A First-Timer’s Guide to Ski Holidays in Austria – Best Resorts & Travel Tips

Travelista’s Editor Jessica Ruth Gibson shares her detailed guide to skiing in Austria and explores why it’s a fun and smart ski destination alternative to The Alps. 

Thinking of swapping the French or Italian Alps for something new this ski season? Austria is one of Europe’s most rewarding winter destinations, combining charming alpine villages with world-class skiing and a warm, welcoming culture. From snow-covered valleys and steamy mountain spas to cosy chalets and lively après-ski, it’s a destination that balances adventure with authenticity. Whether you’re planning your first ski holiday to Austria  or simply looking for fresh slopes to explore, this guide covers everything you need to know — from the best time to visit to the top resorts and what makes Austria’s ski scene so special.

We’ve partnered with ski holiday experts Snowtrex to bring you this First Timer’s Guide which is packed with top tips and helpful input from Lina at Snowtrex. 

Guide Overview

1. The Austria ski season at a Glance – Best Times to Visit
2. Skiing in Austria vs The French and Italian Alps
3. Best Ski Resorts in Austria (for families, friends and couples)
4. Our Top Après Ski recommendations
5. Best Food and Drink to try on an Austria ski trip
6. The Price of Skiing in Austria 

A First-Timer’s Guide to Ski Holidays in Austria – Best Resorts & Travel Tips

The Austria Ski Season at a Glance; Best Times to Visit 

Austria’s ski season typically runs from late November through to early April, with some snow-sure glacier resorts such as Hintertux and Stubai offering even longer seasons.

For reliable snow and great conditions, plan your trip between January and February, when temperatures stay low and pistes are at their best. The Christmas and New Year period is especially magical, with twinkling lights, festive markets, cosy mountain huts and alpine chalets straight from a snow globe. Although be prepared, it’s also one of the busiest times of year. For quieter slopes, a little more sun and better value, mid-March and early April are ideal. Going at the end of the season is cheaper, but your snow is not promised.

Crowd levels vary depending on the region, but in general, Austrians and Germans travel domestically in February, while British and Dutch visitors arrive around school holidays. Wherever you go, expect a friendly, sociable atmosphere. Skiing in Austria is as much about connection and socialising as it is about carving turns.

“The best snow conditions are in January and February. If you want a little more sun and warmth, you should travel to Austria between mid-March and early April.”

Lina, SNOWTREX SKI EXPERT

Skiing in Austria vs The French and Italian Alps

If you’re used to skiing in the French or Italian Alps, Austria would offer you a refreshing contrast. The skiing is exceptional, but the overall experience feels more intimate, traditional and relaxed.

Austrian resorts are typically based around real mountain villages rather than purpose-built stations, giving them more character and charm. Expect villages with alpine architecture, horse-drawn sleighs, and chalet-lined streets rather than high-rise apartment blocks.

The après-ski culture is lively too, but it’s not about cocktails in designer bars. Après ski in Austria is about long afternoons spent dancing in ski boots to live bands, with steins of beer in hand. Families are welcome to join in too, and very often do. It’s fun, inclusive and unpretentious.

In terms of terrain, Austria’s resorts sit slightly lower in altitude than France’s, but the snowmaking and piste grooming are world-class. The lift infrastructure is fast and efficient, and runs tend to be beautifully maintained. Add in the fact that ski passes, ski rentals, food and accommodation are often 20–30% cheaper than in France or Italy, and you can see why so many savvy European skiers are switching sides of the Alps.

Best Ski Resorts in Austria

Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple, or a group of friends, Austria has a resort to match every type of ski holiday.

Best Ski Resorts for Friends

St Anton am Arlberg

St Anton am Arlberg could be described as the ultimate playground for advanced skiers and snowboarders. With challenging off-piste terrain, high-end bars, and legendary après spots like the MooserWirt, St Anton is ideal for those who want to ski hard and celebrate harder.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn

One of the largest ski resorts in Austria, this region offers a fantastic mix of skiing and nightlife. Lively, varied, and full of atmosphere, it’s a top choice for groups looking for fun both on and off the slopes.

Best Ski Resorts for Families

Alpbach (Tyrol)

Often voted one of Austria’s prettiest villages, Alpbach is ideal for families. Its ski area is manageable yet varied, and the local ski schools are among the best in the region. Parents will love the relaxed pace, traditional wooden chalets, gentle slopes and scenic nursery ski slopes.

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl (Ötztal Valley)

Known for its high altitude and snow reliability, Obergurgl is a popular resort for families wanting quality without the crowds. Expect wide, gentle pistes,  great ski schools, excellent English-speaking instructors, and an easy-going après scene

Best Ski Resorts for Couples

Kitzbühel

Elegant and romantic, Kitzbühel  is known for its pastel-painted streets, boutique hotels, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Beyond being home to the famous Hahnenkamm race (an annual World Cup event that draws huge international attention), there’s a wealth of scenic pistes, mountain restaurants, and luxurious spas.

Zell am See

With its fairytale lakeside setting, Zell am See is one of Austria’s most picturesque resorts. Ski by day, then unwind in a lakeside spa or enjoy fondue and candlelight at a traditional Gasthaus. It’s the perfect option for a romantic ski holiday in Austria.

Find out more about ski areas in Austria.

“My favourite ski resort in Austria is Ischgl – it combines top slopes with a huge, modern lift system and international flair. It is also high enough to offer guaranteed snow from November to May

Lina, SNOWTREX SKI EXPERT

Après Ski and Alpine Dining in Austria

Austria practically invented the concept of après ski, and it’s something every visitor should experience.

In St. Anton two establishments, the MooserWirt and the Krazy Kanguruh, have achieved near-legendary status. Expect live bands, dancing on tables, and steins of beer flowing until the lifts close. Over in Saalbach, the Goaßstall offers a similarly lively atmosphere, combining mountain charm with music and a spirited après-ski crowd. Some of the best mountain apres ski bars in Kitzbühel include Bei Tomschy and Sonnenrast, where as down in the town, experts recommend you head to Pavillion and The Londoner. Huberbräu-Stüberl is also a must-visit for traditional and hearty Austrian food.

“The MooserWirt in St. Anton is legendary. The whole skiing world meets there in the afternoon on the sun terrace. The atmosphere is exuberant, the music iconic, and you immediately feel that typical Austrian joy of life.”

Lina, SNOWTREX SKI EXPERT

Best Food and Drink to Try on an Austrian Ski Trip

When it comes to dining, Austrian ski food is hearty, comforting, and designed to refuel after a bracing day on the slopes. Look out for Wiener Schnitzel (breaded veal or pork cutlet), Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancakes dusted with icing sugar), Tiroler Gröstl (a delicious potato and bacon fry-up), and Spätzle — a popular, rich and hearty dish in Austria that is a combination between pasta and gnocchi. It’s made of eggs, flour, and salt and is often served with toppings like melted alpine cheese and crispy onions. It’s a must-try if you’re skiing in Austria.

To drink, Glühwein (mulled wine) and a post-dinner shot of Schnaps are alpine classics. For something lighter and fresher, order a Hugo Spritz. Made with prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda and mint, it’s the perfect tipple for an après-ski toast or a mid-mountain break in the winter sun.

A freshly breaded Wiener schnitzel or a steaming Germknödel with vanilla sauce are simply a must – preferably with a view of the snow-covered Alps.

Lina, SNOWTREX SKI EXPERT

The Price of Skiing in Austria (and how it compares)

One of the biggest reasons skiers are falling in love with Austria is the value. Compared to France or Italy, Austrian ski holidays are often 20–40% more affordable, without compromising on quality or experience.

Lift passes typically cost less, mountain restaurants are great value and accommodation offers more charm for your money. You can stay slope-side in a family-run guesthouse or a four-star spa hotel for the same price as a mid-range apartment elsewhere in the Alps.

With Austrian ski holiday specialists like SnowTrex, packages including accommodation and lift passes make it easy to experience Austria’s best resorts at a smart price — and without the stress of booking everything separately.

To Conclude

With its storybook villages, unbeatable après-ski, and exceptional value, Austria is the perfect place for anyone ready to experience a new side of the Alps. Whether you’re gliding through fresh powder, sharing schnitzel at a mountain hut, or dancing under fairy lights at après-ski, Austria promises a ski holiday that’s every bit as memorable as it is magical.

Discover your perfect ski escape with SnowTrex and start planning your Austrian adventure.