A picturesque medieval town in Austria, Kitzbühel boasts a rich skiing heritage, complemented by state-of-the-art enhancements in snowmaking and lift systems. The resort ensures an exceptional skiing experience for all skill levels. Set against a tranquil and scenic backdrop, its car-free town center, combined with its vibrant après-ski, makes Kitzbühel a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary winter sports allure.
As one of the best ski resorts in Austria, Kitzbühel offers something special for every skier. We've put this practical guide together to make planning your Kitzbühel ski holiday a breeze. You'll learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
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Kitzbühel, Austria - overview
- Where is Kitzbühel?
- Kitzbühel the resort
- Kitzbühel ski area
- Skiing in Kitzbühel
- Kitzbühel ski season dates
- Kitzbühel snow history
- Restaurants in Kitzbühel
- Things to do in Kitzbühel
- Kitzbühel apres ski, and nightlife
- Kitzbühel resort map
- Practical information
Where is Kitzbühel?
Kitzbühel is located in the western Austrian province of Tyrol, east of Innsbruck.
For a detailed view of Kitzbühel's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer times to Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel the resort
- Resort altitude: 800 m
- Resort permanent residents: 8283
Kitzbühel, often regarded as one of Europe's most beautiful ski towns, is brimming with character and history. This picturesque town is a delightful blend of its medieval past and modern sophistication. Its pedestrianized, cobbled streets are adorned with vibrant buildings, high-end boutiques, and a diverse range of eateries and bars. The old city walls and the prominent Gothic St Catherine’s church serve as lasting testaments to Kitzbühel’s rich heritage. Whether you're seeking the allure of chic cafés and luxury shops, termed "Glitzy Kitz" by many, or the authentic Austrian après-ski experience with lively table dancing and hearty beer steins, Kitzbühel offers it all. This resort has masterfully balanced its upmarket reputation with approachable charm, ensuring that while luxury abounds, affordability and tradition remain at its heart.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Modern and efficient lift system | Long lift queues during peak times |
| Among the world’s best après ski | Not the best for advanced skiers |
| Gorgeous old medieval town | Not the best snow quality at lower elevations |
| Plenty of skiing for all levels | Limited and expensive accommodation in the village |
Here is how Kitzbühel looks like
Watch Kitzbühel on YouTube .
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Kitzbühel ski area
- Summit elevation: 2000 m
- Kilometres of pistes: 215 km
- Vertical drop: 1200 m
- Ski lifts: 57
Enveloped by three majestic mountain ranges, Kitzbühel captivates with its snow-covered forests, sunlit slopes, and charming mountain villages. As an integral part of
the KitzSki area, it links the quaint villages of Reith, Aurach, and Jochberg, and extends to Pass Thurn on the edge of Salzburg. The resort offers over 215 km of ski runs, comprising 46 blue, 32 red, and 18 black pistes, all seamlessly connected by 57 lifts and spreading across various key areas:
- Hahnenkamm: Famous for the Hahnenkamm race, held here annually, this sector is ideal for advanced skiers looking for adrenaline-filled descents.
- Pengelstein: Offering diverse pistes for all abilities, Pengelstein is perfect for families and intermediates.
- Kitzbüheler Horn: Known for its ideal mix of intermediate-friendly slopes, the Kitzbüheler Horn offers a range of enjoyable blue and red pistes.
- Bichlalm: Renowned for its freeride and off-piste options, Bichlalm is a paradise for advanced skiers looking for a backcountry experience.
- Aurach: The slopes here are especially well-suited for beginners and intermediates. You'll typically find gentler, more scenic routes that wind through picturesque landscapes, perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely ski experience amidst beautiful surroundings.
- Jochberg: This area is known for providing a good balance between blue and red runs, making it an ideal destination for intermediate skiers.
- Hollersbach: Generally quieter, this sector is a great place for beginners and intermediates with a good selection of green and blue runs.
Skiing in Kitzbühel
Beginners
Kitzbühel offers wide open nursery slopes at the base of the Hahnenkamm gondola, right by the town centre, where new skiers can get their bearings. The renowned 'Red Devils' ski school holds its sessions here, making it ideal for first-timers. For those looking to progress, the Kitzbüheler Horn has expansive blue runs. However, one should note that the nursery slopes, despite snowmaking efforts, can sometimes face snow quality issues.
Intermediates
Intermediate skiers are treated to a plethora of runs, with tree-lined slopes linking the villages of Kirchberg and Jochberg. The vastness of the area sometimes leads to crowding, especially on the Hahnenkamm. For an immersive experience and lesser crowd, intermediate skiers can take the 3S gondola towards Pass Thurn, where they can enjoy the resort's highest piste, the Zweitausender.
Advanced
For those seeking a challenge, the 'Hahnenkamm Streif' offers a test of skills, known globally as a demanding racing piste. The Steinbergkogel area provides access to a range of challenging black runs, equipped with modern fast eight-seater chairs that come with seat heating and protective bubbles.
Off-piste
Kitzbühel is an adventurer's dream with its off-piste options. From vast powder fields to narrow gullies and dramatic cliff drops, the area has it all. Local aficionados often recommend the Kitzbüheler horn area, which offers varied terrains and comfortable lifts. Some of the coveted ski routes, like 33, 34, and 51, provide a thrilling experience, especially after a fresh snowfall.
Snowboarding
Kitzbühel's impressive lift system and extensive network of slopes create a delightful destination for snowboarders. Additionally, the resort boasts a snow park, appealing to snow-hungry freestylers of all skill levels. This park provides various lines and areas, specifically designed for everyone from beginners to advanced riders, ensuring a thrilling and inclusive freestyle experience.
Kitzbühel ski season dates
The ski season in Kitzbühel for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 9th and run until April 21st. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Kitzbühel this season, be sure to explore our Kitzbühel ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Kitzbühel snow history
Kitzbühel offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 20 cm and 27 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.0 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 20 cm but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.1 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of January, traditionally the snowiest week in Kitzbühel, with an impressive 31 cm of snow over 2.9 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 13 cm of snow over 1.9 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|
| December | 20 cm | 2.9 days |
| January | 27 cm | 3.3 days |
| February | 20 cm | 3.1 days |
| March | 17 cm | 2.9 days |
| April | 13 cm | 1.9 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
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Restaurants in Kitzbühel
Mountain restaurants
- Streifalm: Located directly on the famous Hahnenkamm race course, this restaurant offers traditional Tyrolean dishes and a sun-soaked terrace overlooking the piste.
- BichlAlm: Tucked away on the mountain, BichlAlm boasts a cozy ambiance where you can relish hearty local specialties.
- Alpenhaus am Kitzbüheler Horn: Offering panoramic mountain views, Alpenhaus provides a culinary experience that combines local flavors with stunning Alpine scenery.
- Gipfelhaus am Kitzbüheler Horn: Situated at the summit, Gipfelhaus offers visitors the unique experience of dining with breathtaking 360-degree views.
- Berggasthof Hagstein: A hidden gem in the mountains, Berggasthof Hagstein welcomes its guests with authentic Tyrolean cuisine in a rustic and traditional setting.
Resort restaurants
- Kupferstube, Hotel Tennerhof: Located in the luxurious Hotel Tennerhof, Kupferstube is an epitome of fine dining in Kitzbühel.
- Il Gusto: Bringing a touch of Italy to Kitzbühel, Il Gusto serves up classic Italian flavors, from wood-fired pizzas to rich pastas.
- 1st Lobster: As the name suggests, 1st Lobster specializes in seafood dishes. With its upscale and modern atmosphere, diners can enjoy fresh lobster, among other seafood delicacies.
Things to do in Kitzbühel
- Bowling
- Casino
- Cinema
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Cross-country skiing
- Paragliding
- Piste-basher rides
- Snowshoe walking
- Torchlit walks
- Winter walking paths
- Ice hockey matches
- Ice skating
- Leisure centre
- Museum
- Swimming pool with spa
Kitzbühel apres ski and nightlife
- The Londoner: A staple in Kitzbühel's après ski scene for decades, The Londoner offers an authentic British pub vibe in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
- Club Take Five: For those looking to dance the night away, Club Take Five is the place to be. Offering a mix of DJ sets and live performances, this club attracts a stylish crowd and offers a chic atmosphere.
- Pavillion: Situated in the town's center, Pavillion with its signature cocktails and energetic vibe, it's a favorite amongst both locals and tourists.
- KitznBar: Blending modern design with traditional alpine aesthetics, KitznBar offers a cozy environment to enjoy craft cocktails and a sophisticated wine list.
- Schi-Alm: Nestled right on the piste, with its rustic interiors, open fireplace, and live Tyrolean music, it's a great spot to soak in the alpine ambiance while enjoying local brews.
- Huberbrau Stuberl: For those seeking a genuine Austrian tavern experience, Huberbrau Stuberl offers a wide range of Austrian beers and traditional dishes.
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Kitzbühel resort map
Download Kitzbühel resort map here
