12 Best things to do in Ischgl, Austria in winter

Introduction

We’ve been to Ischgl in Austria twice as a family, and both trips couldn’t have been more different – or more unforgettable. The first time, we went all in on skiing and faced temperatures that dipped to -20°C. It was absolutely freezing, but the slopes made it worth it.

On our second visit, we decided to slow things down and mix it up: one day on skis, another hiking to a mountain hut, a bit of cross‑country skiing, wandering around the town and nearby villages, and plenty of time just to relax. And here’s the thing — you don’t have to be a skier to love Ischgl. My mother came with us both times, and she’s never skied a day in her life, yet she had the best time.

In this article, we’re sharing the best things to do in Ischgl — and skiing is just the start.

Here are all your accommodation options in Ischgl

Getting there

Ischgl is a popular ski resort located in the Austrian Alps, and there are several ways to get there:

1. By Air:

• Innsbruck Airport (INN): The closest airport to Ischgl is Innsbruck, approximately 100 km away (about 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bus). This airport is well-connected to major European cities.
• Zurich Airport (ZRH): Located around 200 km from Ischgl, Zurich is a major international airport with more flight options. It’s a 3-hour drive from the resort.
• Munich Airport (MUC): About 300 km from Ischgl, Munich is another international hub, and it takes around 4 hours by car or bus to reach Ischgl.

2. By Train:

• You can take a train to Landeck-Zams station, which is the nearest major train station to Ischgl (about 60 km away). From there, you can catch a bus or taxi to the resort.
• Alternatively, you can travel via Innsbruck or Zurich and take a connecting train to Landeck.

3. By Bus:

• Shuttle buses: Many ski resorts and travel agencies offer direct shuttle services from airports like Innsbruck, Zurich, or Munich to Ischgl, especially during the ski season.
• Public buses: You can also take a public bus from major transport hubs like Innsbruck or Landeck to Ischgl. Check schedules for local bus services, especially during the winter months.

4. By Car:

• Ischgl is easily accessible by car, and driving can be a scenic way to reach the resort. The town is located at the intersection of several major roads and highways in Austria. The road from Landeck to Ischgl is a well-maintained mountain route, but it can be snowy or icy in the winter, so be prepared for winter driving conditions.

Tip: If you’re traveling during the winter months, it’s advisable to check road conditions and make sure your vehicle is equipped for snow or ice driving. No matter your travel method, getting to Ischgl is relatively easy, and once you arrive, the resort offers convenient connections to ski lifts, accommodations, and other attractions.

Moving Around

The best way to move around Ischgl depends on the season and your preferences:

• Walking: Ischgl village is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so walking is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to get around. Most attractions, shops, restaurants, and hotels are within walking distance of each other. Walking is also the ideal way to explore nearby areas like the ski lifts or to take a stroll around town and admire the Alpine scenery.
• Ski Lifts and Cable Cars: For skiing enthusiasts, the ski lifts (such as the Silvrettabahn and Pardatschgratbahn) are the most essential mode of transportation to access the slopes and mountain trails. Ischgl has an extensive lift network connecting the resort to the surrounding slopes, and these lifts are open year-round. In the winter, you’ll use the lifts to get from one part of the ski resort to another, and in the summer, some lifts operate to give visitors access to hiking and mountain biking areas.
• Shuttle Buses: Ischgl offers shuttle bus services to get you from the village to other nearby locations. Many hotels offer shuttle services to ski lifts or to nearby towns.
• Taxis: Taxis are available for transport if you need to travel further or if you prefer a more direct and private method of getting around.
• Bikes & E-Bikes (Summer): During the warmer months, bike rentals are a popular choice for getting around. You can rent mountain bikes or e-bikes to explore the surrounding area or nearby hiking trails. E-bikes can make exploring Ischgl’s mountainous terrain much easier, especially if you’re looking to explore further into the mountains without exerting too much effort.
• Cars: While Ischgl is well connected by public transport and easy to navigate on foot, if you’re planning to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option. Many visitors use cars to explore nearby villages, ski resorts, or scenic areas around the Paznaun Valley.

For a smooth experience, walking is the easiest way to get around Ischgl. However, if you’re skiing or hiking, using the ski lifts and shuttle buses is a must. For more flexibility, especially in the off-season or for exploring the surrounding area, consider renting a car.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

The best time to visit season depends on your preferences and the type of activities you’re interested in:

1. Winter (December to April) – Skiing and Snow Sports: If you’re visiting primarily for skiing or snowboarding, December to April is the best time to go.
2. Spring (May to June) – Hiking and Scenic Views: From May to June, the temperatures start to rise, and the snow melts, opening up hiking trails. This is a quieter time in Ischgl, with fewer crowds compared to winter, but still offering great mountain views, outdoor activities, and peaceful surroundings.
3. Summer (July to August) – Outdoor Adventures and Festivals: July and August are the warmest months in Ischgl, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The snow has melted in the valley, but higher altitudes still offer plenty of scenic hiking trails, bike paths, and outdoor activities.
4. Autumn (September to November) – Quiet and Scenic: Early autumn, especially September, is a wonderful time for hiking and enjoying the beautiful fall foliage. The weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy Ischgl’s natural beauty with fewer tourists. October and November are much quieter in Ischgl. While the skiing season hasn’t started, the area becomes peaceful and serene. This is a good time for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some tranquility in nature, but keep in mind that some tourist services may be reduced during this time.

Tip: Don’t forget a good ski jacket. And buy it in advance to save some money.

Where to Stay

Ischgl offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to all types of travelers, whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, cozy alpine hotels, or more budget-friendly options. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to stay in Ischgl, depending on your preferences:

• (€): Hotel Garni Stefanie
• (€€): Hotel Trofana Alpin
• (€€€): Hotel Tirol

Here are all your accommodation options in Ischgl

What to Eat

Ischgl is not only known for its stunning slopes and après-ski scene but also for its delicious Tyrolean cuisine:

• Kaiserschmarrn: This fluffy, shredded pancake is a classic Tyrolean dish, perfect for both breakfast or dessert. It’s often served with apple sauce, berries, or powdered sugar. Kaiserschmarrn is a popular après-ski snack and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth after a long day on the slopes.
• Tyrolean Gröstl: A hearty dish made with leftover potatoes, onions, bacon, and beef, all fried together in a pan, often topped with a fried egg. It’s filling, comforting, and great for refueling after a day of skiing. You’ll find this traditional dish in many local restaurants.
• Wiener Schnitzel: This famous Austrian dish consists of breaded and deep-fried veal or pork, typically served with a side of potato salad or fries. While it’s a popular dish throughout Austria, Ischgl’s restaurants serve some of the best versions of Wiener Schnitzel, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Kasnocken (Cheese Dumplings): Another favorite in Ischgl, Kasnocken is a variation of Austrian dumplings, made from flour, eggs, and cheese, often served with caramelized onions. This dish is a comfort food staple in the region and perfect for cheese lovers.
• Speckplatte (Speck Platter): A traditional Tyrolean platter, Speckplatte is a combination of cured meats, including speck (Austrian-style bacon), sausages, and other local deli meats, served with cheese, bread, and pickles. It’s a great option for sharing and enjoying with a local beer or glass of wine.
• Apfelstrudel: After indulging in savory dishes, a sweet treat like Apfelstrudel is a must. This warm apple pastry filled with cinnamon, sugar, and raisins is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. It’s often served with whipped cream or vanilla sauce for an extra indulgent experience.
• Tyrolean Beer and Local Wine: Ischgl’s après-ski wouldn’t be complete without a local drink to accompany your meal. Try a cold Tyrolean beer or pair your meal with a glass of Austrian wine—whether it’s a crisp white or a bold red, these local beverages are perfect companions to any meal.
• Almdudler: A local soft drink, Almdudler is often called Austria’s national drink. Made from herbal extracts, it has a unique taste and is commonly enjoyed on its own or mixed with beer. It’s the perfect refreshing drink to cool down after a day on the slopes.
• Jägertee: A warming, spiced tea made with a mix of black tea, fruit juices, and a generous splash of schnapps or rum. It’s a favorite among skiers and après-ski enthusiasts, known for its ability to keep you warm during the cold Alpine nights.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Things to do in Ischgl

Skiing

Ischgl is mostly renowned for its incredible skiing opportunities, with over 238 kilometers of pistes and an impressive vertical drop. That’s actualy the reason why our family is going there in winter.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Ischgl offers something for everyone, from wide-open slopes to more challenging runs. The resort is part of the Silvretta Arena, which connects Ischgl to neighboring Swiss resorts, providing endless skiing options.

Tip: Be sure to bring ski googles with you to avoid being flashed by the sun

Winter hike the Panoramatour Verwall

If like us, you want something else than skiing, the Panoramatour Verwall winter hike is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes of the Alps. This scenic hike takes you through the beautiful Verwall Mountains, all the way to the Friedrichshafener hut (closed in winter). Be sure to bring your lunch with you and snowshoes could help for the last portion. The trail head is located 10min driving distance by car from Ischgl.

Here are all your accommodation options in Ischgl

Snowshoe to Paznauer Thaya from the Mittlestation

Snowshoeing is something we started in 2023 and we love it. However, it ski resort it is not always easy to find a good trail that doesn’t cross to many ski pists.One of the best routes is the snowshoe trail to Paznauer Thaya from the Mittelstation. This easy-to-moderate route offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, taking you through snow-covered forests and meadows before reaching the charming mountain hut, where you can enjoy a hot drink and lunch before heading back down.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

Walk around Ischgl

Take some time to explore the village of Ischgl on foot. A nice stroll will take you to Versahl, a quaint hamlet near the town, or up the hill across from the main town, offering a peaceful break from the slopes. Walking around Ischgl provides a chance to soak in the Alpine charm, admire the picturesque buildings, and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

Tip: Good ski pants are mandatory as the temperature can drop to -20°C

Visit the town

Ischgl is not just about skiing; the town itself is a charming blend of Tyrolean architecture and modern amenities. Take a wander around the pedestrian-friendly town center to explore local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Consider that it will take you aroun 1h.

Walk along the cross-country ski tracks

If you’re looking for a longer walk in Ischgl, follow the cross-country skiing tracks but be sure not to walk on it idrectly. With over 40 kilometers of trails, you can walk through pristine snow while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Take a lesson of cross-country skiing

For those new to cross-country skiing (like us) or wanting to improve their technique, Ischgl offers cross-country ski lessons. For that just sign up when you arrive in the ski school located in the cable car station A1 Silvrettabahn. That’s one of the activities we prefered and Tina did well but Alex fell a few times on its butt.

Tip: Safety first, bring a ski helmet with you. It actually saved my life once.

Relax in the spa of your hotel

After a day on the slopes or exploring the mountains, unwind in the luxury spa of your hotel. Many hotels in the area offer exceptional wellness facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs. Relax and rejuvenate your body with a massage or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere as you take in the stunning Alpine views. It’s the perfect way to end a day of adventure.

Here are all your accommodation options in Ischgl

Learn ski touring

For a more adventurous experience, try ski touring, a growing trend among skiers who want to explore off-piste terrain. We didn’t try it yet but it is on our list. Ski touring involves climbing the mountains with specialized equipment and then skiing down through untouched powder. Ischgl offers lessons for those wanting to learn the basics of ski touring or improve their skills in the backcountry.

Go to an exposition at Bergrestaurant Idalp – Panorama

The Bergrestaurant Idalp is a popular spot for après-ski and dining, but it also hosts fascinating expositions. Located at the top of the cable car station, this panoramic restaurant offers an incredible view of the Alps, and throughout the season, you can enjoy various cultural exhibits, art displays, and informative sessions about the region’s history and the mountains. When we were there, we had a LEGO exposition.

Note: That’s also where the ISCHGL sign and direction boards re located.

Here are all your accommodation options in Ischgl

Party at the Kuhstall

This is where unforgettable holiday days end, and parties and romantic adventures begin. The Kuhstall is a popular après-ski spot, where skiers and snowboarders gather to unwind after a day on the slopes. Enjoy a drink surrounded by hundreds of people while listening to some après-ski music. And we can tell, it is kid friendly!

Tip: You will need a cool sweater for this one.

Go on a horse-drawn carriage tour

For a truly magical winter experience in Ischgl, you can enjoy a scenic ride through the snow-covered landscape in a horse-drawn carriage. This traditional activity combines the charm of the Tyrolean Alps with the peaceful rhythm of a horse’s trot. Snuggled under warm blankets, you’ll be whisked away across the snowy trails, passing through tranquil forests and picturesque alpine scenery. This is especially for if you have kids with you.