Austria has a long and reliable ski season, but the best time to ski in Austria depends on snow conditions, daylight hours, crowds and atmosphere.
This guide gives a clear seasonal overview to help you decide when to plan your ski holiday in Austria. If we have a guide on the specific month we suggest five or more ski resorts for that month.
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Season Overview
Excellent snow conditions, quieter slopes, and reliable coverage throughout the month.
Cheaper ski passes and accommodation, with most major resorts opening.
Longer days, spring sunshine, and “Kaiserwetter” skiing conditions.
Month-by-Month Guide
Glacier Skiing
October skiing in Austria is limited to glaciers and early openings. Conditions depend heavily on weather, but it’s ideal for skiers who want an early start to the season. We our skiing in October page we report on the opening dates and we update the open lifts and snow depth regularly.
High Ski Resorts Opening
November marks the start of the ski season in Austria. Usually mid to end November the first non-glacier ski resorts are open for skiing. Some ski resorts offer cheaper ski tickets and the accommodations are cheaper than in peak season.
Early December, Christmas & New Year's
Early December offers a good mix of atmosphere and value. Most of the larger ski resorts open within the first few weeks of the month. As in November, many resorts offer discounted ski passes, and accommodation is cheaper than during the peak season. The period from shortly before Christmas until New Year is one of the most popular and busiest times of the year.
Best Overall Skiing
January is widely considered to be the best month for skiing in Austria, with excellent snow conditions and quieter slopes outside of the school holidays. Unfortunately, ski passes won’t be discounted as they are in the early season. January is probably the best month to go skiing, whether you’re travelling alone, as a couple or with a group of friends.
Peak Season
In February, you can also expect reliable snow and longer daylight hours, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time of year, probably on a par with Christmas skiing.
Longer Days & Easter Skiing
March brings noticeably longer days and more sunshine, as well as generally good snow conditions, particularly during the first half of the month. As spring progresses into April, the quality of the snow becomes more dependent on the weather, with the best conditions typically found at higher elevations. Easter can fall in either March or April.
Spring Skiing & Late Season
May skiing is limited to higher-altitude resorts and glaciers. Conditions vary, but it can offer a unique late-season experience. Some Resorts offer ski season finale parties.
Summer Skiing
Summer skiing in Austria is possible – BUT not guaranted. It’s limited to glaciers and is a niche experience for dedicated skiers.
Take our interactive quiz to find your perfect ski resort based on your preferences and skiing ability.
Planning Tips
- Book early or late season for discounted ski passes
- Prebook Accommodation, Ski Rentals and Transportation well in advance
- Avoid Christmas, New Year's, and February school holidays
- January offers the most reliable conditions
- Higher altitude resorts have longer seasons
- Austrias Resorts have great Snowmaking capabilities
- Ski in January or February outside school holidays
- Early December is quieter than Christmas
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
- Christmas week for festive vibes
- New Year's for epic parties
- March for "Kaiserwetter" spring skiing
Frequently Asked Questions about skiing near Vienna
When does the ski season start in Austria?
The ski season in Austria usually starts in late October or November, with glacier skiing available earlier. Most non-glacier resorts open gradually throughout November, depending on snow conditions and snowmaking. We have a dedicated article about the ski season openings.
When is the best month to ski in Austria?
January is considered the best month to ski in Austria. Usually great snow conditions and its in general quieter as its outside of school holidays.
What is the best time to ski in Austria for beginners?
For beginners, January and February are usually the best times to ski in Austria. Snow coverage is reliable, slopes are fully open, and ski schools operate at full capacity. Early March can also work well for beginners who prefer milder temperatures.
What is the best time to ski in Austria to avoid crowds?
To avoid crowds, consider January, early December or March outside of school holidays.
What is the cheapest time to ski in Austria?
The cheapest times to ski in Austria are usually in November and early December. Also March and April – outside of school holidays are cheaper. Accommodation prices are lower and lift passes are often better value compared to peak season.
Can you ski in Austria outside the main winter season?
Yes. In Austria you can usually ski year round. Glacier skiing makes it possible to even ski in summer. But it is even more weather dependent and very limited in terrain and snow quality.
