To Austria with Kids—A Guide to Family-Friendly Experiences from the Alps to Vienna

(Category: Europe Guide)

Relaxing with kids doesn't have to be boring! Austria (even with kids) is a country full of adventures, from thrilling mountain experiences to fascinating historical landmarks and modern entertainment centers. We’ve prepared a guide with activities that will keep both preschoolers and teenagers entertained. Discover why an Austrian holiday is a great choice for families seeking a mix of fun, exploration, and active relaxation.

Austria is not just a country of waltzes and Mozart balls. Here, you’ll find adventures for every season that will thrill the whole family, regardless of age. Get ready for a journey full of surprises, where nature meets modern attractions and history blends with adrenaline. Let’s go together to explore the most interesting family experiences offered not only by holiday destinations in Austria.

Winter Fun for Young and Old

Winter doesn’t just mean sitting at home with a hot tea. A skiing holiday in Austria is the perfect choice for all snow enthusiasts. The resorts here have tailored their services for families with children down to the finest detail—from kids' ski schools to evening entertainment.

Family Ski Resorts without Lines and Stress

Holiday resorts in Austria, such as Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis and Skicircus Saalbach, offer special kids' zones where your little ones can learn their first turns. Experienced instructors speak several languages and tailor lessons to the individual needs of each young skier. In these resorts, you’ll find:

magic carpets for beginners,
kids' lifts with low ropes,
colorful slalom tracks,
snow playgrounds with tunnels and obstacles, and
kids' restaurants with menus for even the pickiest eaters.

Fun for Non-Skiers

Holiday packages in Austria often include activities off the slopes. Toboggan runs, ice skating on frozen lakes, or snowmobile rides—the possibilities are endless. When the kids get tired of winter sports, head to one of these places:

Aqua Dome in Längenfeld—thermal baths with outdoor pools that are heated even in winter.
Snow Space Salzburg—giant snow igloos with ice sculptures.
Innsbrucker Nordkettenbahnen—cable cars with panoramic views of the Alps.
Kristallwelten in Wattens—a sparkling world of Swarovski crystals with interactive exhibits.

Spring Adventures Full of Exploring

With the arrival of spring, activities in Austria expand with even more options. The period between winter and summer offers a unique opportunity to combine the last skiing in the highest resorts with the first hikes into awakening nature. Spring attracts visitors to historical landmarks and natural beauties. In the valleys, the first flowers have bloomed, while the mountain peaks are still covered in snow—this contrast creates breathtaking scenery. Holiday destinations in Austria offer a variety of experiences during this time:

castle tours with costumed guides,
Easter markets and craft workshops,
first hikes at lower altitudes,
observing the awakening alpine fauna and flora.

Summer Alpine Adventures

With the arrival of summer, activities in Austria move to higher altitudes. Mountain resorts transform into havens for high-altitude hiking and adventure sports. Families will particularly enjoy:

summer toboggan runs and mountain scooters,
rope parks in the treetops,
mountain farms with opportunities to feed animals,
trails with interactive stations for children.

Water Fun in the Mountains

Alpine lakes offer a refreshing alternative to crowded seaside resorts. When it comes to summer activities in Salzburg, for example, the water temperature reaches pleasant levels, and the crystal-clear waters invite you to:

pedal boat and paddleboard excursions,
sailing with instructor supervision,
beginner scuba diving,
fishing with professional guides.

Cultural Experiences in Big Cities

Activities in Vienna, Austria, are the perfect choice for rainy days or when you need a break after mountain adventures. Local museums and galleries have tailored their exhibits for young visitors, and you can visit with them: