Arlberg, Austria Travel Guide

Discover Arlberg: A premier destination for skiing, snowboarding, and year-round alpine adventures amidst Austria's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Arlberg is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Known for its pristine ski slopes, it offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding experiences in the world. The region is home to the famous ski resorts of St. Anton, Lech, and Zürs, each offering a unique blend of traditional alpine charm and modern amenities. Beyond the winter sports, Arlberg boasts breathtaking landscapes that can be enjoyed year-round. Summer visitors can explore lush green meadows, crystal-clear streams, and scenic hiking trails that wind through picturesque villages. The area is also rich in history and culture, with charming churches, museums, and local festivals that provide a glimpse into the region’s heritage. Arlberg offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cozy mountain lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Local cuisine is another highlight, with hearty alpine dishes and fine Austrian wines to savor. Whether you're seeking adventure on the slopes, peaceful nature walks, or cultural experiences, Arlberg has something to offer every visitor.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arlberg.

Visit in late January to mid-March for optimal skiing conditions.
Book accommodations early, especially during peak ski season.
Take advantage of the free ski shuttle service between resorts.
Explore the local cuisine, especially the traditional Kaiserschmarrn and Wiener Schnitzel.
Consider purchasing a multi-day ski pass for better value.
Don't miss the summer hiking trails for stunning alpine views.
Attend a local festival to experience traditional Austrian culture.

Top City Travel Guides in Arlberg

The cities of Arlberg, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Innsbruck

Bregenz

St. Anton am Arlberg

Dornbirn

Destinations in Arlberg

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Ischgl

Sölden

Lünersee

Karwendel Mountains

Lech

Explore Arlberg: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Arlberg

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Island Mainau

Discover the enchanting Island Mainau, a floral paradise in Lake Constance, perfect for nature lovers and families alike.

4.7

Affenberg Salem

Explore Affenberg Salem, a wildlife park where Barbary macaques roam freely amidst beautiful landscapes, offering fun and education for the whole family.

4.5

Pile Dwelling Museum

Explore the Pile Dwelling Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient stilt houses and the rich history of prehistoric lake dwellers.

4.6

Meersburg Castle

Experience the rich history and stunning views at Meersburg Castle, a captivating tourist attraction on the shores of Lake Constance.

4.6

Best landmarks in Arlberg

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Best Landmarks

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Fortress Hohensalzburg

Discover the grandeur of Fortress Hohensalzburg, a historical landmark in Salzburg offering stunning views and rich cultural insights into Austria's royal history.

4.6

Golden Roof

Discover the Golden Roof in Innsbruck, a stunning historical landmark adorned with gilded tiles that reflects Tyrolean history and culture.

4.4

Triumphpforte

Explore the grandeur of Triumphpforte, a historical landmark in Innsbruck, Austria, celebrating an imperial past and vibrant culture.

4.5

Annasäule

Explore Innsbruck's historic Annasäule, a captivating landmark that embodies the city's rich heritage and stunning baroque architecture.

4.5

Best restaurants in Arlberg

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Sennhütte - SENNsationell

Discover Sennhütte - where alpine charm meets culinary delight in St. Anton am Arlberg.

4.6

Restaurant Maximilian

Experience the best of Austrian cuisine with modern European influences at Restaurant Maximilian in St. Anton am Arlberg.

4.2

Rud-Alpe Gastronomie

Experience exquisite alpine dining at Rud-Alpe Gastronomie with stunning mountain views and a menu full of local flavors.

4.3

Balmalp Lech am Arlberg

Experience gourmet dining at Balmalp Lech am Arlberg - where local flavors meet stunning alpine views in an unforgettable culinary adventure.

4.4

Best bars in Arlberg

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Sennhütte - SENNsationell

Experience exquisite Alpine dining at Sennhütte, nestled in the stunning St. Anton am Arlberg, a perfect stop for hikers and ski enthusiasts.

4.6

Restaurant Maximilian

Discover the essence of Austrian and modern European cuisine at Restaurant Maximilian, nestled in the stunning alpine setting of St. Anton am Arlberg.

4.2

Rud-Alpe Gastronomie

Discover the exquisite culinary offerings at Rud-Alpe Gastronomie, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Austrian Alps in Lech.

4.3

Das Basecamp

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Das Basecamp in St. Anton, where drinks and stunning mountain views meet.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Arlberg

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Das Basecamp

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Das Basecamp in St. Anton am Arlberg, where great drinks and stunning alpine views meet.

3.9

Murrmel Bar

Discover the cozy Murrmel Bar in St. Anton am Arlberg, where delicious food, live music, and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.

4.4

Fang House

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Fang House, a lively bar and café in St. Anton am Arlberg, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

4.6

Bar Cuba

Discover the vibrant nightlife of St. Anton am Arlberg at Bar Cuba, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

3.6

Best shops in Arlberg

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SPAR

Explore SPAR in St. Anton am Arlberg for fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs, ensuring a delightful shopping experience.

4.3

INTERSPORT Arlberg

Explore the best of St. Anton am Arlberg with INTERSPORT Arlberg, your trusted partner for outdoor gear and sporting equipment.

4.8

Lechtaler Naturkäserei Sojer

Discover the authentic taste of the Austrian Alps at Lechtaler Naturkäserei Sojer, your go-to cheese shop and ice cream haven in Steeg.

4.7

Trittkopfbahn, Talstation

Discover the breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Trittkopfbahn, Lech's iconic mountain cable car, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

4.6

Explore Arlberg on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Arlberg, mapped for you.

Arlberg Essentials

Arlberg, located in the Austrian Alps, is best accessed via air, train, or car. The nearest major airports are Innsbruck Airport (INN) and Zurich Airport (ZRH), both of which are well-connected to international destinations. From Innsbruck or Zurich, you can take a train to Langen am Arlberg or St. Anton am Arlberg, which are the closest train stations to the region. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive; the region is accessible via the A14 motorway.
Once in Arlberg, transportation options include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. The area is well-served by a network of buses that connect the various towns and ski resorts. Taxis are also available but can be pricey. Renting a car provides the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. For those visiting in winter, be sure to rent a vehicle equipped for snowy conditions.
The official currency in Austria is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and remote areas where card payment might not be available. ATMs are easily accessible throughout the Arlberg region.
Arlberg is generally a safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, but standard precautions should still be observed. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded places. There are no specific areas in Arlberg known for high crime rates targeting tourists. However, the usual advice to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings applies.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, fire, and medical assistance. The region has well-equipped medical facilities and pharmacies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear weather-appropriate clothing, especially during the winter season. Avoid wearing ski boots off the slopes. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and remove hats. Public Transport: Do be punctual and purchase your tickets in advance. Don’t occupy seats with your luggage. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Grüß Gott' is a common greeting in the region. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Austrian cuisine and wines. Don’t forget to tip; it's customary to leave around 5-10%.
To experience Arlberg like a local, visit during the off-peak seasons for a more relaxed atmosphere. Engage with locals at traditional events and festivals, such as the Arlberg Music Festival. Try to learn a few basic German phrases; it will be appreciated by the locals. Don’t miss exploring the lesser-known hiking trails that offer stunning views without the crowds.

When is the best time to visit Arlberg?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Arlberg

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Arlberg. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [HAH-lo]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [OWF VEE-der-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [YAH]
- NoNein
  [NINE]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [BIT-te]
- Thank youDanke
  [DANK-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ENT-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht's?
  [VEE gates?]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [GOOT. OONT deer?]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [SPREH-ken zee ENG-lish?]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [IKH fer-SHTAY-eh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch hätte gerne die Speisekarte, bitte
  [IKH HET-te GER-neh dee SHPY-ze-KAR-te, BIT-te]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [IKH ESS-eh kine FLYSH]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [PROHST!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte zahlen, bitte
  [IKH MERK-te TZA-len, BIT-te]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [HIL-fe!]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [GAY vehk!]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [ROO-fen zee dee POL-i-ZYE!]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [ROO-fen zee EYE-nen ARTZ!]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verlaufen
  [IKH HAH-be mikh fer-LAU-fen]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [IKH bin KRAHNK]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [IKH MERK-te KAU-fen...]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [IKH SHAU-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [VEE FEEL KOS-tet es?]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [DAS ist tsoo TOY-er]
- Can you lower the price?Könnten Sie den Preis senken?
  [KERN-ten zee den PRICE SEN-ken?]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [VEE shpate ist es?]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [ES ist EYN OOR]
- Half past (10)Halb (10)
  [HALB (10)]
- MorningMorgen
  [MOR-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [NAHCH-mit-tahg]
- EveningAbend
  [AH-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [GES-turn]
- TodayHeute
  [HOY-te]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [MOR-gen]
- 1Eins
  [EINS]
- 2Zwei
  [TSVY]
- 3Drei
  [DRY]
- 4Vier
  [FEER]
- 5Fünf
  [FUENF]
- 6Sechs
  [ZEX]
- 7Sieben
  [ZEE-ben]
- 8Acht
  [AHKT]
- 9Neun
  [NOYN]
- 10Zehn
  [TSAYN]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/das...?
  [VO ist EYN/DAS...?]
- What's the address?Wie ist die Adresse?
  [VEE ist dee AH-dres-se?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir (auf der Karte) zeigen?
  [KERN-nen zee meer (OWF der KAR-te) TSY-gen?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [VAN kommt der NAY-shte (BOOS)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein Ticket (nach ....)
  [EYN TICK-et (NAHCH ....)]

History of Arlberg

The Arlberg region, located in the Austrian Alps, has a rich history that dates back to the Roman era. The Arlberg Pass was an important trade route connecting the regions of Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was used for transiting goods and people as early as the Roman times.
During the Medieval period, the Arlberg region gained importance due to its strategic location. It became a critical passage for merchants and travelers. The establishment of hospices in St. Christoph by Heinrich Findelkind in the 14th century was a significant development, providing shelter and aid to those crossing the perilous pass.
St. Anton am Arlberg is often referred to as the cradle of Alpine skiing. In the early 20th century, pioneers like Hannes Schneider revolutionized skiing techniques and established the first ski school in the area in 1921. This development transformed St. Anton into a renowned ski destination, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
The Arlberg region was strategically significant during World War II due to the Arlberg Railway. The railway facilitated the movement of troops and supplies. The region witnessed several military operations, and the railway itself was a target for sabotage and air raids. Despite the turmoil, the railway remained operational and crucial for the war effort.
After World War II, the Arlberg region experienced significant development. The construction of modern ski lifts and infrastructure in the 1950s and 1960s led to a tourism boom. Resorts like Lech and Zürs became popular destinations for winter sports, attracting visitors from across the globe and contributing to the region's economic growth.
The White Ring, or Der Weiße Ring, is a famous ski circuit in the Arlberg region. Established in the 1960s, it connects the resorts of Lech, Zürs, Zug, and Oberlech. The circuit covers 22 kilometers and offers breathtaking views and diverse skiing experiences. It has become a legendary challenge for skiers, hosting an annual race that draws competitors and spectators alike.
The Arlberg region is steeped in cultural heritage and traditions. Festivals such as the Arlberg Music Festival celebrate local music and folklore. Traditional Alpine architecture, with its wooden chalets and charming villages, adds to the area's cultural richness. The local cuisine, featuring hearty dishes like Käseknöpfle and Tiroler Gröstl, reflects the region's culinary traditions.