Learn to Ski in Austria
From zero to (piste) hero

Never skied before? The perfect moment to start is now! Here’s everything you need to know about ski schools, equipment, and beginner-friendly ski resorts in Austria.

There’s something irresistibly attractive about skiing. And it's not the ski goggles, or the softshell jacket. It's the feeling of trying something new. When learning to ski as an adult, you'll quickly notice your courage and curiosity return. And you'll never forget the smile on your face when crushing your first slope. Austria has everything to make getting started feel like a breeze: experienced ski instructors, gentle slopes, and a relaxed no-pressure environment.

The first turn is a small win, the second pure freedom. And then? Sunshine, Kaiserschmarren (shredded pancakes), a breathtaking panorama, and a party to cap the day. Or, in other words, the Austrian joie de vivre. Try something new, discover hidden talents and make friends along the way - that's what skiing in Austria is all about.

Skis, poles, helmet, goggles ...

Equipment: Checklist for beginner skiers

Yes, you do need a bit of equipment to hit the pistes. But the good news is, you can rent most of it right at your ski resort (and buy the rest second-hand). Many regions offer complete rental packages, bookable at your accommodation or the lift valley station. Here's what you need:

Equipment (can all be rented):

  • Skis & ski shoes

  • Poles

  • Helmet

Clothing:

  • Ski jackets and trousers (rent or buy second-hand)

  • Gloves (rent or buy)

  • Ski socks (buy)

  • Ski thermals (buy)

  • Ski googles / sun glasses (buy)

  • Sunscreen with a high SPF factor (buy)

Please note: In SalzburgerLand, Upper Austria, Styria, Lower Austria, Carinthia, Burgenland, and Vienna, children and teens up to the age of 15 are required to wear a helmet by law. However, helmets are recommended for all ages, especially if you're a beginner.

Learn at Austria's ski schools

Ski course: Your first days on the piste

No matter your age, you'll learn much faster and more safely with expert guidance. So, booking a beginner ski course is always a good idea.

On your first day, you'll get to know your equipment, learn how to stand on your skis and stop safely. It might all feel a bit unfamiliar at first, but most people get the hang of it after just a few hours. You'll also learn what to do if you lose balance, and how to get back up safely if you fall.

On the second day, you'll take your first turns and head on slightly longer descents. After three to five days, you'll be able to ski on easy slopes with your ski instructors. Most beginners are able to tackle the pistes on their own after a week.

Learning to ski isn't about becoming an expert overnight. The most important thing is to have fun. And before you'll notice, you'll glide down the piste with minimum effort.

Tip: Want to get a first taste before hitting an actual slope in Austria? Snow domes and dry slopes in the UK are great places to dip your toes in the sport.

FAQs

Austria's ski resorts are open from November or December up until May, with the core season being late December to early March. If you want to avoid crowds, opt for shoulder and off peak seasons rather than school holidays, Christmas or New Year's. The earlier you start, the more time you have to master your skills!

You can start skiing at any age and don't have to be in top shape. Anyone who exercises regularly or enjoys walking is fit for the pistes. Skiing strengthens your muscles and balance, and will instantly boost your mood.

  • Travel

  • Accommodation (options from half-board to self-catering)

  • Lift pass (can also be booked after arrival)

  • Equipment hire (can also be booked after arrival)

  • Ski lessons

  • Travel insurance

  • Other activities

Yes. In Austria, many ski instructors speak English, and often also Dutch, French, or Hungarian. Most larger resorts offer regular beginner courses in English. It's best to ask when booking.

Blue signs mark easy, beginner-friendly pistes, red ones are for advanced and black ones for expert skiers. Practice pistes are perfect for newbies, allowing you to take your first turns without having to worry about faster and more experienced skiers.

Austria's winter resorts have many ski-in/ski-out hotels right on the slopes. Others offer complimentary shuttle services or regular ski buses to the closest lift station. You won't need a car during your skiing holiday.

Skiing holidays in Austria don't have to break the bank. Here are a few tips to keep the costs down:

  • Avoid peak holiday periods and make use of shoulder season, early bird and season opening and closing deals

  • Book packages that include accommodation and lift passes

  • Buy local lift passes instead of whole area ones (if on offer)

  • Rent your equipment rather than buy everything new (and hire cheaper entry level skis rather than advanced ones)

  • Shop skiwear second hand

  • Use ski buses and shuttles instead of renting a car, they're often included with your accommodation or lift tickets

Top ski resorts for beginners in Austria
Ready to go but not sure yet where to? The following Austria winter resorts are all perfect for newbies eager to take their first turns on the slopes.

A region for all ages

Serfaus-Fiss Ladis

Sitting on a sunny high plateau above the upper Tyrolean Inntal Valley, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is one of the most welcoming and beginner-friendly spots in the Austrian Alps. Guests can look forward to ...

  • 22 blue pistes (47 km) perfect for beginner skiers

  • Wide practice slopes and beginner areas in both Serfaus and Fiss-Ladis

  • Easy valley runs and quickly accessible practice lifts

  • Ski schools offering beginner courses for all ages (groups or one-on-one)

  • A mix of flat slopes, conveyor belts and child-friendly areas that ensures quick progress

Packages for beginner skiers:

Where skiing is a feeling

Zillertal

Zillertal is one of the leading winter sports destinations in the Alps. Sitting at up to 3,250 m, with 80% of the region above 1,700 m, means skiing is possible well into April. Here are some additional perks especially for new skiers ...

  • Blue pistes and practice slopes in every resort in Zillertal

  • Penken and Ahorn with their practice lifts, easy pistes and snow park are especially beginner-friendly

  • 25 ski schools and more than 500 ski instructors teaching in 17 languages

  • Countless modern ski rentals, often right at the valley stations, offer expert advice and fitting

  • Modern cable cars and clear signage on the slopes throughout the region

Packages for beginner skiers:

A true snow paradise

Ischgl

The Paznaun-Ischgl region scores with pristine pistes, modern infrastructure, an international crowd, and an extra tad of luxury, offering beginner skiers the perfect introduction to winter sports ...

  • All four regions - Galtür, Ischgl, Kappl and See - have dedicated beginner and practice

  • Wide blue pistes where beginners can practice their newly acquired skills without pressure

  • Modern infrastructure including practice lifts and ski conveyor belts, e.g. in Ischgl, and ski courses for all ages

  • Fun activities away from the slopes: ice skating, winter hiking, cross-country skiing, après-ski and shopping

  • The Silvretta Therme spa to relax your body and mind

Packages for beginner skiers:

In the heart of Ski amadé

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee in the heart of the Salzburg Sport World and Ski amadé is one of the most sporty and varied regions in Austria. It's also a dream for beginners on the slopes. Here's why ...

  • Radstadt-Altenmarkt offers wide, gentle slopes with practice lifts in the valley, gondolas (no chairlifts!) run from the valley to the mountain

  • Zauchensee has two practice areas for ski schools as well as a blue run down to the valley from each ski mountain

  • Zauchensee is especially snow-sure, making it a reliable destination for a first skiing holiday

  • 25 ski huts to stretch your legs and try all the culinary delights the region has to offer

  • The Erlebnis-Therme Amadé for a relaxing spa treat

Package for beginner skiers:

10 common skiing myths busted

Misconceptions and outdated images sometimes turn people off before they've even started. Let's have a look at the most common myths - and why they're false! Skiing is ...

1. ... just for the rich?

Skiing in Austria doesn’t have to break the bank. Many smaller winter resorts offer affordable ski passes, budget-friendly accommodations, and excellent value for money. All-inclusive packages, family discounts, and deals for returning skiers make getting (back) into the sport smoother than you might think – and easier on your wallet, too.

2. ... impossible without expensive equipment?

In Austria's ski resorts, you can rent everything you might need - from helmets to ski jackets.  Our rental shops offer top-quality equipment for a few days or a whole week. If you like, you can even reserve your gear online in advance – without any upfront costs.

3. ... too dangerous?

Safety is a top priority in Austria. Professional ski schools, well-groomed slopes, and modern lifts ensure a relaxed skiing experience. Learn the basics with an expert, familiarise yourself with the piste rules and you're ready to ski with peace of mind – and a big grin on your face.

4. ... only for daredevils?

Not at all. Many regions have dedicated beginner slopes, practice lifts, and soft hills where it’s easy to master your first turns. It’s not about speed – it's about challenging yourself and having fun.

5. ... cold, wet, uncomfortable? 

Think about the sparkly snow, the clean air – and after a few runs, you'll warm up anyway. Plus, there are cosy huts, Kaiserschmarren, and saunas back at your accommodation. You’ll only get cold when you’re watching from the side instead of hitting the piste yourself.

6. ... only possible in the peak of winter?

In Austria, the ski season starts early and often continues well into spring. Many glaciers offer ideal conditions from late autumn until May. So, if you love sun and snow, you'll find the longest winter in the Alps here.

7. ... bad for the environment?

More and more winter sports resorts in Austria are investing in making skiing more sustainable, think energy-efficient lifts, regional cuisine, and public transport options. Winter tourism is evolving – and becoming greener by the year.

8. ... tiring rather than enjoyable?

Skiing is a workout with a view – and a bonus for your tastebuds. The best part awaits in between taking your turns: sun, snow, great food, and good company. You’ll be physically active and mentally relaxed – it doesn't get much better than that.

9. ... only for children or pros?

Austria’s ski regions have suitable pistes for every skill level – for first-timers, returners to the slopes, and experienced skiers hoping to master their carving technique. Ski instructors will guide you with patience and humour instead of pressure. Skiing is for everyone who’s eager to try something news.

10. ... too crowded?

Beyond the world-famous resorts, countless small, charming ski regions offer extra space, tranquility, and character. Short distances, no queues, and Austrian hospitality. This is what an authentic winter feels like.

How to get to Austria

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