Austria is a perfect winter escape for anyone looking to hit the slopes, indulge in a spa day and enjoy charming European towns. If you decide to venture to Austria during the holiday season, the Tyrol region is the spot where you want to be. The Tyrolean Alps are absolutely stunning and are a perfect destination to enjoy all of your favorite winter activities. I had an amazing snow-filled getaway here and have put together some of my tips and recommendations in this guide to help you plan your future travels!
HOW TO GET THERE
The Tyrol region is serviced by an international airport in the regional capital of Innsbruck, Austria. If you can’t find a flight to Innsbruck, another option is to fly into Munich, Germany and take a scenic train ride across the mountains to Innsbruck. From Innsbruck, you can rent a car, hire a taxi or take the regional trains and buses to your final destination.
WHAT TO DO
EXPLORE INNSBRUCK
Innsbruck will likely be the spot where you arrive and depart from Tyrol, but it is definitely worth a stop to to explore the charming town. Take some time at the beginning or the end of your trip to peruse the brightly colored streets, enjoy the cafés and restaurants, take a ride up the Nordkette Cable Car get some amazing views on top of the mountain or go skiing at the Innsbrucker Nordkettenbahnen ski area.
HIT THE SLOPES
Grab your ski’s or snowboard and head to one of the many ski areas in the Tyrol region. The best ski and snowboard resorts can be found at St. Anton am Arlberg, Kitzbühel, Soelden and Ischgl. After a long day at the slopes, enjoy some après-ski time with a glass of champagne at Champagnerhütte or a drink The Londoner. If you’re looking for a less intensive activity, check out a snowshoe tour or go sledding.
Tip: If you’re wanting to visit the Aqua Dome Hotel & Spa, Soelden will be the closet ski resort.
TAKE A SPA DAY (OR TWO!)
Tyrol has some AMAZING spas and in my personal opinion, some of the best in Europe. A spa day at the thermal baths at the Aqua Dome is an absolute must! This spa is otherworldly, and I totally felt like a Bond girl relaxing in these futuristic baths that are set against a backdrop of the Austrian Alps. Just to give you an idea of the magnitude: this thermal spa has 12 indoor and outdoor baths, 7 saunas and 4 restaurants and bars!
If you have the chance to stay at the Aqua Dome Hotel, you will have unlimited access to the spa. If you’re unable to stay, don’t fret! You can book a day pass to the thermal spa and it is well-worth the €42.00 price tag.
WHERE TO STAY
Who else loves a good good cozy atmosphere when you travel to winter destinations? I do! My choice of lodging is always super important when I travel during this season, so I can have allllll of the winter feels. I’ve put together some of my favorite accommodations in the Tyrol region just for you!
Who is ready for a ski trip in Austria now? Me! Drop a comment if you have any questions for your Austria trip!
