Après-ski is an essential part of the ski holiday experience, offering a chance to unwind and socialize after a day on the slopes. The concept has evolved from simple post-ski gatherings to a diverse range of activities and entertainment, from lively outdoor parties to cozy evenings by the fire.
Each country and resort have their unique take on après-ski, reflecting local culture and traditions. Here you'll find our guide to the best après-ski in Europe, showcasing the finest ski resorts in France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Andorra each offering a memorable and vibrant après-ski scene.
As the highest ski resort in Europe, Val Thorens guarantees a lively atmosphere and unforgettable après-ski fun. The resort features a range of bars and clubs, including the famous La Folie Douce, where you can dance on tables with your ski boots on, and Bar 360, a popular spot for live music and DJ sets. For a more laid-back experience, head to Le Saloon for a cozy atmosphere and classic cocktails or Café Snesko for its unique Scandinavian-inspired decor and convivial spirit.
Tip: Don't miss the famous "La Folie Douce" party on the slopes, known for its incredible atmosphere, live music, and DJs. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Chamonix offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan charm and breathtaking scenery. The après-ski scene is equally diverse, with a range of bars and restaurants catering to all tastes. La Terrasse is a popular spot for live music and dancing, while Le Chambre Neuf offers a more relaxed atmosphere with DJ sets and a heated terrace. For those seeking a more upscale experience, Le Privilege offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a carefully curated cocktail menu.
Tip: Take a break from après-ski to enjoy a relaxing visit to the QC Terme Chamonix spa, which offers stunning views of Mont Blanc and a variety of thermal baths.
Méribel is a favorite among skiers for its picturesque setting and lively après-ski scene. Rond Point, also known as "The Ronnie," is an iconic Méribel venue offering live music, DJs, and a sunny terrace overlooking the slopes. For a more traditional experience, head to La Taverne, where you can enjoy a pint of beer or a warming vin chaud by the open fire. If you're looking for a stylish night out, head to Le Poste de Secours for its chic décor and expertly crafted cocktails.
Tip: Experience the unique atmosphere of Le Rond-Point, a popular après-ski bar with live music, located right on the slopes. It's the perfect place to watch the sunset.
Val d’Isère is known for its world-class skiing and equally impressive après-ski scene. La Folie Douce, the legendary open-air club, hosts daily parties with live music and dancing on the slopes. For a more relaxed experience, head to Cocorico, where you can enjoy a refreshing beer and live music while watching the sun set over the mountains. For an intimate and cozy atmosphere, visit Le Petit Danois, a Scandinavian-inspired bar with a warm fireplace and delicious food.
Tip: Be sure to try the local specialty, vin chaud (hot mulled wine), which can be found in many bars and restaurants throughout the resort.
Les Deux Alpes boasts a lively après-ski scene with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from. Pano Bar, located at the top of the mountain, offers a stunning view and an energetic atmosphere, with live music and DJ sets. For a more laid-back vibe, head to Smokey Joe's, where you can enjoy a game of pool, live sports, and a cozy atmosphere. To experience Les Deux Alpes unique nightlife, don't miss Avalanche Club, a popular spot for dancing and late-night fun.
Tip: Check out the weekly torchlit descent show, where ski instructors ski down the mountain with flaming torches, creating a spectacular sight.
Tignes is known for its modern ski facilities and vibrant après-ski scene. Start your evening at Loop Bar, where you can enjoy live music, DJ sets, and a spacious sun terrace. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Le Moose, a Canadian-inspired bar offering delicious food and a cozy setting. If you're in the mood for dancing, visit Le Melting Pot, a popular nightclub that stays open until the early hours.
Tip: Enjoy the weekly Tignes Airwaves show, a free ski and snowboard freestyle event featuring impressive stunts and jumps, followed by a fireworks display.
As one of Italy's most fashionable ski resorts, Cortina d'Ampezzo offers a sophisticated après-ski scene with a touch of glamour. Enjoy a glass of Prosecco or an Aperol Spritz at LP26, a stylish bar with a beautiful sun terrace, or head to Enoteca Baita Fraina for an extensive wine list and regional cheeses. For a more lively atmosphere, don't miss the Cortina Snow Polo event held every year, where international polo teams compete on a snow-covered field while spectators enjoy gourmet food and drinks.
Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to try Bombardino, a delicious Italian après-ski drink made from eggnog, brandy, and whipped cream, usually served warm.
Livigno is a charming Italian ski resort offering a delightful mix of lively après-ski options and laid-back ambiance. Enjoy a classic Aperol Spritz at Stalet, a popular après-ski bar with live music and a bustling atmosphere. For a more relaxed experience, head to Bivio Cantina, where you can sample local wines and cheeses in a cozy setting. If you're in the mood for dancing, don't miss Miky's Disco, where you can dance the night away to the latest hits.
Tip: Take advantage of Livigno's duty-free status to stock up on alcohol, perfumes, and other goods at lower prices than in other European resorts.
St. Anton is the undisputed king of Austrian après-ski, offering a legendary party atmosphere and some of the most iconic venues in the Alps. The MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh are must-visit spots, where the party starts early and continues late into the night. For a more traditional Austrian experience, head to the cozy Taps bar or the historic Arlberg Thaja for live music and dancing in a rustic setting.
Tip: Experience the legendary après-ski atmosphere of the MooserWirt bar, known as "the mother of all après-ski bars," for its wild parties and dancing on tables.
Ischgl is known for its high-quality skiing and vibrant après-ski culture. One of the must-visit spots is the Trofana Alm, a traditional Tyrolean-style venue offering live music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed experience, head to Schatzi Bar, where you can enjoy a drink on their heated terrace while listening to live music. If you're in the mood for a late-night party, don't miss Pacha, an iconic nightclub that brings the spirit of Ibiza to the mountains.
Tip: Make sure to catch one of Ischgl's famous Top of the Mountain concerts, held throughout the season and featuring performances by internationally renowned artists.
Mayrhofen offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, making it a top choice for skiers and après-ski enthusiasts. The Ice Bar is a popular spot for drinks and dancing on the slopes, while Scotland Yard Pub offers a cozy atmosphere with live music, darts, and pool tables. For those seeking a more upscale experience, try the White Lounge, a stunning igloo bar where you can sip on cocktails and take in the incredible mountain views.
Tip: Experience the Snowbombing festival, an annual week-long event combining skiing, snowboarding, and live music performances by top international artists.
Zermatt, famous for its breathtaking Matterhorn views, offers an equally impressive après-ski scene. Start your evening at the Hennu Stall, an energetic bar with live music, DJ sets, and a bustling atmosphere. For a cozier setting, visit Papperla Pub, which offers live music and an extensive drink menu. If you're in the mood for something more upscale, head to the Vernissage Lounge, a sophisticated venue that combines a wine bar, art gallery, and cinema, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes
Tip: Enjoy the enchanting Matterhorn views from the cozy outdoor terrace of the Hennu Stall après-ski bar, located right on the slopes.
St. Moritz is known for its luxurious skiing experience and vibrant après-ski scene. Begin your evening at the Stübli Bar, an elegant spot with an impressive cocktail menu and live piano music. For a more casual atmosphere, head to the Roo Bar, where you can enjoy drinks and live music in a cozy setting. Those seeking a late-night party can check out the King's Club, a legendary nightclub that attracts an elite crowd and offers an unforgettable night of dancing and mingling.
Tip: Indulge in the luxurious Dracula Club, an exclusive members-only spot for the rich and famous, known for its extravagant parties and high-end atmosphere.
Verbier is known for its world-class skiing, and exceptional après-ski scene that caters to a diverse crowd. The resort embodies a ski-hard play-hard mentality, with skiers hitting the slopes early in the morning and enjoying leisurely lunches at mountain terraces. Start your après-ski experience at Chez Danny, where long lunches often turn into rosé-fueled afternoons. Continue the fun at Bar Le Rouge, a chic chalet with a lively terrace and an extensive wine menu. For those who prefer dancing in their ski boots, head to Le Mouton Noir, Verbier's answer to the Folie Douce, or visit Le Farinet for live music and a unique retractable roof. As a Verbier tradition, don't forget to stop by a hole-in-the-wall bakery on your way home to indulge in a freshly baked pain au chocolat, the perfect way to end your après-ski experience.
Tip: Try the Swiss specialty raclette at one of Verbier's traditional après-ski venues, accompanied by a glass of local Fendant wine.
Located in the heart of Andorra, Pas dela Casa offers an energetic après-ski atmosphere that caters to a younger crowd. Start your evening at Paddy's Irish Bar, a lively venue with live music, sports screens, and a welcoming atmosphere. For a more club-like experience, head to Underground Bar & Club, a popular spot for dancing and DJ sets. If you're looking for something more laid-back, try KSB Bar, which offers a relaxed atmosphere, comfortable seating, and a wide selection of drinks to enjoy after a day on the slopes.
Tip: Don't miss the lively Igloo Bar, located on the slopes and made entirely of snow and ice, offering a unique après-ski experience.
