With its majestic peaks, generous snowfall and legendary hospitality, Austria is a destination of choice for winter sports enthusiasts. From Tyrol to Vorarlberg via Salzburg, the country boasts Austria’s 10 best ski resorts, which are as varied as they are exceptional, combining Alpine tradition, modern infrastructure and a unique atmosphere. Whether you are an experienced skier, a fan of off-piste skiing, passionate about après-ski parties or looking for a family holiday, there is a perfect resort for you.
In this article, we have carefully selected the 10 best ski resorts in Austria, highlighting the features that make each one unique. Some stand out for the quality of their ski area, others for their festive atmosphere, accessibility or commitment to families. One thing is certain: they all deserve their place in this ranking. Here is our exclusive selection, featuring skiing legends and hidden gems in the Austrian Alps.
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St. Anton – Ski Arlberg (Tyrol)
The resort offers a vast ski area with 306 kilometres of slopes. These are connected by 88 lifts. This offers a wide variety of options for all types of skiers. The ski area extends from 840 metres to 2,811 metres above sea level. The vertical drop is 1,971 metres. This guarantees varied descents and quality snow throughout the season. It is located 100 kilometres from Salzburg W. A. Mozart Airport, allowing easy and quick access for travellers from different parts of Europe. The resort attracts a very diverse clientele, from skiers of all levels to extreme sports enthusiasts, thanks to its infrastructure and terrain suitable for thrills. The average price per night is £270, offering a high-end experience in an exceptional alpine setting.
St. Anton – Ski Arlberg, the legendary place for experienced skiers
St. Anton, in the heart of the Ski Arlberg domain, is one of Austria’s best ski resorts. Known as the birthplace of modern alpine skiing, it attracts snow sports enthusiasts from all over the world thanks to its challenging red and black slopes and impressive off-piste areas accessible in just a few minutes.
The Ski Arlberg ski area, the largest in Austria with over 300 km of interconnected slopes, connects St. Anton with other prestigious resorts such as Lech, Zürs and Warth, which are also among the country’s best winter destinations.
But St. Anton is not just about sports. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere, traditional chalets, modern spas and lively bars make it a complete, authentic and forward-thinking resort. An essential choice for any mountain lover looking for a high-end experience in one of Austria’s best ski resorts.
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental (Tyrol)
The resort offers an impressive ski area with 284 kilometres of slopes, served by 90 lifts, providing a wide range of options for skiers of all levels. The area extends from 620 metres to 1,957 metres above sea level, with a vertical drop of 1,337 metres, offering spectacular views and ideal snow conditions throughout the season. It is only 80 kilometres from Munich Airport, offering convenient access for international and European travellers. The resort is particularly popular with families, beginners and experienced skiers, as well as lovers of panoramic views, thanks to its exceptional scenery. The average price per night is £150, offering excellent value for money in a magnificent mountain setting.
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental, a huge domain accessible to all levels
The SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental is one of Austria’s largest connected ski areas, with over 280 km of slopes linked by 90 lifts. It is particularly popular with families and beginner and intermediate skiers, thanks to its wide slopes, fun areas and numerous ski schools. The ski area connects several typical villages such as Söll, Ellmau, Hopfgarten and Brixen im Thale, each of which has retained its authentic Alpine charm. The views of the Wilder Kaiser massif are spectacular and the mountain huts offer tasty traditional cuisine. It is a welcoming resort with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who want to enjoy the mountains without stress while exploring a vast and well-maintained area.
Saalbach, Hinterglemm, Leogang, Fieberbrunn (Salzburg)
The resort offers a large ski area with 270 kilometres of slopes. These are connected by 70 ski lifts. This offers a wide variety of options for all levels of skiers. The area extends from 830 metres to 2,096 metres above sea level. The vertical drop is 1,266 metres. This guarantees optimal snow conditions and magnificent panoramic views throughout the season. It is only 90 kilometres from W. A. Mozart in Salzburg, allowing quick and easy access for international visitors. The resort attracts a diverse clientele, including families, beginner and experienced skiers, as well as outdoor enthusiasts looking for a complete alpine experience. The average price per night is £170, offering an enjoyable and affordable experience in an exceptional mountain setting.
Saalbach, Hinterglemm, Leogang, Fieberbrunn, for lovers of wide open spaces and lively après-ski
Saalbach is part of the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, one of Austria’s largest ski areas, with 270 km of perfectly connected slopes. Considered one of the best ski resorts in Austria, Saalbach appeals to snow sports enthusiasts who enjoy linking runs without ever repeating the same slope.
The area is very well organised, with clear signage, well-groomed slopes and modern snow parks. The atmosphere is dynamic, young and welcoming, with lively après-ski, almost as famous as Ischgl, but in a more relaxed version.
Whether you are travelling with your family, friends or partner, Saalbach offers the ideal balance between sport, relaxation and fun. They perfectly embody the spirit of Austria’s best ski resorts: generous, welcoming and festive, in a high-quality alpine setting.
Ischgl – Samnaun – Silvretta Arena (Tyrol)
The resort offers an impressive ski area with 239 kilometres of slopes. These are connected by 45 ski lifts. This allows experienced skiers to enjoy a variety of routes. The altitude varies between 1,377 and 2,872 metres. The vertical drop is 1,495 metres. This guarantees magnificent panoramic views and ideal snow conditions throughout the season. The resort is only 100 kilometres from Innsbruck Airport. This allows travellers to quickly reach the resort to enjoy a sporty and relaxing stay. It is particularly appreciated by experienced skiers, freeride enthusiasts and après-ski fans. The latter are looking for a lively atmosphere after a day on the slopes. The average price per night is £190, offering a high-end experience in a prestigious and dynamic alpine setting.
Ischgl, the resort where you ski by day and party by night
Ischgl, located on the Swiss border, is one of Austria’s best ski resorts, combining high-end skiing with an unrivalled party atmosphere. Connected to the Swiss resort of Samnaun, it offers a large and varied ski area with over 230 km of wide, well-groomed slopes, ideal for all levels.
But what really sets Ischgl apart is its legendary après-ski. Considered the Austrian capital of mountain partying, every year it hosts concerts by international stars (such as Elton John and Rihanna) and offers lively evenings from mid-afternoon onwards.
Despite its reputation as a party resort, Ischgl remains impeccably organised, with modern lifts, first-class services and a constant focus on the quality of the experience. It is a destination of choice for those seeking a complete experience, combining top-level skiing and exclusive entertainment in one of Austria’s best ski resorts.
Kitzbühel (Tyrol)
The resort has 179 kilometres of slopes connected by 57 ski lifts, offering ideal terrain for experienced skiers looking for variety and challenge. The domain extends from 800 metres to 2,000 metres in altitude, with a vertical drop of 1,200 metres, allowing you to enjoy long descents and magnificent alpine landscapes. It is located about 100 kilometres from Salzburg W. A. Mozart Airport, making it easily accessible for international travellers. The resort mainly attracts experienced skiers, après-ski enthusiasts looking for a festive atmosphere and tourists who want to combine sport, relaxation and discovery. The average price per night is around £190, which corresponds to a high-end offering in a dynamic and well-equipped resort.
Kitzbühel, alpine elegance at the peak of a skiing legend
Kitzbühel, the pearl of Tyrol, ranks among Austria’s best ski resorts thanks to its unique blend of alpine tradition and modern refinement. Its historic centre, with its cobbled streets and colourful houses, exudes elegance and charm. But it is above all the Streif, the legendary World Cup ski run, that has forged Kitzbühel’s legend. Every winter, the world’s best skiers compete in the Hahnenkammrennen, an event followed by thousands of spectators around the world.
The ski area, although varied and accessible to all, will delight the most experienced skiers thanks to its technical nature and the quality of its infrastructure. Off the slopes, Kitzbühel offers luxury shops, 5-star hotels and refined cuisine, combining skiing and the Alpine art of living.
Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis (Tyrol)
With 214 kilometres of slopes and 68 ski lifts, the resort offers one of the largest ski areas in the region. It is ideal for long stays and skiers of all levels. The domain extends between 1,200 and 2,820 metres above sea level. The vertical drop is 1,620 metres. This guarantees a wide variety of routes and optimal snow quality throughout the season.
Located about 100 kilometres from Innsbruck Airport, the resort is easily accessible while offering a complete change of scenery in the heart of the Alps. It attracts a diverse clientele, including families, children, beginner and experienced skiers, thanks to its tailored offering and safe, welcoming environment. The average price per night is around £170, reflecting the wide range of services on offer in a first-class mountain setting.
Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, a paradise for families with children
Located on a sunny plateau above the Tyrolean Inn Valley, the trio of villages Serfaus, Fiss, and Ladis has earned its place among the best ski resorts in Austria, especially for families. This destination is entirely designed with children in mind and peace of mind for parents—featuring top-tier ski schools, beginner zones, nurseries, family-friendly restaurants, and even an eco-friendly underground train connecting the areas of Serfaus. With over 200 km of impeccably groomed slopes for all skill levels, plus dedicated areas for kids and teens, the resort ensures variety and safety. The modern infrastructure, snow reliability thanks to high altitude, and stunning alpine scenery complete the picture. Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis stands out as Austria’s leading resort for a fun, secure, and high-quality family ski holiday.
Sölden (Tyrol)
With 144 kilometres of slopes and 33 ski lifts, the resort offers a large and varied ski area, particularly appreciated by skiers looking for thrills. The resort extends between 1,350 and 3,250 metres above sea level, with an impressive vertical drop of 1,900 metres, guaranteeing optimal skiing conditions and spectacular views.
The resort is only 90 kilometres from Innsbruck Airport, making it an accessible destination while still being immersed in the high mountains. It mainly attracts experienced skiers, freeriders looking for fresh snow and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure at high altitudes. The average price per night is around £150, reflecting the quality of the experience on offer in an exceptional alpine setting.
Sölden, guaranteed glacier skiing and a lively atmosphere until late at night
With its two glaciers, Rettenbach and Tiefenbach, Sölden offers exceptionally reliable snow, making it a very popular destination from autumn to spring. The Tyrol’s flagship ski resort, it appeals to both ski enthusiasts and party lovers. The ski area covers more than 140 km of varied slopes, accessible to all levels, and includes modern infrastructure, spectacular cable cars and a very efficient lift system. It’s no surprise that Sölden ranks among the 10 best ski resorts in Austria and hosts the Alpine Ski World Cup every autumn, demonstrating the quality of its slopes. At the end of the day, the resort comes alive with its many bars, nightclubs and wellness centres. It’s the perfect place for those looking to combine quality skiing, a vibrant atmosphere and first-class services.
Mayrhofen (Tyrol)
The resort offers a large ski area with 136 kilometres of slopes connected by 57 ski lifts, ensuring excellent access for skiers of all levels. The area extends between 630 and 2,500 metres above sea level, with a vertical drop of 1,870 metres, guaranteeing varied descents and optimal snow conditions. The resort is easily accessible, located just 70 kilometres from Innsbruck Airport, making it a convenient destination for international travellers. It attracts a diverse clientele, including families, beginner and experienced skiers, as well as outdoor enthusiasts looking for an active mountain holiday. The average price per night in the resort is around £140, offering a good balance between quality of services and accessibility.
Mayrhofen, between extreme adrenaline and a relaxed atmosphere
Nestled in the Zillertal valley, Mayrhofen stands out as one of the best ski resorts in Austria, attracting both extreme snow sports enthusiasts and travelers seeking a welcoming atmosphere. It is renowned for the legendary Harakiri, Austria’s steepest slope, with a dizzying 78% gradient. But the Penken ski area is much more than just one iconic run—it also features one of the top snowparks in Europe, a favorite among snowboarders and freestylers. Off the slopes, Mayrhofen offers a diverse après-ski scene, including cosy spas, excellent restaurants, and lively nightlife that’s vibrant without being overwhelming. The nearby Hintertux Glacier, skiable year-round, adds even more appeal. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or relaxation, Mayrhofen delivers a well-rounded mountain experience.
Silvretta Montafon (Vorarlberg)
The resort has 140 kilometres of ski slopes served by 37 ski lifts, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the area, whatever their level. The ski area extends from 700 metres to 2,430 metres above sea level, with a vertical drop of 1,730 metres, offering a wide variety of terrain and alpine views.
Located about 100 kilometres from Innsbruck Airport, the resort is easily accessible for travellers from abroad or other regions of Europe. It welcomes a varied clientele, including families, beginner and experienced skiers, as well as outdoor enthusiasts in search of nature and adventure. The average price per night is around £150, allowing you to enjoy a stay that combines comfort and an exceptional mountain setting.
Silvretta Montafon, a paradise for freeride enthusiasts looking for thrills
Located in the picturesque Vorarlberg region, Silvretta Montafon has established itself as one of the best ski resorts in Austria, especially for freeriding. Its rugged and varied terrain offers an ideal playground for experienced skiers looking for challenging descents, fresh snow, and technical slopes. The resort features several safe and marked freeride areas, a real bonus for off-piste enthusiasts. But Silvretta Montafon is not limited to extreme skiing: it also offers slopes for all levels, snow parks, snowshoe excursions, and an authentic mountain atmosphere. The local cuisine and the cosy atmosphere of the chalets add extra charm to this destination, which remains relatively undiscovered by the general public. A true gem for thrill-seekers looking to escape the crowds.
Zell am See-Kaprun (Salzburg)
The Zell am See-Kaprun resort offers a varied ski area with 138 kilometres of slopes and 53 lifts, allowing skiers of all levels to enjoy the alpine landscapes to the full. The resort extends between 800 and 2,900 metres above sea level, offering a wide variety of terrain and breathtaking views.
Located about 80 kilometres from Salzburg, the resort is easily accessible for international travellers or those coming from other regions of Europe. It welcomes a varied clientele: families, beginner and experienced skiers, as well as winter sports enthusiasts in search of adventure and nature. The average price per night is around £170, for a stay that combines comfort and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Zell am See-Kaprun, aparadise for skiers and snowboarders looking for thrills
Zell am See-Kaprun is also known for its excellent terrain for freeriding. With varied and well-groomed slopes, the resort offers marked off-piste areas for thrill seekers. The resort also offers a high-quality skiing experience. The slopes are suitable for all levels, from beginners to expert skiers. For freestyle enthusiasts, there are modern and well-equipped snow parks. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can enjoy snowshoeing in spectacular natural surroundings. The atmosphere in Zell am See-Kaprun is welcoming and authentic. The local cuisine is varied and refined, perfect for recharging your batteries after a day on the slopes. All this makes the resort a complete destination for mountain lovers. It is no coincidence that Zell am See-Kaprun is ranked among the 10 best ski resorts in Austria. It is ideal for those who want to combine sport, relaxation and nature in a unique setting.
Ten resorts, ten unforgettable experiences
Austria is full of alpine gems. These ten resorts each embody the best the country has to offer mountain lovers. From the dizzying slopes of St. Anton to the lively nights in Ischgl. From the family welcome in Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis to the timeless charm of Kitzbühel. Each destination tells a different story about Austrian skiing.
Choosing a resort means choosing an atmosphere, a pace, a setting. Whether you’re looking to push your limits, relax with your family or soak up the Austrian atmosphere, our selection of the 10 best ski resorts in Austria guarantees you the perfect winter holiday.
Now it’s your turn to strap on your skis, savour an Apfelstrudel high up in the mountains or raise a glass at the end of a perfect day. Austria awaits you, and so do the peaks.
