15 Best Ski Resorts in Europe: Ultimate Guide

If you’ve followed along with my adventures for a while now, you’ll know that I pretty much live for the ski season! With expansive resorts, world-renowned dining, and accommodation for every type of adventurer, I consider skiing in Europe to be a near unbeatable experience.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I know you’ll be able to find the best ski resort for your needs in Europe.

Home to the largest ski area in the world – the Three Valleys – but also to smaller emerging resorts, the skiing in Europe is varied and diverse.

With so many exceptional ski resorts in Europe, I completely understand that choosing where to go can seem overwhelming. Most seasoned skiers or snowboarders, myself included, will have their personal favourites.

But if you’re looking to try somewhere new, or this is your first time skiing in Europe, then browse my personal selection of the best ski resorts in Europe.

I’ve had the pleasure of skiing in many different European ski resorts over the years, so I’ve used my experience to compile this guide. Whether you’re in it for powder skiing or the après, for the beginner slopes or the snow parks, I’ve got something for you here.

This post contains affiliate links.

👀 At a glance

📅 Best time to go skiing in Europe

The Europe ski season generally runs from late November until mid-late April. The exact dates will of course depend on the ski resort and it can vary from year to year depending on snow conditions.

If you can, I’d recommend avoiding school holidays in both the UK and the destination country. Generally I find that the most affordable weeks are in mid-January, although the weather is usually a little colder.

March brings the perfect harmony of nicer weather and good snow conditions – and it’s my personal favourite month to go skiing.

April can be wonderful if you’re lucky with the snow conditions. Think bluebird days and t-shirt skiing!

If you’re travelling near the start or end of the season, I’d suggest heading to one of the more snow-sure resorts. This usually means higher altitudes or a glacier.

The best snow-sure resorts include Val Thorens, Tignes/Val d’Isère and Les Deux Alpes in France; Obergurgl, Sölden, Ischgl and Lech in Austria; Zermatt and Saas-Fee in Switzerland; or Cervinia in Italy.

Discover more of the highest ski resorts in Austria for a snow-sure getaway.

✈️ How to get to the ski resorts in Europe

The most popular ways of getting to the European ski resorts are by air, by road or by train.

There are a number of airports which provide a gateway to the Alps and beyond, including Geneva, Chambery, Grenoble, Innsbruck, Milan, and many more.

Bear in mind that transfer times can be quite long. This is partly because of their location in the mountains, but also because heavy snow can cause significant disruption if you’re unlucky.

Driving tends to be a more popular option for those who have a place in the mountains (lucky things!) or intend to spend longer out there. I’d say that taking a car in the winter doesn’t really bring many benefits.

It is possible to get the train to a number of European ski resorts from some of the main airports or towns. Read our guide to the best ski resorts by train from the UK.

🗺️ Map of the best ski resorts in Europe

Use my map below to see where the best ski resorts in Europe are located.

🎿 15 best ski resorts in Europe

1. Val Thorens, France

Having been voted ‘best ski resort in the world’ seven times, it’s no wonder that Val Thorens holds the top spot in my guide to the best ski resorts in Europe.

It’s a lively, cosmopolitan resort that combines exceptional skiing with unforgettable après, and as the highest ski resort in Europe, it offers snowsure conditions throughout the whole season.

Skiing in Val Thorens

Val Thorens is part of the expansive Three Valleys ski area – my personal favourite in Europe – with 600km of pistes spanning gentle blues to challenging blacks and fluffy off-piste, served by fast, modern lifts.

About the town

As a purpose-built resort, Val Thorens may not have buckets of charm, but it makes up for it in convenience, with plenty to keep non-skiers entertained too, from paragliding to spa days.

👉 Discover my pick of the best ski resorts for non-skiers in Europe.

Après and nightlife

Val Thorens is famed for its raucous party scene and is popular with younger crowds – it’s one of the best ski resorts for après and nightlife in the world. If you’d rather skip the party, stay in neighbouring Meribel or Courchevel instead.

Where to stay

The stunning Hotel Le Fitz Roy offers a memorable five-star experience with an enticing spa and exceptional restaurant, or for something more budget-friendly, stay at family-run Le Sherpa.

👉 Learn more in my ultimate Val Thorens ski resort guide.

2. St Anton, Austria

St Anton am Arlberg is famous for its challenging ski runs and world-renowned après. I consider it one of the best resorts in Europe for expert skiers and boarders, due to its gullies, bowls and strong powder conditions, though it’s not a great ski resort for beginners.

About the town

St Anton is one of the more luxury ski resorts in Europe, so it’s not a particularly budget-friendly resort.

As one of the oldest resorts in the Alps though, it brings plenty of traditional Tyrolean charm. There are a good number of hotels, restaurants and bars, plus activities like climbing walls and bowling for non-skiers on bad weather days.

Skiing in St Anton

St Anton is part of the vast Ski Arlberg area, the largest connected ski area in Austria, with 305km of marked pistes and 200km of tantalising off-piste.

Good snow conditions and plenty of powder make it a great pick for powder hounds, though snow quality on the lower runs can wane in the afternoon sun.

Après and nightlife

St Anton is renowned for its lively après ski – one of its biggest draws. I’d recommend visiting two of its world famous ski bars: Mooserwirt and Krazy Kanguruh.

Where to stay

One of the few ski-in ski-out hotels in St Anton is the four-star Mooser Hotel, a laid-back hotel with an enticing spa and panoramic mountain views, or for the ultimate luxury, the exclusive five-star Raffl’s St Antoner Hof.

3. Courchevel, France

Courchevel is a glamorous ski resort that’s part of the largest ski area in the world, the Three Valleys, spread over four villages from the authentic 1300 to the exclusive, expensive 1850.

About the town

Courchevel is the French ski resort of choice amongst the rich and famous, home to seven Michelin-star restaurants (with 12 stars between them) alongside more affordable, laid-back eateries.

It’s a more family-friendly option in the Three Valleys, especially over party-central Val Thorens. There’s a great offering for non-skiers too, from the state-of-the-art Aquamotion wellness centre to ice climbing and paragliding.

Skiing in Courchevel

Courchevel shares a ski area with neighbouring Meribel and Val Thorens, and it’s this access to vast terrain that makes it so popular.

With excellent snow conditions, gorgeous tree-lined runs and wide open pistes, it’s an ideal resort for intermediates. Though there’s plenty for beginners and pros too – including the Grand Couloir, one of the hardest runs in the Alps, and an Olympic ski jump for the particularly brave.

Where to stay

Visitors are spoiled for choice with luxury hotels, like the five-star family-owned Hotel Annapurna. Or for a self-catering option with all the luxury of a five-star hotel, Six Senses Residences & Spa.

4. Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is one of the most stunning ski resorts in Europe and my personal favourite ski resort in Switzerland. It’s a fashionable resort with strong heritage, set against the iconic backdrop of the Matterhorn, though as with many Swiss resorts, it’s not a budget-friendly option.

About the town

Zermatt is a car-free village with a buzzy, postcard-perfect atmosphere. Unlike many French and Austrian resorts, it’s easily accessed by train, and there are plenty of accommodation options, with excellent hotels and over 80 catered chalets.

Skiing in Zermatt

Skiers and boarders have access to three main ski areas, including Cervinia, shared with the popular Italian resort of the same name, so it’s easy to pop over the border for some authentic pizza and gelato. 

There’s over 360km of pistes and some of the highest slopes in the Alps, and it’s actually possible to ski here year-round, as the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is open 365 days a year.

Après and nightlife

Zermatt offers a range of après options both on and off the slopes. The Hennu Stall is the most popular bar in the resort, considered the Swiss answer to the Folie Douce, while the Papperla Pub is a laid-back venue well worth visiting.

Where to stay

There’s a wealth of outstanding hotels to choose from: elegant The Omnia, or the ski-in ski-out Riffelalp Resort 2222m, the highest luxury hotel in Europe.

👉 Read my ultimate guide to Zermatt ski resort.

5. Val D’Isère, France

Val D’Isère is a high-end ski destination and one of the top luxury ski resorts in Europe, offering world-class skiing and world-renowned après.

About the town

Val D’Isère is a charming Savoyard village with an Alpine atmosphere and friendly buzz. The hotels are luxurious, the bars are stylish, and the restaurants are fancy, including the exceptional Michelin-starred La Table de l’Ours.

Skiing in Val D’Isère

Val D’Isère is part of the 300km Espace Killy ski area shared with neighbouring Tignes. I consider it a fantastic resort for intermediates, with plenty to keep experts entertained too, from steep couloirs to outstanding off-piste. 

Skiers can also try the men’s Olympic downhill run, La Face. It’s not as suitable for beginners, though nearby Tignes has a slightly better offering, and freestylers will love the famous Oakley ValPark.

Après and nightlife

The après scene in Val D’Isère is world famous. I’d suggest starting at La Folie Douce for dancing on tables in the sunshine, then heading to Dick’s Tea-Bar to finish the night.

Where to stay

For a luxurious spa, I’d recommend Le Yule Hotel & Spa, or for a luxury chalet, Chalet Daria.

6. Avoriaz, France

Avoriaz is a modern but charming purpose-built resort that sits on the side of a cliff, perched above the ancient town of Morzine. It’s part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area – generally considered one of the best resorts in Europe for families.

About the town

Avoriaz has a distinctive style, made up of tall wooden buildings with slanted roofs. I love that the town is car-free, meaning you can ski right through it or catch a horse-drawn sleigh, and most accommodation is ski-in ski-out.

There’s also a fantastic offering for non-skiers, including the huge Aquariaz leisure centre and a skating rink.

Skiing in Avoriaz

Avoriaz is part of the huge Portes du Soleil ski area, the second biggest in France after the Three Valleys, with a staggering 650km of pistes. 

As the highest resort in the area, it has more reliable snow conditions than Morzine which often struggles to get a good snow covering. There are plenty of gentle nursery slopes plus blues and reds, making it great for beginners and intermediates.

Experienced skiers will want to test their skills on the infamous ‘Swiss Wall’, while freestylers have five terrain parks in Avoriaz alone.

Après and nightlife

The après scene in Avoriaz has improved significantly in recent years. There’s a slopeside La Folie Douce for dancing on table tops, or The Yeti for a great après atmosphere in town.

Where to stay

There are no five-star hotels in Avoriaz, but plenty of gorgeous four-star hotels and apartments. Hôtel MiL8 is a new contemporary hotel with stunning views and an inviting spa.

Or for a gorgeous catered chalet, Au Coin du Feu by Chilly Powder sits right at the bottom of the Prodains lift into Avoriaz.

7. St Moritz, Switzerland

St Moritz is a world-famous ski resort with a long history and heritage. Its closest mountain, Corviglia, was the birthplace of Alpine winter sports over 150 years ago, and the resort has hosted two Winter Olympic Games.

About the town

St Moritz is synonymous with luxury. It’s one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world, with a price tag to match.

It’s not the prettiest resort, with architecture dating to the mid-1900s, but its fine dining scene is exceptional, home to six Michelin-star restaurants.

It’s also very popular with non-skiers, with winter walking trails, snowshoeing and the famous Cresta Run, an ice skeleton toboggan track built in 1885.

Skiing in St Moritz

The Corviglia ski area offers 155km of slopes against a backdrop of spectacular scenery, best suited to intermediates with its long blues and reds, plus a good range of off-piste for advanced skiers. 

More unusually, St Moritz is home to the world’s first yoga slope, “Yoga on the Snow.”

Après and nightlife

St Moritz has a lively après scene both on and off the slopes. Start at Pirates on the Rocks for stunning valley views, then try Roo Bar in town, or a more civilised evening at the Hotel Schweizerhof’s piano cocktail bar.

Where to stay

The exclusive Suvretta House offers ski-in ski-out facilities, or if you’d prefer to stay outside the resort itself, the luxurious Grand Hotel Kronenhof – read my review here.

8. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Affectionately known as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, Cortina is one of the most popular Italian ski resorts, famed for its jaw-dropping scenery and stunning vistas of the Dolomites. 

Cortina enjoyed the spotlight in 2026 when it hosted the Winter Olympic Games.

About the town

Cortina is a fashionable resort with a great buzz, expensive but not on the same level as the likes of St Moritz or Courchevel. Plenty of visitors come here for the social scene and retail therapy as much as the skiing.

Skiing in Cortina

I’d recommend Cortina as a great resort for mixed ability groups, with a range of slopes from gentle blues to challenging blacks against the backdrop of the spectacular Dolomite mountains. 

Après and nightlife

Italian après tends to be a more laid-back affair – think sipping cocktails on a sun terrace in one of the chic bars in town. One of my favourite slope-side spots is Chalet Tofane, a wine bar with a sunny terrace.

Where to stay

The five-star Cristallo Hotel is a glamorous establishment that has previously hosted royalty and Hollywood elite, or for a more laid-back four-star option, the Càmina Suite and Spa.

9. Chamonix, France

Chamonix is one of the oldest ski resorts in France, and undoubtedly one of the best in Europe. Having hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1924, it’s a town of prestige and heritage, and a magnet for freeriders due to its remarkable off-piste opportunities.

About the town

Chamonix is a cosmopolitan but charming town at the foot of Mont Blanc, with an abundance of bars, restaurants and shops. 

It’s also an excellent resort for non-skiers – be sure to visit ‘Step into the Void’, a glass box suspended on the mountainside at 3,842m, thought to be the highest tourist attraction in the world.

Skiing in Chamonix

Chamonix’s ski area is a modest 155km, but it makes up for its size in remarkable off-piste opportunities. It’s generally considered to be one of the best freeride resorts in the world – I’d recommend the famous 22km Vallée Blanche trail.

Chamonix is not particularly well suited to first-timers, but freestylers will never be bored, with endless natural terrain plus two snowparks and a half-pipe.

Après and nightlife

Chamonix offers a vibrant après scene with a plethora of bars and restaurants in town. For live music, head to Chambre Neuf, or for a classic British sports pub, try Le Pub on the main street.

Where to stay

For a chic hotel, book into the luxury Hôtel Mont-Blanc, or for a more relaxed vibe, family-run Auberge du Manoir.

10. Verbier, Switzerland

Verbier is a glamorous winter playground for the rich and famous, with a hefty price tag to match. It’s a luxury Swiss resort bordered by France and Italy, and one of the best in Europe thanks to its vast ski area, lively après and spectacular scenery.

About the town

Verbier is a charming town dotted with traditional wooden chalets and framed by panoramic mountain vistas, with a vibrant buzz and an impressive selection of gourmet restaurants, bars and designer shops.

Skiing in Verbier

Verbier sits at the centre of the 4 Valleys, a vast ski area of 410km with something for every ability. Though I’d say it’s best suited to advanced skiers overall, famed for easily accessible off-piste and popular with freeriders; the resort hosts the Verbier Xtreme, the last stop on the Freeride World Tour. 

Its high altitude means snowsure conditions throughout the season, though it can get busy at peak times.

Après and nightlife

Verbier is known for its buzzy nightlife, providing what I think is the best après scene in Switzerland. Although bars and restaurants are extensive, they are not particularly budget-friendly. 

Start in the slope-side Chalet Carlsberg, then head to Farinet in town, before dancing the night away at the famous Farm Club.

Where to stay

W Verbier is a luxurious hotel next to the main lift, or for an elegant boutique hotel and spa, the Experimental Chalet.

11. Lech, Austria

A chic ski resort, Lech is generally considered the most luxurious ski spot in Austria, combining world-class skiing with an abundance of activities off the slopes. It’s the perfect place for a spot of people-watching with its fashionable crowds.

About the town

Lech is home to an abundance of high-end hotels, fine dining restaurants and elegant après spots. 

Despite its fashionable vibe, I love that it still retains an authentic Austrian charm with its quaint wooden chalets and age-old church – it’s also a particular favourite with the Dutch royal family.

Skiing in Lech

Part of the expansive Ski Arlberg ski area, Lech is also linked to St Anton, Zürs, Warth and Schröckens via speedy gondolas. 

Beginners can hone their skills on nursery slopes right by the town centre, while intermediates have a variety of blue and red runs. 

There’s only one black run for advanced skiers, but Lech offers fantastic off-piste, including the longest powder route, the 5.5km Madloch descent.

Après and nightlife

Après is a sophisticated affair in Lech – think outdoor ice bars and champagne in abundance. Stop for a traditional Austrian gluhwein at the slopeside Eisbar, or head to Schneggarei for a lively spot with a younger crowd.

Where to stay

Book into the exclusive Hotel Arlberg Lech or, for a boutique five-star full of history, Post Lech Arlberg.

12. Méribel, France

Méribel is another popular resort in the Three Valleys ski area and a particular favourite with Brits, myself included – the town sits amidst an enchanting woodland setting with postcard-perfect scenery.

About the town

Méribel is a traditional alpine town dotted with wooden chalet-style buildings, particularly popular with families thanks to excellent ski schools. 

Off the slopes, kids will be kept entertained by the impressive Olympic centre, complete with swimming pool, ice rink and spa.

Skiing in Méribel

Méribel is an excellent resort for all abilities, famed for its beautiful tree-lined runs near the town, ideal for beginners to practise on. While intermediates can explore the many blues and reds throughout the Three Valleys. 

Expert skiers can enjoy the off-piste and steep black runs, including the Women’s Olympic Downhill run on La Face.

Après and nightlife

Méribel has a lively après scene with plenty of live music and bars to try. The infamous La Folie Douce is here too, complete with dancing on tables in the sunshine, or for more live music, head to Le Rond Point.

Where to stay

Hôtel Le Coucou is a five-star chalet-style ski hotel located directly on the slopes, or foodies will love Le Kaïla with its spectacular Michelin-starred restaurant.

13. Kitzbühel, Austria

Kitzbühel is probably most famous for the iconic Hahnenkamm downhill race, held annually in the resort since 1931. With its designer shops and fine dining, it’s one of the more upmarket ski towns in Austria.

About the town

Kitzbühel is a medieval town with cobbled streets and a pedestrianised centre, full of character. Home to luxury boutiques, chic cafés and stylish bars, it’s easy to see why it’s earned its nickname, ‘Glitzy Kitz’.

Skiing in Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel is best suited to intermediate skiers, with a compelling mixture of wide-open pistes and tree-lined runs, though some slopes can get crowded.

It’s more limited for beginners, but experienced skiers will not be able to resist the Hahnenkamm Streif run, host to arguably the most famous ski race in the world.

Après and nightlife

Kitzbühel offers a great party vibe, never more so than on the penultimate weekend of January when the World Cup comes to town.

on the mountain, enjoy stunning views at the umbrella bar on the Panorama Alm, or for table dancing, try British pub The Londoner.

Where to stay

For a luxury five-star resort, book into the Grand Tirolia Kitzbühel, or for an unforgettable rooftop pool and an adults-only stay, Hotel Schwarzer Adler.

14. Les Arcs, France

Les Arcs was the first ever purpose-built ski resort in France, comprising pretty car-free villages and beautiful views of Mont Blanc. For those travelling from the UK, it can be reached quite easily by train, close to Bourg-St-Maurice, a direct stop on the Eurostar.

About the town

Les Arcs is split into four villages: Arc 1600 is the most relaxed and popular with families, Arc 1800 is by far the liveliest with the best bars, and Arc 2000 offers quick access to the glacier. Most accommodation offers easy ski-in ski-out facilities.

Skiing in Les Arcs

Les Arcs is part of the large Paradiski area, offering terrain for every ability across 425km of pistes, linked by cable car to family-favourite La Plagne. 

There’s a beginner zone in every village, while experts can occupy themselves with challenging blacks and the thrilling 7km black Aiguille Route, with Europe’s biggest vertical drop of 2,000m.

Après and nightlife

Getting the full après experience in Les Arcs can be tricky due to the separation of the villages. For a vibrant scene, I’d recommend staying in Arc 1800, where the arrival of La Folie Douce has certainly improved things.

Where to stay

For a luxurious five-star hotel, book a stay at the gorgeous Taj-I Mah Hotel in Arc 2000, or if you prefer self-catering, 153 Source de Marie in Arc 1950.

15. Sölden, Austria

For a European ski resort that offers a bit of everything, I’d recommend booking a trip to Sölden in Austria.

Located in the Ötztal Valley of Tyrol, Sölden brings snow-sure skiing, lively après and a James Bond heritage, with much of its appeal down to short transfer times – just an hour from Innsbruck airport.

Skiing in Sölden

The ski area comprises two large glaciers and high altitudes, meaning excellent snow conditions – keen skiers can hit the slopes as early as September here. 

The large ski area brings a compelling mixture of runs, from wide open blues to steep, challenging blacks, and shares a ski area with neighbouring Hochgurgl and Obergurgl. 

Its other big draw is its 007 connection, having been used as a key filming location in the James Bond film Spectre – don’t miss the 007 Elements installation at 3,050m.

Where to stay

My personal favourite is the Das Central Hotel, with award-winning cuisine and a three-storey spa, or for a more budget-friendly option, the modern Die Berge Lifestyle Hotel.

Learn more in my Sölden ski resort guide.

⛷️ Lesser-known ski resorts in Europe worth considering

If the big names above feel a little well-trodden, these five don’t get nearly as much attention, despite offering just as much (if not more) in the way of great skiing.

Andermatt, Switzerland

Andermatt has quietly transformed from a sleepy Swiss village into one of the most exciting resorts in the Alps, yet it still feels wonderfully uncrowded compared to its bigger Swiss neighbours.

The Gemsstock cable car serves long, snow-sure runs and near-limitless off-piste, a true free-rider’s paradise, though it’s not the place for beginners. Après is low-key during the week, picking up at weekends at spots like the De Prato Pub.

For a stay right in the resort, book into the Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen, which has an indoor pool and spa. Or for something more luxurious, I’d highly recommend The Chedi Andermatt.

La Grave, France

La Grave is unlike anywhere else on this list – there are no groomed pistes and no marked runs, just one cable car up to 3,200m and thousands of metres of wild, ungroomed terrain. 

It’s strictly for advanced skiers and experts with avalanche safety knowledge, ideally with a local guide; but the reward is some of the most legendary freeride skiing in Europe.

The village itself is tiny and refreshingly low-key, a world away from the glitz of Courchevel or St Moritz. For somewhere to stay, try the Hotel Auberge Edelweiss, a former coach inn with mountain views and a cosy fireside bar.

Serre Chevalier, France

Serre Chevalier is one of the biggest ski areas in France, yet it rarely gets mentioned in the same breath as the Three Valleys or Paradiski. 

Spread across a handful of villages, it offers a good mix of pistes for beginners, intermediates and advanced skiers, plus some testing off-piste. 

Après is low-key rather than lively, but Villeneuve is the best village for it, home to the popular bar La Grotte.

For a stay with direct slope access, consider the Grand Hôtel & Spa NUXE Serre Chevalier in Chantemerle.

Arosa Lenzerheide, Switzerland

Arosa Lenzerheide is consistently rated one of the most family-friendly ski areas in Switzerland, and I think it deserves to be much better known outside the country. 

The 225km ski area is gentle and wide in most places, with enough steep black runs and off-piste to keep advanced skiers satisfied too. There’s a pedestrianised centre that’s especially easy to navigate with children in tow.

For a luxurious base, book into Hotel Schweizerhof Lenzerheide, home to one of the largest spas in the Alps.

Alagna Valsesia, Italy

Alagna Valsesia sits at the far end of the Monterosa Ski area, but it’s Alagna itself that has the reputation among freeriders. 

The Punta Indren lift opens up an enormous amount of off-piste terrain, from short runs back into the village to the legendary 10km Balma descent. 

Marked pistes are limited, so this is one for advanced skiers and experts, ideally with a guide. If you want gentler skiing on the same pass, Champoluc and Gressoney are a short bus ride away.

For somewhere to stay, try the NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso, a short walk from the lifts.

🏂 Other amazing ski resorts in Europe

Narrowing down the best ski resorts in Europe felt like an impossible task! There are some amazing ski resorts which didn’t quite make it onto my list, but are still very much worth considering:

Megève, France: A chic village with access to 325km of pistes, known for its many beautiful tree-lined runs with views of Mont Blanc.

Morzine, France: Just down from Avoriaz is the traditional town of Morzine. It’s a big but picturesque town that’s full of character and buzz, with access to one of the largest ski areas in the world. Though snow conditions do suffer here when the weather is warm.

Alpe D’Huez, France: One of the oldest resorts in France, Alpe D’Huez is famed for its good weather and excellent snow conditions. It has a lively après scene and is great for beginners.

Les Deux Alpes, France: A good value French ski resort that offers high altitude skiing, reliable snow conditions, and excellent off-piste opportunities.

Tignes, France: A world-class ski resort situated right next to Val D’Isère. Tignes offers a huge ski area, lively après, and snowsure slopes.

Courmayeur, Italy: A traditional Italian village with car-free cobbled streets, boutique shops, and excellent bistros. Enjoy snowsure conditions due to great snow making systems.

Cervinia, Italy: With views of the Matterhorn and a close proximity to Zermatt, Cervinia is a popular Italian ski resort. A great resort for beginners with its long and gentle slopes. Discover the best hotels in Cervinia.

Val Gardena, Italy: Spectacular scenery and a vast ski area awaits you at Val Gardena. It’s a truly charming town with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Obergurgl, Austria: A quiet and charming resort with a good selection of luxury hotels and sumptuous spas. Expect snowsure conditions from the high altitude slopes and unmissable après at the Nederhütte.

Gstaad, Switzerland: A glamorous ski town dotted with wooden chalets, designer shops and award-winning restaurants. It’s an exclusive resort with access to 200km of ski terrain.

🇺🇸 Skiing in Europe from the US

If you’re planning this trip from North America rather than the UK, a few of the gateway airports above have their own direct US routes worth knowing about:

• Geneva has year-round non-stop flights from New York and Washington DC
• Zurich connects non-stop to New York and Los Angeles
• Munich, useful for the Austrian resorts, has year-round routes from several major US cities
• Innsbruck itself has no direct US flights, so you’d connect via one of these instead and drive or train the final stretch

A few other things differ from a UK-based trip. These resorts span several currencies – euros in France, Italy and Austria, but Swiss francs in Switzerland – so it’s worth checking which applies before you travel rather than assuming euros everywhere.

Driving is on the right across all of mainland Europe, and hire cars are commonly manual by default, so specify automatic if that’s your preference. A US licence is accepted without needing an International Driving Permit.

Since these resorts sit within the Schengen Area, US passport holders can currently visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, the same allowance whether you’re skiing one resort or combining several across different countries.

🏔️ Planning your ski trip

Whether you’re chasing Michelin stars in Courchevel, powder in Andermatt, or the world’s most famous downhill run in Kitzbühel, there’s a resort here to match.

This guide will keep growing as I ski more of Europe, so do check back for updates.

Looking for more ski content? You may also like:

• The Ski Edit: guide to booking a ski holiday
• 20 top ski resorts for beginners
• 12 best luxury ski resorts in Europe
• 20 lively ski resorts for après and nightlife
• 10 amazing ski resorts in Switzerland