Vienna’s proximity to the Eastern Alps makes it an ideal starting point for skiers looking to explore the slopes without venturing too far from the city. With several great ski resorts located just 1 to 2 hours away, planning a spontaneous day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway is easier than you might think.
Whether you’re an experienced skier or a beginner, the ski resorts near Vienna cater to all skill levels, offering family-friendly slopes, thrilling night skiing, and beginner lessons. With convenient transport options by car or train, you can easily reach top destinations like Semmering, Hohe Wand Wiese, and Lackenhof-Ötscher, each featuring modern facilities and picturesque alpine settings.
- Semmering: Family-friendly skiing and after-work night-skiing
- Hohe Wand Wiese: Beginner-friendly and weather-independent slopes right in Vienna
- Lackenhof-Ötscher: Cozy, family-oriented resort with slopes for all levels
Keep reading to discover the best skiing spots near Vienna and start planning your next adventure on the slopes!
Family Fun at Semmering: Night Skiing, Sledding and Cross-Country Skiing near Vienna
The ski resort of Semmering is located about 1.5 hours by car from Vienna, and can also be reached by public transportation in about 2 hours by train and bus. In winter, there is even a shuttle service from the train station in Semmering during the weekends and holidays.
Semmering offers around 42 km of slopes for all levels, connected with 16 ski lifts, making it a great place for the whole family.
Semmering, Zauberberg:
The ski area of Zauberberg is located about 100 km from Vienna, and features 14 km of slopes, a sledding track, and a freeride area, all with stunning views of the Semmering-Rax-Schneeberg region. Highlights of Zauberberg include six illuminated night slopes and the Split-Park with 15 obstacles for snowboarders and freeskiers. Cross-country skiers can enjoy the 70 km panoramic trail with breathtaking alpine scenery.
Semmering, Stuhleck – Spital am Semmering:
The Stuhleck ski area is about 1.5 hours by car from Vienna and offers 26 km of wide, beginner-friendly slopes with runs up to 5 km long and quick chairlift access. Awarded for safety and quality, it features night skiing, two snowparks, and a 5 km themed sledding track. Highlights include the SkiMovie racecourse, SpeedCheck, and photo points to capture your day. With 11 restaurants, equipment rentals, ski schools, and Semmi’s Kinderland for kids, Stuhleck is perfect for families and skiers of all levels.
Semmering, Hirschenkogel:
Semmering Hirschenkogel offers a variety of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and more, both day and night. With 14 km of slopes ranging from family-friendly runs to the FIS World Cup Panorama slope and a freeride area, 13 km of which are lit for night skiing, there’s something for everyone. The 3 km long, illuminated sledding run promises fun for the whole family. After an active day on the slopes, enjoy a meal at the Panorama Restaurant Liechtensteinhaus or unwind with après-ski at the “Paraplü” umbrella bar. Due to its proximity to Vienna, the resort is also a popular choice for after-work skiing.
Skiing in the Heart of Vienna: Hohe Wand Wiese’s Beginner-Friendly Slopes
At Hohe Wand Wiese, you can discover skiing right in the heart of Vienna, located in the 14th district and easily accessible by public transport. In collaboration with the Vienna Ski Association and the city, a unique method has been developed to teach skiing using modern synthetic mats that provide a snow-like experience while being environmentally friendly.
This approach makes it easy for people in Vienna to try skiing without needing to travel far, offering a fun and accessible way to get started. With the stunning backdrop of Hohe Wand Wiese, it’s the ideal spot to build confidence on skis in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
We also had the opportunity to visit our partner Skischule Hohe Wand Wiese there, where our colleague Sharleyne learned how to ski. So here is how our morning-trip to Hohe Wand Wiese went:
We met at the office at 7:00, grabbed our gear, and hopped on the U4 to Hütteldorf. From there, we took the 450 bus to Mauerbach and got off at Hohe Wand Wiese. The friendly rental shop staff got us set up with gear and gave a quick intro.
Sharleyne learned the basics, from ski bindings to the “Pizza” stop, before tackling her first slope with the magic carpet lift. Her turns still needed work, but her confidence grew with every run—she’s now pumped for the Check Yeti ski trip in March!
Our colleague Clemens tried out the slalom and kicker, impressed by how real the slope felt. After chatting with the ski instructor about the slopes, we finished the day with delicious crêpes at the Karlsplatz Christmas market.
We filmed everything for our YouTube channel, so if you are curious about what skiing on mats looks like, check out our video!
Thrills for All Skill Levels at Ötscher: Skiing Fun for the Whole Family
Located about 150 km from Vienna, Ötscher is a family-friendly gem with well-maintained slopes for all skill levels. Nestled in the picturesque Lackenhof region of Lower Austria, the resort offers a variety of runs on both the Große Ötscher (1,893 m) and Kleine Ötscher (1,560 m). Chairlifts and tow lifts take you up to scenic slopes below the tree line.
For families, the Sunny Kids Park is a hit, complete with a magic carpet and childcare for the little ones. Older kids can enjoy the thrilling Cross Trail and the Ötscher Snowpark, while advanced skiers can test their skills on two FIS race courses and the challenging Große Ötscherpiste. With something for everyone, Ötscher is the perfect spot for a fun and varied ski adventure.
The ski resorts near Vienna offer something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced skier or a beginner. With destinations like Semmering, Hohe Wand Wiese, and Lackenhof-Ötscher just 1.5-2 hours away, it’s easy to escape the city and enjoy the snowy beauty of the Eastern Alps. From family-friendly slopes and thrilling night skiing to more challenging runs, these resorts provide plenty of options for winter fun. Convenient access and picturesque settings make skiing near Vienna the perfect choice for a quick getaway or a longer adventure. Grab your gear and hit the slopes!