Ischgl Travel Guide

Read our long-form travel guide to Ischgl, Austria, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Ischgl

Ischgl is a charming mountain village located in Tyrol, Austria, in Central Europe. This idyllic ski resort town is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, including the Silvretta Alps, and offers visitors a wide range of exhilarating outdoor activities. The town also has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with many museums and historical landmarks to visit. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through all the best places to visit, things to do, and insider tips for your dream getaway to Ischgl.

List of Places to Visit in Ischgl

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mathias Schmid Museum - dedicated to the history of Ischgl and its people.
  • Alpinarium Galtür - a museum focusing on the natural disasters that have shaped the area, including avalanches and landslides.
  • Silvretta Museum - featuring exhibits focused on the local culture and history of the region.

Natural Attractions of Ischgl: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pardatschgratbahn cable car - one of the largest ski resorts in Austria, offering stunning views.
  • Idalp - a mountain peak that is accessible by cable car, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.
  • Skiing and snowboarding - Ischgl is a top-rated ski resort in Austria and a world-class location for winter sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ischgl

  • PaznaunerThaya trail - a picturesque walk along a stream leading to a waterfall.
  • Fimbertal Valley trail - an easy hike through picturesque farmland.
  • Silvretta High Alpine Road - a challenging but stunning drive or bike ride through the alps.

Best Things to Do in Ischgl: Activities and Tours

  • Paragliding - take a tandem flight with a professional pilot to experience an incredible view of the town and surrounding mountains.
  • Night skiing - Ischgl is one of the few resorts in the world with night skiing trails.
  • Horse-drawn carriage rides - take a romantic ride through the picturesque streets of Ischgl.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ischgl

Day Activity
1 Arrive at Ischgl and explore the village
2 Hiking along the PaznaunerThaya trail
3 Day trip to Silvretta High Alpine Road
4 Mountain biking around the town
5 Skiing or snowboarding at Pardatschgratbahn cable car
6 Visit the Mathias Schmid Museum and the Alpinarium Galtür
7 Departure from Ischgl

Food and Drink Scene of Ischgl

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tiroler Gröstl - a hearty mix of potatoes, beef or pork, and onions.
  • Kasspatzle - a type of pasta dish, typically served with cheese and onions.
  • Germknödel - a sweet bread dumpling filled with plum jam.

Local Beverages

  • Schnapps - a type of brandy distilled from various fruits.
  • Almdudler - a herb-flavored soda that is popular in Austria.
  • Glühwein - a mulled wine that is served hot and often enjoyed during winter months.

Where to Stay in Ischgl: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Madlein - a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the town.
  • Hotel Fliana - a modern hotel with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Hotel Tyrol - a budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Ischgl: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade souvenirs - pick up a range of locally made souvenirs, including woolen hats, scarves, and mitts.
  • Schnapps - bring home a bottle of the famous Austrian brandy distilled from different fruits.
  • Local honey - Ischgl boasts a range of honey varieties that are perfect for gifting to friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Ischgl

  • Austrian-German is the official language, but many locals can speak English.
  • Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes (around 10%).
  • The town is famous for its annual open-air concerts in the summer and winter.

Best Time to Visit Ischgl

The best time to visit Ischgl is from December to April, during the winter months when the ski and snowboarding conditions are at their best. Alternatively, you can visit the town during the summer when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ischgl

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and norms.
  • Dress appropriately based on the weather and your planned activities.
  • Enjoy the famous nightlife of Ischgl.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas.
  • Break the local laws and regulations.
  • Litter or damage the local environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ischgl

Ischgl is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take precautions, particularly while participating in outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. It is essential to follow the appropriate safety guidelines, dress appropriately for the weather, and ensure you have the necessary equipment.

Health in Ischgl

Visitors to Ischgl should take standard health precautions, such as staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, and wearing sun protection while outdoors. In addition, be mindful of the altitude and the potential for altitude sickness.

Getting to Ischgl: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ischgl

The nearest airport to Ischgl is Innsbruck Airport, located about 100 km away. Other nearby airports include Friedrichshafen Airport in Germany and Zurich Airport in Switzerland.

Bus Stations Near Ischgl

Ischgl is accessible via bus from several nearby cities, including Zurich and Munich.

Other Options

  • Train - The nearest train stations are in Landeck and Bludenz.
  • Car - Ischgl is well-connected to Austria’s major highways, making it easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Ischgl

Ischgl is a relatively small town, and visitors can easily walk around to most of the sights within the town. Additionally, there is a local bus service that operates between various points in the town and the nearby ski slopes.

Where to Go Next from Ischgl: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • St. Anton am Arlberg - a nearby ski resort offering a vast range of winter sports.
  • Zürich - a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture and beautiful lake.

Conclusion

Ischgl is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. With beautiful natural scenery, world-class skiing, and a rich cultural heritage, Ischgl offers something for everyone. We hope this guide will help you plan your dream Ischgl getaway.