Salzburg State (Salzburgerland) is a beautiful nature destination year-round. In winter (December to late March), the Alps and charming villages are blanketed in snow, and on very cold days even the lakes freeze, becoming giant ice rinks (best for the brave and experienced).
A winter trip here is truly special. The pace is calmer, and while you may spend less time outdoors, the peaceful rural atmosphere is unforgettable. Skiers and snowboarders will find world-class slopes, and even non-skiers will be surprised by how many activities there are beyond the mountains.
If you want to escape daily stress and really relax, winter in Salzburgerland is perfect. You’ll enjoy snowy Alpine scenery, winter sports, thermal baths, excellent ski resorts, and plenty to do even without skiing.
Because the region is large, renting a car is recommended. Main roads are well maintained and regularly cleared of snow, so you can reach key attractions safely. Just drive carefully in winter conditions, and avoid mountain roads requiring snow chains unless you’re prepared.
In this article, you will find 18 winter attractions in Salzburgerland—suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends.
Additional and up-to-date recommendations will be posted in our Facebook group for travelers to Austria.
If you’ve decided to vacation in Salzburgerland this winter, you can use our range of recommendations to find a great place to stay in the best parts of the region. Read more about recommended accommodations in the Salzburg Region or recommended accommodations at ski resorts in Austria
Recommended Winter Attractions in Salzburgerland
To help you plan a successful winter trip, we have gathered the best winter attractions in the region.
1. Illuminated Night Sledding (Nachtrodeln am Wildkogel Arena)
The world’s longest illuminated sledding run (approx. 14 km) starts at an altitude of 2,100 meters in the Bramberg area. This is a well-maintained, winding, and exceptionally fun track that is lit every day until 10:00 PM (Mondays until 6:00 PM)! The ride takes between 30 to 50 minutes. To reach the start, take the Smaragdbahn cable car, or take the Wildkogelbahn and walk about 10 minutes to the start.
This is what the Illuminated Night Sledding Experience looks like
- Note: Opening depends on weather conditions. Check the Wildkogel Arena website for updates.
- Safety: Helmets are mandatory. Please rent one at the sled rental shop. Goggles are also recommended.
Essential Information:
- Hours: Daily. Last ascent until 4:15 PM (Fridays until 6:30 PM).
- Single run price: Adult €23, Child €11.50 (Sled rental is extra).
- Day pass: Adult €56, Child €28
- Location: Neukirchen & Bramberg
Official Website
2. Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Snowy Alps – Filzmoos
The quiet village of Filzmoos has become a top spot for hot air ballooning. Its protected location between the mountains allows for a safe, calm ascent and incredible views. In winter, visibility is often better than in summer, and above the clouds, you can see up to 100 kilometers.
This is what the Hot Air Balloon Flight looks like
Essential Information:
- Requirements: Wear closed, comfortable walking shoes. Suitable for children at least 1.20m tall.
- Safety: Not suitable for pregnant women.
- Hours: Early morning starts (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM). Flight duration is approx. 1.5 hours.
- Meeting point: Hotel Hanneshof or directly at the field from which the hot air balloon takes off.
- Prices:
- 1 person – €298
- 2 people – €596
- 3 people – €894
- 4 people – €1,192
Official Website
Reservation form for a hot air baloon flight
3. Krimml Waterfalls – Powerful and Breathtaking Nature
Krimml Waterfalls are the highest in Europe. They continue to flow even in the freezing winter, creating a stunning contrast against the snowy hills. Every week, guided groups depart from the Krimml visitor center to hike the trail using special snowshoes with a local guide.
This is what the Winter Wonderland at the Krimml Waterfalls looks like
- Safety: You can visit independently, but be extremely careful of ice and snow. Wear appropriate winter clothing and snow-compatible hiking boots.
- Location: Krimml
Official Website
More info on the trail and costs
4. Alpaca Trekking – A Charming Family Experience in Krimml
Winter walking with alpacas is a wonderful activity for the whole family. The alpacas are calm, the trails are easy, and it’s also great for couples seeking a peaceful nature activity. This activity is offered by family Dabernig.
- Registration: Advance booking required. Minimum 2 participants.
- Price: €25 per adult, €15 per child (ages 5-15).
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
- Meeting Point: Haus Dabernig, Unterkrimml 9, 5743 Krimml
- Phone: 00436643957546
Official Website
5. Stubnerkogel Suspension Bridge
Located in Bad Gastein, this 140-meter bridge stretches across the Stubnerkogel mountain. It was the first suspension bridge built at 2,300 meters and is open year-round.
- Caution: Not for the faint of heart! Both the railing and the floor allow you to see the abyss below.
- Price: Included in the cable car ticket (€33 adult / €17.50 child).
- Location: Stubnerkogelstraße 23, 5640 Bad Gastein
Official Website
6. Hallein Salt Mine – an Underground Experience for the Whole Family
A salt mine tour is a great solution for a particularly cold day. Kids will love the slides and the underground train, while you learn about the history of salt mining.
Read more in our detailed article on the Hallein Salt Mine.
7. Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
A winter carriage ride is a mix of a traditional carriage and a snow sled. Sit back on padded seats, bundled in blankets, and enjoy the Alpine scenery.
This is what a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride looks like
Available in several areas:
- Horse-drawn carriage tours in the Gastein Valley
- Carriage rides in the Grossarl area
- Obertauern – A charming carriage experience in the heart of the mountains
- Carriage tours in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee
8. Dachstein – An Alpine Experience Without Skiing
The Dachstein massif offers great non-skiing attractions: viewpoints, a suspension bridge on the cliffside, and year-round snow. A cable car takes you to 2,700 meters for breathtaking views, a massive glacier, and the Stairway to Nothingness.
Although part of the mountain range is located in the state of Styria rather than in Salzburg State, we have included it here in our list of recommendations due to its proximity to the Salzburg region.
Read more in our detailed article on the Dachstein and the attractions in this region.
9. Luxury Spa Resorts – Heated Pools and Snowy Views
The spa complexes in the Salzburg region are excellent! They offer quiet, romantic areas for adults alongside slides and pools for children – an ideal combination for a family vacation. These spots are perfect for the cold season, offering heated pools and a variety of saunas. If you’re looking to escape the cold while still enjoying the mountain views, a visit to one of Salzburg’s top-tier spas is exactly what you need!
Recommended Spas:
10. Mandlberggut Distillery – Alpine Alcohol Experience
If you’re a fan of spirits and want to taste some local craftsmanship, a tour of the Mandlberggut distillery is definitely for you. They produce gin, whiskey, liqueurs, and more right on-site. On a cold winter day, you can enjoy an easy-going tour and samples of various drinks. It’s a lovely and educational stop in the heart of the mountains.
The guided group tour takes place several times a month, but private tours can also be arranged. The tour lasts about 50 minutes and includes two tastings (alcoholic or non-alcoholic options available).
- Price: €9.50 adult / €7.50 child (10-15).
- Address: Mandlbergweg 11, 5550 Radstadt
Official Website
Booking system for reserving spots on the tour
11. Snowbiking
Snowbiking is a relatively new trend in the world of winter sports. The unique combination of cycling and skiing creates a fresh winter experience that’s perfect even for those who have never skied before. Riding a snowbike guarantees an adrenaline-filled experience and maximum fun on the snowy slopes.
Mastering a snowbike is incredibly intuitive, and after a brief orientation, you’ll be able to start riding with confidence. Braking, stopping, and turning – you can learn all the basics in just 60 minutes.
This is what the Snowbike Experience looks like
12. Non-Ski Snow Fun
If you’re worried that you won’t be able to enjoy the snow in the Salzburg region without knowing how to ski or snowboard, don’t worry! There is a variety of especially fun activities that require absolutely no previous knowledge or skiing skills.
Light snow activities such as snow tubing, sledding, or Airboarding are an excellent solution for families who aren’t looking for classic skiing but still want to enjoy the snow to the fullest.
This is what Airboarding looks like
13. Saalfelden and Leogang Museums
Ideal for cold days, these museums showcase local history and rural life in cozy indoor settings.
14. Salzburg City – The Winter Pearl of Salzburgerland
Salzburg City is undoubtedly a must-visit destination during a winter trip to the Salzburg region – whether for a day trip or a stay of several days. During the Christmas season, the city hosts charming markets and is warmly illuminated. Additionally, the historic Old Town is incredibly impressive, offering a variety of museums and significant landmarks worth visiting. Especially on cold days, Salzburg offers plenty of attractions in indoor, heated spaces.
Of course, for those looking to do some shopping, Salzburg offers the best shopping options in the entire area.
Read more in the comprehensive article we’ve prepared about Salzburg City.
15. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is perfect for families with older children and couples who prefer peace and nature over skiing. Snowshoes allow for a simple and safe walk through snowy areas. There are many trails throughout the Salzburg region where you can go snowshoeing; some are guided, while most can be done independently.
Please note: Walking in the snow can be dangerous. Do not hike in unmarked areas, and it is highly recommended to consult local tourist offices regarding weather conditions before heading out. It is essential to have proper snow gear—waterproof clothing and closed, waterproof hiking boots.
- More information on recommended trails in Hohe Tauern National Park
- More information on trails in the Grossarl Valley
- Snowshoe hiking trails in the massive Ski Amade ski area
16. Cross-Country Skiing (Langlaufen)
If you’re looking to avoid unnecessary risks on steep ski slopes, you can try the popular winter sport known as Langlaufen (cross-country skiing). This is essentially long-distance skiing on flat trails. Unlike Alpine ski runs, Langlaufen tracks are typically flat and wide. The focus of this sport is on continuous movement, rhythm, and endurance, rather than speed or extreme thrills. The skis are also different—they are longer and more stable.
More information on Langlaufen (cross-country skiing) trails in the massive Ski Amadé resort
This is what Cross-Country Skiing looks like
17. Downhill Skiing – The Ultimate Salzburg State Winter Experience
If you’ve decided to truly experience the Alpine winter, Salzburg State offers the very best options for an enjoyable ski holiday. Throughout the region, there are countless ski resorts and exciting slopes suitable for all ages and skill levels.
The massive Ski Amadé network features numerous excellent ski schools, trails for every level, and top-tier infrastructure for the perfect skiing experience.
Click here for comprehensive information about Salzburg State’s largest ski area
18. Husky Sledding – An Extraordinary Experience!
Husky sledding is a thrilling experience for both children and adults alike, accompanied by professional guides and conducted in a safe manner.
There are several companies that offer husky sled tours. More information about companies offering snow tours with huskies:
- Tours and workshop in the Gastein Valley
- Tours in the Ramsau area (Dachstein) in Styria, not far from the Salzburg region
In Summary Salzburg State in winter offers a huge variety of attractions beyond just skiing. If you’re looking for more city vibes, we recommend visiting Vienna or Innsbruck. Always remember to dress in warm layers and wear appropriate winter boots for your safety and comfort.
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