Where to go skiing near Innsbruck by train or bus?

The dream of every city-dwelling ski enthusiast is to leave the house in ski gear and boots, take a bus and be on the slopes.

In the Tyrol, it is possible: you can ski very close to Innsbruck. And you can do it without taking a car!

Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol, and in fact one could almost say that it is also the ski capitalIts position in the heart of the Alpine arc, in a wide valley surrounded by mountains, a crossroads between Switzerland and Vienna and between Munich and Italy, has naturally given it the title of Capital of the Alps.

Site of the Winter Olympics in 1964, then in 1976, and its "youth" version in 2012, winter sports, and in particular skiing, are omnipresent in Innsbruck from the first snowflakes fall on the Tyrolean Alps in November, until May.

It is not uncommon to see skiers in colorful outfits, ski boots, carrying their boards on their shoulders and getting off a tram or a bus.

But where are they going to ski?

Starting from the closest and most popular ski resorts for the inhabitants ofInnsbruck (less than an hour by bus or train for the most part), we will gradually move away until we reach very famous ski resorts which are less than 1 hour 45 minutes by train from the center ofInnsbruck. A range of ski resorts adapted to everyone's level!

Around Innsbruck, you can quickly reach a ski resort: let's take a look at the ones that are easiest to access without a car.

north chain, directly from the centre of Innsbruck

Directly accessible from the centre of Innsbruck via the Hungerburgbahn funicular, the station north chain combines urbanity and skiing pleasure. The 7 or 8 kilometres of mostly ungroomed slopes, mainly intended for experienced skiers, offer technical challenges with steep slopes and famous freeride areas. Attention, no beginners! The snowpark, located at an altitude of 1 metres, is a meeting place for freestylers looking for thrills. Since the Hafelekar At an altitude of 2300 meters, the panorama over the city ofInnsbruck, and the surrounding Alps is breathtaking, offering a unique experience where one can go from bustling city streets to snowy slopes in just a few minutes.

Directions by public transport :

• From the centre of Innsbruck, take the Hungerburgbahn funicular to the station "Hungerburg". From there, take Nordkettenbahnen cable cars to access the ski area. The Hungerburgbahn funicular is accessible via local public transport and is located right in the city centre. The entire journey takes approximately 20 minutes

Patscherkofel, the ski resort with a view of Innsbruck and the Nordkette

Towering over the city of Innsbruck, Patscherkofel is an iconic mountain that hosted the Alpine skiing events at the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Its ski area offers varied slopes suitable for all levels, with breathtaking views of the Inn Valley, wipptal and the Stubaital. Skiers can take the famous Olympic slope or opt for gentler descents. The Alpine landscape, dotted with pine forests, creates a peaceful atmosphere conducive to relaxation. Modern infrastructure ensures easy access to the peaks, making Patscherkofel a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

With a ski area that extends between 1000 and 2000 meters above sea level, skiers enjoy the resort's 19 kilometers of slopes, served by 6 ski lifts.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Bus J from Innsbruck Central Station. Travel time: about 30 minutes
• Descent stop : "Patscherkofelbahn". The stop is located directly at the valley station of the Patscherkofel cable car.

Motherhood, skiing in the forest just a stone's throw from Innsbruck

Located in the immediate vicinity of Innsbruck, on the snowy balcony overlooking the city to the south, the station of Motherhood is renowned for its family-friendly, friendly atmosphere. The slopes wind through snow-covered forests, offering beginners and intermediate skiers the perfect terrain to progress on. In addition to downhill skiing, Motherhood offers trails dedicated to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, allowing you to discover the surrounding nature from a different perspective. The panoramic views of the Tyrolean Alps add to the charm of this resort.

The 16 kilometers of slopes, served by 5 ski lifts, range from 900m to 1800m above sea level.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : STB tram from Innsbruck Central Station. Journey time approx. 30 minutes.
• Descent stop : “Mutters Nockhofweg”. The departure of the ski lifts is about 200 meters away.

Axamer Lizum, the sports resort just a stone's throw from Innsbruck

Just 19 km from Innsbruck, almost at the entrance to the Sellraintal, Axamer Lizum is a renowned ski resort that also hosted the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Nicknamed "the white roof of Innsbruck", it offers a varied ski area with slopes suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers. The spectacular Alpine landscape, dominated by imposing peaks, delights thrill seekers and lovers of grandiose panoramas. Modern infrastructure and abundant natural snowfall make it aAxamer Lizum a must-see destination for skiing enthusiasts. At an altitude that allows you to ski on good quality snow, between 1500m and 2300m above sea level, more than 40 km of slopes await skiers of all levels. Which justifies a higher price than the two previous resorts.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Bus 4162 from Innsbruck Central Station. Travel time: approximately 50 minutes.
• Descent stop : "Axamer Lizum Talstation". The stop is located directly at the valley station of the ski lifts.

Glungezer, one of the longest ski slopes in Tyrol

Le Glungezer, located near Tulfes, is a Tyrolean ski resort offering an authentic experience in the heart of unspoiled nature. Just 12 kilometres from Innsbruck, this family-friendly area ranges from 950 to 2 metres above sea level and offers 304 km of slopes suitable for all levels. Skiers can enjoy one of the longest descents in Tyrol, reaching up to 23 km depending on the route chosen. Modern facilities, such as the 15-seater gondola lift and the "Tulfein Express", ensure quick and comfortable access to the summits, where breathtaking views of the Inn Valley and the Tulfein mountain range are offered. Karwendel await you. Freeride enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive “off-piste” terrain, while families will find dedicated areas for children, such as the “Wanda Panda” club. After a day on the slopes, the rustic huts offer traditional Tyrolean cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. The Glungezer is also a popular starting point for winter hikes and snowshoe excursions, offering a complete immersion in the alpine landscape.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : VVT regional bus line 4134 towards Tulfes. Approximately 30 minutes journey.
• Descent stop : » Tulfes Glungezerbahn Talstation « . The stop is located directly at the valley station of the ski lifts.

Oberperfuss – Ranger Köpfl, a family ski resort on the heights of Innsbruck

Just 12 km from Innsbruck, the family-friendly resort of Oberperfuss – Rangger Köpfl offers a friendly ski area with slopes suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. The 17 km of descents lead through snow-covered forests and offer breathtaking views of the Inn Valley. Sledging enthusiasts will appreciate the 10 km dedicated slope, one of the longest in the region. The resort also offers night skiing on floodlit slopes, allowing you to extend the fun of skiing into the evening. The friendly atmosphere and modern infrastructure make Rangger Köpfl an ideal destination for outings with family or friends.

You will ski on 17 kilometers of slopes between 800 and 1900 meters above sea level.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take:  Take the regional bus (line 4165) from Innsbruck bus station in the direction of Oberperfuss. Get off at the stop "Oberperfuss Bergbahnen". Journey time 35 minutes with a stop located directly at the valley station of the ski lifts.

Fulpmes – Schlick 2000, skiing in the heart of the Stubaital

Nestled in the valley of Stubai, the station of Silt 2000 nearly Fulpmes seduced by its preserved natural setting and authentic atmosphere. The ski area, suitable for all levels, extends between 1 and 000 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Skiers can enjoy varied slopes, while freestyle enthusiasts have a well-equipped snowpark. The traditional refuges scattered throughout the area invite you to take gourmet breaks, allowing you to savor Tyrolean cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

25 kilometers of trails with beautiful landscapes towards the mountains of Kalkögel allow skiers to spend a wonderful day on the snowy slopes.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Bus 590 from Innsbruck Central Station
• Descent stop : “Fulpmes”, then line 1 or 3 towards Schlick 2000.
• Duration of the route : About 50 minutes

Or by train with the Stubaitalbahn line (STB 1015) from Innsbruck to Fulpmes (every hour), in 50 minutes and then line 5, to Silt 2000.

The small ski resorts of the Stubaital: Mieders and Neustift

At the entrance of the Stubaital., the station of Serlesbahnen, situated at Mieders, is a true haven of peace for families and skiers looking for tranquility. The ski area (6 kilometers), although modest, and at low altitude (1000 to 1600 meters) offers perfectly maintained slopes ideal for beginners and children. The majestic Mount Serles, nicknamed "the Altar of Tyrol", dominates the landscape and offers a spectacular setting for visitors. In addition to downhill skiing, the resort offers winter hiking and tobogganing trails, allowing you to diversify your pleasures and fully enjoy the surrounding nature.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Bus 590b from Innsbruck Central Station
• Descent stop : "Mieders Serlesbahn". The stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the ski lifts.

À Neustift, the station from Elferbahnen is particularly popular with skiing and paragliding enthusiasts. The 2.5 km of slopes, which extend between 1000 and 2000 meters above sea level, mainly intended for intermediate skiers, offer varied descents with panoramic views of the Stubai Valley. The Elfer peak, at 2 metres, is a popular starting point for paragliding flights, offering a unique perspective on the Tyrolean Alps. Winter hiking trails and toboggan runs complete the offer, making this resort a versatile location for outdoor activities.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Bus 590 from Innsbruck Central Station
• Descent stop : » Neustift im Stubaital Elferlifte « . The stop is located directly at the valley station of the ski lifts.

Stubai Glacier, skiing at over 3000 meters above sea level near Innsbruck

Le Stubai Glacier, Austria's largest skiable glacier, is located south of Innsbruck and extends between 1700 and 3 metres above sea level. This area offers a wide range of slopes suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts, with guaranteed snow throughout the season. Here you will find 65 km of slopes. Breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpine peaks add a spectacular dimension to the skiing experience. Modern facilities, including fast and comfortable lifts, ensure easy access to the various areas of the ski area. Freestyle enthusiasts will appreciate the well-equipped snowpark, while families will find dedicated areas for children and beginners. The mountain huts offer traditional Tyrolean cuisine, allowing you to enjoy local specialities in an authentic setting. The Stubai Glacier is a must-see destination for winter sports enthusiasts looking for diversity and quality.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Bus 590 from Innsbruck Central Station, 1h20 minutes
• Descent stop : » Mutterberg Gletscherbahn « . The stop is located directly at the valley station of the glacier cable car.

Steinach am Brenner: Bergeralm, between Innsbruck and Brenner

The station Bergeralm, situated at Steinach am Brenner, is a family destination offering a varied ski area with slopes suitable for all levels. Skiers can enjoy panoramic descents with views of the wipptal. Between 1000 and 2300 meters above sea level, the 30 kilometers of slopes allow skiers of all levels to enjoy the slopes. The resort is also renowned for its night skiing, offering illuminated slopes to prolong the pleasure of skiing into the evening. The modern infrastructure and friendly atmosphere make Bergeralm a place appreciated by both locals and visitors. The traditional refuges on the slopes invite you to take gourmet breaks

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Take a regional train (S-Bahn) from Innsbruck train station in the direction of "Steinach am Brenner". Get off at the "Steinach am Brenner" train station. The journey takes 30 minutes. It is about a 500-metre walk from the train station to the valley station of the Bergeralm ski lift. Free local ski buses are available for easy access to the lifts.
• You can also take the bus and get off at »Steinach am Brenner Bergeralm» about 100 meters from the ski lifts. 50 minutes. About one bus per hour.

Kuhtai, the modern ski resort near Innsbruck

At an altitude of 2 meters, Kuhtai is one of the highest resorts in Austria, guaranteeing optimum snow cover throughout the season. It is accessed from the Sellraintal, Or Ötztal. The varied slopes are suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers, with wide, well-groomed descents. The snowpark attracts freestyle enthusiasts with its modules suitable for all levels. Surrounded by majestic peaks, the resort offers a spectacular alpine setting, ideal for snowshoeing and ski touring. The friendly atmosphere and ski-in/ski-out accommodation add to the comfort of visitors, making Kuhtai a popular destination for active mountain holidays.

It is a beautiful ski resort with difficult slopes, mostly red and black, ranging from 2000 to 2500 meters above sea level over a length of 50 km.

Directions by public transport :

Line to take:  Bus 4166 which goes all the way up Sellraintal to the bus stop "Kühtai" (there are several, depending on the site you want to arrive at). Allow 1h30 for the journey. The bus stops are located in the immediate vicinity of the ski lifts.

Seefeld, the historic ski resort of Innsbruck

Nestled on a sunny plateau at an altitude of 1 meters, Seefeld is an elegant resort renowned for its extensive network of cross-country ski trails, totalling over 245 km. Alpine skiers are not left out with areas suitable for families and beginners, offering gentle and panoramic descents. On Rosshütte, 19 kilometres of slopes await advanced skiers up to 2000 metres above sea level, while Gschwandtkopf allows beginners to get started on 6 kilometres of easy slopes reaching 1500 metres above sea level.

The pedestrian center of Seefeld, with its chic boutiques and cosy cafés, adds a cosmopolitan touch to the Alpine atmosphere. The surrounding mountains also offer many opportunities for winter hiking, allowing you to discover unspoilt snow-covered landscapes. Seefeld has hosted the Winter Olympics on several occasions, testifying to its excellence in sports infrastructure.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Take a regional train from Innsbruck train station in the direction of "Seefeld in Tirol". Get off at the "Seefeld in Tirol" train station. Journey time: 35 minutes. A ski bus runs every 30 minutes from the train station to the two ski areas (Rosshütte for advanced skiers, and Gschwandtkopf for beginners)

Sankt Anton am Arlberg, unlimited skiing 1h30 by train from Innsbruck

Considered the cradle of alpine skiing, Sankt Anton am Arlberg is a legendary resort offering a vast ski area with over 300 km of slopes and 200 km of off-piste ranging from 1300 to 2800 metres above sea level. Experienced skiers will find challenging descents, while beginners can progress on gentler slopes. The village, with its authentic Tyrolean charm, offers a lively nightlife with many bars and restaurants. The surrounding mountains offer breathtaking views, and modern infrastructure ensures easy access to the peaks. Sankt Anton is also renowned for its dynamic après-ski, making every day of skiing a complete and memorable experience.

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Take a regional train (ÖBB) from Innsbruck train station in the direction of “Bludenz” or “Bregenz”. Get off at the “ St Anton am Arlberg". It will only take you 1 hour 10 minutes to find yourself 400 meters from the start of one of the largest ski areas in the Alps. A shuttle will take you there, but it's really not far!

Hopfgarten in Brixental, a beautiful discovery not far from Innsbruck by train

Hopfgarten in Brixental is part of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental ski area, one of the largest in Austria. The area extends from 620 m to 1 m above sea level, offering 829 km of slopes and 288 lifts.

Located in the heart of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental area, one of the largest in Austria, Hopfgarten in Brixental is a sunny resort popular with families and skiers of all levels. The modern 8-seater gondola lift leads directly to the summit of the Hohe Salve, offering a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding Alps. The wide, well-groomed slopes are ideal for beginners and experts alike. The picturesque village, with its iconic baroque church, offers a warm and authentic atmosphere. The many off-ski activities, such as snowshoe hikes or toboggan runs, complete the offer for a varied holiday.

Directions by public transport :

• Directions : Take a regional train (ÖBB) from Innsbruck station in the direction of "Kufstein" or "Wörgl". In Wörgl, change to a train in the direction of "Kitzbühel" and get off at the station "Hopfgarten im Brixental Berglift".
• Travel time : Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The train station is located directly opposite the valley station of the gondola lift. It is about a 3-minute walk to the Hohe Salve gondola lift.

Kitzbühel, the queen of skiing in Austria, not so far from Innsbruck…

Renowned worldwide for its famous Descent of the Streif, one of the most difficult on the World Cup circuit, Kitzbühel is a resort that combines tradition and modernity. The ski area offers 234 km of varied slopes, suitable for all levels, with panoramic descents and freeride areas. The charming medieval center of Kitzbühel, with its cobbled streets and elegant boutiques, creates a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. Skiers can also enjoy an extensive network of cross-country ski trails and winter hiking trails. The many mountain huts offer authentic Tyrolean cuisine, ideal for gourmet breaks. Kitzbühel is also known for its calendar of sporting and cultural events throughout the year, attracting an international clientele.

Directions by public transport :

• Directions : Take a regional train (ÖBB) from Innsbruck train station in the direction of "Kufstein" or "Wörgl". In Wörgl, change to a train in the direction of "Kitzbühel" and get off at the "Kitzbühel Hahnenkamm" train station. The journey to this world-famous ski resort takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. The train station is located directly at the valley station of the Hahnenkamm cable car.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, skiing in Bavaria from Innsbruck

Want to ski in Germany? You can try the very famous Garmisch Partenkirchen. Located in the Bavarian Alps, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a renowned ski resort offering a diverse ski area. The area extends from 700 m to 2 m above sea level, with around 720 km of slopes and 60 ski lifts.

Nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is an iconic German resort, renowned for its rich sporting heritage and breathtaking Alpine scenery. The Garmisch-Classic ski area stretches across the slopes of three mountains: the Alpspitze, the Hausberg and the Kreuzeck. Experienced skiers can challenge the famous Kandahar slope, renowned for its technicality and regular hosting of international competitions. The village, a merger of Garmisch and Partenkirchen since 1935, charms with its traditional Bavarian architecture and picturesque alleys. In addition to downhill skiing, the region offers activities such as cross-country skiing, winter hiking and ice skating, all in a preserved natural setting. The proximity to the summit of the Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak, offers visitors unparalleled panoramas and the opportunity to ski on a small glacier

Directions by public transport :

• Line to take : Take a regional train (ÖBB) from Innsbruck train station in the direction of "Garmisch-Partenkirchen". Get off at the "Garmisch-Partenkirchen" train station. The journey takes 1 hour. Then shuttles take you to the starting points of the ski area.

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