a range of après-ski options, from cozy mountain huts in Axamer Lizum to lively bars and restaurants in the city center. After a day on the slopes, visitors can enjoy drinks at the Cloud 9 Igloo Bar or explore Innsbruck's medieval old town.

Nordkette

For those looking for more of a challenge, the Nordkette ski area is accessible directly from Innsbruck via a cable car. This area is known for its steep terrain, including the Hafelekar Run, one of the steepest ski runs in Europe. Nordkette is perfect for advanced skiers and snowboarders, and it offers breathtaking views of Innsbruck from its lofty heights. The ski season here typically runs from December to late March.A day pass costs around €40-45.

Salzburg Region

The Salzburg region is home to some of Austria’s most family-friendly and scenic ski resorts. Offering everything from large ski areas to small, intimate villages, Salzburg is perfect for all types of skiers and snowboarders.

Zell am See-Kaprun

Zell am See-Kaprun is one of the most scenic ski areas in Austria, combining the beauty of Lake Zell with the glacier skiing of Kitzsteinhorn. With 85 miles (138 km) of pistes, the area caters to both beginners and intermediate skiers, and the glacier ensures reliable snow even in early and late season. Snowboarders love the Snowpark Kitzsteinhorn for its well-maintained halfpipes and jumps. The ski season begins in November and runs until early May, thanks to the glacier. Daily ski passes cost around €55-60, while a six-day pass is approximately €270-300.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

One of the largest ski areas in Austria, Saalbach-Hinterglemm is part of the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, boasting 167 mi (270 km) of slopes. The resort is popular for its variety, offering everything from long blue runs for beginners to thrilling black runs for experts. Snowboarders will love the Nightpark for evening sessions under the stars. The season typically runs from early December to mid-April. Day passes are priced at around €60-65, with six-day passes costing around €290-320.

Carinthia Region

Carinthia, located in southern Austria, offers sunny slopes and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a popular choice for families and those looking for a quieter ski experience.

Bad Kleinkirchheim

Bad Kleinkirchheim is a charming resort that combines excellent skiing with relaxing thermal spas. The resort has 103 kilometers of pistes, ranging from beginner-friendly slopes to more challenging black runs for advanced skiers. Its sunny location also makes it one of the most pleasant places to ski in Austria. The season runs from early December to late March. Day passes cost around €45-50, with six-day passes priced at €220-250.

Austria’s ski resorts offer a mix of fantastic skiing, scenic beauty, and lively après-ski culture. From the legendary slopes of St. Anton to the relaxing spas of Bad Kleinkirchheim, a ski trip to Austria promises excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.