ST. ANTON & KITZBÜHEL

This alpine heartland combines the world-renowned slopes of St. Anton with the historic charm and chic glamour of Kitzbühel. It is a region where exhilarating ski runs meet a vibrant après-ski culture and stunning natural beauty.

It is a bucket-list destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering everything from challenging descents to high-end boutiques and gourmet dining. This area represents the pinnacle of Austrian alpine luxury and adventure.

Iconic Skiing & Mountain Experiences:

  • Der Weisse Ring: A famous, long-distance ski circuit connecting Lech, Zürs, Zug, and Oberlech—a must-do for intermediate and advanced skiers.

  • Hahnenkamm Streif: The legendary downhill racecourse in Kitzbühel, considered one of the most challenging and spectacular runs in the world.

  • Valluga: The highest peak accessible by lift in the St. Anton area, offering challenging off-piste routes and breathtaking panoramic views.

  • Galzigbahn: The ultra-modern, Ferris wheel-style lift in St. Anton that provides a speedy and unique ascent to the main skiing area.

  • Kitzbüheler Horn: A mountain known for its gentle slopes, ideal for families and beginners, and its panoramic views.

  • Flexenbahn: The gondola that completed the Arlberg ski circuit, making it the largest contiguous ski area in Austria.

  • Mausefalle (Mouse Trap): The steepest part of the Streif run, with an incline of up to 85%—a thrilling challenge to witness or attempt.

  • Rendl: The sunnier, south-facing ski area in St. Anton, popular for snowboarders and offering spectacular views.

Après-Ski, Dining & Nightlife:

  • MooserWirt: One of the most legendary après-ski bars in the Alps, known for its raucous atmosphere and party music.

  • Krazy Kanguruh (KK): Another famous St. Anton après-ski institution, popular for dancing on tables and panoramic terrace views.

  • Rosi’s Sonnbergstuben: A renowned restaurant in Kitzbühel offering traditional Tyrolean cuisine with an emphasis on high quality and stunning mountain views.

  • HeimatKüche: A critically acclaimed restaurant in St. Anton focusing on modern Austrian cuisine using regional ingredients.

Historic Charm & City Core:

  • Kitzbühel Old Town (Altstadt): A beautifully preserved medieval town center with brightly colored buildings, luxury boutiques, and historic inns.

  • Pfarrkirche St. Andreas: A stunning Gothic parish church in Kitzbühel with beautiful frescoes and a distinct red spire.

  • Museum Kitzbühel: Details the town’s history, including its development as a ski resort and the history of the Hahnenkamm race.

  • St. Anton am Arlberg Parish Church: A prominent landmark with traditional alpine architecture, located in the village center.

  • St. Anton Museum: Housed in the historic Villa Trier, this museum explores the development of skiing in the Arlberg region.

Winter & Summer Alternatives:

  • Sportpark Kitzbühel: A modern sports complex offering an indoor pool, ice skating, curling, and a climbing wall for non-skiing days.

  • Arlberg WellCom: St. Anton’s congress and wellness center, featuring an excellent indoor pool and spa facilities.

  • Bichlalm: A secluded area in Kitzbühel ideal for ski touring in winter and gentle hiking/mountain biking in summer.

  • Seebichl: A peaceful lake area near Kitzbühel, popular for swimming in summer and scenic walks year-round.

  • Winter Hiking Trails: Numerous cleared and marked trails around both St. Anton and Kitzbühel offer stunning snowshoeing or walking options.

  • Sledding/Tobogganing: Designated runs in both areas, providing a fun, family-friendly alternative to skiing, often illuminated at night.

Conquer the Slopes of the Ski Arlberg Region: Ski or snowboard the vast, connected slopes of St. Anton, Lech, Zürs, and Warth. The Ski Arlberg area is the largest contiguous ski area in Austria, offering legendary off-piste terrain and demanding black runs.

Experience the Hahnenkamm Downhill Race Track: In Kitzbühel, attempt to ski the famous Streif—the world’s most challenging downhill racecourse—or at least the public sections of it. Outside of race season, visit the museum dedicated to the event.

Hike the Lech Valley Trail (Lechweg): During the summer, take on a section of this renowned long-distance trail. It follows the Lech River from its source near the Arlberg all the way into Germany, offering stunning alpine views.

Savor Après-Ski at the MooserWirt or Krazy Kanguruh: In St. Anton, experience the world-famous, high-energy après-ski scene at these legendary mountain institutions, often starting well before the lifts close.

Stroll the Medieval Streets of Kitzbühel: Explore the beautiful, centuries-old town center of Kitzbühel, famous for its pastel-colored buildings, high-end boutiques, and traditional Tyrolean architecture.

Go Tobogganing on the Gaisberg: Near Kitzbühel, enjoy a thrilling, floodlit toboggan ride down the Gaisberg mountain, often followed by dinner at a traditional mountain hut (Hütte).

Challenge Yourself with a High-Alpine Via Ferrata: In the St. Anton area, take a guided climb on a “fixed rope route” (Klettersteig), such as the challenging Arlberg via ferrata, offering breathtaking views and a true alpine adventure.

Enjoy a Traditional Alm/Hütte Lunch: Hike or take a gondola up to a mountain hut in either region and enjoy classic Austrian dishes like Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake), Speckknödel (bacon dumplings), or Tiroler Gröstl (a pan-fried meat and potato dish).

Relax and Recharge at the Arlberg WellCom Center: In St. Anton, utilize the modern wellness center with saunas, pools, and spa services, perfect for recovering after a day on the slopes or a long summer hike.

Hike to the Stunning Zürser See: From Zürs (part of the Ski Arlberg area), take a scenic summer hike to this beautiful alpine lake, a less-trafficked, tranquil spot for reflection.

Try E-Biking in the Kitzbühel Alps: Rent an e-bike and explore the extensive network of mountain bike trails. The electric assist makes it possible to conquer serious climbs and access high-altitude viewpoints with less effort.

Play Golf on a Championship Course: In the summer, both regions offer fantastic golfing. Kitzbühel is particularly known for its numerous, high-quality courses set against a spectacular mountain backdrop.

Train is the Gateway: Both regions are well-connected by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB).

  • St. Anton am Arlberg has an international train station on a major east-west line, making it highly accessible from cities like Innsbruck, Zurich, and Vienna. The village center is a short walk or taxi ride from the station.

  • Kitzbühel has two main stations (Kitzbühel Hbf and Hahnenkamm), easily reachable from Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Munich.

Ski Bus Networks: In the winter, both areas operate excellent, free ski bus networks that connect the villages, train stations, and all major lift access points. Check with your accommodation, as they often provide a guest card that covers the fare.

Car is Optional (But Handy): A car is not necessary for the ski experience, but it gives you flexibility to explore surrounding towns or travel between the regions (a drive of about 2 to 2.5 hours). Be aware of the need for winter tires (and often snow chains) in winter, and remember that parking can be expensive and limited in the village centers.

Moving Between the Regions: There is no direct, fast public transport link between St. Anton and Kitzbühel. The best way is to take the ÖBB train, which requires a change and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, or drive.

Understand the ‘Hütte’ Culture: The mountain Hütte (hut) is central to the alpine experience. They are much more than cafeterias; they are cozy, often family-run establishments serving traditional, hearty food. Don’t be afraid to take off your coat, grab a beer or a hot Glühwein, and settle in for a long lunch. Tipping (Trinkgeld) is customary.

Après-Ski: More Than a Drink: Especially in St. Anton, the Après-Ski scene starts on the mountain in the late afternoon. It’s a loud, high-energy party in ski boots. Be prepared for a festive atmosphere, and keep an eye on the clock—you still have to ski or walk down after! Kitzbühel’s après-ski is generally more subdued, often taking place in stylish town bars.

The Power of the Guest Card: Upon check-in, you will likely receive a Guest Card (e.g., St. Anton Summer/Winter Card or the Kitzbühel Alps Card). Use it! These cards offer significant free or discounted access to buses, cable cars, swimming pools, guided hikes, and other local attractions.

Dining Times: Austrians generally dine earlier than in Southern Europe. Lunch is typically between 12 PM and 1:30 PM, and dinner reservations are common for 6:30 PM to 8 PM. Many restaurant kitchens close around 9 PM or 9:30 PM, especially outside of peak season.

Hidden Gems & Local Secrets:

  • St. Anton’s Museum Restaurant: A beautiful, traditional wooden house above the town center that serves excellent traditional food in an authentic atmosphere. It’s a great, quieter dinner spot away from the après-ski bustle.

  • Kitzbühel’s Hinterstadt Street: While the main Vorderstadt street gets the crowds, the parallel Hinterstadt street offers a mix of small, unique boutiques, art galleries, and cozier cafés in a slightly quieter setting.

  • The Wildalm in St. Anton: A stunningly located mountain hut, popular year-round. It’s an excellent destination for a summer hike or a winter ski lunch for those looking for a slightly more traditional, less crowded option than the main après-ski spots.

  • The Kitzbüheler Horn Panorama: While the Hahnenkamm gets the fame, the Kitzbüheler Horn offers arguably the best panoramic views of the entire region, with a beautiful flower garden at the top in summer.

Language: The official language is German, with a strong regional Austrian/Tyrolean dialect. While English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and ski schools, locals will always appreciate a few basic German phrases like Guten Tag (good day/hello), Danke (thank you), and Ein Bier, bitte (a beer, please).

Thony’s [$25-$45] – Housed in a traditional, cozy Austrian chalet in St. Anton, this is an excellent spot for authentic Tyrolean classics like pork knuckle, Wiener Schnitzel, and homemade soups.

Gasthof Hagstein [$25-$45] – A historic inn in Kitzbühel run by the same family for five generations, offering quality seasonal Tyrolean delicacies, often from regional farms, in a charming setting.

Mocking Das Wirtshaus [$25-$45] – A charming inn in Kitzbühel that offers a unique, yet traditional, take on Austrian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Museum Restaurant Cafe [$30-$50] – Set in a beautiful, tastefully refurbished historic mansion (the Ski & Local Heritage Museum) in St. Anton, it offers seasonal, typically Austrian dishes with international influences.

Post Stub’n im Hotel Post [$35-$55] – A beautiful parlour in the Hotel Post in St. Anton, perfectly balancing upscale cuisine with regional gastronomic traditions, complemented by a well-stocked wine cellar.

Rasmushof [$35-$55] – A traditional Tyrolean inn in Kitzbühel, located right on the Hahnenkamm slope, known for its lovingly prepared classics like Wiener Schnitzel, Schinkenfleckerl, and Kaiserschmarren.

Mocking Das Wirtshaus [$25-$45] – A charming inn in Kitzbühel that offers a unique, yet traditional, take on Austrian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Zinnkrug [$30-$50] – A popular, traditional Austrian restaurant in the heart of Kitzbühel offering regional and international delights in a welcoming atmosphere.

Gasthaus Eichenheim [$35-$55] – Located in Kitzbühel, this spot offers classic Tyrolean dishes, masterfully prepared to make the traditional cuisine shine in a new light.

Wirtshaus zum Rehkitz [$35-$55] – Located in Kitzbühel, this restaurant focuses on traditional dishes highlighting local and seasonal delicacies, ideal for a cozy meal.

Hospiz Alm [$40-$70] – A legendary timber-clad hut in St. Christoph (Arlberg) famous for its gourmet restaurant status, sizzling wood-fired grills, and the world’s largest large-format wine bottle cellar, but maintains a lively, rustic atmosphere.

Rosi’s Sonnbergstuben [$35-$60] – A popular, upscale mountain restaurant in Kitzbühel known for its fantastic views, traditional Tyrolean style, and a blend of indulgence, tradition, and lifestyle.

Sonnbühel [$40-$70] – Considered the pinnacle of pleasure on the Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel, combining long-standing tradition (since 1924) with an exquisite ambiance and a new, high-class gastronomy concept.

Verwallstube am Galzig [$50-$80] – Located at over 2,000 meters at the Galzigbahn mountain station in St. Anton, offering French-inspired dishes and exquisite wines in a sophisticated, non-pretentious setting with breathtaking views.

Kelchalm | Bochumer Hütte [$20-$35] – An almost 200-year-old, rustic alpine club hut near Aurach (Kitzbühel area) where you can enjoy traditional Tyrolean dishes in a very cozy, authentic mountain atmosphere.

Bio-Restaurant Bruggerhof [$30-$50] – Located in Kitzbühel, this certified organic restaurant is a member of the Biohotels association, offering a wide range of flavors and great vegetarian/vegan alternatives using organic and local ingredients.

La Tavola [$45-$75] – A modern restaurant in St. Anton focusing on creative international and Mediterranean-influenced dishes using high-quality ingredients, often with an elegant presentation.

OOBEN im MOOSER [$40-$60] – Located in St. Anton, this restaurant offers stunning “Alpine Skyline” views and serves local ingredients and Tyrolean classics presented in a modern way.

Ullrs Wine & Dine [$50-$80] – A modern design retreat in St. Anton where the cuisine is sustainable, local, and unconventional, playing with Nordic elements alongside lamb and Arctic char.

Lois Stern Restaurant [$60-$90] – A renowned fine-dining destination in Kitzbühel with an open kitchen, known for its European-Asian cuisine and dishes like ceviche from Hamachi.

Endlich [$50-$90] – An intimate space in St. Anton with a Scandinavian influence, featuring a surprise three-course menu with wine pairings, offering a unique, friendly, and communal atmosphere (reservations essential).

Alpin Gourmet Stube im Hotel Gletscherblick [$70-$110] – A fine dining restaurant in St. Anton with a modern cuisine that creates interesting contrasts, such as finely seasoned Tyrolean venison with porcini purée and pistachio hollandaise.

Das Steghaus am Schwarzsee [$60-$90] – An idyllically situated lakeside restaurant near Kitzbühel, known for its creative delicacies with regional ingredients and an Asian twist, such as pulled beef wonton.

Gourmetrestaurant im Hotel Tannenhof [$120-$200] – A top-tier dining experience in St. Anton where the chef incorporates exotic travels and the Alpine surroundings into sophisticated and inspired menus.

Les Deux [$80-$140] – The Kitzbühel “outpost” of the established Munich restaurant, bringing classic brasserie cuisine with a modern touch, featuring oysters, fish soup, and braised veal cheek.

Restaurant Neuwirt [$80-$130] – Located in the Hotel Das Reisch in Kitzbühel, this restaurant maintains a tradition dating back to 1844 but today stands for both local Tyrolean specialties and perfect steaks, with a focus on quality.

Alpin Gourmet Stube [$100-$160] – A Michelin-Guide recognized restaurant in St. Anton known for its elegant, Alpine-style fine dining, offering a choice of set menus with sophisticated, innovative flavors.

Das Kaps [$70-$110] – A beautiful, idyllic, and cozy restaurant in Kitzbühel with an open fireplace, known for its superb steaks, but also excellent fish dishes like salmon trout ceviche.

Hazienda [$30-$50] – A local institution in St. Anton known for its evolution from a humble eatery into a sophisticated restaurant with international flavors, including Tyrolean, Italian, and Asian touches like ceviche with sushi rice.

Bodega Tapas Bar [$20-$40] – A lively, popular Spanish eatery in St. Anton, serving authentic Spanish tapas like gambas pil pil, patatas bravas, and a good selection of Spanish wines, offering a change from Austrian cuisine.

Pipino’s Cafe-Restaurant-Lounge [$25-$45] – A popular Italian restaurant in Kitzbühel, praised for its excellent service and sophisticated dishes that reflect the region, often considered the best Italian in town.

Pizzeria Pomodoro [$20-$35] – Located in St. Anton, this popular spot is known for its large selection of thin-crust pizzas, along with pasta dishes and salads—a great value for money option.

Skiing Buddha [$20-$35] – An option for those craving Asian food in St. Anton, offering a laid-back atmosphere and a change of pace from traditional Austrian fare.

First Lobster [$70-$120] – A gourmet paradise in Kitzbühel specializing in freshly caught lobster, oysters, and seafood from the American East Coast, alongside fillet steaks from the hot stone.

Dorfstuben [$20-$35] – A popular low-cost restaurant in St. Anton, known for its simple and authentic Austrian cuisine in a no-frills setting.

The KTC Clubhouse [$20-$35] – A friendly, welcoming spot in Kitzbühel run by a local Austrian and Australian couple, highly-rated for its service, great food (burgers, pasta, salads), and fair prices, known as a local “regular” spot.

Branderhofstube [$30-$50] – A cozy, Tyrolean-style inn located near the Aurach Wildlife Park in Kitzbühel, offering local delicacies prepared with fresh, regional products and herbs from the hotel’s own garden.

Osteria Di Parma [$30-$50] – A traditional Italian restaurant in St. Anton where you can indulge in Mediterranean dishes, including excellent pizza, pasta, and oven-baked lamb.

Galzig Bistro Bar: Located centrally in St. Anton, this spot offers a modern alpine flair, known for its creative cocktails and excellent food, making it a perfect spot to kick-start your evening.

Murrmel Bar: A popular live-music bar right in the heart of St. Anton, offering a vibrant atmosphere with both a bar and a club area, and known for being open in summer as well as winter.

MooserWirt: Infamous and located on the piste above St. Anton, this legendary Après-Ski hut claims to be “probably the worst Après-Ski bar in the Arlberg” but is actually one of the world’s most famous, known for its raucous atmosphere, DJs, and prodigious beer sales until 8 PM.

Krazy Kanguruh: Another iconic on-piste Après-Ski bar in St. Anton, located right next to the MooserWirt, known for its sun terrace, lively parties, and the need to ski down to town afterward.

Taps: Situated right on the ski piste near the MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh in St. Anton, this bar offers a slightly more relaxed Après-Ski vibe, good food, a super sun terrace, and a popular happy hour.

Basecamp: Found at the foot of the Gampenbahn lift in St. Anton, this Après-Ski bar transforms from a relaxed daytime spot to a buzzing bar in the late afternoon, often featuring live DJs and electric dance music in the evening.

Fang House: Nestled at the bottom of the Nassereinbahn lift in St. Anton, this bar is celebrated for its fantastic atmosphere, serving as a lively Après-Ski spot that continues into a popular late-night bar.

Verwallstube: Located on the Galzig mountain in St. Anton, this spot offers a more exclusive and serene experience, known for its fine dining and excellent wine list, ideal for a refined evening.

Bar Kitzbühel (Kitzbühel Lodge): An elegant bar located in Reith bei Kitzbühel, offering a sophisticated setting for enjoying selected spirits and artfully prepared cocktail specialities.

LebenBerg Bar: Situated within the Lebenberg Schlosshotel in Kitzbühel, this bar is known for its inventive cocktail and long drink creations, blending classic tradition with modern twists.

Cooper Bar: Located in the Grand Tirolia Hotel near Kitzbühel, this alpine-urban bar is a popular meeting point for its cosmopolitan drink menu, featuring French champagne, international cocktails, and a relaxing lounge area.

Rubin Bar & Cigar Lounge: Found in the Kempinski Hotel Das Tirol in Jochberg (near Kitzbühel), this elegant bar invites guests to relax and enjoy exotic gin cocktails, classic long drinks, fine wines, and a selection of cigars.

Leo HILLINGER Wineshop & Bar: Located in Kitzbühel’s charming Hinterstadt, this stylish spot is perfect for wine lovers, offering a selection of the best Austrian and European wines alongside light snacks.

Reisch Bar: A legendary café and bar located within the Sporthotel Reisch in the heart of Kitzbühel, known for its great coffee during the day and becoming a sophisticated bar in the evening.

Pipino’s Cafe-Restaurant-Lounge: Found in Kitzbühel, this venue offers a blend of local and international cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere, often frequented for post-dinner drinks.

The Londoner Kitzbühel: An institution in Kitzbühel, this themed watering hole on Franz-Reisch-Straße is designed like a classic English pub but transforms into a high-energy late-night venue with music that often gets patrons dancing on the tables.

Club Take-Five: An exclusive and glamorous dance club located in the Hinterstadt area of Kitzbühel, boasting one of the largest dance floors in town and maintaining a sophisticated atmosphere.

Jimmy’s Dinner & Club: Situated in Kitzbühel’s Hinterstadt, this unique spot combines a dinner setting with fine tapas and regional food, transitioning into a lively club later in the evening.

FÜNFERL – die BAR: Located centrally on Franz-Reisch-Straße in Kitzbühel, this trendy bar, with its “Bar. Pub. Beisel” concept, attracts a sporty crowd and flâneurs alike, with DJs ensuring the dancing continues until the early hours.

NU Kitzbühel: A modern club in Kitzbühel known for its up-to-date music and sophisticated environment, providing an exclusive late-night experience for dancing.

Lichtl Pub: A lively music bar in Kitzbühel’s Vorderstadt, offering a mix of music from the 60s to current hits, often featuring live music and a fun, local-friendly atmosphere.

Bobo’s: One of the larger, long-standing après-ski and late-night bars right in the village center of St. Anton, popular for its lively party vibe, especially after the slopes close.

O’Flannigans Irish Pub: Found in Kitzbühel, this classic Irish Pub provides a warm, convivial atmosphere, showing sports and offering a great selection of beers, making it a reliable spot for a late-night drink and camaraderie.

Cuba Bar (St. Anton): A cozy cellar bar nestled on Dorfstrasse in St. Anton, favored by visitors for its laid-back atmosphere, good music, and screening of live sports, often extending the party until late.

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ALPINE REGION
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ST. ANTON & KITZBUHEL

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