Austria in January: Weather, Tips, and More

January is mid-winter in Austria, with cold temperatures and ample snowfall, especially in the alpine regions. Vienna in January has the coldest temperature, with an average high of 3.8°C (38.8°F) and a low of -0.8°C (30.6°F). The city also receives the most snowfall in January, typically accumulating 186mm (7.32 inches). Vienna is perfect for indoor cultural activities and enjoying cozy cafes during this time of year. January in Austria is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, with excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. However, visiting historic sites around Salzburg can be challenging due to icy streets and potential travel disruptions. Mountain treks and outdoor sightseeing are less suitable because of the cold and snow.

Read our best time to visit Austria article for a more detailed month-by-month overview.

Austria in January promises a unique blend of winter adventures, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking excitement and relaxation amidst snowy landscapes. Below is a list of reasons why you should plan your Austria trip in January:

• Winter adventures: January transforms the Austrian Alps into a completely snowy paradise. Tackle Kitzbuhel's 170 km of diverse slopes or seek skiing thrills in St. Anton's steep terrain. Snowboarders can carve through powder in renowned spots like Ischgl or enjoy the challenges of freestyle parks in areas like Zell am See-Kaprun. Indulge in luxury in Lech Zurs or pristine snow in Solden, surrounded by glaciers. January is the perfect time for winter sports enthusiasts to explore world-class ski resorts, indulge in apres-ski traditions, and make memories in Austria's heart of the Alps.
• Best time to visit the Alpine villages: Austria’s Alpine villages are awe-inspiring throughout the year, but they become even more enchanting under a thick blanket of snow. In January, you can stroll through the cobblestone streets that wind past centuries-old buildings adorned for the holidays. Hallstatt, one of Austria's most picturesque mountain villages, is nestled among the Salzkammergut Mountains and overlooks Lake Hallstatt. You won’t regret witnessing the extraordinary winter close to the ancient salt mines and glaciers of Hallstatt in January.
• Mozart Week in Salzburg: Celebrate Mozart Week, held annually around W.A. Mozart's birthday on January 27, by stepping into a winter wonderland filled with his timeless melodies. This enchanting event invites music enthusiasts to explore Salzburg's festive streets and historic venues, resonating with Mozart's classical compositions. Experiencing concerts amidst snow-covered architecture and the majestic Alps is one of the best things to do in Salzburg in January.
• Castle tours: Tour Austrian castles in winter for a magical experience against a breathtaking winter backdrop. Explore Hohenwerfen Castle, perched above the snowy Salzach Valley, and enjoy its rich history and stunning views. Venture to Schloss Ort, situated on a picturesque island in Traunsee Lake. This fairy-tale castle takes on a magical quality when draped in a blanket of snow. For a closer look at medieval life near Vienna, visit Burg Kreuzenstein. This meticulously reconstructed castle captures the essence of a medieval fortress, complete with towering walls, imposing towers, and elaborate interiors filled with period furnishings and artwork.

Austria offers a diverse range of destinations and activities in January. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace, the historic city center, and enjoy a warm coffee in Vienna's traditional cafes, as the light snow enhances the city's charm.

If you're embarking on a trip to Vienna, it's easy to fit in a day or two of skiing at Zauberg Semmering, a popular destination just a 75-minute drive from the capital. Accessible by the scenic Semmeringbahn mountain railway, this area caters mainly to beginners and intermediate skiers but also offers a freestyle park, night skiing, ice skating, sledding, and more.

The picturesque village of Alpbach, with its traditional wooden farmhouses and stunning alpine scenery, offers the perfect starting point. Explore well-maintained winter paths and experience the serene beauty and panoramic views of the Kitzbuhel Alps, making it one of the best destinations during this time.

Explore the Austrian Alps by heading to Innsbruck, where the Nordkette Cable Car takes you from the city center to the ski fields. Visit Mayrhofen, Zillertal, and Kitzbuhel for diverse slopes and stunning views. For a thrilling challenge, tackle Hafelekar-Rinne, one of Europe's steepest ski runs, when you visit Austria in January.

Visiting Austria in January offers not just winter sports and cultural delights, but also a chance to embrace the serene beauty of its snowy landscapes and the warmth of its cultural traditions.

Want to plan your Austria itinerary from scratch? Fill out our Austria customized trip form.