We answer your most important questions about ski and winter holidays in Austria.
The following measures are in place in Austria's ski resorts:
When will it be possible again to travel to Austria for a winter holiday?
Hotels and restaurants are currently closed. The situation will be evaluated again in early March. In addition, travel restrictions and quarantine rules for travel from abroad are in effect. So whilst cable cars are open, skiing is effectively only possible for locals until the end of the lockdown. Find entry regulations here.
Nobody knows what will happen next in the pandemic. Should I book a winter holiday, for instance for next season?
Many accommodations are currently offering very flexible cancellation conditions. We recommend you contact your preferred establishment to discuss the options. Many tour operators, such as Crystal Ski, Inghams, and Ski Solutions, have also developed programmes to make sure you can book your holiday with confidence.
Can I travel to Austria from abroad for a day trip?
Due to quarantine requirements, this will most likely be impossible. Find entry regulations here.
Can I rent an AirBnB?
Hotels are currently closed. This includes private accommodation like AirBnB.
I have a secondary residence in a ski area. Can I stay there?
In general, yes. If travelling from abroad, you do however need to adhere to all entry regulations (find them here).
What are the rules for cable cars / chairlifts?
85% of lifts are not enclosed (chairlifts, tow lifts), which means there is a lower risk of infection than indoors. In enclosed cabins, an FFP2 face mask must be worn and passenger numbers are reduced to 50%. In queues, the minimum distance of 2 metres (6.5 ft) must be maintained and the face covering worn. Find out more about Austrian cable car measures here.
What are the rules for ski and snowboard schools?
During lockdown, group ski courses are not allowed (private lessons and lessons with people living in the same household only).
Can I hire skis during lockdown?
Ski hire shops are closed except for "Click & Collect" service, which may be available.
Are the ski buses running?
Yes. The same rules apply as on public transport, meaning an FFP2 mask must be worn.
Will there be après-ski this season?
Currently, restaurants and huts are closed.
Are ski huts open?
All ski huts are closed during lockdown.
If ski huts are closed, where can I use the facilities?
This depends on local circumstances. Please check with your ski resort. In general, there are toilets available at all cable car valley stations and at some top stations.
Are ski races taking place?
Some races are taking place, but without any on-site spectators.
What measures are in place in restaurants?
Restaurants are closed during lockdown. Please find general regulations for restaurants here.
