Paznaun, Austria Travel Guide

Discover the Paznaun Valley, a stunning alpine paradise in Austria offering year-round adventures, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Paznaun Valley is a picturesque destination that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and charming alpine villages. This serene valley is surrounded by towering peaks, lush meadows, and crystal-clear streams, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Paznaun offers a plethora of activities throughout the year. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The renowned ski resorts of Ischgl, Galtür, Kappl, and See provide excellent slopes and modern facilities. During the summer months, the valley becomes a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers who can explore a network of trails that cater to all levels of experience. Beyond its natural allure, Paznaun boasts a rich cultural heritage. Traditional alpine architecture, local festivals, and hearty Tyrolean cuisine give visitors a taste of authentic Austrian culture. The valley is also home to the Silvretta High Alpine Road, one of the most scenic drives in the Alps, offering breathtaking views and numerous photo opportunities.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit in late spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.
Purchase a Silvretta Card for free and discounted access to local attractions and transportation.
Try the local Tyrolean delicacies like Kaiserschmarrn and Speckknödel.
Check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Explore the local markets for unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Top City Travel Guides in Paznaun

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

St. Anton am Arlberg

Destinations in Paznaun

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

Ischgl

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Paznaun

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Stuibenfall

Explore the stunning Stuibenfall, Austria's largest waterfall, and immerse yourself in breathtaking nature and exhilarating hiking trails.

4.9

Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße, a stunning alpine road offering adventure and picturesque views in the Austrian Alps.

4.8

Rosengartenschlucht

Discover the breathtaking Rosengartenschlucht, a stunning gorge in Imst, Austria, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature's beauty.

4.7

A1 Silvrettabahn

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Alps with A1 Silvrettabahn, your gateway to skiing and hiking adventures in Ischgl.

4.6

Best landmarks in Paznaun

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Alpinarium Galtür

Explore alpine history, resilience, and stunning views at Galtür's Alpinarium, a unique museum built into an avalanche protection wall.

4.3

Ischgl Skyfly

Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush! Soar through the Tyrolean Alps on the Ischgl Skyfly, a thrilling 2km zipline adventure with breathtaking views.

4.6

Sunny Mountain Erlebnispark

Experience thrilling rides, scenic trails, and family-friendly fun at Sunny Mountain Adventure Park in the heart of the Austrian Alps!

4.5

Vider Truja Adventure Park

Experience outdoor adventure at Vider Truja Adventure Park in Ischgl, with water features, climbing, and stunning Alpine views for the whole family.

4.8

Best restaurants in Paznaun

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Paznauner Taja

Discover Paznauner Taja: A culinary haven in Ischgl offering exquisite Austrian dishes with breathtaking mountain views.

4.5

Kuhstall

Experience exquisite dining and vibrant nightlife at Kuhstall in Ischgl - where culinary delights meet unforgettable entertainment.

4.2

Vider Alp

Discover Vider Alp: A charming mountain cabin restaurant in Ischgl offering delicious cuisine and breathtaking alpine views.

4.4

Bergrestaurant Alpenhaus

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Bergrestaurant Alpenhaus amidst breathtaking alpine scenery.

4.1

Best bars in Paznaun

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Paznauner Taja

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine views at Paznauner Taja in Ischgl.

4.5

Trofana Alm

Discover Trofana Alm in Ischgl: A lively live music bar offering delicious pizza and unforgettable entertainment in the heart of the Alps.

4.1

Schatzi Bar

Experience the lively ambiance, delicious pizzas, and extensive drink selection at Schatzi Bar in the heart of Ischgl, Austria's premier ski destination.

4.3

Kuhstall

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Kuhstall in Ischgl - the ultimate bar, restaurant, and nightclub experience in the heart of the Alps.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Paznaun

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Kuhstall

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ischgl at Kuhstall, a top-rated night club offering dining, dancing, and a lively bar atmosphere.

4.2

Golden Eagle

Discover the charm of Golden Eagle, a cozy pub in Ischgl, perfect for unwinding with drinks and good company after exploring the stunning Tyrolean Alps.

4.6

FreeRide

Experience Ischgl's vibrant nightlife at FreeRide, where lively music, great drinks, and unforgettable moments await you.

4.1

Hexenküche Ischgl

Experience the lively atmosphere of Hexenküche Ischgl, the ultimate après-ski bar in the heart of the Alps, perfect for relaxation and fun.

4.2

Best shops in Paznaun

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FMZ IMST

Explore FMZ IMST, a shopping mall in Imst, Austria, offering diverse shops, a movie theater, and delightful dining experiences for every visitor.

4.3

Kuhstall

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Kuhstall in Ischgl, where exceptional dining meets energetic entertainment in the heart of the Alps.

4.2

INTERSPORT Arlberg

Explore St. Anton am Arlberg with the best outdoor gear at INTERSPORT Arlberg, your one-stop shop for skiing, biking, and more.

4.8

Acla da fans

Discover Acla da Fans in Samnaun - your ultimate duty-free shopping experience for liquors and Swiss delicacies, surrounded by breathtaking Alpine views.

4.5

Explore Paznaun on the Map

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

Paznaun Essentials

Paznaun is located in the Tyrol region of Austria. The nearest international airport is Innsbruck Airport, approximately 100 kilometers away. From Innsbruck, you can take a train to Landeck-Zams, followed by a bus or taxi to reach the Paznaun Valley, which includes towns such as Ischgl, Galtür, Kappl, and See. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which offers the flexibility to explore the scenic routes at your own pace.
Within Paznaun, local buses connect the various towns and are a convenient way to travel. The buses are well-coordinated and often included in the Silvretta Card, which many hotels provide to guests. Taxis are available but can be expensive. If you prefer to drive, car rentals are also an option, although parking can be limited in peak seasons. During the winter, ski lifts and cable cars are the primary modes of transport for accessing ski slopes.
The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in the main towns of Paznaun, such as Ischgl and Galtür. It's recommended to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Paznaun is generally a safe destination for tourists. The region is known for its hospitality and low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and avoid leaving valuables in your car. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Medical facilities are available in the larger towns such as Ischgl and Galtür. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the main towns. The local police and mountain rescue services are well-equipped to handle emergencies, especially those related to skiing and hiking.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear, especially in winter. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüß Gott' or 'Hallo.' Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Paznaun like a local, visit the weekly farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Tyrolean goods. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Silvretta High Alpine Road for breathtaking views. For a unique experience, participate in local festivals and events, such as the Ischgl Ironbike Festival or the Silvretta Classic Rallye Montafon.

When is the best time to visit Paznaun?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Paznaun

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 Paznaun. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGrüß Gott
  [Greez Got]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [Owf Veedahzayn]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNein
  [Nyn]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [Bitt-eh]
- Thank youDanke
  [Dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [Ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht's?
  [Vee gates?]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [Goot. Oond deer?]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [Shprekhen Zee English?]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [Ish fershteh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch hätte gerne die Speisekarte, bitte
  [Ish hett-eh gurn-eh dee Shpieze-kart-eh, bitt-eh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [Ish ess-eh kyn Flysh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [Prohst!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bezahlen, bitte
  [Ish murkt-eh beh-zahl-en, bitt-eh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [Hil-fuh!]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [Gay vek!]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [Roof-en Zee dee Pohl-itzei!]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [Roof-en Zee eye-nen Artsht!]
- I'm lostIch bin verloren
  [Ish bin fer-lo-ren]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [Ish bin krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [Ish murkt-eh kow-fen...]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [Ish shau-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [Vee feel kost-et es?]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [Das ist tsoo toyer]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [Kern-en Zee den Pryz zen-ken?]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [Vee shpayt ist es?]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [Es ist ine Oor]
- Half past (10)Halb nach (10)
  [Hahlb nahkh (ten)]
- MorningMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [Nahkh-mit-tahg]
- EveningAbend
  [A-bend]
- YesterdayGestern
  [Ges-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [Hoy-tuh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- 1Eins
  [Eyns]
- 2Zwei
  [Zvai]
- 3Drei
  [Dry]
- 4Vier
  [Feer]
- 5Fünf
  [Fünf]
- 6Sechs
  [Zex]
- 7Sieben
  [Zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [Acht]
- 9Neun
  [Noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [Zayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/das...?
  [Vo ist ine/das...?]
- What's the address?Wie ist die Adresse?
  [Vee ist dee Ah-dress-eh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir (auf der Karte) zeigen?
  [Kern-en Zee meer (owf der Kart-eh) tsai-gen?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [Vahn komt der nay-shte (Bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein Ticket (nach ....)
  [Ine Ticket (nahkh ....)]

History of Paznaun

The Paznaun Valley, like much of the Tyrolean region, was initially settled by ancient Celtic tribes. The area later came under Roman influence around 15 BC, when the Romans expanded their empire into the Alpine regions. Evidence of Roman roads and artifacts discovered in the valley suggest that Paznaun was a notable part of the Roman trade routes.
During the medieval period, Paznaun saw significant developments. The valley became an important route for trade and travel, connecting the regions of Tyrol and Engadin. The construction of the Paznaun Valley Road in the 13th century facilitated easier movement and commerce. Small farming communities began to develop, and the region's isolation helped preserve its unique cultural identity.
The Paznaun Valley has a rich religious history, most notably marked by the construction of the Pilgrimage Church of St. Jakob in the 16th century. This church became a significant site for pilgrims traveling through the valley. The stunning baroque interior and preserved frescoes make it a historical and cultural landmark in Paznaun.
The 19th century brought a new era to Paznaun with the rise of Alpine exploration and tourism. The stunning natural beauty of the valley began to attract mountaineers and tourists from across Europe. This period saw the development of the first guesthouses and mountain huts, laying the foundation for Paznaun's modern tourism industry.
Like much of Europe, Paznaun was affected by the world wars. The valley saw economic hardships and population decline. However, post-World War II recovery efforts led to significant infrastructure improvements, including better roadways and the establishment of new ski resorts. These developments transformed Paznaun into a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Today, Paznaun is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and winter sports but also for its vibrant cultural festivals and traditions. Events such as the 'Almabtrieb' (cattle drive) and the 'Silvrettarun 3000' trail running event celebrate the valley's agricultural heritage and adventurous spirit. These festivals draw visitors from around the world, eager to experience the unique cultural fabric of Paznaun.