Austrian Alps vacation packages

How to reach the Austrian Alps

Flight time: Flights to Innsbruck from London and other major UK airports take just over 2 hours. Flights to Salzburg, which is also well connected to the alpine regions, take a similar amount of time.

Best time to visit the Austrian Alps

This region offers different magic each season, making trips to the Austrian Alps a year-round delight, depending on what kind of vacation you're after.

• December to February is peak skiing season, with perfect conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. Temperatures range from 14 to 36°F, snow is abundant, and there's an average of 3–4 hours of sunshine per day.

• March to May is great for spring skiing and early hiking. As the snow starts to melt, temperatures climb from 28 to 50°F, and there is more sunshine than in the winter. This is a quieter period, offering a peaceful retreat.

• June to August is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and climbing. The mountains are lush and green, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 77°F and plenty of sun.

• September to November sees the return of cooler weather and stunning autumn colors. Temperatures drop from 59 to 41°F, and it's perfect for enjoying the crisp mountain air and fewer crowds.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: German is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Austrians value punctuality and formality. A polite greeting is expected when entering shops or restaurants. It's also customary to tip about 10 percent in restaurants and cafés.

• Health and safety: Austria is a very safe country, but the usual precautions should be taken. Tap water is safe to drink, and healthcare is of a high standard.

• Currency: Austria uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and debit and credit cards are commonly accepted.

• Getting around: Public transport in the Austrian Alps is excellent. Trains and buses connect even remote villages. Taxis and transfer services are also an option. For ski resorts, look out for free ski buses.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard supply is 230V with two round-pin plugs (type C and F), so an adapter is necessary for British devices.

• Time zone: Austria is on Central European Time (CET), 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: UK travelers need a valid passport to enter Austria. No visa is required for short stays of up to 90 days.

Where to stay in the Austrian Alps

The Austrian Alps offer a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to cozy chalets, perfect for every type of traveler. Here’s a guide to some of the best destinations in the Austrian Alps, complete with recommendations for each location.

St. Anton am Arlberg

Ideal for ski enthusiasts

Highlights:

• World-class skiing and snowboarding

• Lively après-ski bars and restaurants

• Easy access to the Arlberg ski area

Kitzbühel

Historic and picturesque

Highlights:

• Historic town center with medieval architecture

• Exclusive shopping and dining experiences

• Renowned Hahnenkamm ski race

Zell am See

Scenic and family-friendly

Highlights:

• Beautiful lakeside location

• Year-round outdoor activities

• Family-friendly environment

Innsbruck

Cultural and convenient

Highlights:

• Historic sites and museums

• Proximity to several ski areas

• Vibrant city life with shops and restaurants

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Vibrant and versatile

Highlights:

• Extensive ski slopes and snow parks

• Exciting après-ski scene

• Outdoor activities for all seasons

Bad Gastein

Relaxing and rejuvenating

Highlights:

• Thermal spas and wellness centers

• Beautiful alpine landscapes

• Skiing, hiking, and spa treatments

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and accommodations, ensuring a memorable vacation in the Austrian Alps. Choose the location that best suits your preferences and enjoy the natural beauty and activities this region has to offer.

Best things to do in the Austrian Alps

The Austrian Alps are a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Here's the best of what vacations to the Austrian Alps have to offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Nordkette, Innsbruck: Take the Nordkette Cable Car from Innsbruck to Hafelekar for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's especially stunning at sunset.

• Dachstein Skywalk: Known as the “balcony of the Alps,” this viewing platform offers dramatic views of the Dachstein Glacier and the peaks of the Northern Limestone Alps.

• Zugspitze: Germany's highest peak (2,962m), accessible from the Austrian side, offers a 360-degree panorama with views of four countries on a clear day.

The best districts

• Old Town, Innsbruck: Wander through medieval streets, explore the Golden Roof, and enjoy a coffee in a charming café. The whole area is steeped in history and culture.

• Kitzbühel: This picturesque town is a year-round destination with plenty to offer beyond skiing. It's well-known for its vibrant après-ski scene, charming town center, and high-end shops.

Parks and gardens

• Botanical Garden, Innsbruck: A beautiful spot to enjoy alpine flora, the garden features a wide variety of plants from the region and peaceful walking paths.

• Alpenpark Karwendel: One of the largest nature reserves in Austria and a paradise for nature lovers, offering excellent hiking trails and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Historical monuments

• Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg: One of Europe's largest fully preserved castles, offering stunning views over Salzburg and historical exhibits.

• Ambras Castle, Innsbruck: A Renaissance castle with a rich collection of art and armor. The castle's beautiful gardens are also worth exploring.

Day trips in the area

• Hallstatt: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage village for its beautiful lakeside setting, historic buildings, and prehistoric salt mines. It's a picturesque day trip from Salzburg or Innsbruck. Discover our offers on vacations to Hallstatt.

• Zell am See: A perfect spot for watersports on the lake, skiing on the nearby Schmittenhöhe mountain, and exploring the charming town streets. Check out our vacation packages to Zell am See.

• Grossglockner High Alpine Road: A scenic drive through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, offering dramatic views and plenty of photo opportunities of the mountains, including Austria's highest peak, Grossglockner (3,798m).

Activities for families in the Austrian Alps

The Austrian Alps are perfect for family vacations, offering a wide range of activities to keep everyone entertained.

• Museums: The Tiroler Landesmuseum in Innsbruck offers interactive exhibits on Tyrolean culture and history, with hands-on activities that will engage young minds.

• Zoos: Alpenzoo Innsbruck is home to alpine animals and offers a great day out, with educational displays and interactive elements.

• Historical monuments and sites: Explore the family-friendly Hohenwerfen Castle, which offers falconry displays and guided tours that bring history to life. The castle's interactive exhibits are great for kids.

• Theme parks and adventure: Area 47, located in the Ötztal Valley, is an outdoor adventure park with water slides, climbing walls, and even wakeboarding. In contrast, the Alpinolino Westendorf adventure park features nature trails, playgrounds, and educational exhibits about the local wildlife.

Free things to do in the Austrian Alps

Even on a budget, you can enjoy many wonderful activities in the Austrian Alps. Here are some free things to do that will make your Austrian Alps vacations memorable without breaking the bank.

• Free events: The Austrian Alps host numerous free cultural events and open-air concerts throughout the year. During the summer, many towns have music festivals and local celebrations that are free to attend.

• Free museums: Many museums offer free entry for certain days or times. The Museum of Tyrolean Folk Art in Innsbruck has free admission on some afternoons, making it a great deal for budget-conscious travelers.

Wellness in the Austrian Alps

• Spas and thermal baths: For an unforgettable experience, visit the Alpentherme Gastein in Bad Hofgastein. It offers thermal baths, saunas, and steam rooms set against a stunning alpine backdrop.

• Yoga and meditation centers: Yoga is widespread in the Austrian Alps, with many retreats and classes held in serene natural settings. A yoga session in the mountains, surrounded by fresh air and spectacular views, offers a truly tranquil experience.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking in national parks: Austria's numerous national parks, such as Hohe Tauern, offer well-marked trails through diverse landscapes. There are opportunities for all levels of hikers, from easy strolls to challenging mountain treks.

• Skiing and snowboarding: The Austrian Alps are renowned for their world-class ski resorts, such as St. Anton and Kitzbühel, with slopes for all skill levels, as well as excellent après-ski activities.

• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding in destinations like Zell am See. Soaring above the alpine landscape provides breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush like no other.

• Mountain biking: The Alps are crisscrossed with bike trails suitable for all levels. Resorts like Saalbach-Hinterglemm and Leogang are particularly popular, offering well-maintained tracks and stunning scenery.

• Watersports: The region's lakes, such as Wolfgangsee and Wörthersee, are perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Discover more things to do in Austria with our dedicated guide.

Local dishes in Austria

One of the great delights of vacations to the Austrian Alps is exploring the blend of hearty traditional dishes, unique local drinks, and delectable desserts. Austria is particularly well known for its pastries and sweet treats.

Some typical dishes

• Wienerschnitzel: A breaded and fried veal cutlet, usually served with a slice of lemon, potatoes, and lingonberry jam, is a must-try for any visitor.

• Tafelspitz: Boiled beef served with horseradish sauce and minced apples, often accompanied by potatoes or creamed spinach.

• Kasnocken: Small dumplings served with melted cheese and crispy onions, often considered comfort food in the alpine regions.

Meat dishes

• Schweinsbraten: Roast pork served with sauerkraut and dumplings, a Sunday lunch favorite in many Austrian households.

• Backhendl: Breaded and fried chicken, typically served with potato salad and a wedge of lemon.

• Blutwurst: Blood sausage, often served with sauerkraut and potatoes, and a must-try for those looking to experience traditional cuisine.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Forelle Müllerin: Trout prepared in a simple yet delicious way: coated in flour, pan-fried in butter, and served with parsley potatoes.

• Steckerlfisch: Grilled fish on a stick, popular at outdoor festivals and markets, especially in the Salzkammergut region.

Street food

• Käsekrainer: A type of cheese-filled sausage typically served with a bread roll and mustard at sausage stands (Würstelstände).

• Bosna: A spicy sausage sandwich with onions, mustard, and curry powder, originally from Salzburg, is now a common snack nationwide.

Sweets and desserts

• Apfelstrudel: A beloved treat, this famous pastry is filled with apples, cinnamon, sugar, and raisins.

• Kaiserschmarrn: For those who enjoy lighter fare, this airy and crisp shredded pancake is sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with fruit preserves.

• Sachertorte: A dense chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam traditionally served with whipped cream, epitomizing Viennese confectionery craftsmanship.

Local drinks

• Wine: Austria is known for its excellent wines, particularly the white Grüner Veltliner and red Blaufränkisch.

• Beer: Austrian beers are superb, with Märzen, a type of pale lager, being the most common. Local breweries produce a wide variety of beers to sample.

• Almdudler: A popular herbal soft drink that’s a perfect non-alcoholic option, often described as the "national drink" of Austria.

• Schnapps: Various fruit brandies, such as apricot (Marillen) and pear (Birnen), are widely enjoyed, especially after meals.

Sports activities in the Austrian Alps

The Austrian Alps are a haven for sports enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of activities throughout the year. Whether you're a fan of winter sports or prefer summer adventures, the Austrian Alps have something for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the best sports activities you can enjoy on your vacation.

Skiing and snowboarding

World-class slopes

Highlights:

• Extensive ski slopes for all levels

• Modern lift systems

• Stunning alpine scenery

Hiking and trail running

Scenic trails

Highlights:

• Diverse hiking and running trails

• Spectacular mountain and valley views

• Opportunities to explore national parks

Mountain biking

Thrilling rides

Highlights:

• Extensive network of mountain biking trails

• Downhill and cross-country routes

• Bike parks with modern facilities

Water sports

Lakes and rivers

Highlights:

• Kayaking and rafting on alpine rivers

• Paddleboarding on serene lakes

• Stunning natural surroundings

Paragliding and hang gliding

Aerial adventures

Highlights:

• Breathtaking aerial views

• Ideal wind conditions for flying

• Experienced guides and operators

Climbing and via ferrata

Vertical challenges

Highlights:

• Exciting climbing routes for all levels

• Scenic via ferrata paths

• Safe and well-maintained facilities

By engaging in these diverse sports activities, you can make the most of your Austrian Alps vacation, enjoying the stunning natural beauty and thrilling adventures this region has to offer.