There is something unique and special about Christmas in the Alps. Snowflakes falling over wooden chalets, the smell of mulled wine drifting through festive markets, and perfectly groomed slopes waiting for your first tracks. If you are thinking of an Austrian ski break at Christmas, you will want a destination that offers world-class skiing alongside proper festive vibes.
In this guide, we’ll discover the best ski resorts in Austria for a magical Christmas, celebrate the combination of Christmas markets and skiing, and delve more deeply into ski touring in St. Anton.
Why Choose Austria For A Christmas Ski Trip
Austria celebrates the Christmas tradition with elegance and hospitality. You can find actual live Christmas trees, villages filled with lights, and the Christmas cheer is everywhere. Most skiing resorts emphasize the slopes alone; Austria puts festive bazaars, culture and tradition, and top-of-the-line skiing all into one great package.
Just imagine wrapping up a day skiing with roasted chestnuts and Glühwein at a Christmas market or walking through lantern-lit streets and then you’re off to a snug chalet. That is what December is like in Austria.
Best Ski Resorts In Austria For Festive Vibes
St. Anton am Arlberg
For many, St. Anton tops the list of the best ski resorts in Austria, and with good reason. The snow is reliable in December, the terrain is vast, and the après-ski is legendary. During the holidays, the town transforms with lights, carols, and its famous Advent Magic in the Park.
If you’re keen on ski touring, St. Anton is also the perfect base. Guided tours take you into untouched valleys and powder fields, offering 200km of a whole new perspective of the Alps. Whether you’re new to touring or more advanced, there’s an adventure waiting here.
Zell am See – Kaprun
Few places are as picture-perfect at Christmas as Zell am See. With a frozen lake in the center of town and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier nearby, you can ski at altitude in the morning and wander through festive markets in the evening. A higher attitude also means better snow conditions.
Kaprun’s markets add an extra charm with local crafts, music, and traditional Austrian treats. Families especially love Zell am See because of its welcoming atmosphere and variety of slopes for all levels.
Hochkönig
If you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience, Hochkönig is a fantastic choice. This ski area links charming villages like Maria Alm, Hinterthal, and Mühlbach. Each has its own festive celebrations, from small Christmas markets to church choirs.
The skiing here is part of the Ski Amadé network, giving you access to a wide range of runs, but it’s the relaxed, cozy feel that really makes Hochkönig stand out at Christmas.
Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel is famous for its old-town charm and lively ski scene, and it feels especially magical at Christmas. The town square turns into a festive market with lights, music, and local food stalls. During the day, the slopes have options for every level of skier, and in the evening you can stroll through streets that look straight out of a Christmas card.
Christmas Markets & Skiing in Austria
One of the best parts of visiting Austria in December is being able to combine skiing with Christmas markets. Innsbruck, Salzburg, and smaller alpine towns all host annual traditional markets with handcrafted ornaments, gingerbread, and steaming mugs of Glühwein.
In resorts like St. Anton, Zell am See, and Kitzbühel, markets are often just a short walk from the slopes. That means you can ski until the lifts close, then head straight into the festive atmosphere.
Ski Touring in St. Anton
For adventurous skiers, ski touring in St. Anton is a highlight. Instead of sticking to groomed pistes, ski touring allows you to climb into the backcountry and enjoy untouched powder.
- Routes: The Arlberg region offers countless routes, from mellow ascents to challenging alpine terrain.
- Guides: Local guides ensure safety and help you discover the best snow. Avalanche equipment is essential.
Experience: Even if you’ve never tried ski touring, St. Anton is one of the best places to start. The combination of professional guides and stunning terrain makes it unforgettable.
Tips For Planning Your Christmas Ski Trip
- Book early – As early as a year in advance. Christmas is peak season, and the best accommodations go fast.
- Go high – Choose resorts with glaciers or higher altitude slopes for reliable early-season snow.
- Check transport – Airports like Innsbruck, Zürich and Munich are closest, and do factor in transfer time.
- Pack layers – Mountain weather in December can change quickly, so bring warm, breathable gear.
- Soak up traditions – Don’t just ski, attend a Christmas concert, taste local pastries or join an Advent celebration.
Making It Easy With Alpenature
Planning a festive ski trip can feel overwhelming with so many options. That’s where Alpenature comes in. With carefully selected chalets, hotels, and ski packages across Austria, Alpenature makes it simple to find the right mix of skiing, comfort, and holiday atmosphere.
From arranging lift passes to recommending the best Christmas markets near your resort, Alpenature ensures your trip feels seamless. Whether you’re dreaming of ski touring in St Anton or relaxing by the fire in Zell am See, they help bring your holiday vision to life.
Final Thoughts
If you want a ski trip that captures both festive magic and alpine adventure, Austria is the place to be. St. Anton delivers world-class skiing and touring, Zell am See brings fairytale charm, Hochkönig offers peaceful authenticity, and Kitzbühel dazzles with its medieval beauty.
Wherever you go, Christmas in the Alps is more than just a holiday, it’s an experience you’ll carry with you long after the snow melts.
