Skiing with kids · Guide 2026/27
Skiing in Austria with kids
Family ski resorts where kids ski free
The short answer: At most major resorts in Austria, kids born in 2021 or later ski free, so roughly up to age 5. The Stubai Glacier, Ischgl and the glaciers in the Pitztal and Kaunertal valleys go well beyond that. On top of that, there are free weeks for kids up to 15 in December and from mid-March.
Updated November 3, 2026. All details come from the official resort websites for the 2026/27 season.
How free lift tickets for kids work in Austria
Birth year, not age
Many resorts go by birth year, for example “born 2021 or later.” Then only the year counts, not the birthday.
Only with a parent
The free ticket usually only applies when a parent comes along and buys a lift ticket too.
ID and photo
You usually pick up the free ticket at the ticket office with your child's ID, sometimes with a photo too.
Family bonus
At many resorts, the third child skis free when a parent and the two older siblings pay.
Four highlights for families
At these resorts, kids ski free up to an older age in 2026/27. Every detail comes with an official source.
Tyrol
Stubai Glacier
Free under 10
Official source ↗Kids under 10 ski free when a parent buys a lift ticket of the same type. Pick up the free pass at the ticket office with an ID.
Tyrol
Ischgl, Silvretta Arena
Free under 8, under 10 with a VIP pass
Official source ↗With the Silvretta lift pass, kids under 8 ski free with a parent. With a VIP pass and the Ischgl or Mathon guest card, it's even under 10.
Tyrol
Pitztal
Free ski lessons for ages 3 to 5
Official source ↗The free Pitzi ski school for beginners runs December 7 to 18, 2026, January 11 to 22 and March 8 to 19, 2027, Monday through Friday. Spots are limited, so book online.
Salzburg
Weißsee Gletscherwelt
2 kids under 12 ski free
Official source ↗In Uttendorf, two kids under 12 ski free with their parents, single parents included. From December 19, 2026 to April 18, 2027.
Free Ski Pass List
All 46 deals in Austria
With conditions, dates and official sources, from Tyrol to Carinthia. Unlock the full list for free with your email.
Free weeks in Austria 2026/27
During these periods, older kids ski free too. Usually a parent buys a multi-day lift ticket.
Tips for the ticket office
Check the birth year
A child born in 2021 skis free all season at many resorts, even if they turn 6 this winter.
Buy at the same time
The free ticket usually only comes together with a parent's lift ticket.
Use the guest card
In Ischgl, kids ski free under 10 with a VIP pass and guest card, otherwise under 8.
Bring proof of family
Family discounts often require proof, such as a child benefit statement.
Manu, dad and founder of dry movesMy tip: plan your first ski trip during a free week in March. The days are long, the slopes are quieter than during school vacations, and the little ones ski free.
Practice at home first
The first day on skis is easier when skis already feel familiar
With drySki, kids ages 2 and up learn their first steps and moves on skis at home through play, so they're perfectly prepared for their first days on the snow. Handmade in Munich.
FAQ
Up to what age do kids ski free in Austria?
At most major resorts, kids born in 2021 or later ski free, so roughly up to age 5. Kids under 10 ski free on the Stubai Glacier, and under 8 in Ischgl and Hochoetz. During free weeks, it often goes up to age 15.
When are the free ski weeks for kids in Austria?
Before Christmas, from early to mid-December, and from mid-March to Easter. A parent usually buys a multi-day lift ticket.
Where do kids ski free with an overnight stay?
Mainly in Carinthia, for example in Weissbriach, where the lift ticket is included with just one night at a participating hotel.
Skiing with kids in other countries
Everything you need to plan, with a packing checklist: Family ski trip with kids
Have fun in the snow!
Cheers, Manu