Europe's ski landscape is a tapestry of contrasts and grandeur. From the sleek pistes of Val d'Isère to the culinary heights of St Moritz, and the reliably snow-covered slopes of Val Thorens, within this guide we walk you through Europe's finest ski resorts.
- Zermatt, Switzerland
- Avoriaz, France
- Verbier, Switzerland
- Bad Gastein, Austria
- Megève, France
- St Moritz, Switzerland
- Val d'Isère, France
- Kitzbühel, Austria
- Chamonix, France
- Crans-Montana, Switzerland
- Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
- Courchevel 1850, France
- Grindelwald, Switzerland
- Cervinia, Italy
- Méribel, France
- Courmayeur, Italy
- St Anton, Austria
- Val Thorens, France
- Serre Chevalier, France
- Les Deux Alpes, France
- Ischgl, Austria
- Saalbach, Austria
- Sestriere, Italy
- Pas de la Casa, Andorra
- Borovets, Bulgaria
1. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, renowned for the iconic Matterhorn and its breathtaking views, offers a unique experience as a car-free resort. Catering to all skill levels, it especially appeals to advanced skiers and outdoor enthusiasts who seek an exceptional mountain escape amidst stunning natural beauty.
Zermatt at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,608 m
- Summit elevation: 3,883 m
- Ski area: Matterhorn Ski Paradise
- Ski slope levels: 12 blues, 41 reds, 21 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of May, with 83 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: High-end
- Season opening/closing: Almost year-round skiing
- Nearest airport: Geneva
- Transfer times: 3.5 hours
- Accommodation options: Luxury hotels, chalets, apartments
- Non-Skier and off-slope activities: Hiking, gourmet dining, wellness spas, shopping
2. Avoriaz, France
Avoriaz stands out as a ski-in/out resort, notable for its car-free status and prime location in the vast Portes du Soleil ski area. It caters to a wide array of winter sports enthusiasts, including families, intermediates, and those passionate about freestyle skiing and snowboarding, making it a versatile destination for various preferences.
Avoriaz at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,150m
- Summit elevation: 2,277m
- Ski area: Portes du Soleil
- Ski slope levels: 7 greens, 28 blues, 12 reds, and 6 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of March, with 52 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Variety of dining and accommodation options for different budgets.
- Season opening/closing: December 9, 2023, to April 21, 2024.
- Nearest airport: Geneva Airport
- Transfer times: 1hr30
- Accommodation options: Wide range, from hotels to chalets.
- Non-skier and off-slope activities: Aquariaz waterpark, ski joering, and a variety of restaurants and après-ski venues.
3. Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier, set in the spectacular Four Vallées ski area—one of Switzerland's largest—is celebrated for its exceptional skiing and stunning alpine surroundings. It's particularly appealing to advanced skiers and freeride enthusiasts who are drawn to its challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes.
Verbier at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,500m
- Summit elevation: 3,330m
- Ski Area: 4 Vallées
- Ski slope levels: 35 blues, 39 reds, 14 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of February, with 54 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Expensive
- Season: Early December to late April
- Nearest airport: Geneva
- Transfer time: 2 hours
- Accommodation: Luxury hotels, chalets
- Activities: Après-ski, fine dining, shopping
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4. Bad Gastein, Austria
Bad Gastein, known for its therapeutic thermal springs and historic Belle Époque architecture, offers a unique Alpine experience. Nestled in a picturesque setting, it's perfect for those seeking a blend of skiing adventures and relaxation.
Bad Gasteing at a glance
- Resort elevation: 860m
- Summit elevation: 2,3000m
- Ski area: Ski Amadé
- Ski slope levels: 18 blues, 42 reds, 12 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of February, with 33 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate
- Season: Late November to early April
- Nearest airport: Salzburg
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: Hotels, apartments
- Activities: Thermal spas, hiking, bars
5. Megève, France
Megève, with its medieval charm, luxury, and traditional Alpine village feel, is a picturesque destination ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed skiing experience.
Megève at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,050m
- Summit elevation: 2,485m
- Ski area: Evasion Mont-Blanc
- Ski slope levels: 36 greens, 54 blues, 73 reds, 25 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of March, with 51 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: High-end
- Season: December to April
- Nearest airport: Geneva
- Transfer time: 1 hour
- Accommodation: Luxury hotels, chalets
- Activities: Gourmet dining, shopping, spas
6. St Moritz, Switzerland
St Moritz, celebrated for its world-class skiing, exclusive hotels, and history as a Winter Olympics host, caters excellently to intermediate and advanced skiers.
St Moritz at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,856m
- Summit elevation: 3,303m
- Ski area: Engadin St. Moritz
- Ski slope levels: 20 blues, 37 reds, 13 blacks, 18 yellows (off-piste)
- Snowiest week: 1st week of February, with 49 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Very high
- Season: Late November to early May
- Nearest airport: Zurich
- Transfer time: 3 hours
- Accommodation: High-end hotels, apartments
- Activities: Gourmet dining, shopping, winter sports events
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7. Val d'Isère France
Val d'Isère, with its world-class skiing and lively après-ski scene, is a perfect choice for skiers of all levels, particularly those seeking challenging slopes and an energetic atmosphere.
Val d'Isère at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,850m
- Summit elevation: 3,450m
- Ski area: Espace Killy
- Ski slope levels: 22 greens, 61 blues, 46 reds, 25 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of March, with 54 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Expensive
- Season: Late November to early May
- Nearest airport: Geneva
- Transfer time: 3 hours
- Accommodation: Luxury chalets, hotels
- Activities: Nightlife, fine dining, shopping
8. Kitzbühel, Austria
Kitzbühel, celebrated for hosting the exhilarating Hahnenkamm race and its medieval town charm, caters exceptionally well to intermediate skiers and luxury travelers seeking a unique blend of historic ambiance and modern comforts.
Kitzbühel at a glance
- Resort elevation: 800m
- Summit elevation: 2,000m
- Ski area: Kitzbühel Alps
- Ski slope levels: 46 blues, 32 reds, 18 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of January, with 34 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: high
- Season: Mid-October to early May
- Nearest airport: Innsbruck
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: boutique hotels, traditional guesthouses
- Activities: après-ski, shopping, local events
9. Chamonix, France
Chamonix, revered as the birthplace of alpine skiing and celebrated for its challenging terrains and dramatic views of Mont Blanc, is an ideal destination for advanced skiers and mountaineers looking for both thrilling slopes and awe-inspiring scenery.
Chamonix at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,035 m
- Summit elevation: 3,842 m
- Ski area: Chamonix Mont-Blanc
- Ski slope levels: 16 greens, 27 blues, 25 reds, 12 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of March, with 67 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate to high
- Season: December to May
- Nearest airport: Geneva
- Transfer time: 1 hour
- Accommodation: range of hotels, chalets
- Activities: mountaineering, après-ski, sightseeing
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10. Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Crans-Montana, a sun-drenched paradise known for its panoramic vistas and challenging ski options, caters to all levels of skiers. It's especially favored by luxury travelers who seek both excellent skiing and breathtaking scenery.
Crans Montana at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,500m
- Summit elevation: 3,000m
- Ski area: Crans-Montana Aminona
- Ski slope levels: 17 blues, 20 reds, 4 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of February, with 47 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: High
- Season: November to April
- Nearest airport: Geneva
- Transfer time: 2 hours
- Accommodation: Luxury resorts, apartments
- Activities: Golf, hiking, shopping
11. Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina d'Ampezzo, nestled in the Dolomites' heart, offers a sophisticated skiing experience amidst scenic beauty. It's a favored destination for intermediate skiers and those seeking luxury in a stunning alpine setting.
Cortina d'Ampezzo at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,220m
- Summit elevation: 2,930m
- Ski area: Dolomiti Superski
- Ski slope levels: 42 blues, 19 reds, 8 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of February, with 46 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: High-end
- Season: November to April
- Nearest airport: Venice
- Transfer time: 2 hours
- Accommodation: Upscale hotels, chic boutiques
- Activities: Gourmet dining, shopping, cultural events
12. Courchevel 1850, France
Courchevel stands out as an exclusive luxury ski resort, renowned for its high-end accommodations, upscale dining, and shopping. It caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, blending opulent experiences with diverse ski terrains.
Courchevel at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,300m
- Summit elevation: 2,738m
- Ski area: Les Trois Vallées
- Ski slope levels: 21 greens, 41 blues, 36 reds, 11 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of December, with 43 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Very high
- Season: Early December to late April
- Nearest airport: Chambéry
- Transfer time: 2 hours
- Accommodation: ultra-luxury hotels, chalets
- Activities: high-end shopping, fine dining, spas
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13. Grindelwald, Switzerland
Grindelwald is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, particularly the awe-inspiring views of the Eiger. It's an ideal destination for skiers of all levels, especially intermediates and families, offering a perfect mix of picturesque beauty and diverse ski terrains.
Grindelwald at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,050 m
- Summit elevation: 2,950 m
- Ski area: Jungfrau Region
- Ski slope levels: 16 blues, 24 reds, 15 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of January, with 48 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Range of options, from moderate to high.
- Season Opening/Closing: Typical winter season dates.
- Nearest airport: Geneva
- Transfer times: 2h 35
- Accommodation options: Wide range including hotels and chalets.
- Non-skier and off-slope activities: Rich in activities, including scenic mountain trains and a variety of off-slope entertainments.
14. Cervinia, Italy
Cervinia, renowned for its high-altitude ski areas, offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and has the unique feature of being connected to Zermatt in Switzerland. It's an ideal choice for beginners and intermediates, providing extensive terrains with breathtaking scenery for a memorable skiing experience.
Cervinia at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,524m
- Summit elevation: 3,883 m
- Ski area: Matterhorn Ski Paradise
- Ski slope levels: 12 greens, 30 blues, 14 reds, and 4 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of January, with 62 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate
- Season: October to May
- Nearest airport: Turin
- Transfer time: 2 hours
- Accommodation: range of hotels and apartments
- Activities: après-ski, snowboarding, dining
15. Méribel, France
Méribel, with its warm chalet-style charm, is a part of Les Trois Vallées, the world's largest ski area. It's a welcoming destination for all levels of skiers, particularly appealing to families and intermediates looking for an inviting and enjoyable skiing experience.
Méribel at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,400 m
- Summit elevation: 2,952 m
- Ski area: Les Trois Vallées
- Ski slope levels: 8 greens, 25 blues, 24 reds, 7 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of December, with 46 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate to high
- Season: Early December to late April
- Nearest airport: Chambéry
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: wide range, from luxury to budget-friendly
- Activities: après-ski, spas, snowshoeing
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16. Courmayeur, Italy
Courmayeur, nestled in the Italian Alps, is renowned for its enchanting Alpine ambiance and excellent skiing opportunities against the backdrop of Mont Blanc. This charming resort offers a unique blend of upscale and traditional experiences, with exceptional dining and shopping. It's particularly suited for intermediate skiers who appreciate both the slopes and the allure of Italian alpine charm.
Courmayeur at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,208 m
- Summit elevation: 2,765 m
- Ski area: Courmayeur Mont Blanc
- Ski slope levels: 11 blues, 17 reds, 5 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of March, with 49 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate
- Season: December to April
- Nearest airport: Turin
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: boutique hotels, chalets
- Activities: fine dining, spas, alpine excursions
17. St Anton, Austria
St Anton, celebrated for its challenging slopes, is a paradise for advanced skiers and a mecca for party-goers. Known for its legendary après-ski scene, the resort offers a vibrant social atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adrenaline-packed skiing and lively evening entertainment.
St Anton at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,270m
- Summit elevation: 2,811m
- Ski area: Arlberg
- Skiable terrain: 123km blues, 132km reds, 50km black, 200km freeride
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of January, with 67 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate to high
- Season: December to April
- Nearest airport: Innsbruck
- Transfer time: 1 hour
- Accommodation: Range from luxury to affordable
- Activities: Après-ski, mountain dining, hiking
18. Val Thorens, France
Val Thorens, recognized as the highest resort in Europe, offers an exceptional mix of high-altitude skiing paired with a vibrant après-ski scene. It caters to skiers of all levels but is particularly appealing to advanced skiers who can challenge themselves on its diverse, lofty slopes. The combination of quality skiing and lively social atmosphere makes it a standout destination.
Val Thorens at a glance
- Resort elevation: 2,300m
- Summit elevation: 3,230m
- Ski area: Les Trois Vallées
- Ski slope levels: 11 greens, 37 blues, 28 reds, 7 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of December, with 47 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate
- Season: November to May
- Nearest airport: Chambéry
- Transfer time: 2 hours
- Accommodation: Various options including hotels and apartments
- Activities: Indoor sports center, après-ski, paragliding
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19. Serre Chevalier, France
Serre Chevalier is celebrated for its vast ski area, brimming with authentic French charm and natural beauty. This resort is an excellent choice for families and skiers of all skill levels, offering a range of slopes amidst a picturesque setting. Whether you're just learning to ski or seeking new challenges, Serre Chevalier provides a welcoming and scenic environment for everyone.
Serre Chevalier at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,200 m
- Summit elevation: 2,800 m
- Ski area: Serre Chevalier Vallée
- Ski slope levels: 23 greens, 28 blues, 37 reds, 16 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of March, with 39 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate
- Season: December to April
- Nearest airport: Turin
- Transfer time: 2.5 hours
- Accommodation: Hotels, chalets
- Activities: Thermal baths, snowshoeing, ice climbing
20. Les Deux Alpes, France
Les Deux Alpes stands out for its expansive glacier, offering a wide variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels, and a lively après-ski scene. It's a favorite destination for snowboarders, thanks to its diverse slopes and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're looking for challenging runs or just starting out, Les Deux Alpes offers an energetic and enjoyable experience for every winter sports enthusiast.
Les Deux Alpes at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,300 m
- Summit elevation: 3,600 m
- Ski area: Les Deux Alpes
- Ski slope levels: 13 greens, 43 blues, 15 reds and 9 blacks
- Snowiest week: 1st week of March, with 59 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate
- Season: December to April, plus summer skiing
- Nearest airport: Grenoble
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: Range of options
- Activities: Glacier skiing, après-ski, snowparks
21. Ischgl, Austria
Ischgl is celebrated for its top-notch slopes and one of the Alps' liveliest après-ski scenes, complemented by an extensive ski network. The resort caters to everyone from party-goers to skiers of all skill levels, offering a blend of exhilarating skiing and vibrant nightlife.
Ischgl at a glance
- Base elevation: 1,377 m
- Summit elevation: 2,872 m
- Ski area: Silvretta Arena
- Ski slope levels: 20 blues, 40 reds, 25 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of January, with 58 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate to high
- Season: Late November to early May
- Nearest airport: Innsbruck
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: Hotels, apartments
- Activities: Concerts, spas, shopping
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22. Saalbach, Austria
Saalbach stands out as a vibrant resort, boasting an expansive ski circus that combines fun slopes with an energetic après-ski scene. This resort is a haven for intermediate skiers looking for a lively ski experience and party-goers eager to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Saalbach at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,000 m
- Summit elevation: 2,096 m
- Ski area: Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn
- Ski slope levels: 31 blues, 27 reds, 6 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of January, with 39 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Moderate
- Season: Early December to late March
- Nearest airport: Salzburg
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: range of hotels, chalets
- Activities: nightlife, sledding, hiking
23. Sestriere, Italy
Sestriere, recognized for its Olympic legacy, sits within the extensive Milky Way ski area. It's an ideal destination for skiers of all skill levels, but especially for those at an advanced level seeking challenging terrain.
Sestriere at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,372 m
- Summit elevation: 2,823 m
- Ski area: Via Lattea (Milky Way)
- Ski slope levels: 7 greens, 80 blues, 120 reds, 42 blacks
- Snowiest week: 4th week of November, with 28 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Reasonable
- Season: December to April
- Nearest airport: Turin
- Transfer time: 1.5 hours
- Accommodation: hotels, apartments
- Activities: alpine skiing, après-ski, dining
24. Pas de la Casa, Andorra
Pas de la Casa, notable for its vibrant après-ski scene and duty-free shopping options, is a top pick for those seeking budget-friendly skiing combined with a lively party atmosphere.
Pas de la Casa at a glance
- Resort elevation: 2,050 m
- Summit elevation: 2,640m
- Ski area: Grandvalira
- Ski slope levels: 18 greens, 32 blues, 37 reds, 23 blacks
- Snowiest week: 4th week of January, with 34 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Affordable
- Season: December to April
- Nearest airport: Toulouse
- Transfer time: 2.5 hours
- Accommodation: variety of options
- Activities: nightlife, shopping, snowmobiling
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25. Borovets, Bulgaria
Borovets, Bulgaria’s oldest ski resort, is celebrated for its affordable skiing options, vibrant nightlife, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. This resort caters especially to beginners and budget-conscious travelers, offering an approachable and enjoyable skiing experience without breaking the bank.
Borovets at a glance
- Resort elevation: 1,300 m
- Summit elevation: 2,505 m
- Ski area: Borovets
- Ski slope levels: 3 greens, 11 blues, 9 reds, 4 blacks
- Snowiest week: 2nd week of March, with 44 cm of snowfall
- Budget vs price: Very affordable
- Season: December to April
- Nearest airport: Sofia
- Transfer time: 1 hour
- Accommodation: hotels, chalets
- Activities: ski schools, après-ski, spa facilities
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