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Winter in Austria: 10 Places to Visit on Your Winter Vacation

Hallstatt village - places to visit in Austria in winter

Although charming and fascinating in every season, Austria transforms during winter into true fairytale land, where every city and town becomes the scene of an enchanting story.

From November to March, the country experiences generous snowfall, which means that there are plenty of places to visit in Austria in winter where you can enjoy the best of the season, including Christmas markets, winter sports and activities, picturesque towns decorated in twinkling lights, and impressive landscape.

Austria winter holidays have an authentic atmosphere that will certainly captivate you.

Table of Contents

10 Places to Visit in Austria in Winter

The best city to spend Christmas in Europe - Vienna Austria in December

A trip to Austria during winter cannot exclude the grand Austrian capital Vienna, which is famously known for its festive attire during the holidays.

The city’s pretty squares host some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe, where visitors can happily indulge in traditional food and drinks and warm up with some mulled wine while exploring the impressive range of stalls selling everything from handicraft items to chocolate treats and local products.

Choral performances add a new dimension to the magical atmosphere of the city during the winter holidays. Besides the gorgeous Christmas markets, Vienna offers plenty of other exciting seasonal opportunities, such as ice-skating.

Belvedere Palace - Austria in winter

Ice rinks abound in the city throughout the winter, many of them set up in impressive locations, such as the Gardens of the Wilhelminenberg Palace or the esplanade in front of the Vienna Konzerthaus.

Visiting Vienna in winter is a chance to discover the city with its grand architecture and abundance of museums, galleries, and palaces in a new, atmospheric light.

You might be interested in my 3- day Vienna itinerary. 

2. Wildschönau

ski resort of Alpbachtal, Wildschönau - places to visit in Austria in winter

Among the many things to do in Austria in winter, skiing is probably the first thing that comes to people’s minds, which is why Wildschönau is one of the most popular attractions in the country. Sitting at around 1,000 meters above sea level, in the heart of Tirol, Wildschönau is a remote Alpine valley in the Kitzbühel Alps.

Home to three charming villages, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach, and plenty of charming farmhouses and mountain huts, the area provides an excellent infrastructure for winter sports. Alpbachtal Wildschönau is one of the most popular ski resorts in all of Tirol, and it’s easy to reach with a cable car from the village of Auffach.

The resort welcomes visitors with 109 kilometers of slopes of various degrees of difficulty, tens of lifts, rustic ski huts where people can unwind after ski or snowboard sessions and, last but not least, breathtaking views of the Alps. In addition, there are tens of kilometers of cross-country tracks and scenic winter walking paths to explore. Another attraction in the area is the Schaubergwerk Lehenlahn, a former silver mine dating from the Middle Ages.

3. Innsbruck

austria winter travel

Due to its position beneath the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is one of the most picturesque places in Europe. During winter, the Old Town with its incredible medieval Gothic architecture and maze of narrow streets turns into a fairytale under the spell of the snow, especially with the opening of the traditional Christmas markets.

Set in the heart of the Old Town, the Altstadt Christmas market is where most people gather to enjoy some hot mulled wine and check out the numerous stalls with ornaments, candles, pastries, and local handicraft products that showcase the wealth of local traditions.

Exploring the colorful city, decorated with twinkling holiday lights and lit-up Christmas trees, is an adventure in itself and presents plenty of opportunities to taste delicious snacks and apple strudels and soak up the cozy winter atmosphere.

austria winter travel

The Innsbruck larger area is also home to the amazing Olympia Ski World, a ski area of nine resorts, all easily accessible from the city with a free ski bus shuttle.

You might want to check out: Things to do in Innsbruck in winter.

4. Hallstatt

Although it’s just a tiny village, it’s incredible how photogenic Hallstatt can be. In fact, tourists from all over the world gush over this small but spectacularly scenic village. A UNESCO World Heritage site with only nine hundred inhabitants, Hallstatt becomes even more beautiful in winter, when its small wooden houses get covered in snow.

Situated on the shore of a glittering lake, with snow-capped mountains in the background, Hallstatt is the true definition of a magical place, especially during the holidays, when it’s lighted by Christmas decorations. Even though many attractions may be closed, winter is still a wonderful time to visit because of the irresistible atmosphere of the village.

Hallstatt village - best winter destinations in Austria

Plus, there is no shortage of things to do. A visit to the World Heritage Museum of Hallstatt, the 12th -century Catholic Church, or to the Altaussee Salt Mine, the oldest salt mine in the world, is well worth it. In the vicinity of the village, you can also engage in various outdoor activities, such as skiing or dogsledding.

5. Salzburg

Salzburg -Christmas Markets in Austria

The host of some of the best Christmas markets in Europe , Salzburg is a city that truly shines during winter. With a tradition of over 500 years, Salzburg’s main Christmas market is also one of the oldest on the continent. Held each year on the front steps of the Salzburg Cathedral, Christkindlmarkt is a feast to the senses.

The gorgeous ornament stands, huge Christmas trees, and gleaming lights create a wonderful atmosphere. The wooden stalls offer steaming mulled wine, gingerbread biscuits, punch, and many other tasty treats, along with other local wintery products. Tucked away in pretty squares throughout the city, there are other smaller markets with cheaper prices.

Salzburg - where to go in Austria in winter

Smaller than Vienna, Salzburg has a much cozier look, especially when dressed in Christmas lights and blanketed by snow. With its colorful architecture, beautiful clock towers, and snow-covered roofs, the city delivers the most authentic Christmas atmosphere, and the range of delightful winter activities available here is impressive.

The city is the birthplace of classical composer Mozart and honors him and his music with plenty of winter concerts held in stunning venues. In Mozart Square, a huge ice skating rink is set up during winter.

You might be interested in: Things to do in Salzburg in one day .     

 6. Kitzbühel

Kitzbuhel - places to visit in winter in Austria

As the most famous sports town in the Alps, Kitzbühel is, no doubt, one of the best winter destinations in Austria. Located in Tirol, the charming town offers a magnificent blend of Alpine landscapes, sporting tradition, and modern facilities such as great mountain restaurants and inns or shopping venues.

The skiing season lasts over 200 days in the region, and everyone from beginners to advanced skiers can find fabulous conditions to practice the sport since Kitzbühel is home to a wide range of terrain that can easily accommodate both amateurs and experts.

austria winter travel

The skiing area has a truly impressive size, with 68 ski runs and 215 kilometers of slopes of various difficulties. Away from the slopes, visitors can explore the panoramic beauty of the mountains through winter hiking, cross-country skiing, or horse-drawn sleigh riding.

Kitzbühel is also famous for the Streif, the home to the most spectacular downhill race track in the world, the Hahnenkamm ski race.

7. Zell am See-Kaprun

ski slope near Zell am See - Austria in winter

Winter lovers who want to explore the best of Austria will find Zell am See-Kaprun an ideal destination. The area covers several quaint Alpine towns, and during the winter, it totally transforms into a winter sports hotspot with slopes able to accommodate everyone from the most experienced skiers and snowboarders to enthusiastic beginners.

There are also several reputable ski schools with expert ski instructors eager to introduce you to this fantastic sport if you’re a beginner. The impressive altitudes of up to 3,000 meters above sea level mean that the range of spectacular landscapes is hard to match.

 ski resort Kaprun Austria

Besides the offer of intense outdoor activities, the area is also home to the Ice Camp, a series of igloos with breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains, where guests can have a drink or a snack while socializing or listening to music.

Another relaxing way to spend time here is going to Tauern Spa, one of the best wellness resorts in the country with 11 pools, 10 saunas, steam baths, and many interesting facilities, including a glass skyline pool with views of the Alps.

8. Ötztal Valley: Solden and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl

Ötztal Valley Austria in winter

As the home of Tirol’s highest mountain and tallest waterfall, and of one the largest glacier ski resorts in the Alps, the Ötztal Valley sums up the best of the region in a compact area. In winter, the two peaceful and quiet villages, Obergurgl and Hochgurgl, located at the far end of the valley, become a popular ski area, serving as a base for a wide range of sports and winter activities.

For many, the Ötztal Valley is a true winter wonderland where they can have an active holiday in a magnificent setting. In fact, the Obergurgl- Hochgurgl area is known as the “Diamond of the Alps” due to its superb views of the mountains, impressive sports facilities, top quality skiing, great restaurants, and outstanding Austrian hospitality.

ski resort Solden Austria

Right at the heart of Ötztal Valley is the Alpine resort Sölden, renowned as a top winter sports center, surrounded by high mountains of over 3,000 meters, glaciers, and meadows. The number of slopes and lifts is greater than anyone could even explore in a week-long holiday.

The best thing to do away from the slopes is going to Aqua Dome Therme Längenfeld, a superbly designed spa with outdoor and indoor pools and several saunas.

9. Lake Wörthersee

Lake Wörthersee - Austria in winter

Located in the region of Carinthia, Lake Wörthersee is a massively popular attraction during the summer, and it is well worth exploring during winter as well, when it transforms into a huge outdoor skating rink. Due to its location, it is surrounded by areas that provide excellent opportunities for other outdoor activities, such as winter hiking, cross-country skiing, curling, or tobogganing.

Only 15 minutes away is the Gerlitz Alps ski area, which is another Austrian hotspot for a ski holiday. Another major attraction in the area is the Carinthia thermal baths, where guest can relax after a strenuous ski session. The Werzer Badenhaus is a historic spa recently reopened to the public, which offers an intimate, cozy setting in the winter with gorgeous views over the lake.

The spa includes the only heated lake pool around Wörthersee. The tradition of bathhouses is well established in Carinthia, and many can be found right on the shore, offering panoramic views over the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Graz - great place to visit in winter in Austria

The capital of the Styria region, Graz is the second largest city in Austria, and it is known for its stunning blend of Baroque and Renaissance architecture.  The Old Town has a unique charm and is an overwhelming testament of the city’s rich history and culture.

Without having the aura of Vienna or Salzburg, Graz is a beautiful city whose qualities shine through during winter. With Christmas markets lavishly taking over the squares, the historic Old Town turns into a magical place, where the smell of mulled wine, peppermint tea, and Christmas sweets attract people into the streets.

Graz Christmas Market - Austria in December

Christmas lights and colorful crystal decorations emphasize the beauty of the architecture and the scenic setting of the city, which means that walking around will be a rewarding experience. Graz is also a gastronomic heaven, and Christmas markets are the best place to sample some of the region’s most popular staples.

Check out: The best Christmas Markets in Austria.

Although Christmas markets and winter festivities and activities abound in Europe, everything seems to have a much more authentic feel in Austria. Although relatively small, the country has everything from grand imperial architecture to cozy mountain huts to satisfy every kind of winter fantasy.

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  • Austria In Winter 2024: Visit These 10 Places In The Land Of Beauty And Music

23 Mar 2023

At times when you snuggle your bed sheet around you and hold up the coffee mug tight in your hands, you will sometimes think to visit some amazing places. But how could a place look beautiful during the cold months of winter? Just take a look at the best experiences of Austria in winter and plan a vacation to this serene destination, offering your a perfect chance to have the best time with your loved ones!

10 Best Places To Visit In Austria In Winter

Planning a vacation to Austria during winter ? These places add up a lot of beauty to this country even when covered with snow. On your trip, here are a few places to visit in Austria in winter:

  • Vienna: Fabulous Capital City
  • Oberaichwald: Rural Gateway
  • Wildschönau: Panoramic Sights
  • Gosau: High Peaked Mountains
  • Zell Am See: Snowy Landscapes
  • Thermenland Styria: Dreamland Vacay
  • Aqua Dome: For The Water Babies
  • Salzburg: Nothing Less Than Paradise
  • Ski Resort Kitzbuehel: Adventure Seekers
  • Innsbruck: Serene Ambiance

1.  Vienna: Fabulous Capital City

Vienna

Image Source

The first place we are talking about in Vienna. Without any sort of doubt, this is one of the most fabulous capital cities you could visit. And in this place, everything related to Christmas is taken a lot more serious. When it is snowy outside, if you just go out, you will probably be stunned by the beauty of the street. There are many amazing things to do in Vienna and you could enjoy doing at this place. And without any doubt, this place will stand in the first place if you would like to go on a tour or something like that. The place is known to offer the best vacations during Austria winter season .

Must Read: 10 Austrian Restaurants One Must Visit To Relish The Taste Of Authentic Austrian Delicacies!

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2.  Oberaichwald: Rural Gateway

Oberaichwald

This is probably the place which you must visit if you go to Austria in winter. You will probably like this place if you would like a rural gateway. And when you are in this place you will surely feel yourself out of the pollution as well as the sound in the city. If you are in places like this in Austria in winter you will compulsorily get an energy boost with being away from the city. And whenever you are lighting up places filled with snow the scenery of it will surely blow up your minds. This will also help you enjoy your winter months in Austria. This is one of the most loved Austria winter destinations.

Suggested Read: 9 Things To Do In Hallstatt For A Memorable Trip In Austria

3.  Wildschönau: Panoramic Sights

Wildschönau

This place however fabulous in all times of the year, but when it comes to the cold winter months you will probably have no words to describe the beauty of this place. People cannot express the beauty and even if they do you will not understand it. You can only get to know it once you visit this magical place. The place is known to offer the most beautiful holiday during Austria winter season . If you find a high place and see all the city in the cold winter temperature in Austria it will for sure leave you stunned as well as the mind was blown.

Suggested Read: 10 Rivers In Austria That Will Bowl You Over With Their Beauty

4.  Gosau: High Peaked Mountains

Gosau

The most beautiful place you can enjoy is probably this place for sure. You get many activities like the hot air balloon week and other stuff like that. This area is one that is amazingly covered with large areas of forests and is also surrounded by the high peaked mountains. This area also has a hot a balloon week going on every week. Every single activity going on around here will be totally awesome as well as enjoyable. And not only for adults, but there is also stuff going on there for kids. Going to this in winter holidays in Austria for non-skiers can also be amazing. This is amongst the best winter destinations in Austria .

Suggested Read: 10 Hostels In Austria To Explore The Best Of The Country’s Mountains And Cities

5.  Zell Am See: Snowy Landscapes

Zell am See

This is a lakeside town that has a lot of tour-worthy locations in it that only exist in winter. The snowy mountains and also the houses filled with snow from the outside look gorgeous. And this is also a place where you can ski if you know it. Yes, but if you don’t have any idea about it then don’t worry because there are many activities that can be done without knowing to ski also. So, it is never mandatory in a place to know skiing for anyone. And this place will also give you a breath-taking experience of each and everything. This is surely one of the best places to visit in Austria in winter.

6.  Thermenland Styria: Dreamland Vacay

Thermenland Styria

So, this place shown here is a wonderful example for the places that are very wonderful to look at and also a bit weird sometimes. But this does not happen every time. And taking a hot water bath in a hot spring with your friends and family could add up a special touch to everything out there. And when this experience is available when it is almost freezing cold outside, it would be the best thing ever. There are also many massage therapies and stuff you could enjoy here too.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Churches In Austria For Adding A Touch Of Bliss To Your EuroTrip!

7.  Aqua Dome: For The Water Babies

Aqua Dome

Looking for a perfect escape during winter season in Austria ? This is also one of the most awesome places you could visit in Austria. Without any doubt, this can also be said the best in the Alps. It also seems like an alien ship probably, it won’t seem to you? Well, it does to me. This is probably a very big place because it has 12 swimming pools in it. And the each one in them has different intensities. By on the whole when you talk about this place you could just take a drive to this place if you live nearby.

8.  Salzburg: Nothing Less Than Paradise

Salzburg

Heading to Austria in December 2022 ? This is the second to Vienna about which was told in the starting of the article probably it was the first thing we spoke about. And this is the best place to take a driving in Austria in winter if you live nearby. This place is also the which you can go for if you would like to see the best way of how Christmas is celebrated. This is amongst the best places in Austria in winter . The snow-tipped alps that are in the surrounding bring like a backdrop for some seasonal festivals. If you do ski then this place will have a lot of games like that too. Finally, you will never get time to be bored in this place for sure. It is one of the best places to spend winter holidays in Austria for non-skiers as there are numerous interesting things to do in Salzburg .

Suggested Read: 8 Magical Castles In Austria That Will Blow Your Mind In No Time!

9.  Ski Resort Kitzbuehel: Adventure Seekers

Ski resort Kitzbuehel

This is a ski resort which is probably not perfect for the ones who don’t ski. But we have to be including this just to make sure the ones who know to ski get benefitted by this article. This ski resort has 54 cable cars and lifts that probably make it the world largest ski resort. And it is also 2,000 meters above the sea level, not ground sea! This is totally such a large area that you can never make a round of. Sometimes there may be some other stuff going on here like some shows.

10. Innsbruck: Serene Ambiance

Innsbruck Austria Tyrol Alps Landscape

Image Source So, you are planning a trip to Austria but not visiting Innsbruck? Then, there is no bigger fool than you. Innsbruck is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria in December. Enjoy a cup of hot steaming gluhwein and indulge in festive spirits. You can even smell the fragrance of spicy scents in the air during the winter season. Buy trinkets and Christmas gifts from the Christmas fair and markets on your visit to Innsbruck. This is amongst the best places in Austria in winter .

Further Read: 10 Best Water Parks In Austria For A Soul-Stirring Holiday Experience!

These were all the places that will want to visit in Austria on your vacation . And we also think that this article has vanquished the question of where to go in Austria in winter? However, before heading to the place, do make sure you know enough about what to expect there and how soon you should book the reservation.

Disclaimer:   TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austria In Winter

How cold is Austria in December?

The temperature in Austria in December is 3 degrees Celsius. So, yes it is cold but it is not as cold as Austria in January. The minimum temperature can go to zero degrees Celsius too. It is normal to have such low temperatures for countries in Central Europe.

Does it snow in Austria in December?

Yes, it snows in Austria during late December.

Which is the best month to visit Austria?

April – May and September – October are great months to visit Austria, but if one wants to enjoy skiing, then they can plan a trip during the winter season here.

Where should I stay in Austria in winter?

Some of the top winter destinations in Austria are: 1. Innsbruck 2. Vienna 3. Oberaichwald 4. Salzburg 5. Wildschönau

How many days should I spend in Austria?

With a couple of beautiful places to visit in Austria, one can plan a 10 days to 2 weeks trip depending on the number of cities they want to cover.

What is there to do in Salzburg in winter?

One of the things you can do in Salzburg during winter is: 1.Visit the Hohensalzburg Castle 2. Shop, eat, and drink at the famous Christmas markets in Salzburg 3. Follow the sound of music trail and know all about Mozart if you are a fan

Does Vienna get snow?

The temperature in December in Vienna is as low as zero degrees, and this is when one can enjoy snow in Vienna.

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14 Top Things to Do in Winter in Austria

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 16, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Home to the Alps and some of the best skiing in Europe , Austria makes for a stunning place to visit in the winter. And while you probably should spend some time playing in the snow when you visit – non-skiers can try tobogganing, snowshoeing, or winter hiking – there are also plenty of things to do indoors in the Austrian winter.

Plus, winter might just be one of the best times to visit Austria, as you'll find lower prices and smaller crowds, making for a perfect, more intimate getaway.

Whether you're visiting for the history, the outdoor activities, or the arts, we've put together a list of the top things to do in winter in Austria.

1. Give Skiing a Try

2. make time for castles and palaces, 3. experience snowshoeing and winter hiking, 4. attend a holiday concert, 5. show your moves at a ball, 6. wander through alpine villages, 7. experience the adrenaline of tobogganing, 8. visit christmas markets, 9. heal yourself at a thermal spa, 10. visit famous attractions high up in the clouds, 11. enjoy traditional austrian cuisine, 12. go ice-skating outdoors, 13. ride an alpine coaster, 14. stop by a husky ranch, map of things to do in winter in austria.

Skier in Solden, Austria

Skiing could just be Austria's national sport – both mountain and cross-country skiers will be spoiled for choice when visiting here.

Kitzbühel is one of the top ski resorts in Austria , with over 170 kilometers of slopes, 54 cable cars, and every possible level of skiing imaginable. In Austria's Arlberg area, St. Anton is a resort for serious skiers looking for high altitude and off-piste challenges .

The villages of Lech-Zürs are where celebrities and royalty head for upscale skiing and high-end lodgings , while Sölden, surrounded by glaciers, offers perfect snow conditions well into spring.

Every March, as the ski season comes to an end, there's a unique event on Feuerkogel mountain known as the "Nostalgia Ski Race," where skiers dress in early 20th-century clothing to slide down the mountain as the locals did over a century ago. Events and celebrations last well into the night, when both adults and children are invited to take on the slopes as well.

Hohensalzburg Fortress and Salzburg in the winter

The royal grand architecture of Austria is beautiful no matter what time of the year you're visiting, but there's something special about visiting a 17th-century castle buried under snow. Luckily, Austria's castles, fortresses, and palaces stay open throughout the winter, allowing for quiet strolls in the royal gardens and not-so-crowded tours of the interiors.

Austria's most picturesque castle is probably Burg Kreuzenstein, just north of Vienna and famous for its imposing towers. Medieval Burg Hochosterwitz, with its 14 fortified gates, doesn't fall far behind.

For easy access, try one of the many buildings that are within the borders of major cities. Hohensalzburg Fortress, sitting on a hill right over the city of Salzburg, dates back to the 11th century, and it's one of Europe's largest fortress complexes .

A short 40-minute ride outside Salzburg takes you to stunning Werfen Castle, a Hollywood favorite that has appeared on everything from The Sound of Music to the Netflix series The Man In The High Castle to the video game Call of Duty: Black Ops III .

Snowshoers in the Stubai Alps, Austria

For the non-skiers, Austria offers just as many trails and stunning mountain views in the form of snowshoeing and winter hiking. Depending on where you are in the country, you'll have a chance to explore enchanting forests, glacier trails, or Alpine valleys covered in powdery snow.

One of the top things to do in Salzburg is take the cable car up to the Mauterndorf ski area and find the snowshoe trails that zigzag through the top of the mountain. Or venture down into the Rauris Valley forest, surrounded by thundering peaks and wildlife.

Tirol's Tannheimer Tal Valley is another popular place to visit for snowshoeing, perfect for exploring the rolling hills under blue winter skies.

If you don't own snowshoes, you can rent a pair at most hotels or try winter hiking, which doesn't require any special equipment. Winter hiking is best near towns, where the roads are cleared of deep soft snow regularly.

The Vienna Musikverein, site of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra's New Year's Concert

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is an amazing spectacle at any time of the year, but during the holidays, they hold special classical concerts that are must-sees. Their famous New Year's Concert sells months in advance.

The Kursalon concert venue in Vienna also offers special holiday concerts on December 24th and New Year's Eve, plus a gala event on December 25th. For something extra special, check out the schedule at the Mozarthaus -- the house where Mozart lived and composed his most famous pieces offers advent concerts during December.

Even if you're not in Vienna, don't worry, most cities and towns around the country have their own marching bands and caroling choirs that take to the streets during the holiday season. If you're in Western Austria, the New Year's Day Concert by the Tyrol Symphony Orchestra is equally popular and great entertainment.

The Tyrol Winter Festival Erl is a treat that mixes opera performances with Christmas specials . Another famous must-see in Tyrol is the Christmas concerts of the Wilten Boys' Choir, if you arrive early and can secure a spot in the Court Church.

Dancers at a ball

Between November and April, Austria holds almost 500 balls – most of which happen in Vienna in January and February. The Viennese Ball is a centuries-old tradition that preserves a very strict ceremonial program of fancy dress code, waltzing, fine cuisine, and the exclamation "Alles Walzer!" to get the celebration started. Joining this tradition is one of the top things to do in Vienna .

Getting tickets to a Viennese Ball is no easy task, and they don't come cheap either. The Ball of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, held at the Vienna Musikverein concert hall, is the highlight of the season, but the Physicians' Ball at the Imperial Palace is equally stunning and equally hard to get into.

In Graz, the ball to attend is the one held at the Opera House, where the city's philharmonic orchestra, the official ballet, and the opera ensemble all come together for the opening act.

If you don't know how to waltz, don't worry. Many dance schools around the country offer last-minute classes and workshops to teach you the basics so you can gracefully swirl around the dance floor.

Hallstatt village in the winter

Austrian Alpine villages are some of the best places to visit in Austria year long, but they are particularly magical when it snows. There's a unique charm to cobblestone streets covered in powdery white as you make your way around centuries-old buildings decorated for the holidays.

Hallstatt is one of Austria's most famous mountain villages . It sits between the shores of Lake Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut Mountains, surrounded by glaciers and near an ancient salt mine.

Mountain villages in Tyrol are particularly easy to explore in winter , as many have a train station right in town. Try stopping in Kufstein to see the medieval Kufstein Fortress and traditional wooden houses, or visit Seefeld, which sits in a valley surrounded by the Wetterstein and Karwendel mountains.

For an even better winter in the mountains, pick a mountain resort. You'll have the snowcapped mountains right outside your door plus most likely a Kachelofen (traditional tiled fireplace) to sit next to at the end of the day.

  • Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Hallstatt and along the Hallstätter See

Toboggan run in the Austrian Alps

Tobogganing is part of every childhood in Austria – and fortunately for visitors, the fun continues on for adults. Lots of mountain huts and ski resorts offer toboggan rentals, so you can take to the hills.

The Tyrol region has numerous toboggan runs , many of which can be accessed using a cable car. The Glampweg Toboggan Run, for example, starts with a ride up on a cable car before you whiz down the mountain for a speedy 6.5-kilometer descent. Others, like the Bernhardseck Toboggan Run and the Brettlalm Toboggan Run, require a hike up on snowy trails (snowshoes are sometimes required).

You don't need any special skills or experience to try tobogganing, but some runs are more difficult than others, as they can reach speeds of 45 kilometers per hour for the entire slide down, with tight turns along the way.

Salzburg's Christkindl market

Austria is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe . In Vienna, the Christmas markets are everywhere, but the Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of City Hall and the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace are the most popular ones.

With a backdrop of stunning architecture, the regular presence of choirs singing carols, and hundreds of festive market stalls, it doesn't get much better than these.

One of Austria's best winter destinations is Innsbruck , a town surrounded by snowcapped mountains that becomes a Christmas wonderland in December. The Christmas markets are one of the highlights of Innsbruck – especially the main one at Old Town Market. They have a historic touch, selling lots of handmade goodies, traditional Christmas ornaments, and winter treats.

Other must-visit Christmas markets include Salzburg's Christkindl, which started in the 1400s and is one of the oldest in the country, and the Glockenspielplatz Christmas Market in Graz, which offers themed days and exclusive home-made handicrafts.

Relaxing in a thermal pool in the Austrian Alps

The colder it gets in Austria, the more popular outdoor swimming pools become. Of course, these aren't your regular pools but thermal baths, heated pools, and saunas in the heart of Alpine valleys, surrounded by a blanket of snow.

Austria's most famous thermal spa is the Aqua Dome Hotel & Spa . Located in the heart of the Ötztal valley, this futuristic-looking spa features 12 floating pools filled with healing spring water flowing from 6,000 feet underground, plus seven saunas, a 25-meter lane pool, and a number of spa treatments. Since the spa is open until midnight, you can even enjoy the healing waters under the starry sky.

The spa town of Bad Gastein, also surrounded by the towering Hohe Tauern mountains, is another great option for thermal baths. It was a favorite destination of 19th-century Empress Elisabeth, who visited regularly because of the healing waters. The health resort of Bad Häring in Tyrol offers over 50 types of treatments, including sulfur baths and mineral springs.

Stairways to Nothingness platform in the winter

There's more to do on the snowcapped mountains of Austria than having fun on the slopes. Austria is actually home to some very unique high-altitude destinations that are well worth a visit.

The 007 ELEMENTS is a James Bond cinematic installation that sits 3,000 meters above sea level at the top of Gaislachkogel mountain – exactly in the place where scenes from James Bond's movie Spectre were filmed .

You can also visit Café 3.440, Austria's highest café , reached by a cable car at the top of Pitztal Glacier. Getting here is an adventure in itself - you'll have to catch a ride in the world's fastest funicular and the highest one in Austria. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with some of the best 360-degree mountain views in the country.

Austria is also well-known for its glass viewpoint platforms , which tend to sit right over deep valleys or over giant snowcapped mountains. At the top of the Dachstein mountains, you'll find the Stairways to Nothingness platform with unobstructed views over the glacier, as well as a 100-meter-long suspension bridge built over a 400-meter drop right over the rugged walls of the mountains.

Or you can try the Summit World 3000 platform at the top of Kitzsteinhorn Mountain, 3,029 meters above sea level.

Apple strudel

If all the skiing and tobogganing has whet your appetite, you're in luck - Austrian cuisine is perfect for winter days.

A favorite in Alpine huts, ski restaurants, and cafés, Kaiserschmarrn is perfect as a dessert or an afternoon snack. It's made with fluffy pancakes topped with berries, nuts, and fruit sauce.

For a filling warm lunch, try Käsespätzle, Austria's version of Mac & Cheese made with a variety of local cheeses and topped with onions. Or grab a plate of knödel, round dumplings made with potatoes and a touch of nutmeg. They're often served with herbs and melted butter or prepared with an apricot filling, so make sure you confirm when you order whether you're getting the salty or the dessert option.

At cafés, Austria's Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) and Vienna's famous Sachertorte chocolate cake (filled with layers of apricot jam) are two must-tries if you have a sweet tooth.

Out for a walk? Keep your eyes open for maronistands stands selling roasted chestnuts – they come hot in a bag, so you can eat them on the go.

Skating on a frozen lake in Zell am See, Austria

You'll find plenty of indoor rinks in Austria, but the true beauty of ice-skating here can only be experienced if you brave the temperatures outside. In areas like Tirol, many lakes completely freeze over, so you can ice-skate surrounded by majestic, towering snow-covered mountains.

But no matter where you are in Austria, you'll find plenty of stunning outdoor rinks. In Vienna, the Rathausplatz rink outside Vienna's City Hall is a great option – and especially beautiful in winter, when the Christmas lights (and the giant tree) are on.

For stunning outdoor opportunities, it doesn't get better than skating on the famous Danube River – though this is only possible in very cold years. If that's not an option, there's always Lake Weissensee in Carinthia, which becomes a 25-kilometer-long circular track when it freezes over.

Alpine coasters are extremely popular in Europe. They are somewhat similar to roller coasters, but instead of being set inside an amusement park, they're built on ski slopes and mountainsides.

They're not just slides either – Alpine coasters have pulley systems to haul the cars up a hill and sometimes speed controls (these coasters can easily reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour) and brakes to maneuver the gravity-driven twists and turns as you speed down the mountain.

Austria has a number of year-round Alpine coasters, and the magic of riding them in winter – cold air on your face, surrounded by snow – is definitely unique. The Lauser Sauser coaster in Alpbach has a 1,420-meter-long track, is set 18 meters off the ground (the highest Alpine coaster in Austria), and offers beautiful views of the Alpbachtal Valley and thick forest around it.

Another great one to try is the Arena Coaster at Zell am Ziller. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, the coaster is popular because of its hairpin twists and dips, and the breathtaking 540-degree circle turn.

Dogsledding in Sibratsgfaell, Austria

For an action-packed outdoor adventure, it's hard to beat dogsledding. Sitting in a sled covered by thick blankets and being pulled across open valleys filled with snow and surrounded by forests feels like a bit of a fairy tale. Even better, you'll find that the huskies pulling you are enjoying the experience just as much as you do.

There are a number of dogsledding experiences in Austria, including attending training camps, taking a tour, and visiting a ranch where the dogs live. The Tirol region is a popular destination to meet huskies, and there are many ranch experiences that include bonfire nights, dogsled rides by moonlight, and even husky trekking.

Other areas, like Kleinwalsertal Valley and the Waldviertel Region, are also popular dogsledding destinations.

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Austria's Top Winter Destinations

Viennas historic Ferris wheel in the Prater, forever linked with movie classic The Third Man

Austria in winter is a magical place to visit, with excellent winter sports , Christmas markets and lots and lots of snow. Whether it’s a secluded snug log cabin or concerts in Vienna , read on for Culture Trip’s guide to the best places for a winter break in Austria .

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Breathe in the spicy scents, hug your hands around a steaming mug of gluhwein , and allow yourself to melt into the festive spirit at one of Innsbruck’s Christmas markets. Austria is famed for being an all-round pro at all things festive, and the markets in this city never fail to raise Christmas cheer. One of the best and most traditional takes place in front of the iconic Golden Roof – a building gifted by the Emperor to his wife in Austria’s Imperial days – and sees clusters of wooden stalls selling a variety of handcrafted treats and trinkets and serving delicious homemade dishes.

austria winter travel

Vienna is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities and a place where merrymaking and Christmas celebrations are taken very seriously indeed. Events across the city range from quaint markets held in the shadow of dramatic baroque architecture and classical concerts in some of the greatest venues in the world to art installations and ice rinks. Check out our guide to the best activities in Vienna at Christmas.

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Oberaichwald

austria winter travel

This is an idyllic area of Austria, perfect for those who want a rural getaway, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The resort of Schönleitn is a charming cluster of wooden cabins, arranged around the beautiful lake Faaker See. It is incredibly beautiful when snow falls, transforming the Alpine area into an elegant winter wonderland.

austria winter travel

Second to Vienna, the city of Salzburg is the next best venue for an Austrian Christmas city break. The Christmas markets are atmospheric and the surrounding snow-tipped Alps make a delightful backdrop for seasonal festivities. You can also escape into the wilderness; a 90-minute drive from Salzburg’s city centre, Saalbach is a delightful and charming village full of great cafes, bars and boutique hotels. With the addition of a new ski lift and slopes ranging from 830m (2,723ft) to 2,095m (6,873ft) it’s perfect for winter-sport enthusiasts.

Wildschönau

austria winter travel

Beautiful year round, but especially spectacular in the colder months, this picturesque Alpine valley contains four idyllic villages: Niederau, Oberau, Auffach and Thierbach .

austria winter travel

Located 700m (2,300ft) above sea level, the district of Gmunden in Upper Austria is blessed with densely rich forests, rugged mountains and glittering streams. Between 13 and 21 January each year, the azure skies explode with colour, when hundreds of Luftballons grace Gosau’s heavens for Hot Air Balloon Week. This is just one of many spectacular attractions to enjoy here; the glaciers and the enchanting Lake Gosau are also sights not to be missed.

Zell am See

austria winter travel

Holidays in this spectacular lakeside town are terrific in both the summer and winter. Those who visit in the warmer months should embark on some hiking trails, which deliver breathtaking panoramic views and some satisfyingly challenging routes. Nearby Kaprun is famed for its glacier ice rinks.

Thermenland Styria

austria winter travel

Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s work is probably the best example of weird yet wonderful architecture in Vienna. As well as his famous wobbly apartment block in Vienna , he also designed some of the buildings around the Rogner Bad Blumau in Styria, making for a wonderfully surreal world. Around the spa, there are a variety of outdoor thermal pools and massage and treatment packages available, providing some respite from the cold weather.

Aqua Dome – Tirol Therme Längenfeld

austria winter travel

This photogenic, dreamy spa in Tirol is undoubtedly one of the best in the Alps. Forget all your troubles in one of its 12 beautifully designed thermal swimming pools (the outdoor pools have temperatures of 93-97°F), or sweat your way to serenity in one of the seven saunas, each of varying intensity – a unique experience when there is snow on the ground outside. A range of treatments is also available, including massages and facials.

Bohemian Forest

austria winter travel

The intriguingly named Bohemian Forest lies between South Bohemia in the Czech Republic and Germany and Austria, creating a natural barrier between the countries. There are various resorts located in the Austrian area, and one of the favourites among the skiing community is Hochficht.

Ski resort Kitzbuehel

austria winter travel

The sprawling Kitzbuehel ski area creeps over two provinces and seven municipalities. Fifty-four cable cars and lifts commute high above the world-famous ski resort on the summit to 2,000m (6,600ft) above sea level. On the piste map you’ll find an immaculately groomed 179km (111mi) of slopes and 36km (22mi) of ski routes.

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12 fun things to do in Austria in winter if you don’t ski

October 4, 2021 | Posted in: Austria

When I say “Austria in winter” you automatically think of skiing or snowboarding, right? It's true that there are tons of great slopes and ski resorts in Austria , but even if you don't like going up and down a hill the entire day, there's still plenty for you to do in the country of “The Sound of Music”.

When I was In Austria in January for 3 days with 14 other bloggers, we were divided into 3 groups every day and each group would go try out other winter activities. Here's what I did and what you can do too on your vacation to Austria in the winter.

1. Play in the snow

2. visit a husky ranch, 3. go hiking, 4. visit the pilgrimage church of mariastein, 5. go (off-track) cross-country skiing, 6. taste the food of austria, 7. try your hand (leg/arm) at biathlon, 8. wander through the mountain villages, 9. take a horse carriage ride in sankt johann, 10. attend a schnapps tasting, 11. do a toboggan run in kirchberg, 12. snuggle up with a book in your hotel room, 1. what to do in austria in november, 2. what to do in austria in december, 3. what to do in austria in january, 4. what to do in austria in february, 4. what to do in austria in march, how to get to austria, don't forget travel insurance, fun things to do in austria in winter for your next trip.

winter austria

I swear, it turned all of us into little kids again. We were pushing each other and instead of taking the cleared paths, we'd take shortcuts through thick packs of snow. And then, of course, fall down and giggle.

So when does it snow in Austria? When is winter in Austria? It depends on where you go. In the valleys, it usually snows from late December until March, but once you go above about 5,905 ft or 1,800 m, there's snow as early as November until May. Some years, the snow doesn't even melt once you get above 8,202 ft or 2,500 m.

If you want to make sure you'll experience a real Austrian winter, January is probably the best month to go. Just make sure you wear the right things so you don't get cold or wet and you can properly enjoy the experience.  

husky ranch austria

It was truly inspiring to hear how owner Martin Eigentler only left his huskies once a year, to travel to Canada and Alaska in search for new husky pups for his ranch.  

winter vacation austria

Not all paths are cleared of snow, of course, but there are plenty of hiking opportunities in and around the small villages. We made a nice walk from Hotel Kraftquelle Schlossblick , where we had lunch after visiting the husky ranch, to the pilgrimage church of Mariastein.  

best places to visit in austria winter

People still climb the 150 steps to the chapel to go to mass but can rest in one of the several rooms along the way up, of which one is a small museum.

It's one of the places to visit in Austria in winter in this region, as the pilgrims usually visit when the weather's warmer. January is low season for this little church and so it won't be too crowded.  

austria winter travel

© Traveldudes.org

Basically, it's all about how much you weigh and not about how tall you are.

Now, while cross-country skiing is one of those typical things to do during an Austria winter vacation, it's actually much harder than it looks – especially when you're trying to get up a hill! We all did pretty okay on the flat parts and also had no trouble sliding down that one hill, but climbing it with cross-country skis on, that was something else.

Let's just say there were a lot of giggles and not all of us managed to stay upright :-)  

eten in Oostenrijk kaiserschmarrn pannenkoeken

Yes, a dessert. What did you expect?

You can read more about the food of Austria in another post.  

austria activities

Biathlon is a sport that combines cross-country skiing and shooting, but biathlon targets aren't like the regular round targets you may have in mind. The ones we practiced on, consisted out of a box with six holes and if you hit one of the holes, a little “flap” would close it so you could tell you'd hit it.

We practiced on children's targets which are only about 10 meters away. The pros shoot 50 meters far. This was probably one of my favorite things to do in Austria in winter.  

things to do in st johann austria

Just one thing to know if you plan on doing a carriage ride in Austria in winter: if you get out to take photos, you'll be so much colder afterward!  

schnapps austria

I very rarely drink alcohol, and when I do it's usually something that tastes like orange juice or lemonade: the sweeter, the better. Schnapps isn't anything like that, but when you're in Austria, there's no escaping it. Schnapps is like the national 40% alcohol drink.

Edelbrandsommelier Leo Trixl made sure everybody enjoyed the tasting, though. He first let us guess all kinds of different scents before we started the actual Schnapps tasting (and smelling).  

things to do in kirchberg austria

Was it because I was dark? I don't know.

For the sled ride, I partnered up with the wonderful Lisa from TVB Hohe Salve and we giggled our way smoothly down the mountain. I do have to admit I was happy I could sled down with her. The combination of heights and speed will never be for me.

On another note, if you're looking for great snowy views, the Gaisberg is one of the best places to visit in Austria in winter because it has a restaurant and hotel, the Gasthof Obergaisberg, right alongside the toboggan track. That means you can toboggan down for a bit, then take a break at the restaurant and then sled further down. It's even a good place to visit in summer when you can mountain bike and hike on the Gaisberg.

Make sure to reserve a table by the window for amazing views of the mountain!  

If the cold does get to you at one point, just snuggle up with a book in your hotel room or at the bar, with a nice cup of tea and – let's go crazy – some cake. There are so many lovely hotels in Austria to choose from, from small bed and breakfasts to luxury half or even full-board places.

And if you want to keep in theme while reading, these books about Austria will both entertain you and teach you something new.  

And that's not all you can do in Austria in winter. Other people went snowshoeing, fat biking or did a Segway ride through the snow . And if you're visiting a city, you can get your culture on. Learning the Viennese Waltz or visiting museums in Vienna , for example, is something you can do all-year-long.

Already know when you're going to visit Austria in winter? Here's a list of events per month.  

What to do in Austria in winter per month

Here are some fun things to do in Austria in November:

At the end of November, the award-winning Fantastic Gondolas festival takes place at the mountain station of Rüfikopf in Lech Zürs, where international DJs and light installations create a festive vibe.

For another musical event, head to Ischgl where a “top of the mountain concert” is organized at the end of November.

Be aware: the weather in Austria in November is definitely winter weather already so do pack accordingly.

If you want to get into the Christmas mood early, one of the best places to visit in Austria in November is Vienna. There, the Christmas markets already start in the middle of the month. Popular ones take place at the Rathausplatz, Karlsplatz, Schönbrunn, and Belvedere.  

Visiting a Christmas market is also one of the things to do in Austria in December. While a lot of bigger markets already start in the second half of November, they're in full swing in December. Visit the market between the mountains in Innsbruck, the famous Christmas markets of Vienna, or the cozy market in Salzburg.

Looking for more places to visit in Austria in December? For family snow fun, you can head to the Family Ski Festival in Styria and for something more intense, there's the Nordic Ski World Cup in Ramsau am Dachstein.

In Montafon, the FIS Snowboard Cross World Cup and the Audi FSI Ski Cross World Cup take place while wine lovers van visit the Alberg Vineyard in Lech Zürs for a week-long wine festival.

The Rave on Snow in Saalbach-Hinterglemm is an annual electronic music winter festival that takes place in the middle of December.

Also taking place the middle of December is the Rise&Fall sporting event in Mayerhofen. During Rise&Fall, teams compete in 4 different sport activities: ski mountain climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, and skiing.

If you're spending New Year's in Vienna, consider joining the Silversterpfad. This “New Year's Eve Path” is basically a big street party with several open air concerts.

Now, do you still don't know where to go in Austria in December? :-)  

Yes, there's New Year's and the end of the holiday season but there are plenty more cool things to do in Austria in January. You could attend, for example, not one but two hot air balloon weeks. One in Gosau near the end of the month and one in Mauterndorf around the middle of the month.

Rather stay inside when it's cold? Then there's always the music festival 3 Days Jazz in Saalfelden. Ski lovers attend the internationally known White Ring ski race in Lech Zürs.

In Kitzbühel they organize the Hahnenkammrennen and in Schladming the Slalom Night Race. For fans of classical music, there's the Mozart Week in Salzburg.  

In the beginning of February, the Tiroler Kaslauf takes place in St. Johann in Tirol. It's a race for cross country skiirs.

You can also visit the Ötscher Erlebniswochen winter festival in Lackenhof for a wide range of winter activities or go see the snowmen during The Snowman Weekend at the Hochkar ski resort.  

At the end of the ski and snow season in Austria, there's a “Nostalgia Ski Race” that takes place on the Feuerkogel mountain in Ebsensee. The Tanzcafé Arlberg Music Festival announces spring at the end of the month with music performances outdoors, in ski huts and at hotel bars.  

Still not sold on winter? Check out these places to visit in Austria in summer instead.  

Depending on where in Austria you're going, the easiest way to get there will be by plane, train or car. If you're traveling to a big city like Vienna or Salzburg, you can fly there directly or take a train from a nearby city, but if you're traveling to the mountains, you'll need to take a shuttle or rent a car.

Check Skyscanner for a good overview of flight options and prices.

If you're traveling by train, you can find timetables and prices here .

For a rental car, check RentalCars.com as they compare more than 900 rental car companies and have a best-price-guarantee.  

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad, and sometimes even when your electronics break or get stolen. I always make sure I'm covered on every trip I go on.

Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.  

travel austria winter

I was invited on the #inAustria trip by iambassador in partnership with the Austrian National Tourist Office. As always, anything I write about this trip will be my opinion only.

The editorial team at Wonderful Wanderings brings together travel experts with backgrounds in travel writing, web development and digital marketing. The team, through their collaborative effort, provides readers with relevant travel experiences and up-to-date digital content. The vast expertise within the team ensures an informative blend of travel stories and useful online travel guides and trip experiences, built on a foundation of both industry recognition and hands-on global adventures. Learn more about Wonderful Wanderings

The Guy Who Flies says

Fabulous selection Sofie, it looks like you all had great fun. I know Austria has some wonderful villages and scenery so that would please me no end. I would also like the huskies, biathlan and tobogganing too.

Thanks! We really did :-)

I am really proud of you that you fought against you fear! Tobogganing with you was a lot of fun :)

Oooh, thanks so much Lisa! We made a great team:D

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AUSTRIA IN WINTER – THINGS TO DO & TRAVEL TIPS

A WINTER TRIP TO AUSTRIA

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Beautiful Austria! Though Austria is always worth a visit, this post is all about Austria in the winter. Find out about the best places to visit, what to do + travel tips for your Austria winter trip.

Austria in the winter is a picturesque wonderland, filled with snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and charming alpine villages. From skiing and snowboarding to ice-skating and tobogganing, there are countless outdoor activities to enjoy in Austria’s winter wonderland.

With world-class ski resorts like St. Anton and Kitzbühel, Austria is a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Additionally, you can experience Austria’s rich culture through its traditional cuisine, warm hospitality, and festive holiday markets.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product/service via my link (at no extra cost to you). More about it  here .

BEST THINGS TO DO IN WINTER IN AUSTRIA

A trip to Austria in the winter is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the season. 

VISIT SALZBURG IN WINTER

Salzburg , the birthplace of Mozart, is a very, very charming city in Austria that is perfect to visit in winter.

Salzburg in winter

Here are some things to do and see in Salzburg during the winter season:

✔️ The Salzburg Christmas Market, located in the old town, is one of the most beautiful in Europe . Admire the festive decorations, listen to Christmas carols, and sample local treats like roasted chestnuts and Glühwein (mulled wine).

✔️ The medieval fortress – Hohensalzburg Fortress – sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the city below. Take a guided tour or wander around on your own to learn about Salzburg’s rich history.

✔️ Beautiful Mirabell Palace Gardens were originally built in the 18th century for a prince’s mistress. Today, you can enjoy a peaceful walk through the gardens, which are filled with sculptures, fountains, and beautiful flowers.

✔️ No trip to Salzburg would be complete without a visit to Mozart’s birthplace. Learn about the famous composer’s life and see original manuscripts and musical instruments.

✔️ Salzburg is surrounded by the Alps , which offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe. Take a day trip to one of the nearby ski resorts, such as Obertauern or Flachau, for a day on the slopes.

Salzburg is a magical place to visit at any time of the year, but especially in the winter, this pretty city is amazing. With its charming architecture, beautiful natural surroundings, and rich cultural heritage, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

VISIT HALLSTATT IN THE WINTER

Hallstatt in Austria winter

✔️ Hallstatt’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its charming narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and stunning views of the lake. Take a stroll through the town, admire the architecture, and stop for a coffee or hot chocolate at a local café.

✔️ Hallstatt’s salt mines have been in operation since prehistoric times and are a fascinating attraction to visit. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and see the underground tunnels, slides, and wooden bridges.

✔️ Take the funicular up to the top of the Skywalk for breathtaking views of Hallstatt and the surrounding Alps. Walk along the Skywalk, a viewing platform that extends over the edge of the mountain, for an even more stunning view.

✔️ Learn about the town’s rich history and culture at the Hallstatt Museum, which features exhibits on Hallstatt’s salt mining history, prehistoric artifacts, and local traditions.

✔️ In the winter, Hallstatt offers a variety of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating on the frozen lake. Rent equipment and hit the slopes for a fun day of outdoor adventure.

Hallstatt is a beautiful destination to visit in Austria in the winter. With its stunning natural surroundings and variety of activities, it’s the perfect place to spend a day exploring and making memories.

CHECK OUT TOUR: From Salzburg: Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt

VISIT VIENNA IN THE WINTER

Vienna , Austria’s capital city, is a beautiful destination to visit in the winter.

Vienna, Austria Schonbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) in winter

Here are some things to do and see during your 2-3 day visit:

✔️ This 18th-century palace – Schönbrunn Palace -is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction in Vienna. Take a guided tour of the palace and its beautiful gardens, or visit the nearby Schönbrunn Zoo, which is one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in the world.

✔️ Vienna is famous for its Christmas markets , which are held throughout the city in November and December. Browse the stalls for traditional crafts, gifts, and food, and enjoy the festive atmosphere with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine).

✔️ The Hofburg Palace was the former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty and is now home to several museums and attractions, including the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Spanish Riding School.

✔️ The beautiful Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. Climb the 343 steps to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.

✔️ Vienna is known for its delicious cuisine, including apple strudel, and Sachertorte (a famous chocolate cake). Be sure to try these traditional dishes at local restaurants and cafes.

✔️ The Belvedere Palace is a beautiful Baroque palace with stunning gardens and several museums. The highlight is the Upper Belvedere, which houses a collection of Austrian art, including works by Gustav Klimt.

Vienna has a lot to offer in the winter, from its beautiful palaces and museums to its festive Christmas markets, making Vienna a must-see in the winter months in my opinion.

THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA IN WINTER

Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church

Vienna PASS: 1, 2, 3, or 6 Days of Sightseeing

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche

Skip the Line: Schönbrunn Palace & Vienna City Tour

READ MORE –> Vienna in the winter

VISIT GRAZ IN THE WINTER 

Graz is the second-largest city in Austria and has a rich cultural and historical heritage. In winter, the city can be quite cold, with temperatures averaging between -3°C to 7°C (27°F to 45°F) and an occasional snowfall. However, despite the cold weather, Graz still has a lot to offer in the winter months.

Graz in Austria winter

✔️ One of the most popular winter activities in Graz is ice skating, with several ice rinks available in the city center. Additionally, the city is known for its Christmas markets, which offer traditional foods, drinks, and handmade crafts.

✔️ Another attraction is Schlossberg Hill, which provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. You can take a cable car or climb the stairs to reach the top. The hill is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Clock Tower and the Graz Castle.

Overall, Graz is definitely worth a visit in winter, especially if you enjoy winter sports, festive activities, and beautiful scenery.

THINGS TO DO IN GRAZ IN THE WINTER

Graz: Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour

SKI AND SNOWBOARD IN AUSTRIA

Austria is a world-renowned skiing and snowboarding destination, with many resorts offering spectacular mountain views, diverse terrain, and reliable snow conditions. Here are two of the best ski and snowboard destinations in Austria:

St. Anton am Arlberg – Located in Tyrol, St. Anton am Arlberg is one of the largest ski resorts in Austria and is known for its challenging off-piste terrain. It boasts over 305 kilometers of ski runs, with slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

St. Anton am Arlberg winter Austria

The resort is also famous for its lively après-ski scene, with many bars and restaurants to enjoy after a day on the slopes. St. Anton is also a popular destination for cross-country skiing, with over 40 kilometers of trails to explore.

Kitzbühel – Situated in the Tyrolean Alps, Kitzbühel is one of the most iconic ski resorts in the world. It is renowned for its picturesque medieval town, charming atmosphere, and stunning mountain views.

You´ll find 170 kilometers of ski runs, including a world-famous downhill racecourse, the Streif. Kitzbühel is also an ideal destination for snowboarders, with several snow parks and half-pipes available. In addition, the resort offers plenty of non-skiing activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

Both St. Anton and Kitzbühel are excellent ski and snowboard destinations, offering a wide range of slopes, stunning scenery, and plenty of après-ski activities. Ultimately, the choice between the two resorts comes down to personal preferences, as both are fantastic destinations to experience the Austrian Alps.

VISIT CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN AUSTRIA

Discover the enchanting Christmas Markets of Austria. With a season that runs from mid/late November to the end of the year, you have ample time to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Christmas market in Vienna most beautiful place in winter

Here, you’ll find glistening lights that add to the charm of the snow-covered roofs and taste the tempting seasonal treats that the Austrian towns offer. Get ready for a magical experience that will leave you with fond memories of your visit to this beautiful country.

Experience the magic of Christmas in Vienna as you stroll its picturesque streets lined with glittering lights and festive décor. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine from the punch stands will tantalize your taste buds, while local stallholders offer a wide range of handcrafted gifts to get you into the yuletide spirit.

The tradition of Christmas markets in Vienna dates back to the Middle Ages when Albrecht I granted Vienna’s citizens the privilege of holding a December Market or “Krippenmarkt” in 1296.

Over time, the markets have evolved considerably, and now there are over 20 official Advent markets that offer a diverse selection of seasonal goods and irresistible treats. A visit to Vienna’s Christmas markets is a must-do holiday activity that is sure to leave you feeling merry and bright!

As the sweet sound of church bells fills the air, it’s clear that Christmas is on its way in Salzburg and Salzburger Land.

Salzburg Christmas Market in Austria winter

The city’s snow-covered rooftops, domes, and towering spires offer a stunning backdrop for the Christmas markets, which are sure to warm your heart. Take a romantic stroll atop the city’s hills for a breathtaking view before returning to the lively bustle of the Salzburg Christmas market below.

The scent of punch, toasted almonds, roasted chestnuts, and baked apples will envelop you, and the tantalizing array of gingerbread hearts, nativity figures, Christmas tree ornaments, toys, and toasty knitwear offered by vendors is sure to delight.

The Christmas markets in Salzburg and SalzburgerLand are a must-see for anyone seeking a truly magical holiday experience!

NEW YEAR´S EVE IN AUSTRIA

Vienna’s entire inner city turns into a massive party zone on New Year’s Eve, which attracted up to one million people every year pre-Covid. The Silvesterpfad “New Year’s Path” starts at 2 p.m. on December 31 and ends at 2 a.m. on January 1.

 Enjoy concerts on the streets, dance to the ever-present sound of the waltz and the latest chart hits, and watch the fireworks at the stroke of Midnight, accompanied by all the church bells ringing (and half the town dancing to the Blue Danube Waltz on the street!). Wondering about the stalls selling little pigs, shamrocks, and chimney sweeps along the path? Austrians are big on lucky charms. Other things we quite like on New Year’s (and any other winter day): mulled wine and punch to warm up!

While Vienna may steal the spotlight on New Year’s Eve, the rest of Austria knows how to throw a celebration too. In Innsbruck, brass band parades and evening fanfare in the Old Town set the tone for a joyous evening.

To add to the ambiance, artistic light displays are projected onto the facades of buildings. For a view of the stunning fireworks and laser shows, head to the surrounding mountains like Nordkette. Whether you’re in Vienna or Innsbruck or any other part of the country, New Year’s Eve in Austria is a unique experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Salzburg is another exceptional location that knows how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style. At Residenzplatz, live music adds to the festive atmosphere, and the entire town is lit up with spectacular fireworks. For an extra touch of tradition, the New Year’s Salute is fired off at Hohensalzburg Fortress, offering a historic setting for ringing in the new year. Whether you’re in Vienna, Innsbruck, or Salzburg, there’s no shortage of merriment to be had on New Year’s Eve in Austria!

In Graz, the New Year is welcomed with an exciting laser show and upbeat music by DJs on the main square, followed by parties that keep the celebration going all throughout town.

Meanwhile, in Linz, locals and visitors gather at the picturesque main square, Danube River, and Schlossberg and Pöstlingberg mountains to witness the stunning fireworks display that lights up the sky. No matter where you are in Austria, there’s no shortage of fun-filled festivities to make your New Year’s Eve extraordinary!

FAQ: AUSTRIA IN WINTER TRIP

So, after finding out about where to go in the winter, here are some very important travel tips to make your winter trip to Austria go smoothly.

Here are some general travel tips – for many of the points, you will find more detailed info further below.

✔️ Dress in layers : The weather in Austria during the winter can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared with layers of warm clothing.

✔️ Book accommodations in advance : Popular ski resorts and cities like Vienna can fill up quickly during the winter months, so it’s best to book accommodations in advance.

✔️ Be aware of holiday closures : Many shops and attractions may have limited hours or be closed during Christmas and New Year’s Day.

✔️ Respect the environment: Austria’s beautiful winter landscapes should be treated with respect. Make sure to follow guidelines for responsible winter tourism, like staying on marked trails and disposing of trash properly.

WHAT TO PACK FOR AUSTRIA IN THE WINTER

It is important to dress warmly. Or better to dress in layers. Here are some of the most important items you should consider packing for your Austria winter vacation.

✔️ A warm, waterproof jacket should be one of the first items you think to pack. Avoid choosing a bulky jacket that takes up a lot of space. This can make you feel uncomfortable when you have layers underneath. Instead, opt for a lightweight trench raincoat that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. 

✔️ A knitted beanie is a perfect solution for keeping the warmth in while you venture out. A hat will keep you toasty warm wherever you are.

✔️ A pair of gloves can do wonders for your mobility and comfort. When selecting your options, it’s worth investing in a pair that can dry quickly and are touch-screen compatible.

✔️ A warm scarf and/or turtleneck sweater are key items for keeping your neck covered. A turtleneck sweater is perfect as a garment to wear underneath your jacket, while the scarf can be removed easily. 

✔️ Leggings  are an essential item to pack as you can dress them up or down. You can even wear them underneath your denim as an extra layer of warmth. 

✔️ When it comes to packing socks for your Austria winter trip – the thicker, the better. The chances are that you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors in the snow, and you’ll want your feet to be warm and cozy. 

✔️ My favorite winter clothes are thermals .  A quality set of thermals is your key to enjoying the winter weather in Austria. You have to wear them on a cold day to believe what a wonderful invention it is!

✔️ Make sure you have a trusty pair of waterproof shoes . You’ll want your shoes to be as versatile as possible. Snowshoes allow you to enjoy a variety of activities while keeping your feet warm and dry. 

By packing appropriately for your winter trip to Austria, you can stay comfortable and enjoy all the winter sports and attractions the country has to offer.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN AUSTRIA IN THE WINTER?

The weather in Austria during the winter season (December to February) can vary depending on the region . In general, however, winters in Austria are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing.

In the lowlands , like Vienna, average temperatures usually range from -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F) during the day, while in the mountains, temperatures can drop to -10°C to -15°C (5°F to 14°F) or lower.

The snowfall in the mountains can be heavy and the higher the elevation, the greater the snowfall.

In addition to the cold temperatures and snow, the winter season in Austria can also bring fog, icy roads, and occasional strong winds . It’s important to check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

HOW TO GET AROUND AUSTRIA IN THE WINTER

Getting around Austria in the winter is relatively easy thanks to its well-connected transportation network. Here are some options to consider:

🚆 TRAIN : Austria has an extensive train network that covers most major cities and towns. The trains are clean, comfortable, and reliable, and offer stunning views of the winter landscape. Consider purchasing an ÖBB Vorteilscard, which provides discounted fares on all ÖBB trains.

🚌 BUS : Buses are another option for getting around Austria in the winter. Many cities and towns have local bus networks and long-distance buses connect major cities. Flixbus is a popular bus company in Austria, offering affordable fares and comfortable amenities.

🚗 CAR : Renting a car can be a good option if you want to explore Austria’s smaller towns and rural areas. Keep in mind that winter driving conditions can be challenging, especially in the mountains, so be sure to check weather and road conditions before setting out.

🚎 SKI SHUTTLE : If you’re planning a ski holiday in Austria, consider using a ski shuttle service to get to and from the ski resorts. Many ski resorts offer shuttle services from nearby train stations or airports.

🚖 TAXI : Taxis are widely available in Austria, especially in larger cities. They can be a convenient option for shorter trips or when you need to get to a specific location quickly.

Overall, getting around Austria in the winter is easy and convenient. With a little planning and research, you can find the transportation option that works best for your travel style and budget.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON WINTER IN AUSTRIA

Visiting Austria in the winter season is a truly magical experience that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and exciting winter sports activities. From the charming Christmas markets to the stunning snow-capped mountains, Austria in the winter is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and culture.

Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes, enjoy a hot mug of Glühwein by a roaring fire, or explore the rich history and architecture of cities like Vienna and Salzburg, Austria has something for everyone. Just make sure to pack warm clothing and plan ahead to make the most of your winter vacation.

Winter sports in Austria, Austrian Alps

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person skiing in Kühtai with distant village in the foreground

A winter guide to Austria, from cities to mountains

Historic villages, traditional mountain food and well-connected resorts tempt visitors to Austria’s Alps.

With their centuries-old Alpine towns surrounded by farmland and their cosy chalet hotels offering open fires and comfort food, Austrian ski regions are the postcard perfect counterpoint to the big, purpose-built resorts in neighbouring France. And yet the skiing is as good as it gets, with some of the world’s most advanced lifts and huge, linked areas.  

Salzburger Sportwelt, for instance, connects seven resorts and 155 miles of skiing. It’s also part of Ski Amadé, a network of more than 500 miles of slopes and 270 lifts accessible via one single lift pass and featuring such standout areas as Hochkönig, connecting the villages of Maria Alm, Dienten and Mühlbach. Many of Ski Amadé’s resorts are within easy daily reach of Salzburg, and a free bus to Flachau for lift-pass-holders makes it easy to savour the colourful city — visitors can ski by day, then, by night, take in a black-tie concert during the late-January Mozart Festival. For more of the same, there are plenty of city-and-ski experiences on offer in Innsbruck, the Tyrolean capital (see p.40), where the Ski Plus City Pass covers 13 resorts, including the Stubai glacier, offering more than 200 miles of pistes and routes.

The second-most-popular destination for British skiers, ranking behind France, Austria hits the spot with culinary travellers, with its locally brewed beer, schnapps and hearty mountain fare — think potato-and-meat fry-up gröstl, bowls of goulash, apple strudel and kaiserschmarren (shredded pancakes).  

view of lakeside town with snow capped homes, and alps in the distance

Perhaps the best-known Austrian resort is St Anton, in Tyrol, revered both for its serious skiing — particularly off-piste — and its serious partying. If you fancy dancing on a table wearing ski boots, this is the place to do it. But there’s a stately side to it, too. St Anton is part of Ski Arlberg — along with St Christoph, Stuben, Zürs, Warth, Schröcken and Lech, the latter once popular with members of the British royal family — Austria’s largest connected ski resort, comprising more than 180 miles of pistes and 120 miles of off-piste trails.  

Meanwhile, Kitzbühel, also in Tyrol, is more refined, known for its Hahnenkamm Races, one of the most prestigious FIS Alpine Ski World Cup events. The local KitzSki area has 145 miles of well-tended-to pistes and is now linked to SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, offering 170 miles of runs. Different again is lakeside spa town Zell am See-Kaprun, south of Salzburg, with its wondrous views. A charming place to ski in itself, it’s also now connected with the wider Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrun winter sports area.

Visiting late in the ski season might mean there’s less of a guarantee of snow, but it’s a great time to enjoy Austria’s myriad spring festivals. It can also offer a more relaxed ski experience, with warmer temperatures likely from April — although last season, conditions were winter-like right through to Easter.

New this season is a joint lift pass for two smaller areas, Kappl and See, their collective 55 miles of runs united by shuttle bus. Both are also included in the Silvretta ski pass, which covers big-time Ischgl, but this is a good-value option for families who don’t need the full area.  

photo of guests watching the peaks at resort

The country already has some of the Alps’ most high-tech lifts and Stuben, in the west, is following suit, replacing its 1983 two-seater chair with an eight-person gondola. There are also moves to make skiing in Austria greener — Saalfelden-Leogang, for instance, now uses plant-based fuel to run its piste-grooming machines, reducing CO2   emissions by 90%.  

A day trip to Kühtai

The bus is filling up for its 9am departure from Innsbruck: a couple in vintage ski gear and bobble hats, a pair with curly-edged wooden sledges, a woman in a box-fresh all-in-one ski suit — and me. Here for the week, I’m keen to sample some of the 13 ski resorts included in the city’s Innsbruck Ski Plus City Pass, specifically Kühtai, a resort 20 miles — or a 45-minute bus journey — to the west.

One of the nice things about the sunny plateau of Kühtai, I soon find out, is that it’s small and faff-free. The bus drops me within walking distance of the lifts and, even with the commute, I still manage to fit in six hours of skiing.

At an altitude of 2,020 meters, Kühtai is among Austria’s highest ski villages, meaning it’s a tempting spot for those seeking snow-sure options. It also has a simple layout, making it doubly attractive for those, like me, who struggle with piste maps and chairlift names. The high street is the epicentre of the bowl-shaped resort and the pistes are numerically labelled, making the whole place wonderfully easy to navigate.

man and woman skiing within the forest

I begin my attack on the resort’s red runs with the Drei-Seen-Bahn lift, which whisks me up to 2,410 meters, and then work my way around Kühtai’s seven chairlifts in a clockwise direction, stopping only for a beer and a delicious serving of noodle soup in Zum Kaiser Maximilian   halfway around. The slopes are wide and sweeping, but most of them end with a steepish descent into town, where you can choose your next lift up.  

Due to its compact size (it has just 27 miles of pistes), Kühtai is well-suited to families and beginners. If you do choose to stay overnight, there are plenty of ski in, ski out self-catering accommodation options, plus a play area for children. Hourly ski passes are available, too, allowing fledgling skiers a taster session.

The neighbouring resort of Hochoetz is included in the Kühtai ski pass and accessed by free shuttle. This, along with the freestyle, snowcross and ski touring options, widen Kühtai’s attraction as a week-long destination. But for now, I end my day with some runs off the HochAlterBahn lift — Kühtai’s highest point. Piste number one is floodlit for night skiing, but my bus back to town is calling.

Birdseye perspective over urban area on a hill below snow covered mountains.

12 hours in Innsbruck

Breakfast Take tram 1 to Bergisel to scale the Zaha-Hadid-designed Olympic ski jump (nicknamed The Cobra) for breakfast at Bergisel Sky. Perched at the mouth of the serpent-like structure, the restaurant offers dizzying views of the city below.

Mid-morning sightseeing Book a private, English-speaking guide for an introduction to the city’s highlights, including the Hofburg palace, the Hofkirche church, the cathedral, the Goldenes Dachl (‘Golden Roof’), the city tower and the old town.  

Lunch At Kaiser Max , on Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, the sheepskin-covered chairs have an unrivalled view of the Nordkette mountain chain. It doesn’t get more Tyrolean than a plateful of gröstl — sautéed potatoes, beef and onions topped with a fried egg and served with coleslaw on the side.

Beef and roasted vegetables

Afternoon Take bus J from Maria-Theresien-Strasse towards Patscherkofel. Alight at Igls Dorfmitte, outside the disused cable car station, and follow the well-marked 5.5-mile Heiligwasser circular hike through some of Europe’s oldest and tallest pines. You’ll make steep climbs and the odd dash across a snowy piste and be able to admire the views from a pilgrimage church.

Cocktail hour The 12th floor of Adlers Hotel is the perfect spot from which to watch Innsbruck’s lights twinkle, a glass of Aperol spritz in hand.  

Dinner Restaurant Lichtblick , a glass cube atop the RathausGalerien, has 360-degree views of the city and serves modern international cuisine. Seasonal highlights include baked potato salad, saddle of salt meadow lamb with herb crust.  

the chapl - pink and white - covered in snow

3 more peaks to visit in Austria

1.   Hinterglemm

Best for families  

Part of the vast Skicircus region, this quiet resort just outside Saalbach has excellent nursery areas and lots of gentle pistes, plus the option to head to Zell am See for a full day out. The Gartenhotel Theresia is a stylish hotel that offers children’s spa treatments, a crafts club, tobogganing, a swimming pool and childcare options. What’s more, the ski school is just outside. Seven nights from £1,619 per person, full board, including flights and transfers.  

2.   Bad Gastein

Best for spas

A historic town with natural hot springs that have been tempting visitors for centuries, Bad Gastein is home to the Felsentherme complex, featuring a 32C indoor pool set into prehistoric rock, plus sauna, steam rooms and children’s pool. The Alpentherme Gastein, in Bad Hofgastein, just along the valley, is equally impressive and has two outdoor thermal lakes available for swimming year-round. The town’s excellent ski area links the two. Seven nights at pretty Chalet-Hotel Tannenburg costs from £753 per person, including flights, transfers, ski guiding and wine with dinner.  

Best for snow-sure skiing  

Gurgl is the new collective name for high-altitude Obergurgl and Hochgurgl in Tyrol’s Ötztal Valley, barely an hour from Innsbruck. The former sits at 6,330ft, the latter at 7,050ft. Skiing reaches an altitude of 9,940ft (also the site of the futuristic Top Mountain Star bar, overlooking Italy) and is all-but-guaranteed from well before Christmas until late April. Seven nights in Obergurgl’s Apartmenthaus Madeleine from £815 per person, self-catering, including flights and transfers.  

Related Topics

  • WINTER SPORTS
  • CITY GUIDES
  • RURAL AREAS

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Borders Of Adventure

Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Two women in winter gear hiking knee deep in snow in Austria in winter.

Adventure Travel , Austria

Things to do in Austria in Winter – Sport and Sights Beyond Skiing

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

When it comes to the things to do in Austria in Winter, you don’t only have to ski. Despite being the country’s greatest and biggest sport, there are plenty of other activities for sightseeing and adrenalin action. 

When the freshly green alpine meadows and the trail paths of the Alpine mountain peaks become coated in snow, winter in Austria becomes an entirely different landscape to play on.

Over 15 regions in Austria have established environmentally-friendly activities that get visitors closer to nature, proving that there is much more to Austria’s ski resorts and the surrounding areas and that winter holidays in Austria don’t have to be limited to traditional ski days. 

While the places to visit in Austria in winter are plentiful, Tirol tops my list as the go-to adventure playground for this season. The Kitzbulher Alpen region is one of them and is a great place to start. Tirol is undoubtedly synonymous with skiing, yet what many do not realise is the scope of other activities that you can engage in throughout your time here.

Whether you are a hiker, an outdoors adrenalin enthusiast, or a small town explorer, you certainly won’t be bored here when an Austrian winter season means getting to grips with its vast alpine arena via a host of alternative activities. And even if you decide to ambitiously ski Austria this season, maybe you might just be tempted to take to the powder differently on one of those days.

Winter Weather in Austria – When To Go

Winter in austria – where to go, alpine fatbiking in kirchberg, the traditional austria toboggan slide in gaisberg, snow segway in westendorf , tour st. johann in tirol on a horse-drawn carriage, biathlon the austrian way in hochfilzen, snowshoeing in kirchberg, trekking with llamas in pillerseetal , go schnapps tasting, eat in a traditional austrian mountain hut , planning what to do in winter in austria pin it.

The all-too-important questions about when to visit Austria in a season centered around snowfall. What months does it snow in Austria? When is the best time for a winter vacation in Austria? How cold does it get in the Alps?

The coldest month in Austria is January since temperatures typically begin to slowly rise from February. Temperatures can get into the minus degrees quickly, and even down to -20 or more.

However, Austria weather differs as you move across the country and its varied landscapes. In the valley areas like Tirol, snowfall can begin as early as November and last until March , where you will often hear about people enjoying the last of the spring snow while the valley beds emerge in green below.

Austria in December is considered a peak time of the year where winter in the Alps and its valleys can be easily combined with festive activities in the big cities , like the Christmas markets in Vienna and Salzburg.

An alpine hill top with a snow covered forest slope and wooden mountain hut.

When in the best time to enjoy winter in Austria?

The Kitzbulher Alpen is one of the best places to visit in Austria in winter, with over 1,000km of slopes and activity areas. It covers the four regions of Brixental, St.Johann in Tirol, Hohe Salve, and PillerseeTal in the Kitzbuhel area, which includes 20 traditional Tyrolean villages.

St Johann is in the middle, with accessible train and bus links to surrounding areas.

A village at the foot of a snowy ski slope mountain.

St. Johann in Tirol – the centre of the Kitzbuhel Alps region.

Things to Do in Austria in Winter for Fast-Paced Alpine Action

A group in winter gear riding fatbikes in the snow.

Fatbiking in Austria in Winter, where you even cross some ski slopes.

A fatbike is a specially designed winter bike with oversized tyres up to four inches wide, giving adrenalin junkies access to some of the Kitzbüheler Alpen’s 400km of biking tracks. I sampled the Fatbike monster machine in Kirchberg, cutting through fresh snow, gliding downhill in the alpine forests and grappling with multi-inclined and curling tracks that landed me right into the heart of the wilderness away from the slopes.

READ MORE: Alternative Winter Sports in Austria

Four people glide fast on the snow on a toboggan at nighttime.

Mountain tobogganing is a favourite winter activity in Austria.

Many Austrians will attest to tobogganing being as much a part of their winter escapades and in their blood as ski. As one of the typical winter activities in Austria, everyone has tried it and knows it because every winter season is not complete without this must-do, much-loved tradition.

One of the best things to do in Austria, you’ll see children as young as five years old jump on the wooden sleigh chairs, ready to whirl down the mountain in a speedy spiral.

As an adrenalin junkie, I found it both exhilarating and, at times, completely frightening. It takes a while to learn how to control your toboggan, especially around the very precarious mountain track edges. Be prepared to take a tumble and for your feet to be tested as your only form of breaking.

I sampled this heart-racing activity in the evening at Gaisberg , where the yellowing lights guided us down the 3.5km track, stopping for dinner at a traditional Austrian mountain hut, Gasthof Obergalsberg, halfway between.

You will never forget this traditional Austrian way of getting down a mountain.

People in winter clothing ride segways in the snow.

Did you know you can Segway in the snow? You can in Austria.

You might not have heard of it or seen it in a winter context, but with chained tyres, you can Segway in the snow.

Following the pathways through woodland, a one-hour Segway tour in Westendorf near St. Johann gets you completely off-track away from the skiers curving the mountain edges around you. We were the only ones within the Narnia-like hideaway, rolling carefree through untouched snow and rattling up and down small slopes in the woodlands.

READ MORE:   Riding a Segway in Winter in Austria

Things to See in Austria in Winter at a Slower Pace

Two people ride a horse and cart through a snow coated Austrian village in winter.

A horse-drawn carriage through the winter landscapes of St. Johann in Tirol, Austria.

The slow and romantic lull of a horse-drawn carriage takes you on a journey past the colours of St.Johann in Tirol’s building murals and the traditional Austrian architectural features that poke through the coating of fresh daily snow.

This is certainly a relaxing way to see a slice of Tirol beneath a blanket as you clip-clop through the scenic town and the surrounding valley – just one of many places to see in Austria here that make a show of dreamy winter scenes.

READ MORE: Things to Do in St. Johann in Tirol in Winter – Austria’s Sanctuary in the Alps

Best Things to Do During an Austria Winter Vacation: Nature Walks and Treks

Tow women in winter gear hiking knee deep in snow in Austria in winter.

Winter biathlon in Austria means showing off your skills and stamina. But it’s also fun.

The Kitzbulher Alpen attracts athletes from all over the world, who converge on the lands of Tirol for a Biathlon (a skiing event that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting). But outside of the Championships that have been held here, it doesn’t mean you can’t try a Biathlon in Austria too. Well, a taster of it at least.

With 700km of cross-country tracks and 750km of prepared-cross-country ski trails, Tirol is scattered with different gradients of ground from flat to challenging. It’s ideal for classic and skating style and has a network of ploughed and secured trails for those wanting to embark on winter hiking. I got a short course in cross-country skiing and an introduction to the Biathlon sport in Hochfilzen.

We set up a small circuit for a lighthearted competition, skating in teams back and forth in a relay. In the afternoon, we leisurely hiked through inches and inches of pure white, powdery snow and up some light hills, which involved a few soft and giggle-induced tumbles. It’s much harder to try to pull the cross-country skis through knee-deep snow AND climb.

A woman in snowshoes looks out over a snow slope towards the Alps in Austria.

Snowshoeing in Austria is the winter way to hike.

Snowshoes were once the tool of hunter-gatherers during the cold season, and over time have been adapted to become a means for rambling through snowy forests. For those who love a winter walk, this activity makes for some great off-beat exploration as part of your vacation in Austria.

Snowshoes (which you strap onto your winter boots) have a large surface area to enable you to walk through thick snow and explore completely off-track – a more relaxed means of getting out the secluded corners of Tirol, where you can explore the area of Kirchberg .

A woman in black and red winter clothing trekking with a llama in the snow covered alpine in Austria.

You might not associate Austria with Llama trekking, but it’s one of the unique things to do here.

Hanging out with llamas makes for one of the more unique things to do in Austria. Whether in sun and snow, these animals reside all year round in the PillerseeTal region and you can go  trekking with them as your trusty guide , spending a few hours to a full day in the Fieberbrunner mountains. Native to South America, the llamas can be found feeling very at home in the Kitzbulher Alpen, wandering the slanting alpine meadows and tiny villages. It is said they make great hiking companions – with distinct intelligent and funny personality traits, which can sense and therefore counteract stress.

It might appear gimmicky, but everyone enjoys getting up close to some of nature’s cutest creatures. For more insight into how it feels to have a llama as your trekking friend, I thoroughly enjoyed (and laughed at loud) reading this witty read on llama trekking in Tirol in the Guardian .

What to Do in Winter in Austria: Eat and Drink

A group of people in a mountain hut being presented Scent Vials during Schnapps Tasting in Tirol Austria.

Schnapps Tasting in Austria is serious business.

Schnapps is a long-standing tradition in Tirol since the 1700’s – of family recipes handed down from generation to generation. Five million kilograms of farm-fresh fruit are used each year to produce the handcrafted schnapps from the thousands of craft distilleries scattered across the region. It’s what gives Tirol its stamp of quality.

Schnapps lovers can head to one of 41 distilleries open to visitors in Tirol, and while I’m not a huge fan, I still enjoy trying it in the hope that one day the taste just resonates with me. In the meantime, one can still enjoy the science behind its manufacture. This year, I got to experience schnapps tasting with the Edelbrandsommelier, Leo Trixl, in the Boutique Lodge of S4 Alm in Fieberbrunn.

In this case, we were not standing in front of a vat that looked like a time machine (as you would normally do) but presented with a box of tiny vials of liquid, each with a very different and distinct scent. From this, you could work out which you liked and the corresponding schnapps flavour would be given to you to try, later accompanied with tasty spare ribs.

Snow falls over the painted facades of traditional Austrian mountain village huts and the church in St. Johann in Tirol.

Eat and drink in a traditional Austrian Gasthaus.

The outdoors life and being active and at one with nature may be a huge part of Austrian winter tourism, but so is relaxing in a traditional hut for a mountain pit stop to try Austrian food. To replenish the calories from strenuous nature exploration, hearty food is always the order of the day, accompanied by the alpine view.

My favourites are Tiroler Gröstl (a hearty dish of potatoes and pork, known as a traditional way of ‘eating the leftovers’) and Kaiserschmarn (a type of pancake served with an apple sauce and cranberry jam), all washed down with a favourite Austrian soft drink called Almdudler or specifically in winter, a good warming mug of Gluhwein (mulled wine).

Other top choices include Käsespätzle (an Austrian take on macaroni and cheese), Griessnockerl (Austrian style dumplings in soup) and the classic Wiener Schnitzel. Further inspiration for dishes to try, we well as recipes, can be found here .

Potato based Tiroler Gröstl and fluffy pancake Kaiserschmarrn - traditional Austrian food dishes found in Tirol.

Tiroler Gröstl and Kaiserschmarrn are two tops choices for traditional Austrian foods to try.

There’s always time to ski during winter in Austria, but when Tirol during this powdery season is a Narnia playground, what activities will you choose to try away from the traditional pastime?

Things To Know for an Austrian Winter Trip

Plan your time in this infamous Austrian Alps region – visit the Kitzbüheler Alpen website .

READ MORE:   Tirol is an adventure in all seasons if you are travelling in Austria outside of the winter season.

What to do in Winter in Austria pinterest pin

Photo Credits

Fatbiking: © Chris Wasser

Horse and cart ride in St. Johann and huskies: © Mela Mörtenbäck

Snowshoeing: ©  Christian Lendl

Llama trekking: ©  Black Dots White Spots

Editorial Disclosure – I didn’t get to try every single activity listed (all in good time). However, they all come from high recommendation of friends involved in the #InAustria trip, created and managed by iambassador in association with the  Austrian National Tourist Office ,  Tirol Tourist Board  and the  Kitzbüheler Alpen  Marketing GmbH. Borders of Adventure maintains full editorial control of the content published on the site, including all ridiculous excitement about the snow. 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

Lucian says

22 May 2019 at 8:35 am

I’ve seen many recommendations to go to Austria on a winter vacation. They have well-developed ski resorts. So far I have been in Romania, Brasov skiing. Maybe I will try this winter to get here.

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austria winter travel

Pickyourtrail Travel Blog

10 Things to Do in Austria in Winter: A Vacay To Cherish!

Austria in winter is more than watching and playing in the ice-capped mountainscapes and plains. There are more activities for you to engage in every corner of this aesthetical heaven with admirable culture. Austria is a stunning destination that outgrew most of its competitors by enchanting landscapes that lure adventure seekers. You could have often encountered this spectacular nature bound country while watching James Bond: Spectre movie. Moreover, Austria becomes even more charming by offering lots of things to do in winter to uplift the holiday season. 

Auspicious Austria itinerary for the culture vultures

Soak in the culture of Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck in this wonderful 9-day trip

10 Things To Do In Austria In Winter

Even though Austria in winter reminds you of generic activities like skiing and snowboarding; it’s not the end of the fun-filled pursuits that you can do there. So, start noting down these top 10 things to do in Austria in Winter to have a vacation of a lifetime.

  • Go For Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing
  • Rejuvenate In Thermal Spas
  • Experience Adrenaline Rush With Tobogganing
  • Visit The Finest Austrian Castles and Palaces
  • Ski To Experience Austrian Nature
  • Stroll Around The Alpine Villages
  • Go For A Trip Along Schnapps Route
  • Indulge In Austrian Cuisine
  • Go For Horse Carriage Ride 
  • Feel Lively in Holiday Concerts & Ball

1. Go For Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing

Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing, Best things to do in Austria in winter

 In winter, you could see the forests and valleys in Austria with an abundance of snow. This seasonal change makes it a perfect place to go hiking. Rent some snowshoes and hop on the cable car from Salzburg to the Mauterndorf ski area to explore the glacier and snowshoe trails. Snowshoeing around Rauris Valley Forest and Tannheimer Tal Valley give you an excessive dose of scenic views. You don’t have to be an expert hiker with gears to venture into this wild under the azure sky.

Also Read: Skydiving In Austria – An Ultimate Adventure

2. Rejuvenate In Thermal Spas

Spending your vacation in thermal spas during your winter vacation in Austria is a must-do. As the temperature gets colder, outdoor thermal baths are ideal for relaxing. In the heart of Oetztal Valley , visit Austria’s most luxurious thermal spa, “The Aqua Dome Hotel & Spa”. Fall in love with its futuristic look and experience the extensive wellness treatment in its mineral-rich spring water while stargazing. Can’t get enough with just one thermal bath? You can either visit Tryols popular wellness resort Bad Haring which lets you enjoy 50 variety of treatments. Or, swim in the healing waters of the spa town Bad Gastein while witnessing the enchanting view of Hohe Tauern mountains.

3. Experience Adrenaline Rush With Tobogganing

For those who want to do something different than just Skiing and Snowboarding, Tobogganing is the funky way to have fun. This sport has a sweet spot in every Austrian’s childhood. While every ski resort in Tyrol let you access the toboggan, get one for yourself and reach the Glampweg Toboggan Run. You don’t need to have any special skills to ride it. Jump off and slide through the snow as fast as you can and feel your cheeks warm up as the adrenalin rushes. If you want it to be a bit challenging, choose the trails that can give you speed up to 50 km per hour. 

Also Read: 10 Best Places For Paragliding In Austria

4. Visit The Finest Austrian Castles and Palaces

Visit Castles and Palaces, Best things to do in Austria in Winter

While winter in Austria can sometimes be colder so spend your vacation visiting architectural marvels like castles , fortresses, cathedrals and palaces. All of these monuments will be accessible during the entire winter. The ancient architectures in Austria are distinguished for their impressive art and royal garden. Experience the medieval atmosphere at the renowned castles Burg Kreuzenstein, Burg Hochosterwitz and Hohenwerfen Castle. 

Hohenwerfen Castle is quite familiar as it is a Hollywood favoured site. From there, take a 40 min ride to visit Salzburg and wander around the 11th-century fortress Hohensalzburg situated on the top of a hill. Make sure to enjoy the picturesque view and take tons of photographs.

Also Read: 10 Best Places To Visit in Salzburg

5. Ski To Experience Austrian Nature

Skiing, Things to do in Austria in Winter

You can’t miss the generic national sport of Austria while you are spending your winter vacay there. Austria is home to some of the lavish top-rated ski resorts in Europe. Kitzbuhel is one such sophisticated resort with extraordinary slopes extending up to 170 km. Naturally, you can find levels that suit your skill. Also, if you are looking for some high-end skiing experience with luxury lodging, head to Lech-Zurs. 

Additionally, take part in Austria’s fun-filled ski festival, “Nostalgia Ski Race”, which takes place on Feuerkogel mountain every March. Dress up like you are in the early 20th-Century and enjoy a graceful moment with other skiers till night.

6. Stroll Around The Alpine Villages

Stroll in Alpine Villages

While you can find the most satisfying recreation in the Austrian city, villages give great satisfaction through leisure. The snow-covered alpine villages make you feel like you are in a fairy world. You can spend your precious time fruitfully throughout the year. As you stroll through the cobblestoned boulevard sidelined by the ancient buildings shining with Christmas spirit, you wish the time to stop so that you spend those moments forever. Sounds a bit exaggerating? No kidding. And if you visit villages in Tyrol, you will experience it directly. 

Moreover, visit Halstatt , a mountain village surrounded by the tranquillity of nature bounded by the Salzkammergut Mountains and glaciers. Here time passes perfectly, even if you are sitting inside your room and gazing at the view from the window.

Also Read: 10 Unique And Unusual Things To Do In Austria

7. Go For A Trip Along Schnapps Route

When you are in Tyrol, don’t forget to take the Schnapps route to experience the authentic flavour of craft liqueurs. Schnapps is home to craft distillers since the 17th-century. And winter is the excellent season to travel through the region and experience signature wines and spirits crafted with perfection from almost 41 artisan distilleries. Moreover, take a guided tour to learn the science behind how they bring their drinks to such perfection.

8. Indulge In Austrian Cuisine

Austrian Cuisine, Things to do in Austria in Winter

Savouring the delicious and distinct Austrian food is a must on the to-do list. With all the physical activities you do to make your vacation extraordinary and to beat the Austrian coldness, try the warmest and flavourful food from the top restaurants in Austria. Additionally, learn the authentic flavour of Austria by tasting dishes like Kaiserschmarrn(emperor pancake), Kasespatzle(Austrian pasta), Tiroler Grostl, Apfelstrudel(Strudel), Sachertorte(Vienna Chocolate Cake) and more.

9. Go For Horse Carriage Ride 

Visit Sankt Johann and ride to get the classic experience by riding the charming horse carriage. Get your longtime wish fulfiled here. Pretend like you are a protagonist from a classic novel. Keep yourself warm under the blanket and watch the scenery while riding. 

Also Read: 12 Most Exotic And Instagrammable Spots In Austria

10. Feel Lively in Holiday Concerts & Ball

Orchestra, Things to do in Austria in Winter

As winter is the perfect time for events, make sure to spend it with dance and music. Make sure to pre-book famous and entertaining classical concerts or New year concerts in Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. You can also participate in a gala event in the Kursalon concert venue that happens every December 25th. Also, try to take part in the Tyrol Winter Festival Erl. 

Moreover, don’t forget to make lots of memories during your vacation dancing elegantly at balls. Yes! Austria is famous for staging ball events. It is an age-old tradition that Austrians strive to preserve. From November to April, almost 500 balls happen in Austria. So you can’t make excuses to experience this spectacle. The popular balls are the Ball of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at Vienna Musikverein Concert hall, Physicians’ Ball at Imperial Palace and Graz at Opera House. Get a last-minute class to learn the waltz, and make sure to stick with the fancy dress code and fall in love with your life all over. 

Austria Tour Package Starting @ ₹ 64,120

Schonbrunn Palace. Vienna State Opera. Fortress Hohensalzburg. St. Stephen's Cathedral

Frequently Asked Question For Austria Winter Vacation

Winter in Austria starts in December and extends up to March.

Soelden, SkiWelt and Saint Anton am Arlberg are some of the best ski resorts in Austria.

Hotel Schloss Monchstein, The Little Guesthouse Salzburg, Hotel Bristol Salzburg and Sheraton Grand Salzburg.

Austria has lots of things to do that suits a different type of people. You can be an adventure seeker or wellness seeker, solo traveller or travelling as a couple. Here, there are endless activities that drive your spirit. So, take this article as your calling, and start planning for your winter vacation to Austria. You can encounter an ideal Austria tour package from India or Austria honeymoon package on Pickyourtrail or customise an Austria itinerary to your satisfaction. 

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Hallstatt in Winter Ultimate Guide + 13 Epic Best Things to do

February 14, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Wondering if it is worth it to visit Hallstatt in winter?

The answer is: Yes! Hallstatt is absolutely worth visiting in the winter. Hallstatt is a magical wonderland where you can see frozen streams, snow-topped mountains, and charming Christmas markets!

Hallstatt in winter is a fairy tale destination, and you’ll be greeted by amazing snow-coated mountain vistas and parcel-colored traditional architecture perched by the lakeside, this puts Hallstatt on the top list of the dream destinations to visit once in a lifetime.

If you’re planning a vacation trip to Austria, a stop at Hallstatt should certainly be on your itinerary don’t worry about logistics and all because I’ve put together a complete guide for your Hallstatt winter tour. I also recommend checking Salzburg in winter , since both towns are very close, and magic at this time of the year. And of course, plan to visit the magical Christmas Markets in Austria during your winter trip.

This article is packed with very helpful information . Here you will find the top things to do in Hallstatt in winter, plus the best places to stay , my recommendations for restaurants, and all tips to make your trip as memorable as it was for me. So without any further ado, let’s discover the best of Hallstatt in winter!

You may also love these articles ❤️ :

  • Ultimate Guide to Winter in Salzburg
  • How to visit Innsbruck in 2-Days
  • Most Magical Christmas Markets in Austria

Hallstatt Austria winter

Hallstatt in Winter | Quick Guide

💡 Must-Read : Lonely Planet Austria | Must-have | Universal adapter  

🏆 OVERALL Best Tour | Private Hallstatt Full-day tour (⭐️ 4.3/5)

🌟 Best Tour from Salzburg | Half Day Tour to Hallstatt (⭐️ 4.5/5)

🌟 Best Tour from Vienna | Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip (⭐️ 4.6/5)

📸 Best Guided Tour with a photographer | Hallstatt 2-hour Tour with Photographer (⭐️ 5/5)

13 Best Things to do in Hallstatt in Winter

1. Explore the scenic streets of Hallstatt

The first impressive thing about this little town is its beautiful lakeside view. A stroll through the scenic streets is a perfect way to start your Hallstatt winter exploration. The streets are flanked by traditional pastel houses, with beautiful balconies. Continue your stroll to the amazing Lake street for a picturesque view of the lake and the beautiful snow-covered mountains.

If you prefer a more structured itinerary then taking a  private Hallstatt tour  might be a great option for your Hallstatt winter visit.

Hallstatt in winter

2. Visit the Central Square Marktplatz

Hallstatt is a small town, and you can’t miss Central Market Square while exploring the streets. The historic market square was once a medieval center of trade and commerce and is still quite full of activity. At the very center of the Square is the beautiful statue of the Holy Trinity, which is surrounded by very colorful 18th-century buildings with steep roofs and balconies decorated with flowers.

During Hallstatt winter, the buildings may be covered with a layer of snow, but Market Square remains just as lively, it actually becomes a bustling Christmas market with stunning decorations, festive music, and cheery events . Don’t forget to take as many pictures as you can, and browse the surrounding cafés and souvenir shops.

Salzberg Hallstatt

3. Experience the World Heritage Museum of Hallstatt

As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Heritage Museum of Hallstatt is one of the most visited places, and for good reasons. This museum houses historic treasures from 7 millennia; from the Stone Age to recent history.

You will find interesting collections from local salt mines, cemeteries, archeological excavations, swords, weapons, Roman remains, etc. And the best part is that they use 3D displays and video animations to keep your experience as exciting as possible. No dusty shelves and boring lectures, it’s certainly one of the most amazing winter experiences in Hallstatt.

4. Marvel at the Historic Churches

Hallstatt is a town rooted in religious beliefs, and there are a number of magnificent church buildings to admire. One is the 15th-century Catholic Church of Hallstatt, with a gorgeous Gothic-style altar, Gothic frescoes, invaluable paintings, and artworks.

Also, marvel at the spectacular vistas of the town and lake from the church balcony. Another incredible church to visit is the towering, picture-perfect 18th-century Evangelical church. The magnificent Evangelical Church sits just at the city center, by the lakeside, you can stroll down to it from Market Square.

austria winter travel

5. Visit the Bone House

Your visit to the Catholic Church of Hallstatt isn’t complete without stopping by at the incredible Bone House at St Michael’s Chapel. As the name implies, this 12th-century chapel is akin to a bone museum with a spooky collection of over 1200  human skulls, of which 600 have hand-painted artistic inscriptions of the name of the deceased, year of death, and floral markings.

According to the locals, the bone house was built to act as an extension of the graveyard. To create spaces in the cemetery, bones were removed from graves, cleaned up, painted with special inscriptions, and stored in the bone house. This way, graves can be reused. The Charnel house is both a fascinating and eerie place.

Hallstatt Austria winter

6. Discover the World’s Oldest Salt Mine

Dating back to the 12th century, the Altaussee Salt Mine is the oldest and biggest active salt mine in Austria . The salt mine was established in 1147 and has been producing 10,000 tons of ‘white gold’ annually since 1906.

A guided tour of the salt mine will take you on a 2.5 km walk through underground tunnels, guided by lamps, with walls of pure orange-red rock salt that glisten in the dark. Deep into the mountain is the Barbara Chapel, which was built only from rock salt in 1935 by miners. Plus all the exciting stories connected to the mine.

💡 INSIDER TIP: Be aware that Hallstatt Salt Mine tours do not run for four weeks between mid-January and mid-February.

7. See Hallstatt from Above

The only thing better than exploring Hallstatt on your feet is seeing the enchanting little town from above. To see Hallstatt from above, take the zigzag hike that travels through waterfalls and beautiful vistas up to the top. Note that the trail can be slippery during winter, especially when there’s ice on the path. Be extra careful, and don’t go with kids.

Once at the top, you can walk to the Hallstatt Skywalk viewing point ; a free-floating observation deck that’s suspended 350 meters (1,148 feet) above the city. From up there, you will enjoy a bird’s eye view of the town below, soak in the panoramic views of the lake, and take in the impressive mountain vistas and breathtaking Alpine peaks.

Hallstatt Austria winter

8. Experience the Small Island

A 15-minute walk from Central Market Square takes you to the small island via two small bridges. The small island is a World heritage landscape uniquely developed for recreational fun, it’s an ideal place to spend some refreshing time in the water.

This artificial bathing island was built in the 60s with rocks from the Hallstatt tunnel, and it’s still an amazing place to visit. It’s family-friendly, with shallow water sections suitable for kids to use during summertime.

Salzberg Hallstatt

9. Warm up in a Café

Some restaurants in Hallstatt close during wintertime, but you still can find some open restaurants and cafes that are open. Some of the top cafes in Hallstatt are listed below. These local charming cafes offer not just a taste of local flavors but an experience woven with the village’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.

  • Café Derbl : Begin your day with a slice of heaven as you overlook the Lake Hallstatt. Sip your morning coffee while while you admire the landscape outside. It’s the perfect spot to start your Hallstatt adventure.
  • Café-Konditorei Bramböck : A cozy place where the aroma of homemade pastries mingles with the warmth of Austrian hospitality. Here, tradition meets innovation as you indulge in time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
  • Kaffeewerk : For those who seek the artistry of coffee, Kaffeewerk is the ultimate destination. This is where every cup is brewed to perfection, a masterpiece of flavor and aroma. But it’s not just about coffee; it’s about the entire experience. Pair your artisanal coffee with an array of freshly baked treats, and you’ll understand why Kaffeewerk is a Hallstatt gem.

Some restaurants that I tried and recommend are:

  • Zum Salzbaron Restaurant: Located inside Seehotel Grüner Baum, with the lake view.
  • Seewirt Zauner Hotel Restaurant : Situated very conveniently in the square, a great option for dinner

austria winter travel

Read More: Most Magical Christmas Markets in Austria

10. Get Some Picture Perfect Photos

No Hallstatt winter itinerary would be complete without grabbing your camera and taking some truly magical photos. And if you’re wondering where to go to get that quintessential shot of Hallstatt that you see plastered all over social media then just type “Classic Village Viewpoint” into Google Maps and let Google do the rest.

After all, this iconic photo makes for a great Hallstatt souvenir and can be changed up a bit if you take the photo from Badeinsel Hallstatt instead. This spot sits right across the town and provides you with a photo from a totally unique perspective.

Alternatively, you could hike to the Skywalk and get a truly awe-inspiring aerial view of the entire town as you enjoy all of the best things to do in Hallstatt in the winter.

austria winter travel

11. Enjoy some Cool Winter Sports in Hallstatt

The snow-coated mountains of Hallstatt are perfect for a variety of winter sports, and you can try out a few during your visit; skiing, sleigh rides, snowboarding, etc.

Just 5km from Hallstatt lies Obertraun, and the very popular  Free Ride Arena – Krippenstein . This is one of the longest free ski spots in Austria and it is a great option for adventure seekers, whether on skis or boards. The various slopes on offer are sure to get your blood racing.

winter in Salzburg

If you’re visiting Hallstatt in winter then one thing you should add to your Hallstatt bucket list is hiking. After all, the natural area surrounding this charming town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in and of itself.

So, rent a pair of snowshoes, get outside, and enjoy some of the best hikes in Hallstatt in winter. Area highlights include the Echerntal Trail with its snow-covered pine trees. Just be sure to stop at various informational signs along the way to learn more about the natural history of the area.

Additionally, the Experiences Trail is a great winter hike in Hallstatt since it is short and offers visitors sweeping views as you make your way from the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car to the 5 fingers overlook.

12. Relax in a Heated Pool

If you visit Hallstatt in winter then one thing you’ll quickly realize is that outdoor temperatures can get quite cold. So, be sure to take a break from the cold with a soothing dip inside a heated pool at one of the town’s many high-end spas.

And while there are many heated pools to choose from, try going for a swim in the Gosau indoor pool . And the real highlight of a swim here is marveling at the stunning mountains all around you through glass walls.

Alternatively, head to GAldiana Club Salzkammergut und GrimmingTherme in Bad Mitterndorf since this sauna features stellar views, thermal baths, and an amazing playground that children will adore.

Hallstatt in winter is a perfect time to enjoy the local spas

13. Celebrate Christmas in Hallstatt

Another amazing reason to visit Hallstatt in winter is to visit the incredible collection of Christmas traditions that you’ll explore during this time. You also have the option to join this  Christmas tour . where you can see the traditional Christmas market in the town square and absorb the festive atmosphere in the historic center.

After all, Market Square comes alive with vibrant Christmas decor while a fun Christmas market pops up in the town. Everyone in the area loves this market since you can shop for arts and crafts from wooden chalets while listening to amazing musical performances from local groups.

Now, while at the market, be sure to try zirbenschnaps . It’s an interesting seasonal beverage that is translated to pine cone schnapps in English and that can be savored while munching on Christmas-inspired pastries.

Afterward, make your way to Bad Goisern and enjoy the Salzkammergut Krampus parade . You’ll see an unusual combination of angels, Santas, and creepy devils. See, in Austria, Krampus is a half-goat, half-man who punishes children who have been naughty throughout the year.

Therefore, you’ll see a fascinating combination of scary and sweet figures during this fun parade if you take the time to enjoy a Hallstatt Christmas.

austria winter travel

Best Places to Stay in Hallstatt in Winter

The place I choose to stay in is the Seehotel Grüner Baum as it is located in the best spot in town – right in the center of everything. The traditional interior of the hotel is unique, and the rooms are sure to satisfy all the needs for comfort and warmth.

There is also a restaurant with stunning lake views where I loved to just have some steamy hot chocolate or coffee with the best view of Hallstatt. If you are staying overnight, I have selected the best accommodation options in Hallstatt:

Salzberg Hallstatt

📍 Overall Pick: Seehotel Grüner Baum

⭐️ Rating: 9 /10 Wonderful (1,237 Reviews)

Located in the car-free center, the 4-star superior Seehotel Grüner Baum offers spacious rooms with panoramic views of Lake Hallstatt, the restaurant also offers an amazing steam room and sauna.

Hallstatt Austria winter

📍 Budget-Friendly: Fenix Hall Boutique Hotel Hallstatt

⭐️ Rating: 9 /10 Wonderful (1,375 Reviews)

This is the best option if you are looking for great accommodation with great value. Rated as a SUPERB by the guests, with excellent location. The rooms are furnished in a modern country style and feature mountain views, wooden floors, a flat-screen satellite TV, a coffee machine, and a spacious bathroom.

Salzberg Hallstatt

📍 Best-rated: Boutiquehotel Strand Hallstatt – Adults only

⭐️ Rating: 9.6 /10 Exceptional (477 Reviews)

If you are looking for the best in a house (aka Hallstatt lake and mountains) this hotel is for you! The accommodation is very comfortable, with free private parking, a private beach area, and a terrace. The accommodation offers room service and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Hallstatt Austria winter

How Long Should I visit Hallstatt in Winter?

You can visit Hallstatt in winter as a day trip from Viena or Salzburg , but it may be hard to hit all the main attractions in a single day. I recommend an overnight stay if you want to experience all the very best things to do in Hallstatt in winter before you leave.

Hallstatt in winter is magic at night, and you may want to enjoy the night if you love photography, you can take amazing pictures of the lights of the city casting a beautiful glow on the streets. Plus, the town normally has empty streets, and walking around can give you the feeling you have Hallstatt for yourself.

Waking up in the morning with the Hallstatt views from the balcony of your hotel is another thing to add to your bucket lis t. If you decide to stay overnight, I recommend staying in the city center, as Hallstatt is very compact and easy to explore on foot. 

Salzberg Hallstatt

Weather in Hallstatt in Winter

If you are wondering if Hallstatt in winter is cold, my honest answer for you is: heck yeah! Hallstatt is very cold in winter! The days are usually snowy, rainy, and cold, with very little sunlight.

The average high temperature in Hallstatt winter is 3°C  (37.4 °F) and the average lowest temperature is -3 °C (26.6 °F). Despite being very cold, Hallstatt in winter is surprisingly busy with tourists and winter-lovers swarming the city.

But the good news is that Hallstatt in winter transforms into a magical fairy land. Hallstatt is a beautiful white city, with plenty of fun activities, although some attractions may be closed. Also, make sure you pack the right kind of clothing. No matter what the  Hallstatt, Austria weather   – dress accordingly and enjoy this fairytale.

austria winter travel

How to Get to Get Around Hallstatt in Winter

Hallstatt is a very small town, and it’s easy to explore on foot, and the city center is actually a car-free zone . Also, all the major attractions can be easily accessed by foot, you can hike up the mountains or take the funicular and there are ferry rides to take you across the lake.

If you wish to visit the Ice Caves, there are taxis and local bus services that can take you there.

✈️ FLYING TO HALLSTATT:

You can choose to fly directly to Salzburg W.A. Mozart Airport (SZG), which is only 4 km from the city center. Then either hire a private driver or go on a private tour to Hallstatt.

🚎 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION TO HALLSTATT:

You don’t need public transportation to explore Hallstatt, as the city is very compact and you can explore on foot. But if your hotel is outside the town center, there is a trolley and bus system that serves the city.

📸 PRIVATE TOUR TO HALLSTATT:

You can take a very convenient Half Day Tour from Salzburg to Hallstatt or if you are traveling from Vienna, you can take a Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip

🚗 RENTAL CAR:

Driving is easy and the best way to explore the area, here is the location of the major cities – check more in the section below. But keep in mind that you don’t need a car to explore Hallstatt , as the city is very compact and you can explore on foot. Parking in Hallstatt is easy, as the town has parking garages located just outside the old town. I personally use and recommend Discover Car , as they meticulously search through local and international companies to get you the best deal every time.

Hallstatt in winter

How to Get to Hallstatt from the Major Cities

If you’re a first-time visitor to Austria, there are a couple of ways to get to Hallstatt. The easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to locate Hallstatt is from Salzburg.

You can take a very convenient tour from Salzburg to Hallstatt – Salzburg to Hallstatt is a 2.5-hour ride by bus or train, and only 1.5 hours if you choose to drive. This is exactly what I did, and the driving is short and even better, scenic as you will have many opportunities to stop on the side of the road for pictures.

Alternatively, you can make your first stop at Vienna, and connect to Hallstatt from there. Vienna to Hallstatt is a 4-hour train ride, approx. 3 hours by bus, and

From Salzburg to Hallstatt

The road distance between Salzburg and Hallstatt is 72.9 km, and on average, it takes about 2 hours to complete the trip. If you choose to visit Hallstatt from Salzburg, there are a number of options available; you can either make the trip by bus, train, or rental car. You can also find organized day trip tours   to Hallstatt from Salzburg.

🚍 BY BUS | A bus ride from Salzburg to Hallstatt is about 2 hrs 40 mins, and buses leave Salzburg to Hallstatt daily, but there are usually no direct rides. You will take the first bus (Bus 150) from Salzburg Hofwirt which terminates at Bad Ischl Bahnhof, from where you get the second bus (Bus 542) to Hallstatt.

🚊 BY TRAIN | A train ride from Salzburg to Hallstatt takes about 2:50 hours, and it’s also not a direct journey. A train from Salzburg Hbf will take you all the way to Attnang-Puchheim, and from there another train will take you to Hallstatt Bahnhof. Finally, a ferry boat will take you across the lake.

🚗 BY CAR | Driving from Salzburg to Hallstatt takes just about 1:20 hour

From Vienna to Hallstatt

From Vienna, you can reach Hallstatt either by bus, train or by driving. On average, the trip takes about 3 hours and covers a distance of 304 km.

🚍 BY BUS | You can get a direct Flixbus from Wien Westbahnhof to Hallstatt Lahn. The driving distance is 215 km and takes a little above 4 hrs to complete.

🚊 BY TRAIN | The first train departs from Vienna Wien Westbahnhof Station and terminates at Attnang-Puchheim. Another train from Attnang-Puchheim to Hallstatt Bahnhof, and finally a Stefanie ferry takes you across the lake. And the total journey time is about 3 hr 55 mins.

🚗 BY CAR | Driving from Vienna to Hallstatt takes approximately 3.5 hours

From Munich to Hallstatt

Munich to Hallstatt is about 224 km long and the average journey time is 3.5 hours, and it’s usually not a direct trip.

🚍 BY BUS | It takes about 5 hours to reach Hallstatt from Munich by bus. The first bus departs from Munich Hbf and terminates at Salzburg Hbf. From there, another bus takes you to Bad Ischl Bahnhof, where you get a final bus to Hallstatt.

🚊 BY TRAIN | A train ride from Munich to Hallstatt takes about 4.5 hours. The first train takes you from Munich Hbf to Salzburg Hbf. From there you switch to a different train and continue your journey to Attnang-Puchheim. Another change is made here, the final train takes you to the Hallstatt Station and you ride a ferry to cross the lake.

🚗 BY CAR | Munich to Hallstatt is about 2.5 hours

austria winter travel

READ NEXT: Top 10 Things to do in Innsbruck

What to wear in Hallstatt in Winter

Hallstatt in winter is cold, so make sure to pack accordingly and keep warm, so you can enjoy walking around while the temperatures are below freezing conditions for hours on end, especially with a wind chill. I visited Hallstatt in December and it was so cold that even with gloves, my hands got so cold that they hurt – so make sure you pack the warmest gear you have if you are planning to visit Hallstatt in winter.

You can click on any of the following item pictures to be taken to their pages and see prices and details. 

  • Down jacket: Check here for the Best Travel Jackets
  • Merino base layer
  • Long sleeve tops
  • Fleece jacket
  • Fleece-lined leggings: Check here for the Best Travel Leggings
  • Denim jeans
  • Beanies, scarves, and gloves
  • Merino socks
  • Winter/ snow boots
  • Bikini – if you are doing sauna

Hallstatt Austria winter

Things to do in Hallstatt in Winter Recap

  • Explore the scenic streets of Hallstatt
  • Visit the Central Square Marktplatz
  • Experience the World Heritage Museum of Hallstatt
  • Marvel at the Historic Churches
  • Visit the Bone House
  • Discover the World’s Oldest Salt Mine
  • See Hallstatt from Above
  • Experience the Small Island
  • Warm up in a Café
  • Get Some Picture Perfect Photos
  • Enjoy some Cool Winter Sports in Hallstatt
  • Relax in a Heated Pool
  • Celebrate Christmas in Hallstatt

The best christmas market in Austria

Hallstatt in Winter FAQs

Is hallstatt worth visiting in winter.

Yes! Hallstatt is absolutely worth visiting in the winter. It’s a magical wonderland where you can see frozen streams, snow-topped mountains, and charming Christmas markets,

The only thing you won’t be able to do in winter in Hallstatt is visit the Dachstein Ice Caves or paddle a boat around the lake.

How many days in Hallstatt in winter?

You’ll need at least two days to enjoy all of the best things to do in Hallstatt in winter. Afterward, take some to hit the slopes and relax in the thermal spas that this incredible region has to offer.

Is January a good time to visit Hallstatt?

Yes, January is a great time to visit Hallstatt. Sure, the weather will be a bit cold. But, if you don’t mind frigid temperatures then you’ll enjoy lower prices, fewer crowds, and lots of fun winter activities.

Is the Hallstatt Skywalk open in winter?

Yes, the Hallstatt Skywalk and Funicular are open every day, all year long. However, Hallstatt Salt Mine tours do not run for four weeks between mid-January and mid-February.

Is Hallstatt Expensive?

Yes, Hallstatt is more expensive when compared with other top cities in Austria. Additionally, Hallstatt is a smaller town with a limited number of hotels and restaurants.

Therefore, winter is the best time to visit Hallstatt since crowds are smaller, creating a much more enjoyable experience.

austria winter travel

Hallstatt in Winter Conclusion

With landscapes that look like they popped right out of a fairytale, the Hallstatt Austria winter is magical. It’s a great place to visit at any time of the year, however, the blanket of snow that envelops the town in winter makes it even more charming. This alpine village is truly an Austrian treasure waiting to be discovered.

Whether for a day’s trip or more, let yourself marvel at the historic treasures and natural beauty of Hallstatt. And if you want extra excitement, ski resorts offer a series of thrilling winter sports that keep you warmer.

I think you would also love to check out other amazing destinations in Austria:

  • Salzburg in Winter Guide and top things to do
  • Innsbruck Guide and top things to do
  • Best Christmas Markets in Austria
  • How to visit Brussels on a Day Trip
  • 17 Reasons to Visit Lapland in Winter

Hallstatt in winter Pinterest

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austria winter travel

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15 thoughts on “hallstatt in winter ultimate guide + 13 epic best things to do”.

Hallstatt looks absolutely magical in the winter! Your photos are awesome. Hallstatt is definitely a location that’s on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing this great guide.

Hallstatt look like an absolutely charming town and so pretty in winter. Your pics are gorgeous! Thanks so much for sharing!

Love your post, so detailed and well explained!! I’m from Austria and I only live 1 hour from Hallstatt. You were really lucky to see it covered in snow, it doesn’t happen that often anymore. Also love your photos!

Even though I’m from Austria and been to Hallstatt 3 times already, I have NEVER seen it in winter. I can only imagine how magical must look covered in white with all the Christmas decor. 🙂

Hallstatt looks beautiful in winter with plenty to do. Great photos!

Salt mines? I never heard of it before. That sounds interesting.

I absolutely adore this guide and your beautiful winter wonderland photos! Hallstatt has been on my list for a long time and winter looks like the perfect time to go!

This is one of my top bucket list destinations! It looks so beautiful, especially with all the snow. It’s kind of a dream location for a photographer. 🙂 The bone house is intriguing…I’d definitely stop in there. Great post!

This looks like such a magical place to be in the winter – I looove the architecture! (not sure I’m sold on the bone house though lol)

Hallstatt looks like a dream to me and I can’t wait to visit this magical place.

It is so true, Hallstatt really looks like a magical place.

I know…haha…the bone house was very interesting to visit. But you are right, the architecture is so unique and stunning.

I think you would love Hallstatt, and you are right. It is really a dream destination for photographers, I even forgot that it was so cold while I was having fun taking pictures around.

I chance upon your page when researching. I am going to drive from Salzburg to Hallstatt salt mine in early December. Am informed to park at P2 carpark nearest to the salt mine funicular station.

After my visit to salt mine I would like to make a trip down to Hallstatt village and have a stroll in there to visit the museum, churches settle for some meal before returning to Salzburg.

May I know where if I can drive into the Hallstatt village. The Lahn dock nearest to the salt mine is closed hence I cannot take the ferry to the Hallstatt village. I read the village is car free zone which mean after my salt mine visit I cannot drive into the village am I right? Can u help to advise where can I leave the car at the nearest carpark to walk to the village instead. I have 2 young kids with me 5 and 6 years. So would like to park nearest to the village as possible to minimize too much walking.

Thank you and looking forward to your reply soon.

Thanks for checking the blog and posting this question. You are right, there is no parking in the village, but there is a parking lot (P1) that is quite close to the village and easy to walk to and from. This is the lot that I used. It is about a 5-minute walk into the tiny village. Parkplatz P2 is also quite close to the village and is an easy walk downhill. Again, this lot should only be about a 5-minute walk.

Early December is a great time to visit and see the village decorated for Christmas, it is charming. Be mindful of the cold weather and make sure you dress warm. I think your kids will enjoy being in this fairytale village at Christmas time. While you are there enjoy some warm apfel strudel and hot chocolate.

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Le Long Weekend

Experiencing the Magic of Salzburg in Winter

Take a sojourn in Salzburg at any time of the year and you’re in for a treat. But to truly see the city come into its fairytale finest, visiting Salzburg in the winter is a must.

An Austrian city most famous for its associations with Mozart and the movie ‘The Sound of Music’, its history has been lovingly preserved, and many of the main attractions are still centred around its illustrious past.

But that’s not to say it’s stuck in yesteryear! Annual events such as the fun & colourful Winterfest , and modern art galleries such as Fotohof and the Museum of Modern Art, firmly establish its place on the contemporary circuit too.

Thinking of planning a trip to Salzburg in winter? Here’s everything you need to know, see & do!

Table of Contents

Salzburg Winter Weather

There’s no doubt that winter in Austria is chilly. But just how cold can you expect it to get? Well, that depends on the month.

austria winter travel

Salzburg in December

Frost is the norm in December in Salzburg. Expect very cold days, with only 8.5 hours of daylight and a good chance of rain. You could experience some snowfall, especially at the end of the month. But it’s less likely to settle. Daytime temps reach up to 4°C (39°F) and nights cool off to -2°C (28°F).

Salzburg in January

Snow lovers rejoice! January in Salzburg is the best time to expect to see the city covered in the white stuff, and it sticks around too. Expect daytime temps to rise only a few degrees above 0°C, and nights to fall to -4°C (24°F).

Salzburg in February

February in Salzburg sees the least rainfall, and the temperatures gradually climb to around 5°C (41°F) during the day. Snow is still common and it’s a great time to hit the slopes around the city (read more about day trips from Salzburg below).

Salzburg in winter guide

Best Things to do in Salzburg in Winter

Given the weather in Austria in the winter, you may well be forgiven for thinking you’d rather rug up indoors than brave the elements. But it’s well worth donning your boots and winter jacket (more on what to wear and pack below) to check out some of these essential Salzburg winter activities.

Hit up the Famous Festive Salzburg Christmas Markets

This may be an obvious choice when visiting Europe in winter, but if you’re visiting Salzburg for Christmas, you need to get yourself to one of the Xmas markets stat!

austria winter travel

Salzburg Christkindlmarkt

As one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets (though not one of the biggest) you can be sure you’re getting the real experience at this authentic affair that takes place in front of a well-known Austrian landmark , the Cathedral of Salzburg.

Browse the iconic wooden huts for Xmas treats to take home, such as trinkets for your tree, carved wooden toys, and winter woollies to keep you warm. And be sure to grab a hot mug of mulled wine or zesty punch to keep your mittens toasty while you browse the goodies on display.

Even if you’re not in the mood for shopping, the market will keep you entertained for hours with its musical concerts, Krampus parades, and storytelling for the children.

Hellbrunner Adventzauber

A smaller and cosier Salzburg Christmas market, the Advent Magic in Hellbrunn is especially fun for those with kids (or those who are children at heart).

Head down to the Hellbrunn Courtyard to immerse yourself in a whimsical world, complete with an oversized advent calendar, fairytale forest, and real-life reindeer.

You can still do your Xmas shopping here, as a curated selection of exhibitors are on hand to sell you authentic handmade mementoes. But it’s more about the experience than the spending.

austria winter travel

Christmas Market on Mirabellplatz

A local favourite, this intimate Christmas market in Salzburg delivers everything you’d expect, minus the crowds.

Stop in for a quick browse and a warming treat before taking a stroll around the Mirabell Gardens – where you’ll find the same Pegasus Fountain that Maria and the children danced around in The Sound of Music .

Hohensalzburg Fortress Market

An advent market situated in the courtyard of the Salzburg Fortress, this is an event not to miss.

The fortress sits at the helm of the city and is an intimidating sight. But once you enter the walls, you’ll find warmth and festive flair within.

Children’s workshops, market stalls and a Krampus parade secure its spot as one of Salzburg’s favourite Christmas markets.

Tips for visiting the Christmas Markets in Salzburg

Firstly, the above isn’t a definitive list of all of Salzburg’s Christmas markets. They’re peppered all around the city – so you won’t have to look far to find one. Keep the following in mind when you visit:

austria winter travel

  • Most markets will ‘rent’ mugs to you for a few euros’ deposit. You then pay to have it filled with mulled wine or punch at any of the beverage stands within the market. At the end of the night, you can keep the mug as a cute souvenir, or return it to reclaim your cash.
  • Speaking of cash, it’s best to have plenty on hand, as not all market stalls will accept cards. There are sometimes ATMs onsite, but you can expect to pay for the privilege.
  • Consider skipping a meal to munch on market treats instead. You’ll want to sample more than one – trust me!
  • The Christmas markets vary slightly in dates and opening times, but the majority run from late November through to Christmas Eve.

Not visiting Austria in December? Christmas in Salzburg is special, but there are loads more things to do in Salzburg in winter besides Christmas markets. Read on to find out more…

Pop inside the Salzburg Cathedral (& discover its secret crypts)

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the grandeur of the art and architecture within this impressive baroque cathedral. Entry is free (donations are appreciated) and at the very least, it’s a pleasant respite from the chill outside.

austria winter travel

Pop down the stairwell to the left of the cathedral’s interior and you’ll enter the crypts beneath.

Two crypts reside here, one from the current cathedral, and the Konrad crypt which belonged to a Romanesque cathedral that once stood in the same spot. The latter crypt was unearthed during excavations in the mid 20th century, although they date back as far as the 11th century.

Inside you’ll find an eerie art installation, a tiny chapel, and several historic tombs.

Visit Café Tomaselli for Coffee & Cake

Coffee houses are an Austrian institution, and are typically a feast for the eyes as well. Salzburg’s most famous example is Café Tomaselli – a popular meeting place in the heart of the old town.

austria winter travel

Dating back over 300 years, the Tomaselli family took ownership of the cafe in 1852, and it has established itself as an iconic Salzburg landmark since.

Pop into the warm interior, grab a newspaper and a table, and wait to be served by both a coffee waiter and a “cake maid” who’ll tempt your taste buds with delectable looking creations.

Shop for Souvenirs in the Old Town

Salzburg’s old town is awash with beautiful buildings, charming squares, and hidden shopping streets. It’s a joy just to wander around and take in the atmosphere, but if you wish, there are plenty of typical treasures you can shop for too.

austria winter travel

Chocolate Shops

The most iconic chocolate treat in Salzburg is the aptly named Mozart balls (or Mozartkugel). Paul Fürst, a local confectioner, devised these chocolate-covered marzipan and nougat balls in 1890, and you’ll find them for sale all over the city.

Snow Globes

An Austrian invention, the snow globe has since been replicated worldwide. Although originating in Vienna , they can be found on many Salzburg shop’s shelves. Just make sure you’re not accidentally picking up a cheap counterfeit.

Anything Mozart Related

Head into Mozarthaus for the largest selection of Mozart related paraphernalia available, including everything from fridge magnets to mini violins. But barring that, you’ll find the late composer’s face emblazoned on t-shirts and take home mugs throughout the city of Salzburg’s gift shops and markets.

austria winter travel

This fruity liquor is all the rage in Austria, and Salzburg is no exception. Although you’ll find it on menus throughout the city, head to Sporer Liquor for a real tasting experience. The Sporer family has been creating liqueurs, punch and schnapps since 1903.

Cuckoo Clocks at Heimatkunst Lackner

An adorable family-owned business in the old town, Heimatkunst Lackner offers the greatest range of cuckoo clocks in Austria. The shop is brimming with all sorts of other souvenirs too – from the quirky to the commonplace – so be sure to pop in for a unique slice of Salzburg.

austria winter travel

Walk down any of the arched laneways in the old town and more often than not you’ll happen across a trachten store. What is trachten you may ask? It’s the traditional garments of Austria – think lederhosen and drindl. Needless to say, it’s the perfect place to pick up a unique piece of clothing. Just be warned that doing so will likely cost you a pretty penny.

Visit the Salzburg Fortress

As you walk around town, the Salzburg Fortress works as a kind of compass to keep your bearings. Located at the top of the Festungsberg , it’s not easily missed – being one of the largest medieval castles in all of Europe.

austria winter travel

Access to the fortress is by way of walking up Festungsgasse, but be warned it’s a somewhat slippery slope in the snow. The alternative is to take the Fortress Funicular which is open year-round (with reduced hours in the winter).

Once you reach the top, several museums and well preserved castle rooms will hold you captive as you tour around the vast complex. On Sundays at 11.45am you’ll hear music coming from Trumpeter’s Tower, and throughout the year you can book dinner and a Mozart concert for a memorable experience.

Entrance starts at €9.90 for a ‘Panorama ticket’ and increases up to €15.70 for an all-inclusive ticket. You can buy your tickets here . Or purchase the Salzburg Card and entrance will be free!

Take a walk to the Richterhöhe Look Out

Once you’ve taken the funicular, or walked, up to the Salzburg Fortress, I’d recommend continuing on into the gardens towards the Richterhöhe lookout.

austria winter travel

While the gardens themselves aren’t the most engaging in the winter months, they afford stunning views over the city, fortress, Alps, and beyond.

As you wander around, you’ll also come across several fortifications and even a museum that delves into the inner workings of Salzburg’s water system. It’s a popular place for curious kids.

Bring good footwear, as it can be somewhat slippery in the snow.

Museum of Modern Art

From the lookout point, continue your walk through the gardens to the east, where you’ll find the top of the Modern Art Museum. Pause here, as you’ll have one of the best views over the city and fortress overlooking it.

austria winter travel

You can enter the museum with your Salzburg Card , or buy a ticket onsite for €12. Whether you plan to visit the museum or not, taking the Mönchsberg lift is the quickest way to get back down to the old town, without having to retrace your steps down the steep hill.

*Just be warned that if you take the Mönchsberg lift down, ticket collectors will ask you to pay €2.60 for the privilege if you don’t have a museum ticket or Salzburg card. That’s an expensive elevator ride!

Exhibitions within the museum change regularly, and it’s a pleasant place to while away a few hours out of the cold.

Sing Along to The Sound of Music

It wouldn’t be Salzburg without mentioning The Sound of Music and the legacy the film has left on the city. Fans can visit several of the iconic filming locations around town, or take a guided tour .

Some key spots to visit include the Mirabell Gardens, Hellbrunn Palace, Residenzplatz and Felsenreitschule.

austria winter travel

Very keen fans will want to go for the guided tour option, as it includes locations that are harder to visit on a self-guided mission. Tours last 4 hours, so it’s an excellent half-day trip in a heated, and musical bus!

Book your place on the Original Sound of Music Tour here !

Walk Through Mozart’s World

As Salzburg’s most famous resident, Mozart’s legacy can be seen all over the Austrian city. Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast or just slightly curious about the composer’s early life, there’s an attraction of every kind to satiate your appetite.

austria winter travel

Both Mozart’s birthplace and later childhood home can be toured as part of your Salzburg Card admissions, and then there are the numerous Mozart concerts, the Mozarteum and the Mozart House to discover.

Don’t forget to take in the Mozart Monument either. It’s housed on the hills behind the Capuchin Monastery (see the next point).

Not really that into Mozart? Just grab yourself some Mozart balls and nibble on them as you wander through the old town instead.

Take a Stroll Through Kapuzinerberg

It may not be walking weather when you visit Salzburg in winter, but a brisk stroll can certainly help warm you up on a cool day.

Cross the Staatsbrücke (bridge) and wander straight up through the pedestrian shopping street until you find the Kapuzinerberg pathway on your right.

austria winter travel

Even in January, on a snow sodden day, this path proved to be a popular one with the locals.

It will take you up past the monastery, where you can visit the small church on the side, and past the Mozart monument. From here you can continue around the hill up to the observation deck for another vantage point of the mighty fortress opposite.

Work up an appetite before rewarding yourself with lunch at the upmarket Franziskischlössl . Just be aware that it does close for a month between early January and early February.

Day Trips From Salzburg in Winter

If you’re staying for a little longer than a few days, there are plenty of places near Salzburg that would make a great day trip in winter. Consider taking some of the following day trips from Salzburg to fully immerse yourself in the region.

The Fairytale Town of Hallstatt

Hallstatt is a true ‘chocolate box’ town. Located on the banks of the Hallstätter See, it’s an easy day trip from Salzburg. It takes just over an hour by car, and a smidge longer via bus. The bus option does include a changeover; so if you’re uncomfortable navigating this, perhaps book a day tour instead.

austria winter travel

An afternoon is ample to discover Hallstatt in winter as some of the main attractions close during January. Wander the charming streets, stop for a warming drink in a cosy cafe, and make sure to get that postcard shot at the ‘Classic Village Viewpoint’.

If you’re visiting Hallstatt in December or February, you may want to add in a little more time to discover the nearby attractions such as the Skywalk (you can walk to the Skywalk in January but it’s extremely slippery with ice) and the salt mines.

Book your Hallstatt half day tour here .

The Colourful City of Innsbruck

Just 2 hours drive away you’ll find another Austrian city surrounded by snow-covered mountain ranges. Innsbruck has a distinct feel that’s dominated by its ski scene in winter.

Read more: Innsbruck in winter.

austria winter travel

Even if you’re not into snow sports, take the Nordkette cable car right from the city centre, and you’ll be delivered up the mountain in no time. Stop off at the Cloud 9 bar for a mulled wine as you watch the daredevils on the slopes and drink in the views over the valley. Then, if you dare, take the last leg to the top of the mountain. Just watch your step if it’s windy!

Once back on terra firma, head for a stroll around the colourful old town. Take in the famous Golden Roof, stop for a slice of cake at Café Sacher, and, if the timing is right, peruse the Christmas markets.

Book your Innsbruck day tour here.

Hop Over the Border to Munich

The Bavarian capital city, and the birthplace of Oktoberfest, Munich is a quick 2 hour car or train ride from Salzburg.

austria winter travel

Hop over the border to experience the famed Christmas markets, museum hop around the city, or to take a soothing sauna in Art Nouveau surroundings at Müller’sches Volksbad .

One day in Munich will barely allow you to scratch the surface of this dynamic city, but it’s a good taster if you’re short on time and want to experience a Bavarian winter wonderland.

Hit the Slopes at Zell Am See

There are several ski resorts within 1-2 hours drive of Salzburg, but Zell am See is perhaps the most picturesque. Situated on Lake Zell, this family-friendly resort makes the perfect day trip for adventure seekers.

austria winter travel

There are 77km of pistes, and plenty of cosy bars to sink into for a well-deserved drink and bite to eat after a day on the slopes. Even if you’re not skiing, take the cable car up Schmittenhoehe and enjoy the views at the top.

To take this day trip from Salzburg, either drive the 1.5 hour journey from the central city, or take the train.

Key Things to Know Before Planning Your Salzburg Winter Itinerary

Visiting Austria in the winter is absolutely magical. The landscape glistens under a fresh layer of snow, and the cities seem cosier and more inviting than in the heat of summer.

But to make the most of your time, there are a few things you need to know before booking your Salzburg winter holiday. Let’s start with the basics…

How to get to Salzburg

Salzburg has its own airport, but I found direct flights much more expensive than flying into larger neighbouring cities. And if you’re coming from outside of Europe, you may not have the choice to fly direct to Salzburg.

austria winter travel

Instead consider flying into Munich (closest) or Vienna. From either city, you can continue your journey via train, bus or rental car.

Do be aware that to drive in Austria you need to purchase a ‘vignette’ for the toll system. And this needs to be purchased before entering Austria. Also, if hiring a rental car from Munich, you’ll need to pay a small additional fee to drive your car over the border into Austria.

Another thing to be aware of is the driving conditions in winter. Snow tyres are a must-have, and even then, it can be daunting driving on slippery, snowy roads if it’s something you’re not used to.

How long to Spend in Salzburg

Considering all the great things to see in Salzburg in the winter, you may think you need a lot of time in the city to fit them all in. However, this isn’t necessarily true.

austria winter travel

If you just want a taster of winter in Salzburg, one day could be enough if you start out early enough. Of course, you’re not going to be able to fit everything in, but with one day in Salzburg, you could easily walk the old town, hit up a Mozart Museum and the Fortress, and finish the day at the Christmas Markets (as an example).

Preferably, 2 days in Salzburg would be the minimum to enjoy all that the city has to offer. And you could easily spend three days, up to a week, depending on how you like to travel & whether you plan on taking any Salzburg day trips.

One tip – if you’re only planning 1 day in Salzburg, don’t plan it for a Sunday, as many of the shops and eateries are closed in town.

What to Pack for Winter in Salzburg

When considering what to wear in Austria in winter, think warm! But don’t overdo it and pack the ski gear (unless, of course, you’re planning to hit the slopes).

austria winter travel

You’ll see the locals bundled up in jeans/trousers (or warm leggings), a long woollen or ‘puffer’ style jacket, and boots. Accessorise with a woollen hat, gloves and a scarf.

You don’t really need much more than this to be warm. But remember that layering is key. When you enter the warmth of a cafe or museum, you’ll want to peel back a few layers to be comfortable.

I personally wore a woollen jacket similar to this one , a cashmere jumper , a thermal t-shirt , Madewell jeans, and Grenson Nanette Boots on my most recent trip in January . I also had a cashmere beanie, hat and gloves, and I was able to walk for hours outside without discomfort (and I’m naturally a very cold person!).

Other things you should consider taking are:

  • Umbrella or lightweight rain jacket
  • A baby carrier if travelling with little ones (strollers aren’t really suitable)
  • Power adaptors for Austria
  • A travel purse to keep your belongings safe
  • Euros – both coins for the paid toilets (there’s nothing worse than being caught short!) and small notes for the markets.
  • Swimsuit in case you plan on visiting any of the thermal baths or saunas in Salzburg (or if your hotel has one!)

Where to Stay in Salzburg in Winter

When choosing where to stay in Salzburg in the winter, you’ll most definitely want to stay central. This will allow you to walk to most attractions, even when it’s cold out (no waiting around for buses or taxis).

austria winter travel

For affordable luxury with a typically Austrian twist, look no further than the Hotel Goldner Hirsch . Right in the heart of the old town, you’ll be won over by the old school glamour, proximity to key Salzburg attractions, and personalised service.

Check prices and availability here.

For the ultimate indulgence in a historic setting, the Hotel Sacher Salzburg should be your go-to. The large luxurious rooms and charming interiors will transport you back in time, and the unbeatable views will leave you spellbound.

For a comfortable stay at a more affordable price point, don’t look past the Gästehaus im Priesterseminar . The building is stately, even if the accommodations are simple, and the location is exceptional for such an economical stay.

Self-contained more your style? You’ll find a range of Airbnb lodging throughout the city to suit every style and budget.

Check the offerings here.

By visiting Salzburg in winter you’ll be treated to an enchanting experience. The season turns the city into a giant snow globe that’s filled with fairytale buildings, landscapes and folklore.

So get organising that winter trip to Austria and treat yourself to a few days in Mozart’s stomping ground.

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Visiting Vienna in Winter: What you need to know!

By now I’ve been to Vienna in Winter during December and in Summer, and what I can say is there is definitely something magical about spending the Christmas season here. Not only are there things you can only do in Winter in Vienna , such as visiting Christmas markets, but the city looks absolutely gorgeous once fresh snow has fallen.

On top of that: the car-free city center, the dining and drinking traditions, the emphasis on arts and fashion, beautiful churches in the middle of the city, the sheer concentration of stunning architecture within walking distance, all carefully arranged to form an impressive 360 view of Vienna’s impressive history.

Here’s a complete guide to visiting Vienna in Winter , an extensive list of things to do in Winter, what to pack, what to wear, as well as information about the weather and day trips you can take from Vienna.

I’ve been to Vienna a number of times in Winter, and my boyfriend’s family lives here so get ready for the inside scoop on this beautiful city!

This post was originally written in 2017 and has been majorly updated for Winter 2019.

“Vienna wasn't just a city, it was a tone that either one carries forever in one's soul or one does not.” — Sándor Márai Tweet this

Where to stay in Vienna

Vienna has great public transit so you can stay in just about any central area and be well-connected. In fact, you can use the Vienna Card for unlimited transportation and discounts on some of the activities recommended below as well.

That said, I can personally recommend Die Goldene Spinne , a family-owned hotel which is literally a “walk through the park” to the city center and has excellent prices for the area it’s in. I just checked and it’s already selling out for dates in December 2019 though , so I wouldn’t procrastinate booking your Vienna winter accommodation no matter where you decide to stay. Vienna is a popular place to be for the holiday season, and you’ll soon see why!

10 awesome things to do in Vienna in Winter!

Around Christmas time, the beauty of Vienna takes on a different tone. Strings of Christmas lights adorn every conceivable street, residents and tourists alike meander through Christmas market stalls hunting for the prettiest mugs to take home. Everything is slightly tinted in purple and blue, with warm lights reminding you every moment that CHRISTMAS IS COMING!!!

For all these reasons and so many more, winter in Vienna is something special. If you’re thinking about visiting Vienna in the next few months, here are a few reasons you’re sure to love it, and how to make the most out of your time in this gorgeous Austrian city.

1. See Vienna’s world-famous Christmas markets

Christmas markets are a key reason it’s worth visiting Vienna in December. If you’ve never been to a Christmas Market in Europe, you’re in for a real treat, especially if your very first time is the world famous Wiener Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz .

Many would say it’s the most beautiful Christmas market in the world, but I’ll leave that for you to decide! Here you’ll find carefully constructed wooden stalls lined with Christmas lights, arranged in rows, hawking Christmas ornaments, handicrafts, roasted chestnuts, and of course, mulled wine. All under the watch of the enormous Gothic-style city council building, which becomes illuminated as soon as the sun starts to set.

You might think that it’s a castle, right?!

Best Christmas markets in Vienna

In terms of the prettiest Christmas markets you can find in Vienna, these are easily the top three:

  • Wiener Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz (Pictured above) – Easily the most famous Christmas market in Vienna, you can buy all sorts of gifts and obviously also enjoy mulled wine. Come around sunset for an impressive tone overlaying the market (as seen above!).
  • Christkindl Markt am Karlsplatz (Pictured below) – Very accessible in the city center, the church here is one of Vienna’s most recognizable landmarks and a beautiful one at that. Don’t miss coming inside, you can even do a Virtual Reality tour around the grounds of the church where it feels like you’re flying!
  • Spittelberg – An easy walk from the Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz, this market spans several streets in the extraordinarily quaint neighborhood of Spittelberg. Very picturesque and with great stalls for gifts for your friends and family.

If you want to combine Christmas markets with a city tour, check out this Vienna Winter Walking Tour with Christmas markets which stops at the beautiful Christkindl Markt am Karlsplatz (pictured below!).

Check availability for the Vienna Winter Walking Tour

Foods you must try at the Christmas market in Vienna

Christmas markets are about 50% eating, 50% drinking, and 10% looking at overpriced Christmas ornaments. Can you tell I was great in math? Anyways, with that in mind, here are a couple of Viennese foods you should try when at the Christmas market!

  • Glühwein : Hot wine mixed with Christmas herbs, comes in white and re. Sometimes you can also get hot apple cider, or add a shot of your favorite spirit to your mulled wine.
  • Maroni : Roasted chestnuts, served in a paper tube and available all over the city during the Christmas season.
  • Schaumrollen : Tube-shaped pastry filled with whipped cream or meringue.
  • Langos : Hungarian deep-fried flatbread.
  • Lebkuchen : The German/Austrian version of a Gingerbread cookie.

2. Go on a day trip from Vienna (suitable for Winter)

I’ve been to both of these places near Vienna and can highly recommend visiting them if you’ll have the time to do so. Both of these day trips are also beautiful in Winter , especially if you happen to see them covered in snow.

Salzburg, Austria – Probably most famous for being the location of The Sound of Music , Salzburg is a stunning and historic city with a city center compact enough to explore in a day. Its main attraction is its fortress, from which you can peer out over the whole city. This to Salzburg tour from Vienna has the best reviews at the best price, and keeps the tour group at 8 people or below.

Hallstatt, Austria – Hallstatt is considered the oldest (and prettiest!) village in all of Europe , and for a small village of under 1,000 people there are a lot of things to do in Hallstatt . Just the view overlooking the village from the lake is considered a UNESCO world heritage site. While I’d recommend staying overnight if you can, it’s still worth it to come for a day trip. This tour to Hallstatt from Vienna has the most positive reviews, and also stops at the Admont Abbey, a world famous monastery thanks to its gorgeous library.

3. Walk through the Schönbrunn Palace covered with snow

Schönbrunn Palace is perhaps the most famous attraction in the entire city. You can imagine it like the Versailles of Vienna, complete with a palace, huge gardens, and entertainment for hours. This palace used to be the Summer home of the Habsburg monarchs. Luckily, it’s super easy to reach Schönbrunn by public transit.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wien | Vienna (@viennatouristboard) on Jan 5, 2019 at 2:00am PST

Things to do at Schönbrunn Palace

Besides doing a tour inside the Palace and walking around the gardens yourself, there are a couple of different popular ways to enjoy your time at the palace. Each of them is oh-so-Austrian in their own way, so if you’re looking for the full experience, here is some inspiration!

  • Go for a strudel tasting! – Did you know that Austria is the birthplace of Strudel? Until you try it in Austria there’s a good chance to don’t know what it really is 😉 This activity is available at a really great price and the strudel is excellent.
  • Attend a concert of Mozart's music – Did you know that Mozart was Austrian? You can come listen to some of the most famous music by Mozart and Strauss at the Schönbrunn Palace, in addition to a tour of the grounds.
  • Take a half-day tour led by a historian – Calling all history buffs! I’ve been to a lot of palaces around Europe, and the best part is when you can actually grasp some of the history that happened in them. I find this tour extra cool because the guides are professors, history students, and historians.

In the Summer you will want to buy tickets in advance to avoid long waiting times, though even when we went in the Summer last year (in May) we had no issues. In the Winter there are far fewer tourists, and buying in advance may not be needed. You can always call the day before and ask how busy it’s been!

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4. Climb to the top of St. Stephen’s cathedral

Located smack in the middle of the city, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is easily the most famous cathedral in Vienna. What’s more, you can climb up to the top for a view over the city center of Vienna. From here you can see all the way to the mountains, so long as you can handle the 343 steps it takes to get to the top. The church has been here for more than 700 years, and is one of the most important landmarks in the entire country!

You can also visit the catacombs on a guided tour, if that’s your thing. Children are also allowed to come with, making it an interesting family activity. For more information you can refer to the official website , especially for up-to-date opening times and prices!

Visiting the South Tower for the view is 5€ for adults, and even less for children and students. Open Monday to Sunday, 9:00AM to 5:30PM.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wien | Vienna (@viennatouristboard) on Jan 26, 2019 at 2:00am PST

5. Visit Naschmarkt

As I mentioned earlier, Naschmarkt is a great place to set up a base in Vienna because of its proximity to tons of main attractions – not the least of which is the Naschmarkt itself!

In German, Naschmarkt means literally “Snack Market”, and you can come here any day of the week to buy anything from produce to Austrian meats, cheese, and wines to pastries and seafood. There is literally something for everyone. Besides the individual stands, there are also a number of different restaurants you can warm up in during your trip. You could spend ages here looking around and trying everything.

6. Do a free walking tour through Vienna

Vienna is a pretty walkable city, especially given how close together some of the main sights are located in the city center. If you like exploring a city by foot, but aren’t quite sure where to go in the city, you can join an existing walking tour (free or paid) or simply download a walking tour itinerary online. Here are a couple of different options for walking tours around Vienna:

  • Welcome Tour Vienna: Free Walking Tour – Every day at 10:30AM and 2:30PM.
  • Good Vienna Tours – Every day at 10AM and 2PM.

Both of these tours leave from Albertinaplatz and are free, meaning they continue to run based on the tips you give you guide at the end of the tour. Be sure to register in advance!

Of course, if you want to have a smaller group tour around Vienna, you can also pay a small amount for a tour for some more personalized attention and information. Most tours cost 15-30€ per person, and are therefore quite affordable even if you’re on a budget in Vienna.

Here are some of the most popular small group tours:

7. Cozy up with the world’s best Viennese Schnitzel

Stepping into a Schnitzel shop off the street is one of the best feelings! Inside it’s warm and smells like breading and lemons, and you know you’re about to get an incredible meal. If you’ve never had it, Schnitzel is a thinly pounded meat (usually veal or pork), covered in breading, and fried in searing hot oil. Typically you cover it in lemon juice and eat it with a red current sauce (though that’s a more popular way to do it in the South!).

When it comes time for dessert (presuming you still have room, which I NEVER do), few things are more typically Austrian than Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel). You can find this at any Austrian restaurant, or at the numerous glamorous cafes around the city. Kaiserschmarm is also popular, a fluffy pancake topped with powdered sugar!

Figlmüller is one of the best-known spots to grab a Schnitzel. Be sure to get it with Preiselbeeren (red currant)! You can make a reservation at this restaurant online on their website, but don’t wait too long, it was almost completely reserved when we booked a month in advance !) Dinner for two (Schnitzel, cranberry, two drinks and two sides) will run you about 50 EUR.

8. Enjoy Vienna’s famous alleys

Wandering through Vienna, it really feels like you could be 200 years in the past. Especially when you’re out of sight of any major roads or department stores, Vienna’s Gassen (alleys) are a time capsule of beauty. Especially during winter, the streets are further illuminated with lanterns and string lights, lending a warm glow to the otherwise cold winter light.

Tip: Vienna has a couple of well known alleys that are especially charming. Perhaps the most photographed is Griechengasse , which is extremely close to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. On your way to the Kleines Cafe (see below) at Franziskanerplatz, you may walk through Ballgasse which is also oh so quaint.

Ballgasse in Vienna

9. Warm up in a Viennese coffeehouse

You may think back on former times, when intellectuals would spend their whole day philosophizing from within the coffee houses in Vienna. Well it’s no surprise, you step into one of these places and they treat you like royalty! Coat check, fancy menu, extremely fancy prices. Everything you need to feel smart and wealthy, plus cake.

For the authentic Viennese experience, try Cafe Sacher , a coffee house in the middle of Vienna specializing in its own variety of chocolate cake. I was also shocked to discover that the coffee was actually kind of good (yes, the 6€ coffee was actually kind of good). Usually at these fancy coffee houses, the coffee is dreadful and you’re really just paying to sit under a chandelier. Not so at Cafe Sacher!

But what Cafe Sacher is famous for is not the coffee, but rather their chocolate cake. To be honest it’s a bit overrated, you’re definitely paying for the experience more than that it’s the best cake you’ll ever eat. But hey, we do it for the ‘gram?

TIP – Coffee and dessert at Cafe Sacher for three people ran us about 36€, so about 12€ per person. Definitely not cheap, but an experience and a great way to get out of the rain if you get unlucky!

You can also try Cafe Central , however when we stopped by there was a queue out the door in the rain, so we decided to forego it. Right around the corner is also a famous pastry shop, Demel , which has a cafe on the second floor (entered through the back of the shop). Demel would be a great place to pick up edible souvenirs for friends and family back home who want a taste of Austria!

10. Enjoy a city decked in Christmas lights

If there is anything that really distinguished the aesthetic of Vienna during winter from the other parts of the year (besides, of course, a layer of white powdery snow), it’s the Christmas lights illuminating the sky above every city street. Sometimes you’ll be walking around and see an alley that would otherwise look completely boring, but the illumination from Christmas lights reveals that there’s a tiny market waiting for you to find. Be sure to spend some time walking around Vienna after dark in the winter!

Landmarks are also covered in Christmas lights, or have lights projected on them. This is truly a sight you can see no other time of the year than winter! Karlskirche is particularly illuminated, and looks beautiful with the lively Christmas market going on below it.

Practical tips for visiting Vienna in Winter

Now that you’re sold on visiting Vienna this Winter, let’s consider some of the essentials for making the trip its very best! I’ll cover a couple of basics like what the weather in Vienna is during Winter, what you should pack, and how to get around the city. 👌

Vienna’s weather in December, January, and February

Here are the averages temperatures for these months:

  • December – The average high is 3ºC, lows at 0ºC (37ºF / 32ºF).
  • January – The coldest month of the year, highs around 2ºC, lows at -4ºC (36ºF / 25ºF).
  • February – Highs around 4ºC, lows at -1ºC (39ºF / 30ºF)

In short, the weather in Vienna in Winter is really not that cold . I say this as someone living in Berlin, where we can get down to -20ºC (-4ºF). That would be cold. In my opinion, you don’t have much to fear from Vienna’s winter, so take heart! Vienna also doesn’t have that much wind, so don’t feel like you need to pack a big thick jacket or a ski mask in order to survive winter in Vienna.

What to pack for Winter in Vienna

Vienna is more prone to clear weather than many other cities, because it’s relatively southern within the scope of Europe. That said, rain and snow are both very common, so you should be prepared for both. Be sure to pack:

  • Shoes that can handle getting wet + appropriate thick socks
  • Scarf, knit hat, and gloves
  • Layers: thermal leggings, long sleeved shirt, sweater, and a medium-sized winter coat will suffice

No need to bust out the parka, unless that’s just going to keep you extra cozy. Anywhere you go inside is going to be heated well enough, you want to make sure you’re able to take off layers as needed, or you’re likely to roast in any restaurant you enter.

Getting around Vienna

In the warmer months, Vienna is very traversable by bicycle, and there are a ton of generous bike paths you can use you get around the city. In Winter, Vienna is more enjoyably traversed by public transit, although a lot of the city center can be done comfortably by foot. You can buy tickets at the various metro stops, and sometimes on the bus if you have coins, but oftentimes the bus driver will just take you to the metro and you buy the ticket there. Be warned, there is a HEFTY fine of more than 100 EUR for “riding black” (riding the metro without a validated ticket), so make sure you do always stay on the right side of the law!

Where is your dream winter destination? Would you come to Vienna in Winter?

I’d love to hear where you’re spending the holiday season this year, and especially if you have any exciting Winter travel plans! Till next time ❤️

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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A Holiday in Austria puts a Smile on your Face

An experience, an encounter, sometimes just a moment - and the new somehow feels familiar. In Austria, this atmosphere is literally in the air: A sensation that, in nature, feels light and free, full of fun and joie de vivre. A feeling that, while connecting with the people who live here, feels genuine.

Mountains, water, energetic places, cultural treasures - that is Austria for you. As well as cooling off in a crystal-clear lake, the gratifying feeling when conquering a summit, and a snack at a mountain hut. Austria is the freedom of an open-air festival, and the cosiness of a wine tavern. All places and moments, that make it easy to clear your head, to be amazed, to feel the vitality. The spark is quickly ignited. Anyone who is a guest here becomes part of this very special attitude to life.

Experience Austria's Nature

These boots are made for walking, the most beautiful swimming lakes, i want to ride my bicycle, we are family, hiking with children.

Exploring mosses, watching butterflies, feeding goats ... Children are curious. Austria's hiking routes are just right for an unforgettable hiking day.

Moments of Cultural Pleasure

Museums and galleries, embrace austria's guilty pleasures, wine culture in austria, culinary pit-stops in austria, time for easter egg hunting, easter in austria.

Experience Austria's unique traditions and visit one (or more!) of our colourful Easter markets.

Which Summer Activity do you Fancy?

Walking and hiking in austria, cycling and biking in austria, lakes and nature in austria, trailrunning: a wonderful family experience, discover city life, city breaks in summer - your cultural 'lebensgefühl'.

City trips in Austrias cultural summer hit right at the heart. Because Austrias cities surprise, make curious – and sometimes even are addictive. #feelAustria

Austria is a country rich with history, beautiful regions, imperial cities and year long activities.

In Harmony with Austria

When you spend your holiday in Austria, you will experience that one moment – the moment that you’ll remember for years to come, the moment you’ll return to in your head when life gets stressful.

Active in the Outdoors

It's the small moments that make us happy: The pride on our best friend's face when finally reaching the summit. Or at night, falling asleep with achy legs but a smile on our face. That's what life in the outdoors is all about.

Wellbeing & Relaxation in Austria's Nature

Nature soothes our minds and bodies. From the healing effect of waterfalls and trees to the beauty of cultural landscapes, mountains, and waters, Austria is filled with natural gems.

Why Forest Bathing Can Make You Healthier and Happier, According to Science

Why spas and thermal baths are so good for us, culinary discovery trip through austria.

Austria owes its culinary identity to both its location in the heart of Europe and its remarkable history. Austria stands for openness to varied influences and a love for refining existing traditions at the highest level.

9 restaurants and mountain huts with a view

Dream career: organic farmer, austrian culture, artists & masterpieces.

Let us dive into Austria’s arts and culture sphere and discover fascinating stories of the masters and personae that led the way.

Hedy Lamarr, Hollywood Goddess and Lady Bluetooth

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We value your feedback! Take part in our brief survey to be in with the chance of winning one of five very special holiday experiences in Austria. Click here to take part.

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Insiders' Tips

Top 5 austrian dishes you need to try, austria’s prettiest places, according to austrians, austria's quirkiest city tours, austria’s top sights, events in austria, practical travel information, about austria, brexit and travelling to austria, how to get to and around austria, what are you interested in, family fun in austria, round trips in austria, cities and culture in austria, skiing and winter in austria, austrian cultural stories, famous austrians.

From Mozart and Sisi to Hedy Lamarr – Austria's sons and daughters have left their mark across music, art, science, politics, and sport. Find out which famous personalities originate from or lived in Austria and follow in their footsteps.

Passport & Visa for Austria

Vienna pass: your personal key to the city, travel experiences designed by experts, austrian – the charming way to fly.

Enjoy Austrian hospitality and multi-awarded service already on board, with Austrian Airlines from 130 cities around the world direct to Vienna and other Austrian cities.

Explore Austria By Train

Travelling through Austria by train is reliable, comfortable, and convenient. Relax, sit back, and enjoy your vacation, the Austrian Railways takes you to Austria’s most beautiful places.

Have a Taste of Austria

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Craving a taste of Austria? Why not don your apron and recreate your favourite regional specialities at home? Here is a list of some of Austria's most delicious all-time classics.

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Welcome to Austria —  birthplace of renowned composer Mozart and diamond empire Swarovski. It’s also known for Red Bull, being a two-time host of the Winter Olympics, and one of Europe’s longest-reigning and most influential dynasties.

During winter, Christmas markets and ski resorts are in full swing, alpine villages are extra magical with layers of snow! It’s also one of Europe’s top destinations for winter sports — ski passes are more affordable compared to its neighbouring countries.

TRAVEL WITH US TO AUSTRIA

Join us and other like-minded adventurers in 2024 as we head off on a 9 day winter adventure in Austria!

Explore our community trips here .

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TRAVEL INFORMATION

    Country Code : +43     Time Zone : GMT +2 (6 hours behind Singapore)     Peak Travel Period : Jun – Aug     Four Seasons : Yes     Currency : E uro, EUR (€)

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USEFUL WORDS

German is the official language of Austria and English is taught as the first foreign language at most schools. In some regions, Croatian, Slovenian and Hungarian are also recognised as official languages of autonomous population groups.

  • Good Morning – Guten Morgen
  • Good Day – Guten Tag
  • Good Evening – Guten Abendi
  • Thank you – Danke
  • Cheers – Prost
  • Please – Bitte
  • Sorry/Excuse Me – Entschuldigung
  • I am from.. Singapore – Ich komme aus Singapore
  • See you later – Bis später!
  • Do you speak English?  –  Sprechen Sie Englisch?

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7-day Austria Itinerary Under S$1.4k — Winter in Vienna, Hallstatt, Innsbruck,...

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Austria in Winter: Your Essential Guide to Alpine Wonders

  • Oct 27, 2023

austria winter travel

Looking for the ideal winter getaway? Consider Austria, famous for its stunning scenery, cozy alpine villages, and a wealth of winter activities. This guide highlights why Austria is the perfect winter escape and discusses sustainable travel options with Kosha for an eco-friendly holiday.

Table of Contents

Why Choose Austria for a Winter Getaway?

Blanketed in Snow: Austria’s Winter Magic

Austria, nestled in the heart of Europe, transforms into a magical winter wonderland when the snowflakes start to fall. The country’s stunning landscapes, with the majestic Alps dominating the scenery, offer a truly enchanting backdrop for your winter adventure. The shimmering white landscapes and snow-covered forests create a picturesque atmosphere that feels like it’s right out of a fairytale.

World-Class Skiing and Snowboarding

Austria is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With its extensive network of ski resorts, you can carve down the finest alpine slopes and experience the exhilaration of skiing and snowboarding on some of the best pistes in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, there are slopes suited for all levels of expertise.

Charming Alpine Villages

One of Austria’s most alluring features is its charming alpine villages. Imagine cozy evenings by the fireplace in traditional wooden chalets, sipping on warm mulled wine or hot cocoa. The warm hospitality of the locals adds to the charm, making you feel right at home. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets and soak in the romantic atmosphere while enjoying Austrian delicacies in quaint local restaurants.

austria winter travel

Snowy Hallstatt, Austria in front of a mountain, reflected in the icy lake. (Image Courtesy: Pixabay)

Cultural Delights in Vienna and Salzburg

Austria isn’t just about winter sports; it’s also home to rich cultural heritage. Cities like Vienna and Salzburg come alive with cultural events, classical concerts, and stunning architecture. Explore the birthplace of Mozart, indulge in Viennese coffee house traditions, and admire the grandeur of Austrian palaces. These cities are a true treat for culture enthusiasts.

Hot Springs and Wellness Retreats

After an active day in the snow, there’s nothing better than rejuvenating in one of Austria’s famous hot springs or wellness retreats. The healing properties of these thermal waters have been cherished for centuries. Relax in the warm embrace of these natural wonders and let your stresses melt away.

Planning Your Trip to Austria in Winter

When it comes to experiencing the enchanting beauty of Austria in winter, proper planning is essential to make the most of your journey. In this guide, we will explore the best time to visit Austria in winter, delve into the weather and climate conditions, and provide you with valuable packing tips for sustainable winter travel.

Best Time to Visit Austria in Winter

-Austria transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting travelers from around the globe, making it a sought-after destination for winter enthusiasts. While the entire winter season has its charm, the ideal time to visit Austria largely depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to partake in.

-December to February: This period is the heart of winter in Austria. If you’re a fan of traditional Christmas markets, festive decorations, and pristine snowscapes, visiting in December is perfect. The ski season is also in full swing, making it an excellent time for winter sports enthusiasts. However, keep in mind that this time can be crowded and accommodations may be pricier.

-March: If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly visit, consider going in March. The weather is still cold, and you can enjoy winter activities without the bustling crowds. It’s an excellent time for those looking for a peaceful and picturesque experience.

Weather and Climate in Austria During Winter

Understanding the weather and climate in Austria during the winter season is crucial for planning a successful trip.

Temperature: Austria’s winter temperatures can range from -6°C to 3°C (21°F to 37°F) in the lowlands, while in the mountains, temperatures can drop significantly lower. It’s important to pack warm clothing to stay comfortable during your stay.

Snowfall: Austria experiences abundant snowfall, especially in the alpine regions. This creates perfect conditions for skiing and other winter sports. Be prepared for snowy landscapes and consider activities like snowshoeing and ice skating.

Daylight: The days are shorter in winter, with approximately 8 hours of daylight. Plan your activities accordingly, and make sure to maximize your time during the daylight hours.

Packing Tips for Sustainable Winter Travel

Packing for Austria in winter requires careful consideration, not only to stay warm but also to minimize your environmental impact. Here are some packing tips for sustainable winter travel:

Layered Clothing: Opt for layers to regulate your body temperature. This allows you to add or remove clothing as needed, conserving energy and resources.

Eco-friendly Winter Gear: Invest in eco-friendly winter gear, such as insulated clothing made from sustainable materials and energy-efficient winter sports equipment.

Reusable Items: Bring a water bottle and coffee cup to reduce single-use plastic waste. Many Austrian cities promote eco-friendly practices.

Eco-conscious Toiletries: Choose biodegradable and environmentally friendly toiletries to minimize your impact on the environment.

Energy-efficient Accommodations: Consider staying in accommodations that prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency, such as eco-friendly hotels or lodges.

Respect Nature: When engaging in winter activities, follow Leave No Trace principles. Respect the environment by not leaving any waste or causing harm to natural areas.

Public Transportation: Utilize public transportation whenever possible to reduce your carbon footprint. Austria has an excellent public transit system that can take you to many winter destinations.

By planning your trip to Austria in winter with these tips in mind, you can have a memorable and sustainable experience while enjoying the snowy landscapes, cultural festivities, and outdoor adventures that this beautiful country has to offer. Whether you’re a skier, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, Austria’s winter charm has something to offer everyone.

Top Winter Destinations in Austria

1. vienna: the winter wonderland.

Vienna, Austria in winter is a magical destination where historical splendor meets snowy enchantment. Explore the iconic Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Belvedere Palace, all adorned with holiday lights, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. Stay cozy with hot spiced wine from the renowned Christmas markets, offering traditional handicrafts and festive delights. 

In this classic European winter paradise, make sure to pack warm layers, including thermal jackets, scarves, and sturdy boots to fully enjoy your Austrian winter adventure. Vienna is your ideal destination for culture, art, and the joys of winter in Austria.

austria winter travel

(Image Courtesy: Pixabay)

2. Innsbruck: Skiing and More

Located in the picturesque Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is a winter wonderland for all. Whether you’re here for incredible skiing opportunities or the city’s rich history, you’ll need the right winter clothes to fully enjoy your trip to Austria in winter. Innsbruck’s winter temperatures can drop significantly, so make sure to pack warm essentials like insulated jackets, waterproof snow boots, thermal layers, and cozy scarves and gloves. These will keep you comfortable as you hit the slopes and explore the enchanting city, all while experiencing the best of Austria in winter.

3. Hallstatt: A Winter Postcard

Discover the enchanting beauty of Hallstatt, Austria in winter. Don cozy winter essentials such as insulated jackets, scarves, and waterproof boots to stay warm while exploring this picturesque village. As you meander through charming streets, be sure to visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine and admire Lake Hallstatt’s serene beauty. The Dachstein Alps surrounding the village provide excellent opportunities for winter hikes and outdoor adventures. Embrace the cold while staying snug and stylish in your Austrian winter attire.

4. Salzburg: A Magical Winter Fairytale

Explore the winter wonderland of Salzburg, Austria, famous for Mozart and “The Sound of Music.” Bundle up in warm layers, including thermal jackets and snow boots, as you wander the UNESCO Old Town’s cobbled streets and historic sites. With snowy mountains around, pack your ski gear for winter sports fun. Don your coziest sweater and visit the Salzburg Christmas Market for holiday treats. Enjoy Salzburg in winter with the right clothes for a memorable adventure.

austria winter travel

5. Alpbach: An Alpine Escape

Experience the ultimate winter retreat in Austria’s Alpbach, a serene alpine village exuding charm with its traditional wooden architecture and tranquil ambiance. Alpbach in winter welcomes you with open arms, providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. While here, don’t forget to bundle up in cozy sweaters, waterproof boots, and warm layers, ensuring you’re prepared to relish activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and serene winter walks amidst the breathtaking Alpine landscape. Alpbach is your haven for a quiet, nature-filled winter getaway.

Winter Activities in Austria

1. skiing and snowboarding.

Austria in winter is a paradise for winter sports, from famous Tyrol and Vorarlberg to hidden gems in Styria and Carinthia. Be sure to dress warmly with insulated jackets, waterproof pants, and sturdy snow boots for an unforgettable experience.

2. Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

For the best comfort and warmth, wear insulated waterproof jackets, thermal layers, waterproof pants, sturdy insulated boots, and cozy accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves. Explore Austria’s snow-covered landscapes on marked winter trails, offering a unique connection with nature and the serenity of winter.

austria winter travel

3. Ice Skating and Curling

Embrace Austria’s winter charm while ice skating and curling in Vienna, Salzburg, and beyond. Stay warm in insulated jackets, thermal layers, waterproof boots, thermal gloves, and stylish beanies. Enjoy the snowy wonderland of Austria in winter.

4. Austrian Christmas Markets

Austria in winter is enchanting, with Christmas markets in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. To stay warm and stylish, dress in insulated coats, scarves, gloves, and boots while exploring these festive wonders. Enjoy the holiday magic and tradition of Austria.

austria winter travel

5. Wellness and Spa Experiences

In the Austrian winter wonderland, dress warmly with thermal layers, insulated outerwear, and sturdy boots. Explore the snowy beauty and unwind at world-class wellness resorts with thermal baths and saunas, letting your worries melt away in the Alpine serenity.

Must-Try Austrian Winter Dishes

Wiener Schnitzel: A beloved Austrian classic, Wiener Schnitzel is a crispy, golden-brown veal or pork cutlet, lightly breaded and fried to perfection. Served with a slice of lemon, it’s a satisfying and heartwarming dish that warms the soul on a chilly winter day.

Kaiserschmarrn: This fluffy shredded pancake is a sweet revelation. Sprinkled with powdered sugar and often accompanied by homemade fruit compotes, Kaiserschmarrn is an indulgent treat that is both comforting and satisfying.

Gulaschsuppe: A steaming bowl of Gulaschsuppe, a rich and hearty goulash soup, is a must-try on a snowy Austrian day. Packed with tender pieces of beef, onions, and paprika, this dish has a spicy kick that will leave you feeling invigorated.

Kartoffelsalat: The Austrian potato salad is a popular side dish, particularly during the winter months. Made with warm, soft potatoes, onions, and a tangy dressing, it’s the perfect accompaniment to many main courses.

Sachertorte: This decadent chocolate cake, layered with apricot jam and smothered in dark chocolate glaze, is an Austrian dessert legend. Savoring a slice of Sachertorte with a cup of warm coffee is a delightful winter tradition.

Rösti: While traditionally a Swiss dish, Rösti has also found its way into Austrian hearts. This crispy potato dish, often served with a variety of toppings, makes for a comforting winter meal that’s both simple and satisfying.

Winter Fashion with Kosha

Sustainable winter wear essentials.

Austria’s pristine environment calls for responsible and sustainable choices when it comes to winter wear. Kosha understands the importance of eco-friendly fashion, offering a range of sustainable winter wear essentials to keep you warm without harming the environment.

Eco-friendly Fabrics: Kosha’s winter collection boasts an array of garments crafted from sustainable and natural materials, including organic cotton, recycled wool, and ethically sourced down.

Insulated Outerwear: Stay cozy in the chilly Austrian winter with Kosha’s insulated jackets and coats. These pieces are not only warm but also eco-conscious, designed with recycled insulation materials.

Layering Basics: Opt for Kosha’s sustainable base layers to keep you warm without bulk. Their moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics are perfect for regulating your body temperature during winter activities.

Accessories with a Purpose: Complete your sustainable winter look with accessories such as scarves, beanies, and gloves made from natural fibers and recycled materials.

Layering for Cold Weather

Austria’s winter weather can be unpredictable, and mastering the art of layering is essential to adapt to changing conditions while staying stylish. Kosha offers a variety of versatile layering pieces designed for cold weather:

  • Base Layers : Start with Kosha’s sustainable base layers that provide warmth and moisture control. These snug-fitting pieces are the foundation of your winter outfit.
  • Mid-Layers : Add a cozy mid-layer like a fleece or sweater for extra insulation. Kosha’s collection includes stylish and sustainable options that fit seamlessly under your outerwear.
  • Insulated Jackets : Choose one of Kosha’s eco-friendly insulated jackets for the final layer. These lightweight but warm options are perfect for braving the Austrian winter chill.
  • Accessories : Don’t forget to accessorize with Kosha’s scarves, hats, and gloves to keep extremities toasty, completing your cold-weather look.

austria winter travel

Kosha’s Winter Apparel Collection

Kosha’s Winter Apparel Collection is designed to help you stay comfortable and stylish during your Austrian winter adventures. From base layers to outerwear, their selection emphasizes sustainability without compromising on style.

  • Puffer Jackets: Explore Kosha’s range of insulated jackets, available in various styles and colors. These eco-conscious jackets offer exceptional warmth and style for your winter excursions.

austria winter travel

Golden Yellow Lightweight Puffer Jacket

  • Stylish Thermals: Browse their collection of base layers that come in various weights, providing options for different levels of cold. The seamless design ensures comfort throughout the day.

austria winter travel

Aqua Merino Wool Bamboo Thermal Sleeveless Vest

  • Eco-conscious Accessories : Kosha’s scarves, beanies, and gloves are the perfect finishing touches to your winter ensemble. Crafted from sustainable materials, they add a touch of elegance to your outfit.

Safety and Health Tips for Enjoying Austria in Winter

When planning a trip to Austria in winter, it’s essential to be prepared for the cold weather and potentially challenging conditions. This guide will provide you with valuable safety and health tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable winter adventure in Austria.

Staying Safe in Cold Weather

Layer Up for Extreme Cold: Austria’s winters can be bitterly cold, so dressing appropriately is crucial. Start with thermal underlayers, followed by insulating layers like sweaters or fleeces, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect your extremities.

Proper Footwear: Choose insulated and waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry. Non-slip soles are essential for navigating icy or snowy surfaces safely.

Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and stay updated on any potential snowstorms or extreme conditions during your stay. Planning your activities around favorable weather can help you avoid unnecessary risks.

Frostbite Prevention: Know the signs of frostbite, such as numbness, tingling, or pale skin. If you experience these symptoms, seek shelter and warmth immediately.

Avalanche Awareness: If you plan to go skiing or engage in winter sports, be aware of the risk of avalanches in some regions of Austria. Check local advisories and stay on marked slopes when skiing.

Cultural Experiences in Austria in Winter

When winter arrives in Austria, the country undergoes a magical transformation, offering a plethora of cultural experiences that showcase its rich heritage and artistic prowess. 

Winter Festivals and Traditions in Austria

Celebrating the Season in Austrian Style

Austria in winter is a wonderland of festivities and traditions that highlight its cultural vibrancy. Here are some of the must-see winter experiences:

  • Advent Markets: The Advent season kicks off in late November, filling the Austrian cities and towns with the sweet scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and twinkling lights. From Vienna’s iconic Rathausplatz Christmas Market to the charming market in Salzburg’s historic Old Town, these markets are perfect for indulging in traditional Austrian treats and picking up unique handicrafts.
  • Krampusnacht: A highlight of the Austrian winter calendar, Krampusnacht is a celebration of the folklore figure Krampus, who is St. Nicholas’s mischievous counterpart. In early December, people don masks and costumes, parading through the streets to celebrate this unique Austrian tradition.
  • New Year’s Concert: Start your new year on a melodious note by attending the renowned Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Concert. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness the world’s finest musicians performing waltzes and classical masterpieces.
  • Fasching: As winter transitions to spring, the Austrian celebration of Fasching (Carnival) takes center stage. This lively event involves colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and a lively atmosphere, making it a vibrant and festive experience.

Museums and Indoor Attractions

Escape the Chill and Immerse in Art and History

When the winter chill sets in, Austria’s museums and indoor attractions provide a warm and enlightening refuge. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Belvedere Palace: Home to the world’s largest Gustav Klimt collection, the Belvedere Palace in Vienna is a treasure trove of art. Explore Klimt’s mesmerizing “The Kiss” and other remarkable works of Austrian art.
  • Albertina Museum: Housing a vast collection of graphic arts, including works by Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, and Picasso, the Albertina Museum in Vienna is a visual delight for art enthusiasts.
  • Kunsthistorisches Museum: Vienna’s Museum of Art History is a cultural gem, boasting an extraordinary collection of European art, including the works of famous painters such as Vermeer, Bruegel, and Titian.
  • Salzburg Museum: Discover the rich history and culture of Salzburg, the city of Mozart, at the Salzburg Museum. It offers insights into the city’s past, with fascinating exhibitions and interactive displays.
  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds: In Wattens, just a short drive from Innsbruck, the Swarovski Crystal Worlds dazzle visitors with art installations and exhibitions dedicated to the world of crystal.

FAQ’s

Q: What is the weather like in Austria in winter?

A: Cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 0.6°C to 4.9°C.

Q: What are the best things to do in Austria in winter?

A: Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tobogganing, visiting Christmas markets, and soaking in thermal baths.

Q: What should I pack for a winter trip to Austria?

A: Warm clothes, waterproof boots, a hat, gloves, and a scarf.

Q: Is it safe to drive in Austria in winter?

A: Yes, but it’s important to drive slowly and carefully, and to have winter tires on your car.

Q: How expensive is it to travel to Austria in winter?

A: Austria can be an expensive country to visit, but there are ways to save money, such as staying in hostels or guesthouses instead of hotels and cooking your own meals instead of eating out every night.

In summary, Austria in winter offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. With its snowy landscapes, world-class skiing, and charming cities, it caters to both adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re on the slopes or exploring festive markets, Austria in winter promises memorable experiences amidst pristine surroundings. Don’t miss the chance to embrace the snow, savor the culture, and create lasting memories in this enchanting European destination.

For any queries related to wearing thermals, base layers, or winter wear in general, visit Kosha’s store and get a free consultation! While you’re at it, check out Kosha’s website for the wide range of thermals and jackets available at   Kosha .

This blog article is written by Kosha Team Member – Kauravki Bansode

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‘Ski season is over’: Snowless winter forces Austria’s resorts to turn to summer sports in March

Snowless ski slopes seen in Wechsel, Austria

An EU project is now investigating how lift operators can best respond to climate change.

Record temperatures have once again caused problems for Europe's ski resorts this winter. 

With numerous countries seeing their warmest winter on record , slopes have been closed and some resorts forced to shut entirely. An exceptionally mild winter has left many almost entirely without snow . 

  • El Niño is starting to die down - but it won’t spell the end of extreme weather, WMO warns
  • February breaks temperature records for the 9th month in a row: Why has this winter been so warm?

An EU project is now investigating how lift operators can best respond to climate change. 

From skiing to summer sports in March

One solution to the snow problem is summer sports. 

In Sankt Corona am Wechsel in Austria, diggers are already removing the remaining snow from ski slopes to make way for summer sports enthusiasts.

"The ski season is over earlier than expected. That's why our trail construction team is already on the slopes shovelling out the trails so that we can start mountain biking, " says Karl Morgenbesser, the lift operator at Sankt Corona am Wechsel.

Due to insufficient snowfall, mountain bikers are using the ski slopes as early as March at the resort. Other activities include summer tobogganing and hiking. 

Helping ski resorts adapt to climate change

The TranStat project - co-founded by the EU - connects nine resorts from Austria, Slovenia, Italy, France and Switzerland. It is testing various different solutions to help famous ski spots adapt to climate change . 

  • This ‘tipping point’ would be catastrophic for Europe but scientists aren't sure when we'll reach it
  • Regular droughts could become the Mediterrenean's ‘new normal’ due to climate change

As the small ski resort in Austria now generates more money from summer sports than winter, it is hoped that others will follow suit. 

Rising property prices due to tourists buying vacation homes are also an issue. In two years, TranStat will publish guidelines for liveable and climate-ready winter sports destinations.

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  1. Winter in Austria: 10 Places to Visit on Your Winter Vacation

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  2. The Top 10 Things To See And Do In Hallstatt, Austria

    austria winter travel

  3. Winter in Austria: 10 Places to Visit on Your Winter Vacation

    austria winter travel

  4. 10 Things to Do in Austria in Winter: A Vacay To Cherish!

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  5. Wallpaper Hallstatt beautiful winter, snow, houses, lake, Austria

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  6. A Winter Fairytale in Hallstatt, Austria

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COMMENTS

  1. Winter in Austria: 10 Places to Visit on Your Winter Vacation

    Kitzbühel is also famous for the Streif, the home to the most spectacular downhill race track in the world, the Hahnenkamm ski race. 7. Zell am See-Kaprun. ski slope near Zell am See. Winter lovers who want to explore the best of Austria will find Zell am See-Kaprun an ideal destination.

  2. Austria In Winter Guide 2022: 10 Best Places To Visit!

    On your trip, here are a few places to visit in Austria in winter: Vienna: Fabulous Capital City. Oberaichwald: Rural Gateway. Wildschönau: Panoramic Sights. Gosau: High Peaked Mountains. Zell Am See: Snowy Landscapes. Thermenland Styria: Dreamland Vacay. Aqua Dome: For The Water Babies. Salzburg: Nothing Less Than Paradise.

  3. Skiing and Winter Holidays in Austria Plan Your Trip

    The time from late November to the end of the year has a very special meaning in Austria. Visit Austria's Christmas markets, try some Glühwein, and enjoy the spirit of Christmas... From ski holidays to spa breaks in Austria: Biggest ski resorts Secret tips Best family resorts Winter hiking Snowshoe hiking and much more.

  4. 14 Top Things to Do in Winter in Austria

    Whether you're visiting for the history, the outdoor activities, or the arts, we've put together a list of the top things to do in winter in Austria. 1. Give Skiing a Try. Skier in Solden, Austria. Skiing could just be Austria's national sport - both mountain and cross-country skiers will be spoiled for choice when visiting here.

  5. Austria's Top Winter Destinations

    Gosau. Located 700m (2,300ft) above sea level, the district of Gmunden in Upper Austria is blessed with densely rich forests, rugged mountains and glittering streams. Between 13 and 21 January each year, the azure skies explode with colour, when hundreds of Luftballons grace Gosau's heavens for Hot Air Balloon Week.

  6. 7-day Austria Winter Itinerary Under S$1.4k

    It's also one of Europe's top destinations for winter sports — ski passes are more affordable compared to Switzerland, and France. Here's how to make the most of a week-long winter vacation with this Austria itinerary! Austria Itinerary Budget Breakdown. Accommodation: S$306 Transport: S$236.57 (excl. flights) Activities: S$367.97 Food ...

  7. Winter Holidays the Austrian Way

    Your Winter Holiday the Austrian Way. Skiing, cross-country skiing, freeriding, tobogganing, winter and snowshoe hiking, or horse-drawn sleigh rides through the winter wonderland scenery - you name it, in Austria you get it all! Well-groomed ski pistes and state-of-the-art lifts, as well as a modern infrastructure await all winter sport fans.

  8. 12 fun things to do in Austria in winter if you don't ski

    11. Do a toboggan run in Kirchberg. You might remember I have a fear of heights. On our last night in Austria, we went to the Gaisberg in Kirchberg to do a sled or toboggan run down. I wasn't that worried about the toboggan run, but I was about taking the ski lift all the way up the mountain.

  9. AUSTRIA IN WINTER

    Beautiful Austria! Though Austria is always worth a visit, this post is all about Austria in the winter. Find out about the best places to visit, what to do + travel tips for your Austria winter trip.. Austria in the winter is a picturesque wonderland, filled with snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and charming alpine villages.

  10. A winter guide to Austria, from cities to mountains

    A winter guide to Austria, from cities to mountains. Historic villages, traditional mountain food and well-connected resorts tempt visitors to Austria's Alps. With their centuries-old Alpine ...

  11. Things to do in Austria in Winter

    Tour St. Johann in Tirol on a Horse-drawn Carriage. Best Things to Do During an Austria Winter Vacation: Nature Walks and Treks. Biathlon the Austrian Way in Hochfilzen. Snowshoeing in Kirchberg. Trekking with Llamas in PillerseeTal. What to Do in Winter in Austria: Eat and Drink. Go Schnapps Tasting.

  12. Austria's Charming Winter Hideaways Snowy Relaxation

    Ski right to your door - no problem in cozy Gargellen. The highest-situated mountain village in the Montafon offers a ski region that extends up to 2300 m (7,545 ft) and is considered an eldorado for ski tours thanks to the guaranteed snow. The authentic ambience that has been retained up here offers a wildly romantic charm throughout the year.

  13. 10 Things to Do in Austria in Winter: A Vacay To Cherish!

    So, start noting down these top 10 things to do in Austria in Winter to have a vacation of a lifetime. Go For Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing. Rejuvenate In Thermal Spas. Experience Adrenaline Rush With Tobogganing. Visit The Finest Austrian Castles and Palaces. Ski To Experience Austrian Nature.

  14. 11 Best Things to do in Austria in Winter Besides Skiing

    10. Take the Tirol Schnapps Route. 11. Visit Austria's cities - Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck. Useful Information for visiting Austria. 1. Go Tobogganing in Tirol. Tirol is a western Austrian state in the Alps, known for its snowy ski resorts in the winter and beautiful hiking paths during the summer.

  15. Hallstatt in Winter Ultimate Guide + 13 Epic Best Things to do

    The average high temperature in Hallstatt winter is 3°C (37.4 °F) and the average lowest temperature is -3 °C (26.6 °F). Despite being very cold, Hallstatt in winter is surprisingly busy with tourists and winter-lovers swarming the city. But the good news is that Hallstatt in winter transforms into a magical fairy land.

  16. Salzburg in Winter

    Frost is the norm in December in Salzburg. Expect very cold days, with only 8.5 hours of daylight and a good chance of rain. You could experience some snowfall, especially at the end of the month. But it's less likely to settle. Daytime temps reach up to 4°C (39°F) and nights cool off to -2°C (28°F).

  17. Visiting Vienna in Winter: What you need to know!

    January - The coldest month of the year, highs around 2ºC, lows at -4ºC (36ºF / 25ºF). February - Highs around 4ºC, lows at -1ºC (39ºF / 30ºF) In short, the weather in Vienna in Winter is really not that cold. I say this as someone living in Berlin, where we can get down to -20ºC (-4ºF). That would be cold.

  18. 10 Things to do in Vienna in the Winter: The Ultimate Vienna Christmas

    Christmas Markets, palaces, classical music, coffee, cake, and a bunch of weird Hapsburg history: welcome to Vienna, Austria in the winter! Vienna is absolutely magical at Christmastime - and that's not just the Weihnachtspunsch talking. Walking down Vienna's historic cobblestone streets past glittering palaces evokes memories of long ...

  19. Austria winter sports highlights

    Honest & easy to read Austria winter travel guide with a two minute summary, maps and highlights and Responsible Travel recommendations on a Austria winter holiday. Find out more in our Austria winter travel guide. Toggle navigation. menu. 1-866-821-6866 . Call toll free. Destinations; Vacation Types; Last Min ute; Offers;

  20. Holidays in Austria

    Travelling through Austria by train is reliable, comfortable, and convenient. Relax, sit back, and enjoy your vacation, the Austrian Railways takes you to Austria's most beautiful places. Read more. Experience Austria's diversity on your summer holiday: Whether in the mountains, hiking and cycling, at the lake, in an Alpine hut, or at the museum.

  21. Vienna In Winter Travel Tips

    Stay cozy and layer up to brave Vienna's winter climate. Here are some tips to help you stay warm and fashionable during your visit: Dress in layers: Layering is key to staying warm in Vienna's winter weather. Start with a base layer of thermal clothing, followed by a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a waterproof and insulated jacket.

  22. Austria

    Welcome to Austria — birthplace of renowned composer Mozart and diamond empire Swarovski. It's also known for Red Bull, being a two-time host of the Winter Olympics, and one of Europe's longest-reigning and most influential dynasties. During winter, Christmas markets and ski resorts are in full swing, alpine villages are extra magical ...

  23. Austria in Winter: Your Essential Guide to Alpine Wonders

    Our travel clothing will take your wanderlust to the next level. Claim your RS.500/- coupon now. Simply fill in below to unlock this exclusive offer. Discover the magic of Austria in winter. Explore snowy landscapes, enjoy winter sports, and cozy up in Alpine charm with our essential guide.

  24. Austria Travel

    1,393 likes, 14 comments - austria.explores on March 3, 2024: "Imagine a winter wonderland in Vienna, where snow gently blankets the streets and the sound of ho..."

  25. 'Ski season is over': Snowless winter forces Austria's resorts to turn

    As the small ski resort in Austria now generates more money from summer sports than winter, it is hoped that others will follow suit. Rising property prices due to tourists buying vacation homes ...