Kitzbühel
Tyrol, Kitzbühel Alps
By The Alpines · Updated 2026-10-25 · 6 min read
“A medieval town with the scariest downhill on earth above it.”
The lowdown
Kitzbühel is a medieval walled town in the Tyrol, with painted houses and cobbled streets, and it is one of the most famous names in skiing. Every January the Hahnenkamm downhill is raced on the Streif, widely considered the most fearsome course on the World Cup circuit.
The KitzSki area offers a large network of pistes, much of it suited to intermediates, with long, scenic runs and plenty of mountain restaurants. Being relatively low, it relies on snowmaking, and conditions can be variable early and late in the season.
The town itself is glamorous and lively, with excellent restaurants and nightlife, and it has a railway station in town. In summer it is a popular hiking, golf and biking destination.
Why base here
- ▲A medieval walled town with painted houses
- ▲The Hahnenkamm downhill on the Streif every January
- ▲Large KitzSki ski area with long, scenic intermediate runs
- ▲Railway station in town
- ▲Hiking, golf and biking in summer
When to go
Winter runs from December to March, with January bringing the Hahnenkamm race weekend. Summer (June to September) is excellent for hiking, golf and mountain biking.
Getting there
Salzburg and Innsbruck airports are each about 1 hour 15 minutes away, with Munich around 1 hour 45 minutes. Kitzbühel has a railway station in town, making it easy to reach by train.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn up fit enough to enjoy it
A basecamp this good deserves legs that can keep up. Our 12-week mountain-fitness plan builds the strength and endurance to make the most of Kitzbühel — not just survive it.
Get my 12-week plan — £49Last updated: 2026-10-25 · 6 min read