Best time to visit Austria

Skiing in Austria

The Alps make Austria one of the world's top skiing destinations

Best time: December–March

Skiing
Skiing
Skiing
Skiing

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 skiing season begins in December and lasts until late March. The most crowded period is the holiday season, from December 25 until January 2. February is rather busy as well, because of school and university vacations. The best skiing conditions are usually in mid-January and the least crowded times are in the beginning of December and late March.

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. If you plan to ski in late February or March, choose a spot in the higher elevations as warming temperatures can melt the snowmaking conditions less favourable elsewhere.

Ski areas, such as Ski Amade, Ski Welt, Ski Arlberg, and the Kitzbuehel Alps are made up of a series of small, lovely ski villages with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and affordable prices. Here you can find extreme snow parks and world-renowned ski schools. Most Austrian ski resorts accommodations such as eight-person cable cars heated chairlifts, and slopes in excellent condition. Some of the most popular Austrian ski resorts include ​St. Anton, Ischgl, Mayrhofen, Kitzbuehel, Obergurgl-Hochgurgl, Solden, Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang, Lech Zuers, Obertauern, and Schladming.

Practical info

When is the best time to go skiing in Austria?

Skiing season in Austria runs from December through March, with mid-January offering the best conditions. Early December and late March are the least crowded times to go. Crowds are heaviest December 25 to January 2, with February also being busy due to school and university vacations. Show more

Where are the most affordable ski resorts located in Austria?

Carinthia and Styria are the most budget-friendly options for skiing in Austria. In contrast, Tyrol, Vorarlberg and Salzburg have more crowded and expensive resorts. Choose your resort based on skill level; beginners should avoid challenging slopes such as those at Arlberg. Show more

How crowded are the ski resorts during the holiday season?

The holiday season (December 25 to January 2) is the busiest time at Austria's ski resorts, with February being also crowded due to school holidays. For a less crowded experience, it is recommended to visit between early December and late March. Show more

Which Austrian ski areas have extreme snow parks for snowboarding enthusiasts?

Among the ski areas in Austria known for snowboarding, some of the best include Ski Amade, Ski Welt, Ski Arlberg, and Kitzbuehel Alps. These areas offer small and family-friendly villages, great ski schools, and a relaxed atmosphere, as well as snow parks for extreme boarders. Show more

What are the best ski schools in Austria for beginners?

Austria has some of Europe's top ski schools. The best ski schools for beginners are located in Ski Amade, Ski Welt, Ski Arlberg, and Kitzbuehel Alps. These resorts offer comfortable chairlifts and cable cars, friendly slopes, and accommodating environments for learners to enjoy their first skiing experience. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin