Why Kitzbühel Is One of Austria’s Most Compelling Destinations for 2026
Long known for its legendary ski races and storybook feel, Kitzbühel continues to prove that it’s much more than a traditional ski resort. Recently named Austria’s Best Ski Resort for the 13th consecutive year, the Tyrolean town offers a winter experience that combines world-class skiing, sporting events and a lively cultural calendar.
With 233 kilometres of pistes, 58 lifts and more than 60 mountain huts and restaurants, Kitzbühel caters to skiers of all levels, while also appealing to non-skiers and slower-paced travellers. Beyond downhill skiing, visitors can enjoy 70 kilometres of cross-country trails, weekly guided winter walks, snowshoeing and scenic dining in traditional Alpine huts.
Winter Experiences Not to Miss
Legendary Slopes for All Levels
The Hahnenkamm is one of Kitzbühel’s most famous mountains, offering spectacular views over the town and surrounding valleys. Home to the legendary Streif, one of the world’s most challenging ski runs, the area also caters to less confident skiers thanks to the Streif family run, which avoids the steepest sections while still letting visitors ski part of this famed route.
Explore Beyond the Slopes
Kitzbühel offers a wide range of winter activities away from skiing. Guided winter walks and snowshoe hikes run throughout the season, while cross-country skiers can explore trails through snow-covered meadows and mountain landscapes. The floodlit sports trail at Schwarzsee-Reith allows skiing until 9pm, while the Kitzbühel Sports Park offers ice skating, curling and live ice hockey. For some nostalgia, the Gaisberg toboggan run is a firm favourite with visitors of all ages.
Spectacular Views at the Kitzbüheler Horn
Rising high above the town, the Kitzbüheler Horn offers early-morning skiing on quiet slopes, with views stretching across up to 70 Alpine peaks on clear days. The cable car provides easy access to panoramic viewpoints and mountain restaurants such as the Alpenhaus, making it a popular choice for both skiers and sightseers.
Wildlife & Winter Traditions
Nature lovers can visit the Aurach Wildlife Park, Tyrol’s largest outdoor animal enclosure, where deer, stags and other Alpine animals can be seen against the backdrop of the Kitzbühel Alps. Horse-drawn carriage rides through the town and surrounding countryside offer a traditional way to explore the area in winter.
What’s on the Agenda in Kitzbühel
23rd Bendura Bank Snow Polo Returns to Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel will once again welcome the New Year with world-class polo on snow. The season begins with the Kitzbühel Polo Cup, a medium-goal tournament running from 8-11 January 2026, followed by the headline event, the 23rd Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel, taking place from 15-18 January 2026. The Snow Polo World Cup is one of the most prestigious events of its kind, attracting international teams and spectators alike. Admission to the general spectator area is free of charge, making it a highlight of the winter calendar for visitors and locals.
The 86th Hahnenkamm Race
Few sporting events match the drama and prestige of the Hahnenkamm Races, which return to Kitzbühel for the 86th time from 19–25 January 2026. First held in 1931, the races have become one of the most iconic fixtures in the Ski World Cup calendar. Each year, the world’s best skiers descend on Kitzbühel to take on the infamous Streif downhill and Ganslernhang slalom, courses regarded as the ultimate test in alpine skiing. For many athletes, victory here is considered equivalent to an Olympic gold, cementing Kitzbühel’s status as the most legendary sports town in the Alps.
Sound | Escape Festival moves to the Kitzbüheler Horn
Winter in Kitzbühel isn’t only about sport. In 2026, the Electronic Boutique Festival Sound | Escape will take place for the first time at the Kitzbüheler Horn, running from 20 – 22 March 2026. Set high above the town, the three-day festival promises unforgettable moments, with CLAPTONE confirmed as the headline act. Admission is free, combining electronic music, mountain scenery, and late season skiing into a unique alpine experience.
Europe’s most prestigious golf tournament comes to Kitzbühel in 2026
Kitzbühel’s appeal extends well beyond winter, with the destination set to host Europe’s most prestigious golf tournament in 2026. Following a successful debut in 2025, the Austrian Alpine Open will take place from 25–31 May 2026 at the Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith Golf Course. With four golf courses within the town and a further twelve in the surrounding area, Kitzbühel is already one of the Alpine region’s leading golf destinations. Ongoing investments in course design, driving ranges and infrastructure are ensuring the region is fully prepared to host a tournament of the highest international standard. Secure tickets for the Austrian Alpine Open 2026: Experience Shop Kitzbühel, Austria – Experience Shop Kitzbühel, Austria
Go to Kitzbühel
A seven-night stay at Q Hotel Maria Teresia in Kitzbühel, on a half board basis, arriving 21 March 2026 is priced from £999 pp based on two sharing. Includes return flights from London Gatwick to Salzburg and transfers.
Inghams (+44(0) 1483 698099, www.inghams.co.uk)
To start planning your Kitzbühel ski trip and for more information please visit: www.kitzbuehel.com/en
