How to Plan a Ski Trip in Austria
Planning a ski trip to Austria is an exciting step towards world-class slopes, alpine scenery and welcoming mountain culture.
When you plan a ski trip here, you are choosing a destination renowned for reliable snow, excellent ski schools and well-organised resorts suited to every ability.
From beginners to seasoned skiers, Austria offers a balance of tradition, efficiency and unforgettable winter experiences.
If you want to plan a ski trip in Austria but are unsure where to begin, this step-by-step guide covers everything that matters.
First-time visitors often feel overwhelmed by decisions around resorts, passes, accommodation and travel, yet the process is far simpler than it seems.
With thoughtful planning and local insight, every element can be arranged smoothly.
This guide answers the most common questions travellers ask when they plan a ski trip to Austria, using practical advice and proven tips.
Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or with family, these steps will help you plan with confidence and enjoy the very best of Austria’s ski season. Here are the 10 essential steps to planning your Austrian ski trip.
Hi, I’m Tammy — founder of Wanderlustria and the Austria Travel Planning Facebook Group.
I live in an Austrian ski resort, where winter shapes daily life and ski season is a familiar rhythm rather than a once-a-year event.
Living in the Alps has given me first-hand knowledge of how to plan a ski trip in Austria that actually works, whether it’s choosing the right resort, understanding local transport or avoiding common first-timer mistakes. This guide is built on real experience, not theory, and is designed to help travellers plan smooth, confident ski holidays and enjoy Austria’s slopes the way locals do.
Join our Newsletter
This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclaimer here. If you purchase through any of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. The commissions help us provide valuable travel tips and guides for free. Thank you!
All images are copyright Wanderlustria Eu unless otherwise stated
Join the Austria Travel Planning Facebook Group
Follow us on:
Start planning your ski holiday at least six months to one year in advance.
Accommodation in Austria’s most popular ski resorts is often fully booked well ahead of the season, especially in peak winter periods, so early planning gives you the best choice and value.
1. Decide when to go skiing
One of the advantages when you plan a ski trip to Austria is the wide choice of snow-sure resorts, allowing you to select dates that suit your schedule and skiing goals.
Most Austrian ski resorts operate from mid-December through to after Easter, depending on snow conditions.
Glacier resorts offer an extended season, typically running from mid-October until late May or early June, making them ideal for early or late-season skiing.
For quieter slopes and consistently good snow, the best time to plan a ski trip is usually from 6 January to early February.
During this period, crowds are thinner, and conditions are often excellent.
High season brings higher accommodation prices, busier pistes and limited availability for ski schools and equipment hire, which must be booked well in advance.
The period between Christmas and New Year, extending to around 6 January, is extremely busy.
In addition, the entire month of February coincides with school holidays across much of Europe, making it one of the most popular and crowded times to ski in Austria.
2. Decide on the Ski Resort
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, choosing the right ski resort is one of the most important decisions.
Austria has over 460 ski resorts, ranging from high-end alpine destinations to relaxed, family-friendly villages. Most resorts cater to all ability levels, with well-developed beginner areas alongside challenging pistes for advanced and expert skiers.
Before deciding, it helps to understand which resorts best match your travel style.
For inspiration, explore Wanderlustria’s Recommended Top 5 Ski Resorts in Austria, which highlights well-rounded resorts suited to a variety of skiers.
Read our Best Ski Resorts near Salzburg if you’re looking for resorts within one to two hours of the city. Many skiers choose Salzburg as their starting point thanks to its international airport and excellent transport connections.
Or consult the Austria Glacier Ski Resort Guide if snow reliability and early or late-season skiing are a priority.
Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Kaprun
Key factors to consider when selecting a ski resort include:
Location and access
Consider how easy it is to reach the resort. Many Austrian ski resorts are well connected by train and bus, reducing the need for a car. Travel time from major airports or cities can significantly affect your arrival and departure days.
Size of the ski area
Smaller resorts are often ideal for beginners and families, offering manageable terrain and shorter lift queues. Intermediate and expert skiers may prefer larger ski areas with a wide variety of pistes, altitude changes and linked resorts.
Accommodation proximity to the slopes
Ski-in, ski-out accommodation or lodging close to lifts can greatly enhance your experience, especially in peak season. Shorter walks and fewer transfers mean more time on the slopes and less daily logistics.
Resort amenities
Look beyond skiing. Après-ski options, restaurants, winter activities, spa facilities and events all contribute to the overall atmosphere. Choosing a resort with amenities that suit your group ensures a balanced and enjoyable ski holiday.
3. Decide Whether to Use a Ski Company or Book DIY
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, one of the biggest choices is whether to book through a ski company or organise everything yourself.
While DIY planning can feel daunting at first, it is actually how most Europeans arrange their ski holidays.
Booking independently is often more cost-effective and gives you full control over resort choice, accommodation style and trip length.
Ski companies such as Crystal Ski are particularly popular with English-speaking travellers, especially from the UK.
These providers offer package ski holidays that typically include flights, transfers to the resort, accommodation (often with breakfast and dinner) and sometimes lift passes.
Most packages run for five to seven days, with arrivals and departures usually on a Saturday, which is the busiest changeover day in ski resorts.The main advantage of using a ski company is convenience.
Almost everything is organised for you, and occasional promotions can offer excellent value.
If you plan to use a ski company, following them on social media is a good way to stay informed about discounts and limited-time deals.
The downside of booking through a Ski Company is the lack of flexibility.
Package holidays can feel like a one-size-fits-all solution and may not suit every group.
You are usually limited to fixed arrival and departure days, a set trip length and accommodation chosen by the company, which can be more expensive or less tailored to your specific needs.
4. Book Accommodation
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, securing the right accommodation is key. Every resort offers a wide range of options, from luxury 5-star hotels to pensions (bed-and-breakfast), hostels, and self-catered apartments, known locally as Ferienwohnungen or FeWo.
Most hotels and resorts provide different catering options:
-
Breakfast only – ideal if you’ll be on the slopes most of the day.
-
Halbpension (half-board) – breakfast and dinner included.
-
Vollpension (full-board) – breakfast, lunch and dinner included, usually unnecessary for skiers spending the day on the mountain.
The most popular accommodation fills up quickly, especially over Christmas/New Year and February school holidays.
To secure the best options, aim to book by July, and no later than October, giving you the widest choice of resorts and rooms.
5. Organise Flights and Travel to Austria
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, arranging your flights and onward travel is an important step.
Both Innsbruck and Salzburg have airports conveniently located near most ski resorts, allowing you to reach the slopes in under two hours.
It is also possible to fly into:
-
Munich – approximately 2 hours to Salzburg or 2.5 hours to Innsbruck.
-
Vienna – around 3 hours to Salzburg or 5 hours to Innsbruck.
For more detailed guidance, see our Flying to Austria Guide, which covers airport options, transfer choices and tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
6. Reserve Rental Equipment and Book Ski Lessons
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, reserving your ski equipment and lessons in advance is essential, especially during high-demand periods like Christmas/New Year and February school holidays.
We recommend booking ski lessons at least 3 to 6 months in advance to secure your preferred times and instructors.
Every Austrian ski resort offers multiple options for ski rental equipment, with major providers including Intersport, Hervis, Bründl and small business operators.
To find the best rental options, check with your accommodation for recommendations or search online using “[Ski Resort Name] + Ski Rental.”
Many hotels and lodges also offer special deals or discounts on ski rentals and lessons, so it’s always worth asking when you book.
7. Organise Transport to the Ski Resort
Getting to most Austrian ski resorts is straightforward, whether you use public transport or drive yourself.
Many resorts are directly accessible by train, with extra winter services from Vienna, Munich, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.
For schedules and bookings, visit the ÖBB website. Check our guides for Austria Public Transport and Austria Train Guides, for helpful planning tips.
Some regions offer combined ski passes and local transport cards, which can save money and make getting around much easier.
If you stay in paid accommodation in Salzburg State, you will receive the Salzburg Mobility Card from your accommodation provider, which provides free bus and train transportation throughout the state. This allows you to travel easily to your ski resort and enjoy day trips to Salzburg city and the surrounding areas.
image © ÖBB
Many skiers choose to rent a car at the airports in Innsbruck, Salzburg, or Munich for flexibility.
Austria has all major car rental companies, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Thrifty, and smaller local providers.
We’ve found that Auto Europe offers a comparisons across different companies and car types, excellent rates, including one-way rentals and no hidden charges.
For full guidance, see our Renting a Car in Austria guide.For those travellers who prefer the independence of driving themselves to the ski resorts.
Austrian roads are well-maintained and safe to drive on in winter, but always check with your accommodation about any special equipment required (such as snow chains) and local driving advice.
For more tips, see our Driving in Austria – Tips and Information and remember to arrange your Vignette – Toll Pass if needed.
Some four- and five-star hotels, along with local transit companies, provide ski transfers to resorts. Private transfers from the airport can be expensive, so it’s worth checking with your accommodation for recommended options.
8. Organise Ski Passes
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, arranging your ski passes is an important step.
Passes can be purchased online or at the resort, although for most travellers, there is little advantage to buying them in advance unless you are securing an annual or season pass.
Ski passes are usually resort- or region-specific, so make sure you select the one that matches your planned slopes.
If you want to ski at multiple resorts, consider the Super Ski Card, which provides access to up to 87 ski resorts across Salzburgerland, Tirol, Carinthia, Upper Austria, Styria, and neighbouring Bavaria.
For Tyrol, various ski passes cover multiple resorts.
Schmittenhöhe Zell am See image © Schmitten
The most common types of ski passes include:
-
Half-Day Pass – typically valid for either morning or afternoon sessions.
-
Single-Day Pass – ideal for short stays.
-
Multi-Day Pass – usually 2 to 7 days, offering better value for longer trips.
-
Flexible Pass – some resorts offer options like a “5 in 7 days” pass, letting you ski any five days within a week.
-
Season Pass – unlimited access for the entire ski season. Discounted rates often require purchase before 5 December.
-
Family Pass – discounted rates for families, with offers varying by resort.
-
Group Pass – reduced prices for groups, typically 10 or more participants.
Planning your ski passes in advance can save time at the resort and help you make the most of your skiing days.
9. Organise Travel Insurance
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, securing travel insurance that covers winter sports is essential, whether you’re an experienced skier or a first-timer.
Standard travel insurance often does not include skiing or snowboarding, so it’s essential to check your policy carefully.
While serious injuries are uncommon, medical treatment abroad can be extremely expensive.
Transport off the mountain, especially by helicopter, can also add thousands of euros to costs.
Key coverage to consider includes:
♦ Medical treatment – check for unlimited overseas emergency assistance and your excess payment.
♦ Mountain rescue – The Österreichischer Alpenverein (Austrian Alpine Club) provides insurance for worldwide mountain rescue (up to 25,000 euros) with its yearly membership of 69€.
♦ Repatriation – specialised transport back to your home country if required.
Other factors to consider:
♦ Coverage for bad weather delays or closures
♦ Protection against stolen ski gear
♦ Trip cancellations due to illness, injury, or other unforeseen events
Having comprehensive winter sports insurance gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on enjoying your ski holiday safely.
10. Packing for a Ski Trip
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, packing the right gear and clothing is essential to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
Skiing requires a lot of specialised equipment, so it’s easy to forget something.
For a complete list, check our Ultimate Ski Packing List to make sure you don’t miss any essentials.
Ski Gear:
-
Skis and ski poles, or a snowboard
-
Ski boots or snowboard boots
-
Ski goggles and helmets*
*In Austria, children under 16 must wear a ski helmet.
Helmets are highly recommended for all ages, and most skiers on Austrian slopes wear them.
Many travellers choose to rent equipment at the resort, which is convenient if you don’t ski frequently or are flying from overseas.
Renting also lets you try the latest ski and snowboard models without the hassle of transporting gear.
Clothing and Accessories:
-
Ski jacket and ski pants (salopettes)
-
Thermal layers (tops and leggings)
-
Gloves or mittens, ski socks
-
Hat and balaclava
Some ski rental shops even offer clothing rentals, making packing lighter and easier.
Top Tip: Book your ski rentals in advance, particularly during peak holiday periods, to guarantee availability and your preferred sizes.
Extra Tips for a Stress-free Ski Trip
Even with careful planning, a few additional tips can make your Austrian ski holiday even better:
Check Snow and Weather Conditions
Keep an eye on daily snow reports and lift updates.
We recommend using BergFex and downloading the app.
Many resorts offer apps with real-time information to help you plan your skiing days.
2. Plan Après-Ski and Off-Slope Activities
Austria is famous for its après-ski culture, winter hiking, tobogganing, and spas.
Booking a few off-slope experiences ensures everyone in your group enjoys the trip.
3. Currency and Payment
While most places accept cards, small shops, markets, and some ski rentals prefer cash (Euros). It’s wise to have some on hand.
Read our Travel Tips & Information
4. Local Dining
Reserve mountain restaurants in advance, and don’t miss classic Austrian treats like Kaiserschmarrn or schnitzel to experience local flavours.
Discover more Austrian Cuisine favourites in our Austrian Cuisine Guide
5. Health and Fitness Prep
A few weeks of leg, core, and balance exercises can make skiing easier, reduce fatigue, and help prevent injuries.
6. Mobile Connectivity and Apps
Download resort maps, lift status apps, and offline maps to navigate slopes and surrounding towns efficiently.
7. Ski Locker or Storage Options
If your accommodation isn’t ski-in/ski-out, check the resort for lockers to store gear safely overnight.
Incorporating these extra tips alongside your main planning steps ensures your ski holiday in Austria is organised, enjoyable, and stress-free from start to finish.
When you plan a ski trip to Austria, careful preparation makes all the difference between a stressful holiday and an unforgettable alpine adventure.
From choosing the right resort and arranging flights, transfers, accommodation, ski passes, and lessons, to packing the correct gear and securing winter sports insurance, every step ensures your trip runs smoothly.
With these tips, you can focus on enjoying the slopes, breathtaking scenery, and unique Austrian mountain culture, making your ski holiday truly memorable.
Skiing on Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See
© Schmittenhöhebahn AG
Skiing on Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See
© Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus
Guide to Austria Glacier Ski Resorts
Kitzsteinhorn Glacier © Kitzsteinhorn & Gletscherbahnen Kaprun AG
Austria Travel Inspirations
Explore Austria Travel Inspirations for more year-round travel inspiration.
Wanderlustria's Austria Trip Planning Service
Expert advice to help you plan your Austria holiday.
Book an Austria Trip Planning Consultation
We help you plan your dream Austrian holiday.
The Wanderlustria Trip Planning Service provides advice on everything you need to know about planning your holiday to Austria- from hotels to tours, where to get the best tickets, train and road trips and share our favourite places and activities to ensure your Austria holiday is memorable.
Find the perfect Austria Travel Consultation for you
Wanderlustria's Templates and Guides
Austria Trip Planner
90+ page Austria trip planner printable includes customisable templates and checklists to help you research, compare, and organise every detail. From travel inspiration to planning logistics, this downloadable guide is your one-stop toolkit for the perfect Austrian holiday.
Vienna Christmas Market Itinerary
Our 60+ pages Vienna Christmas Markets Itinerary is a printable PDF guide with all the information you need to plan your Vienna Christmas Markets Holiday- from where to stay, to what are the best Christmas Market Foods and Souvenirs.
Visit our Shop for more information about Wanderlustria's Guides and Templates
Follow AustriaTravelPlanning by Wanderlustria
SAVE this PIN so you can read later
Chief Wanderlust’er and Austria travel expert, I’m on a mission to help you uncover the magic of Austria — from fairytale cities and alpine villages to awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural traditions.
As the founder of Austria Wanderlust Travel Planning, the Austria Travel Planning Facebook Group, and director of Wanderlustria eU, I provide trusted tips, local insights, and curated resources to make your Austrian adventure seamless, authentic, and unforgettable.