The 7 Best Budget Ski Resorts in Austria for 2025

Timeless Wanderers Updated September 11, 2025

How to Plan a Low-Cost Ski Trip to Austria’s Most Popular Resorts

Austria has a way of stealing your heart from the moment you arrive and hear the crunch of fresh snow underfoot.

 Jagged peaks, onion-domed church spires, and villages that look as if they were sketched straight from a storybook.

Now imagine skiing all that alpine magic without draining your savings.

It’s possible—Austria’s famous for world-class slopes and après-ski energy, but it also hides plenty of resorts where lift passes, lodging, and hearty mountain meals stay surprisingly reasonable.

Over the years we’ve skied here on both shoestring trips (With Kids) and splurge-worthy holidays.

From lively valleys like Zillertal and Gastein to high-altitude gems such as Obertauern, there’s a spot for every style and budget.

Whether you’re after long cruisy blues, tree-lined reds, or a few challenging blacks, these resorts deliver great snow, Tyrolean charm, and prices that let you order that extra round of schnapps guilt-free.

Below you’ll find seven Austrian ski destinations that combine excellent terrain with value.

For each one we’ve included pros and cons, three Booking.com stays to suit different budgets, and simple ways to get there—because half the fun is planning the journey through mountain passes and postcard towns.

Grab your warmest layers, wax those skis, and get ready to explore Austria’s more affordable side of winter.

Zell am See–Kaprun

Few Alpine towns balance storybook scenery and dependable snow quite like Zell am See–Kaprun.

The pretty lakeside village of Zell am See sits beside Lake Zell, surrounded by dramatic peaks that glow pink at sunrise.

We love to spend the morning skiing wide, tree-lined slopes on the Schmittenhöhe mountain, then stop for lunch in the medieval centre, where narrow lanes hide cosy cafés and wood-panelled Stuben serving hearty Tyrolean dishes.

 Late in the season, when other resorts start to thaw, the neighbouring Kitzsteinhorn Glacier keeps its slopes perfectly groomed well into May—an enormous bonus for spring-skiing and anyone chasing guaranteed snow.

 Families appreciate the gentle blues near the top of the CityXpress lift, while intermediates love the long reds running toward the lakeshore.

More advanced riders can tackle the Black Mamba, a steep 63-percent gradient that gets the heart racing.

Off the slopes, the options are just as enticing: ice-skating or even cross-country skiing across the frozen lake (conditions permitting), sunset boat cruises, or a restorative soak at the Tauern Spa in Kaprun.

Despite its postcard looks, Zell am See remains refreshingly affordable compared with Austria’s glitzier names like Kitzbühel or Lech.

Lift passes are competitively priced, and you’ll find everything from simple guesthouses to modern self-catering apartments, meaning you can tailor a trip to your budget without sacrificing atmosphere.

Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic week on the snow, or a late-season escape, Zell am See–Kaprun delivers a classic Alpine experience that feels indulgent without the price tag.

Pros

  • Glacier skiing at Kitzsteinhorn for an extra-long season

  • Lakeside village charm with stunning views

  • Wide range of runs for all abilities

Cons

  • Can feel crowded in peak school-holiday weeks

  • Central accommodation books out fast—reserve early

Where to Stay 

Getting There

  • By Air: Salzburg Airport (1.5 hrs) or Munich Airport (2.5 hrs)

  • By Train: Direct services from Salzburg and Innsbruck to Zell am See station

  • By Car: About 1.5 hours from Salzburg via the A10 Tauern motorway

  • For more comfort and convenience, compare these car rentals: DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS 
*Handy Tip*  Don’t forget your GOPRO or INSTA360 for all those action shots of family and friends.

Mayrhofen – Zillertal Valley

Arriving in Mayrhofen for the first time felt like stepping into the heart of a lively Alpine village.

Timber chalets lined the streets, the smell of mulled wine drifted from local cafés, and the gondolas hummed with excitement as skiers prepared to explore the mountains.

The Zillertal Superskipass opens access to over 500 km of interconnected slopes, giving beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers endless possibilities.

We spent mornings on the wide, sunny blues of Ahorn Mountain, perfect for easing into the day, and afternoons tackling the challenging reds and the infamous Harakiri—the steepest groomed piste in Austria.

What makes Mayrhofen so special is the variety it offers.

Freestyle skiers and snowboarders will love the Vans Penken Park, with jumps and rails to test skills, while families can enjoy dedicated kids’ zones and gentle lower slopes.

The village itself strikes a perfect balance between buzzing energy and welcoming charm.

Après-ski here is lively but not over the top, with cosy pubs, live music, and hearty Austrian dishes like Kaiserschmarrn and Tyrolean schnitzel.

Accommodation is easy to find for all budgets.

From traditional hotels with half-board to modern self-catering apartments just steps from the lift, there are options that suit solo travellers, couples, and families.

Even with its popularity, Mayrhofen manages to feel approachable, with friendly locals and efficient lift networks.

For anyone seeking a mix of adventure, variety, and Alpine charm—without blowing the budget—Mayrhofen delivers a memorable experience from the first run to the last après-ski toast.

Pros

  • Extensive ski area with 500+ km of slopes

  • Freestyle park and challenging red/black runs

  • Lively village and après-ski scene

Cons

  • Can be crowded during peak weeks

  • Nightlife may be busy for some

Where to Stay 

Getting There

  • By Air: Innsbruck Airport (1 hr), Munich Airport (2 hrs)

  • By Train: Trains to Jenbach, then Zillertalbahn to Mayrhofen

  • By Car: 1 hour from Innsbruck via A12 and B169

Söll – SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser–Brixental

The first time we arrived in Söll, it felt like the quintessential Austrian village you imagine in postcards.

I learnt to ski here in the 80’s, it will always be my special place.

Timber chalets covered with fresh snow, a quaint church steeple rising above the streets, and the crisp mountain air instantly put you in the skiing spirit.

Nestled in the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser–Brixental, one of Europe’s largest interconnected ski areas, Söll offers an impressive variety of slopes that cater to everyone—from first-time skiers to seasoned pros.

Beginners will find gentle blue runs ideal for learning, alongside excellent ski schools that make the first turns enjoyable and confidence-building.

Intermediates can explore the endless reds linking Söll to Ellmau, Scheffau, and Westendorf, enjoying long, flowing runs with stunning Alpine scenery.

Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on black runs and off-piste trails, while the floodlit slopes at night skiing add a magical twist for those looking to extend their day.

Families love the dedicated kids’ zones, safe practice areas, and convenient ski-in/ski-out accommodations that make travelling with little ones stress-free.

Beyond skiing, Söll’s village charm is a highlight.

Cozy cafés serve steaming mugs of hot chocolate, traditional restaurants offer hearty Tyrolean dishes, and the après-ski atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming.

Accommodation options are diverse and affordable, from historic hotels to modern self-catering apartments just steps from the gondola.

Söll perfectly blends variety, accessibility, and affordability, making it a top choice for anyone seeking a fun and memorable Austrian ski experience.

Pros

  • Extensive SkiWelt area with diverse slopes

  • Excellent night-skiing options

  • Family-friendly with beginner zones

Cons

  • Lower altitude can lead to softer snow later in season

  • Busy beginner areas during peak times

Where to Stay 

Getting There

  • By Air: Innsbruck Airport (1 hr), Salzburg Airport (1.5 hrs), Munich Airport (1.5 hrs)

  • By Train: Trains to Wörgl, then bus or taxi to Söll

  • By Car: About 1 hour from Innsbruck or Munich via A12

  • For more comfort and convenience, compare these car rentals: DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS 

Schladming–Dachstein

 When we arrived in Schladming, the village was covered in snow, it immediately felt warm and welcoming, despite the crisp Alpine chill.

Belle Époque hotels, charming streets, and the backdrop of snow-capped peaks set the stage for a special Austrian ski experience.

The Planai–Hochwurzen–Reiteralm area offers a diverse mix of slopes, making Schladming ideal for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers.

We spent our mornings exploring the wide, groomed blue runs that gently eased us into the day, while afternoons were dedicated to longer red runs.

What stood out most was the village’s accessibility and  atmosphere.

Families can take advantage of excellent ski schools, dedicated children’s slopes, and gentle cruising areas, while intermediate skiers enjoy endless red runs that connect seamlessly across the mountains.

Advanced skiers will appreciate challenging black runs and off-piste options that offer breathtaking views.

Evenings in Schladming are relaxed yet lively, with cosy restaurants serving traditional Austrian fare and local cafés perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.

Despite its reputation as a well-known resort, Schladming remains affordable.

Lift passes are reasonably priced, and accommodation ranges from traditional Alpine hotels with hearty breakfasts to modern self-catering apartments close to lifts.

For anyone seeking scenic beauty, varied slopes, and family-friendly options, Schladming–Dachstein delivers a memorable Austrian ski experience that feels both classic and accessible.

Pros

  • Large, interconnected ski area

  • Family-friendly with excellent ski schools

  • Relaxed après-ski and village charm

Cons

  • Can be busy on weekends and school holidays

  • Lower slopes may soften later in the season

Where to Stay 

Getting There

  • By Air: Salzburg Airport (~1.5 hrs), Munich Airport (~3 hrs)

  • By Train: Schladming station with local buses

  • By Car: 1.5–2 hrs from Salzburg via A10

  • For more comfort and convenience, compare these car rentals: DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS 

Bad Gastein – Gastein Valley

Arriving in Bad Gastein is like stepping into a storybook.

The Belle Époque architecture, cascading Gasteinbach river, and snow-covered chalets create a unique alpine charm that immediately drew us in.

Skiing in the Gastein Valley feels both adventurous and accessible.

The valley offers over 200 km of slopes suitable for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers, with a variety of terrains to explore across Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein, and Dorfgastein.

We spent mornings skiing wide blue runs, perfect for warming up and enjoying the spectacular scenery, before tackling longer red trails in the afternoon. (Prefer the blue these days)

Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on steep black runs or venture off-piste with a local guide.

Families will love the dedicated ski areas for kids, safe beginner zones, and the convenience of lifts connecting the different villages.

After skiing, the village’s thermal springs are a highlight; soaking in naturally heated pools while snow falls around you is an experience we’ll never forget.

Bad Gastein’s charm extends beyond skiing.

Cosy cafés, restaurants serving hearty Austrian specialties, and welcoming locals make wandering the village streets a pleasure.

Accommodation ranges from historic Belle Époque hotels to modern self-catering apartments, all at surprisingly reasonable prices for a resort of this calibre.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxed ski holiday, family adventure, or a mix of skiing and wellness, Bad Gastein offers a memorable, affordable Austrian Alpine experience.

Pros

  • Historic charm with Belle Époque architecture

  • Thermal springs and wellness options

  • Varied skiing for all levels

Cons

  • Quiet nightlife for some

  • Some slopes require lifts or buses to connect

Where to Stay 

Getting There

  • By Air: Salzburg Airport (~1.5 hrs), Innsbruck Airport (~2.5 hrs)

  • By Train: Bad Gastein station connects nationally

  • By Car: 1.5–2 hrs from Salzburg via A10 Tauern motorway

Wear a SKI-HELMET, especially if you’re a beginner or in the snow parks, and remember to pack your SKI-GOGGLES for Austria.

Saalbach–Hinterglemm

The first day we clicked our ski’s on in Saalbach–Hinterglemm, we fell in love.

Snowy peaks, cheerful village streets immediately set the tone for a vibrant ski holiday.

Known for the Skicircus, one of Austria’s largest interconnected ski areas, Saalbach–Hinterglemm offers over 270 km of slopes that cater to all levels.

Beginners can enjoy wide, gentle blues that make learning easy and enjoyable, while intermediates will love the extensive red runs linking Hinterglemm, Leogang, and Saalbach.

Advanced skiers have plenty of black runs, off-piste challenges, and steep descents to test their skills.

What sets Saalbach apart is its lively village atmosphere with genuine Alpine charm.

Après-ski is energetic yet not overwhelming; cosy pubs, local restaurants, and live music make evenings memorable.

Families can enjoy dedicated kids’ areas, ski schools, and safe zones for young learners, while solo travellers and couples can explore quiet corners, mountain huts, or scenic photo spots away from the crowds.

The gondola networks are efficient, and snow reliability is excellent, ensuring that even late-season visitors can enjoy fantastic skiing.

Accommodation is varied and reasonably priced considering the resort’s popularity.

From traditional hotels with full-board options to modern self-catering apartments right by the lifts, there’s something for every type of skier.

Saalbach–Hinterglemm is perfect for those seeking adventure, variety, and social skiing without breaking the bank, combining the excitement of a large ski area with the warmth and charm of a classic Austrian village.

Pros

  • Extensive terrain with well-connected lifts

  • Lively après-ski and village atmosphere

  • Family-friendly zones and schools

Cons

  • Can be crowded during peak holidays

  • Higher slopes may be icy early season

Where to Stay 

Getting There

  • By Air: Salzburg Airport (~1 hr 45 min), Munich Airport (~2.5 hrs)

  • By Train: Zell am See station + bus/taxi to Saalbach

  • By Car: 1 hr 45 min from Salzburg via A10

  • For more comfort and convenience, compare these car rentals: DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS 

Obertauern

Arriving in Obertauern feels like entering a true snow paradise.

Perched high in the Austrian Alps at over 1,700 meters, the village is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and a wide-open sky, making it one of the most snow-sure resorts in the country.

The first run we took was exhilarating: perfectly groomed slopes, panoramic mountain views that seemed to stretch forever.

Obertauern is compact yet efficient, with lifts that put you on the slopes within minutes and slopes suitable for all levels.

Beginners can enjoy gentle blue runs close to the village, while intermediates can explore long reds that weave through valleys and along ridges.

Advanced skiers have access to challenging black runs and off-piste options, all within a short lift ride.

 What we loved most was the village atmosphere: traditional Alpine chalets, cosy cafés serving hot chocolate, and the welcoming feel of a community built entirely around skiing.

Accommodation in Obertauern is convenient and surprisingly affordable for a high-altitude resort.

Options range from modern hotels with spa facilities to self-catering apartments right by the lifts, making it easy to enjoy ski-in/ski-out convenience.

Whether you’re looking for snow reliability, varied slopes, or a friendly Alpine village, Obertauern delivers an unforgettable Austrian ski experience without the premium price tag.

Pros

  • High-altitude snow reliability

  • Compact, ski-in/ski-out village

  • Slopes suitable for all levels

Cons

  • Limited nightlife for some

  • Can be crowded during school holidays

Where to Stay 

  • Hotel Alpenhof – Modern, central, with spa facilities

  • Hotel Alpenland:  offers a quiet and sunny location right in the centre of Obertauern

  • Hotel Edelweiss – Rooms here will provide you with a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Ski to door.

Getting There

  • By Air: Salzburg Airport (~1.5 hrs), Munich Airport (~3 hrs)

  • By Train: Radstadt or Schladming station + bus/taxi to Obertauern

  • By Car: ~1.5 hrs from Salzburg via A10

  • For more comfort and convenience, compare these car rentals: DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS 

*Hand Tip*  Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.

Planning Your Trip

Planning your Austrian ski adventure is easier when you break it down. Here are key tips to make the most of your trip:

  • Book Early:  Popular resorts like Zell am See and Saalbach fill quickly, especially during school holidays.
  • Lift Passes:  Consider regional passes (e.g., Zillertal Superskipass, SkiWelt pass) to save money if skiing multiple resorts.
  • Accommodation: Use Booking.com to secure ski-in/ski-out hotels or self-catering apartments near lifts.
  • Transportation: Airports to resorts: Salzburg (closest to most), Innsbruck (western Tirol), Munich (southern Germany). Trains and buses often connect to villages.
  • Car Hire:  Ideal if visiting multiple resorts, but remember winter driving conditions; all-season or winter tyres required.
  • Ski Gear: Bring your own if possible; otherwise, rent at local shops for convenience.
  • Timing: Early December and late March offer fewer crowds and often cheaper rates.
  • Travel Insurance: Essential, especially if skiing off-piste or participating in winter sports.
    Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.
  • Local Culture: Try regional dishes like Kaiserschmarrn, Tyrolean schnitzel, or a hot punch after skiing.
  • Packing: Layers:  thermal base layers, gloves, helmet, goggles, and waterproof outerwear are essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which resort is best for beginners?

A: Söll and Zell am See–Kaprun are perfect for beginners with wide blues, excellent ski schools, and safe practice areas.

Q: Which resorts are family-friendly?

A: Mayrhofen, Schladming–Dachstein, and Saalbach–Hinterglemm cater well to families, with kids’ zones, ski schools, and easy lift access.

Q: When is the best time to visit Austria for skiing?

A: December through March is peak season. For fewer crowds and lower prices, early December or late March works best.

Q: Are the resorts affordable for budget travellers?

A: Yes, all seven resorts have reasonably priced lift passes, accommodation options, and restaurants, making them ideal for budget-conscious skiers.

Q: How do I get around between resorts?

A: Renting a car is convenient, but trains and buses connect most resorts efficiently. Plan transfers in advance for smooth travel.

Q: Can I find ski rentals at these resorts?

A: Yes. All seven resorts have multiple rental shops offering skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, and other gear. Booking online in advance is often cheaper and guarantees availability, especially in peak season.

*Hand Tip*  Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.

Final Thoughts

Austria offers a wealth of ski resorts where you can enjoy world-class slopes, scenic villages, and Alpine charm without overspending.

From the frozen lake reflections in Zell am See–Kaprun to the lively après-ski scene in Saalbach–Hinterglemm, each resort has its unique personality.

Whether you’re a beginner, a family, or an experienced skier , these seven budget-friendly resorts combine accessibility, variety, and unforgettable Alpine experiences.

With proper planning—booking accommodations early, choosing the right lift passes, and preparing for winter conditions—you can have a seamless, memorable trip.

Austria proves that skiing doesn’t have to be a luxury; it can be a joyous adventure accessible to all, full of fresh snow, charming villages, and warm Alpine hospitality.

PLAN YOUR SKI ADVENTURE

Booking a ski trip involves a range of reliable resources to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. I have listed below our favorite companies we use when we plan our ski holiday.

Ski World – They have been taking customers to the best ski resorts in Europe, the US and Canada for more than 36 years.

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT –  Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.

Booking.com– for accommodation, we rely on Booking.com for its extensive options and user reviews. We find they have the cheapest rates and offer payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.

Train Travel– to European ski resorts is convenient and scenic, popular trips include Glacier express to Zermatt, the Eurostar from London to the French Alps. We find Omio or Rail Europe are the best sites for booking trains in Europe.

Car Hire – we usually hire a car it offers us flexibility and convenience, allowing easy access to most resorts. Companies like Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com provide reliable options with winter equipment.

Travel insurance– Don’t ski without it. If you get hurt on the mountain it could cost, you a small fortune if you’re not insured. We use SAFETYWING when my wife broke her ankle a few years ago in Wengen they were terrific.

Ski Equipment. – Bring your own ski gear, its usually cheaper and much better than renting, it ensures you have a perfect fit. Owning also saves time and money in the long run. Equipment like Skis, Pants and Jackets, Gloves, Ski-helmets and Thermal underwear” can all be bought online. You can purchase everything you need from Backcountry (USA) or Snow and Rock (UK).

ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.

              Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.

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