Things to Do in Kitzbühel

The Hahnenkamm downhill race happens here each January. This small Austrian Alps town of barely 8,000 people hosts one of the most terrifying ski races in the world, where pros hit speeds of 85 mph down slopes that seem almost vertical. But Kitzbühel is more than its fearsome reputation. Cobblestone streets wind past pastel buildings housing centuries-old inns and luxury boutiques. The surrounding Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm mountains offer Austria's most reliable skiing in winter and surprisingly good hiking when snow melts. The town manages to feel both exclusive and genuinely Austrian—impressive for a place that attracts serious money. You'll spot Ferraris outside five-star hotels. But you'll also find locals chatting in dialect at traditional gasthofs that have served schnapps and schnitzel for generations. The town is a playground for the wealthy without losing its soul—though you'll pay for the privilege during peak ski season.

The dining scene reflects the town's dual nature as both traditional Austrian village and international resort. You'll find centuries-old gasthofs serving massive schnitzel portions alongside sophisticated restaurants that wouldn't look out of place in Vienna. Local Tyrolean food is hearty and perfect after slope time. Think speck, käsespätzle, and plenty of game dishes. Expect resort prices even for casual meals—that is just how things work here. Some of the best food comes from mountain huts accessible by cable car, where altitude and appetite make even simple dishes taste extraordinary.

Kitzbühel has two distinct seasons. Your choice depends entirely on what you want from this place. Winter, particularly January through March, brings the town alive with skiers and the famous Hahnenkamm race weekend in late January. Skiing is reliably excellent. Prices peak and crowds can be intense during this time. Summer reveals a completely different Kitzbühel—hiking trails, swimming in Schwarzsee, and a much more relaxed atmosphere from June through September. Shoulder seasons offer the best deals and fewer crowds. Some mountain lifts may be closed for maintenance though. Weather in the Alps can be unpredictable any time of year, so pack layers regardless of when you visit.